Category Archives: Buying

The Myth: “Owning a Practice Means No Free Time”

For many associates, the idea of buying a dental practice is exciting… and intimidating. One of the biggest fears? Losing control of your time.

“I already work long hours. Won’t owning a practice make it worse?”

It’s a valid concern, but here’s the truth:

• Practice ownership doesn’t have to mean burnout.
• In fact, many owners find they have more control, not less.
• You get to shape your schedule, your team, and your lifestyle.

Let’s bust some myths and show you how buying a dental practice can actually lead to better work-life balance if you approach it strategically.

Myth #1: Owners Work More Hours Than Associates

Sure, there’s a learning curve in the first year of ownership. But most successful owners eventually work the hours they choose—not the hours someone else sets.

As an associate, your schedule is set by:

• The owner

• Office production goals

• Your assigned patient load

• Someone else’s priorities

As an owner, you set the rules. Many owners:

• Take Fridays off

• Work 3.5 to 4 days per week

• Choose extended hours only if they want to

• Align their schedule with school pickup, family events, or vacations

  — Ownership doesn’t always mean “more”—it means “more control.”

Myth #2: You’ll Be Too Busy Running the Business

Yes, owning a practice means managing people, processes, and finances. But it doesn’t have to consume your life.

Smart owners:

• Delegate tasks to a strong office manager

• Outsource payroll, accounting, and HR functions

• Use systems and checklists to streamline operations

• Work on the business one day a week, not every day

The result? You gain freedom while building equity.

You can always hire support—but you can’t outsource the freedom that ownership gives you.

Myth #3: The Stress of Ownership Isn’t Worth the Money

Here’s what most buyers discover in their first year: Ownership pays off fast. You’re no longer earning 25–35% of what you produce—you’re keeping the profit (after expenses), and building long-term equity.

That means you can:

• Earn more working fewer days

• Take time off without asking permission

• Build financial stability and invest in your future

Many buyers find that within 12–18 months, they’re making more—and working smarter—than they ever did as associates.

Real Talk: Work-Life Balance Isn’t Automatic

Practice ownership gives you the tools for better balance, but you still have to build it intentionally.

Here’s how:

1. Define your ideal schedule and build your practice around it

2. Hire and retain good people so you’re not putting out fires

3. Set boundaries—you’re the owner, not on-call 24/7

4. Invest in systems that make your life easier (recall, billing, HR, etc.)

5. Take time off—the practice will survive a vacation

  —  Balance is a design choice. Ownership lets you design it.

Final Thoughts: Ownership Can Set You Free

Don’t let outdated assumptions or fear of the unknown hold you back. If you’re feeling stuck as an associate – burned out, undervalued, or capped financially – practice ownership could be the path to more freedom, not less.

You’ll work hard, but you’ll work for yourself. And that makes all the difference.

Thinking About Buying a Practice?

At American Practice Consultants, we help buyers navigate every step – from financial readiness to choosing the right opportunity. If you’re thinking about ownership, let’s talk about what that could look like for your lifestyle, your career, and your future.

Schedule a confidential buyer consultation today.

Still Associating? Here’s Why That Might Be Holding You Back

Working as an associate can be a great way to sharpen your clinical skills, build confidence, and get your footing in dentistry. But after a few years, many associates start asking themselves the big question:

“Am I ready to own my own practice?”

The truth is, there’s no perfect moment to make the leap. But there are clear signs that you’re outgrowing your associate role and ready to take the next step toward ownership, autonomy, and long-term wealth.

This post breaks down the 7 signs you’re ready to stop associating and buy a dental practice—plus what to do next if you’re nodding along.

1. You’re Producing Like an Owner—But Not Earning Like One

If you’re generating $800K, $1M, or more in production each year but still taking home associate-level pay, it might be time to start building equity in your own business.

— Ownership means your hard work builds long-term value for YOU—not someone else.

2. You’re Frustrated With the Practice’s Decisions

Do you find yourself questioning scheduling decisions, hygiene protocols, equipment upgrades, or how patients are treated? If you’re thinking, “If this were my practice, I’d do it differently,” — that’s a sign.

— Ownership gives you control over culture, priorities, and patient care standards.

3. You’re Financially Stable (Even If You Don’t Feel Rich)

You don’t need to be debt-free to buy a practice. In fact, many dentists buy while still paying off student loans. What matters more is:

• A solid credit score

• Manageable debt-to-income ratio

• Steady associate income

• A basic understanding of personal and business finances

— Many banks will lend 100% of the purchase price (or more) to qualified buyers.

4. You’re Thinking Long-Term

Associates often think month to month. Owners think 5–10 years ahead.

If you’re asking questions like:

• “Where do I want to be in 10 years?”

• “What kind of legacy do I want to leave?”

• “How can I build wealth and independence?”

…you’re already thinking like an owner.

5. You’re Willing to Learn the Business Side

You don’t need an MBA—but you do need curiosity, humility, and a willingness to learn how to run a business.

If you’re excited by:

• Team building

• Marketing

• Leadership

• Tracking performance and profitability

…you’re ready to move beyond the operatory.

— Ownership is the ultimate CE course in leadership.

6. You Want to Build Something That’s Yours

There’s pride in ownership that no associate job can match. From the logo on the sign to the culture you create, owning a practice allows you to build something that reflects your values, goals, and vision.

— Ownership is where your career becomes your legacy.

7. You’re Waiting for the Perfect Moment… But It Never Comes

This one’s big. Many associates stay in limbo for years—worried the timing isn’t perfect, or they’re not “ready.”

Here’s the truth: You’ll never feel 100% ready.

— But with the right support, you don’t have to do it alone—and the rewards are worth it.

Next Steps: What to Do If You’re Ready

1. Get Prequalified

   Talk to a dental-specific lender to understand how much you can borrow.

2. Connect With a Broker Who Understands Your Goals

   Look for someone who works with buyers long-term, not just during the deal.

3. Start Reviewing Listings

   Even if you’re not ready to buy today, reviewing opportunities helps you understand the market.

4. Build a Team

   You’ll need a dental CPA, attorney, and possibly a consultant.

Final Thoughts: Ownership Isn’t Just About Money—It’s About Control

Yes, owning a practice can dramatically increase your income over time. But more importantly, it gives you control over your career, the ability to shape your patient experience, and the freedom to create a life and practice you’re proud of.

— If you’ve outgrown associating, don’t ignore that feeling. Start exploring your path to ownership today.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

At American Practice Consultants, we help associate dentists like you understand the process, evaluate opportunities, and find the right fit. Whether you’re looking to buy this year or just starting to explore, we’re here to guide you.

👉 Schedule a confidential buyer consultation today.

Starting Your Ownership Journey? Here’s What You Need to Know

Buying your first dental practice is one of the most exciting—and intimidating—milestones in your career. You’ve probably spent years dreaming about being your own boss, controlling your schedule, and building something that’s truly yours.

But here’s the catch:

Not every “profitable” practice is a good deal. And not every fixer-upper is a bad one.

This post will help you look beyond surface-level numbers and understand the true value and potential of a dental practice—so you can buy with confidence and avoid expensive mistakes.

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What Looks Like a Good Deal (But Might Not Be)

Let’s start with a few red flags disguised as selling points:

“High Gross Collections”

A practice collecting $1.2M may sound great—until you realize the overhead is 75%, the seller refers out most procedures, and staff turnover is high. Collections are only part of the story.

“Significant Price Reduction!”

If a practice has been sitting on the market or the price has dropped dramatically, ask why. Is there outdated equipment? A shrinking patient base? A lease issue?

“Modern Technology”

New equipment is great—but don’t let it distract you from more important factors like active patients, hygiene recall, and staffing stability.

• Remember: A deal is only good if the fundamentals are strong.

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What REALLY Makes a Practice a Good Deal

Here’s what experienced buyers and dental brokers look for:

1. Consistent, Well-Documented Revenue

Look for 3–5 years of stable or growing collections, with clear financials (P&Ls, tax returns). Watch for red flags like sudden spikes or unexplained dips.

2. Healthy Hygiene Department

Hygiene production should make up 25–35% of total production. A strong recall program means loyal patients and predictable revenue.

3. Staff Stability

Long-term employees = smoother transitions. High turnover = potential headaches. Ask how long the team has been in place and how they’re compensated.

4. Reasonable Overhead

Overhead (excluding doctor compensation) should ideally be in the 55–65% range. Anything significantly higher might hurt profitability.

5. Good Location and Lease Terms

Is the practice easy to access? Are there growth opportunities nearby? Is the lease assignable? Watch out for balloon payments or expiring leases without renewal options.

6. Seller Willing to Assist in Transition

A cooperative seller who’s willing to stay on for a few months post-sale can help retain patients and ease staff concerns.

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Bonus: Questions to Ask During Due Diligence

• How many active patients are there (patients seen in the last 12–18 months)?

• What procedures does the seller perform in-house vs. refer out?

• What’s the payer mix (PPO, FFS, Medicaid)?

• Are there any large corporate competitors nearby?

• What’s the equipment age and condition?

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Watch Out for These First-Time Buyer Mistakes

• Falling in love with the décor and ignoring the financials

• Overestimating your ability to “fix” a bad practice

• Underestimating staff transition challenges

• Overpaying for goodwill without proof of patient loyalty

• Failing to hire a dental-specific CPA and attorney during the process

The best buyers stay curious, skeptical, and supported by the right team.

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A Good Deal Isn’t Just About Price

It’s about value, momentum, and potential. A $650,000 practice with low overhead, a loyal staff, and consistent patient flow might be far better than a $1.3M practice with high attrition and chaos behind the scenes.

Ask yourself:

• Can I realistically step into this role and succeed?

• Will this practice support my lifestyle and loan payments?

• Does the staff and patient base align with my clinical and leadership style?

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Final Thoughts: Make Your First Practice a Launchpad, Not a Lesson

The first practice you buy sets the tone for your entire career. Don’t rush. Don’t guess. And don’t assume bigger is always better.

With the right team, a clear process, and a healthy dose of due diligence, you can make a decision that sets you up for years of personal, professional, and financial success.

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Need Help Finding and Evaluating the Right Practice?

At American Practice Consultants, we specialize in helping first-time buyers navigate the process with confidence. From reviewing financials to evaluating culture and location, we’re here to make sure your first deal is a smart one.

📞 Schedule a no-obligation buyer consultation today.

Beyond the Numbers: Why Culture Matters More Than You Think

When buyers evaluate a dental practice, they usually focus on collections, overhead, active patients, and equipment. These are essential indicators of value—but they don’t tell the whole story.

What’s often overlooked?

•  The culture of the practice.

Culture isn’t something you’ll find in a P&L statement, but it can directly impact:

• Staff retention

• Patient satisfaction

• Your leadership experience

• Long-term growth

The truth is, culture can be the reason a practice thrives—or the reason it falls apart after a transition.

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What Do We Mean by “Culture”?

In a dental office, culture refers to the personality of the practice. It’s shaped by:

• How the staff interacts with each other

• How the doctor communicates with patients

• The pace and style of appointments

• Office traditions, systems, and even jokes

• The unspoken “way things are done here”

You may be buying charts and chairs—but you’re inheriting a team, a tone, and a rhythm.

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Signs of a Healthy Practice Culture

Before making an offer, look for these signs of a positive, stable culture:

• Low staff turnover: Long-tenured employees often mean strong relationships and trust.

• Clear roles and responsibilities: Do team members know what’s expected of them?

• Respectful communication: Between the doctor, staff, and patients.

• Staff engagement: Are people just punching a clock—or do they care?

• A well-run morning huddle or team meeting: It shows systems are in place.

• Positive patient feedback: Online reviews and word-of-mouth matter.

You’ll feel the culture the moment you walk in—trust your instincts.

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What Happens When Culture is Ignored?

Even when the numbers look great, buyers who don’t consider culture risk:

• Losing staff quickly after closing

• Disrupting patient experience and satisfaction

• Clashing with the team’s way of working

• Feeling isolated or unwelcome as a leader

• Struggling to implement change

You may inherit a high-producing practice—but if the culture breaks down, so will performance.

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How to Assess Culture During Due Diligence

1. Talk to the Seller About Leadership Style

How hands-on are they? Do they micromanage or delegate? This affects what the staff is used to.

2. Ask How Conflict Is Handled

Do problems get addressed directly, or are they swept under the rug?

3. Observe Interactions Quietly

Are staff members friendly to one another? Does the front desk greet patients by name? These small moments tell you a lot.

4. Inquire About Staff Tenure and Roles

A long-tenured hygienist or front desk manager can be your greatest asset—or your biggest challenge if not handled with care.

5. Ask the Seller What the Team Values Most

Flexibility? Autonomy? Structure? These clues help you lead effectively post-close.

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Can You Change the Culture After You Buy?

Yes—but with patience.

Culture doesn’t shift overnight, especially if staff have been together for years. Instead of trying to overhaul everything, consider:

• Listening first: Conduct one-on-one meetings with each team member.

• Preserving what works: Keep systems that are functional. Change comes later.

• Making staff part of the process: Invite their input before implementing new tools or policies.

• Communicating clearly: Share your philosophy and vision—don’t leave them guessing.

• Introducing gradual improvements: Avoid overwhelming people with sweeping changes.

Remember, you’re not just becoming the owner—you’re becoming the leader.

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Final Thoughts: Culture Can’t Be Quantified—But It Can Make or Break You

Before you buy a practice, take time to understand the people behind the numbers. You’re not just purchasing revenue—you’re stepping into a community.

A good cultural fit creates smoother transitions, higher retention, and long-term growth.

A bad fit? It can drain your energy, frustrate your staff, and stall your momentum.

• As you evaluate practices, ask yourself: “Can I see myself thriving here?”

If the answer is yes, the numbers may be the easy part.

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Need Help Finding the Right Fit?

At American Practice Consultants, we help buyers look beyond the spreadsheets. We guide you through not only financial due diligence—but also the interpersonal factors that shape long-term success.

📞 Contact us today to start your journey toward practice ownership—with clarity, confidence, and culture in mind.