Here, three dentists share with Becker’s how they chose where to practice:
Scott Terry, DDS (North Vernon, Ind.): I considered the actual need in the area for another practitioner. The practice I joined was rapidly growing. Most of my colleagues wanted to stay in a more urban setting. There was a greater opportunity in a more rural practice.
Michael Davis, DDS. Smiles of Santa Fe (N.M.): Nearly 20 years ago, I simply desired a location and demographic in which, as a restorative dentist, I wasn’t forced into amalgam production. In the initial phase of my career, I witnessed how destructive amalgam restoration was in [the] generation of fractured teeth, cracked tooth syndrome and fractures leading to pulpal necrosis.
Thus, I relocated to find a patient demographic supportive of my clinical findings in restorative dentistry. The population was far more concerned about mercury toxicity related to dental amalgam. I was more focused on conservation of sound tooth structure and the wedging damage generated by a high modulus of elasticity material (dental amalgam) upon tooth structure.
David Buchan, DDS (San Clemente, Calif.): I’ve had two separate dental practices with a two-year volunteer stint overseas in between. My first practice I chose because it was a thriving, successful practice during a slower economy; and because I wanted to run my own practice, not be an employee, I knew that it would pay for itself in a short time. The negative was that it was 25 minutes away from my home in San Clemente, so not a part of the community where I live. Very busy practice, no HMOs but almost 100 percent PPO/unions. [I sold it] 10 years later and volunteered overseas.
My second practice I chose because I knew the retiring doctor, many of the patients already knew me (church) and it’s less than two miles from my house (no commute), plus a 40-year history with two different, quality dentists. No HMOs, mostly FFS and good PPOs. Lower cost lease (prior owner owns building). [I’ve ] been here [for] 13 years. [It’s] one of the best decisions I ever made.
At the Becker's 5th Annual Future of Dentistry Roundtable, taking place September 14-15 in Chicago, dental leaders and executives will gain insights into emerging technologies, practice growth strategies and the evolving landscape of dental care delivery, with a focus on innovation, patient experience and operational excellence. Apply for complimentary registration now.
