What to Expect When Buying and Running a Dental Practice
Becoming the proud owner of a dental practice is one of the most exciting — and challenging — milestones in a dentist’s career. After years of education, clinical experience, and hard work, you’re finally ready to be your own boss.
But before you hang your sign and start seeing patients, it’s essential to understand that buying and operating a dental practice requires careful planning, financial awareness, and leadership. From navigating legal contracts to building your team and managing day-to-day operations, your success depends on how well you prepare for the transition.
At JRA Healthcare – Real Estate & Practice Advisory, we specialize in guiding dentists through every stage of ownership — from identifying the right opportunity to managing the business side of dentistry with confidence.
What to Expect When Buying a Dental Practice
Owning your first practice can be rewarding, but it comes with surprises. Understanding what lies ahead can help you make smarter decisions and avoid common pitfalls.
1. The Volume of Decisions
When you move from associate to owner, the number of daily decisions skyrockets.
You’ll need to choose everything from accounting software and insurance providers to employee benefits, equipment, and marketing systems.
Even if you aren’t an expert in every area, each decision affects your bottom line — so surround yourself with trusted advisors early on.
2. Financial Realities and Projections
New owners are often surprised by the financial complexity of running a practice. You’ll need to manage cash flow, accounts receivable, production reports, taxes, and payroll — all while maintaining excellent patient care.
It’s common to miss early financial projections as you adjust, so having a dental-specific financial advisor can help you avoid major pitfalls and stay on track toward profitability.
3. The Importance of Due Diligence
Before signing, ensure that every detail — from lease terms to staff contracts — has been reviewed. The fine print in a purchase agreement can have lasting implications. Work with an attorney and broker who specialize in dental transactions to avoid unexpected obligations after closing.
4. Get Everything in Writing
Handshake deals or verbal understandings can easily lead to miscommunication. Make sure every agreement — from the purchase price to transition terms — is clearly outlined in the contract. A detailed paper trail protects both buyer and seller.
5. Rebranding and Marketing Costs
Beyond the purchase price, you’ll need to budget for rebranding expenses — signage, website redesign, SEO, business cards, and online marketing. Hiring a professional marketing team ensures consistency and visibility as you establish your brand in the community.
6. Staffing Transitions
Inherited teams often experience uncertainty with a new owner. Some employees may resist change or choose to move on. Be patient during the adjustment period, communicate openly, and invest in building trust with your team.
How to Run a Newly Acquired Dental Practice Successfully
Once the deal is complete, the real work begins — managing, leading, and growing your new business. The first six to twelve months are critical for setting the tone and establishing stability.
1. Create a Clear Transition Plan
The previous owner knows the practice inside and out — from workflow routines to marketing strategies.
Schedule time for knowledge transfer before you take over: learn about the billing system, sterilization schedules, insurance mix, and cash flow patterns.
A written transition plan ensures continuity for patients and staff, preventing confusion and revenue loss in your first months.
2. Focus on Team Building
Your employees are the backbone of the practice. Establish open communication, recognize their contributions, and involve them in setting goals. Team alignment builds morale and helps patients feel comfortable during the ownership change.
3. Evaluate Supplies and Equipment
Take inventory of your supplies and evaluate your technology.
If equipment is outdated, consider upgrading to modern systems like digital radiography, CAD/CAM, or intraoral scanners to enhance patient experience and efficiency.
These upgrades also improve your competitive position in the local market.
4. Differentiate Your Practice
You’re not just maintaining a business — you’re building a brand.
To outshine the competition, focus on:
- Creating a welcoming, modern office environment
- Enhancing patient experience through convenience and care
- Identifying your unique value proposition (e.g., family dentistry, cosmetic expertise, or technology focus)
- Investing in digital marketing, social media, and community outreach
A strong local presence helps build long-term patient loyalty and referrals.
Partner with Experts Who Understand Dental Transitions
From navigating the buying process to managing your first year of ownership, the right advisors make all the difference.
At JRA Healthcare, we guide dentists through real estate decisions, practice acquisitions, valuations, and operational strategy — ensuring every step is handled with precision and confidence.
Whether you’re purchasing your first dental office or expanding to multiple locations, our experienced team is here to help you set a strong foundation for lasting success.
Partner with JRA Healthcare
At JRA Healthcare, we help dentists across the country navigate every step of the transition process — from practice valuation and financial planning to buyer selection and closing.
Whether you’re exploring your options or actively preparing to sell, our advisors will guide you toward the right strategy to maximize your practice’s value and secure your future.
Contact us today to start building your transition plan.
📍 JRA Healthcare – Real Estate & Practice Advisory
600 Enterprise Dr, Suite #214, Oak Brook, IL 60523
📞 630-353-1190 | ✉️ [email protected]