Finances for the Dental Associate: Building the Foundation Early

Dental school does not provide the knowledge early-stage associates need to buy a practice and run it profitably. Encouraging financial intelligence for early-stage dentists, Wes Read, CPA, CFP® shares the habits the associate should develop to achieve financial success. Associates will learn how to navigate the pathway from associate to practice owner through a clear set of guidelines and principles that enable dentists to successfully make the transition into ownership.

Attendees will evaluate the pros and cons of purchasing a practice vs. building a start-up. They will learn a sequential timeline for events such as whether to purchase a practice or a home first and when to start saving in an IRA or 401K. They will understand the importance of saving to generate “liquidity” and how to stage themselves to be eligible for practice purchase lending. They will compare working as an employee vs. as an independent contractor and working for a DSO vs. in private practice. Attendees will gain foundational strategies helping them to grow toward practice ownership while living a rewarding, satisfying experience as a dentist.