The Associate Trap: Why Waiting Too Long to Own Can Cost Dentists a Fortune

Waiting until you "feel ready" to own a dental practice could be one of the most expensive decisions of your career.

In this episode of the Raving Patients Podcast, Dr. Len Tau sits down with Brian Hanks, founder of Dental Buyer Advocates and author of How to Buy a Dental Practice, to talk about why younger dentists are waiting longer to become practice owners and what that delay could really cost them. Brian shares the numbers behind associate versus owner earnings, why student loan debt shouldn't automatically keep dentists from ownership, and what the data actually says about the growth of DSOs.

Brian also breaks down how to evaluate a dental practice before buying, including the two simple questions every potential buyer should ask. He explains why a cheaper practice isn't necessarily a better opportunity, how practice valuations work, and why paying above the national average can still be a smart investment. Plus, he shares what dentists who can't seem to find the "right" practice may be overlooking.

What You'll Learn Why younger dentists are waiting longer to become practice owners

How delaying ownership can affect your long-term earning potential

Why student loan debt doesn't necessarily mean you should avoid ownership

What the data says about DSOs and the future of private dental practices

Why ownership gives dentists more control over their careers

The two questions to ask before seriously considering a dental practice

Why buying a small practice with plans to "turn it around" can be risky

How dental practices are valued based on collections and profitability

Why paying above the average valuation doesn't necessarily mean you're overpaying