Only One in Four Dentists Wants To Be a Dental Associate

Dentists Agree: It’s Better To Be Your Own Boss

Three-quarters of dentists in our most recent poll said they would rather be their own boss than work for someone else. But with freedom comes responsibility, and some associate dentists prefer focusing more on practicing dentistry and less on practice management.

Specialists were unanimous: being your own boss is better. Not a single dental specialist responding to this survey said they would prefer to be an associate. On the other hand, 28% of general dentists think associateship is an excellent plan.

What do dentists think?

• “I didn’t go to dental school for four years to be somebody’s employee!” (Oregon dentist)
• “I would rather have the headaches of an owner than to be subject to the whims of an employer.” (California dentist)
• “Initially it is good to get some experience as an associate.” (Arizona dentist)
• “At some point, I want to change my role and be an employee without the worries of the business.” (Tennessee dentist)

Read the complete dental associate dilemma survey results, or post your thoughts about being your own boss