You want to learn how to run a dental practice, don’t you?

Welcome! We are about to embark on an eye-opening journey, discovering a new world that many dental students are unaware of. One of the biggest fears that dental students face right out of school is knowing how to run a dental practice and their knowledge of practice management.

To extinguish that fear I created a list of some of the best resources out there to help you hit the ground running. These continuing education resources include podcasts, mobile videos, seminars, weekend events and many others. What’s so great about these resources is the variety of learning types they tailor to. Some people learn better in person, others prefer video, and some learn simply by listening. We will share some resources that have helped others tremendously in having them hit the ground running into private practice out of dental school.

DentalMaverick by Dr. Tuan Pham DDS

This is an incredible resource made by a general dentist named Tuan Pham. He was able to build a high-producing general practice in a heavily-saturated market in Texas. He created a 48-week video course that helps the viewer become a better leader, more productive and establish their “dream practice.”

According to the website, being a Dental Maverick is not only learning how to become a visionary leader, but also a master communicator that can manage staff, retain patients and bridges the gap between weekend CE courses and dental consulting companies. Dr. Pham has also been featured on the online podcast Howard Speaks. The podcast is titled “Up your leadership, up your productivity”.

This is a truly a remarkable resource for those that enjoy videos that can be replayed again and again for continued learning and growth.

The Thriving Dentist with Gary Takacs

The Thriving Dentist is a free audio podcast developed by dental consultant Gary Takacs. Although not a dentist himself, he does own a dental practice with Dr. Paul Nielson. Gary has worked with hundreds of dentists all over the world and interviews them on this podcast. This is a great option for those who want to learn about other dentists and their journey when opening up practices. There are also wonderful tips and experiences from those interviewed that can be studied and applied for current and future practices. This podcast will also provide helpful guidance with updates on technology, marketing and dealing with insurances. Great for on the go listening.

The Relentless Dentist Show with Drs. David and Karah Maloley

Another podcast that is easy to listen to and full of information! This podcast interview dentists who have done well in their careers and have truly broken the ‘mold’ of a traditional dentist. This is an enjoyable podcast because the questions asked on the podcast are direct and intriguing. The responses by the dentists are therefore even more applicable to students. Structuring podcasts can be difficult, but this one makes listening to podcasts fun. It is in no way, shape, or form a dry audio. These podcasts become alive and inspiring to those who listen to it.

Golich Carlsen by Dr. Carlsen DDS

This is a unique resource because the website provides videos, courses, and literature to help advise young dental graduates and current dentists. What makes this resource unique is that Dr. Carlsen retired at the age of 53 in 2004 from private practice as a general practitioner. He is very knowledgeable with finances, and gives advice on how to carry the difficult burden of loans that many of students are dealing with currently. He has also been featured on Dental Economics with the article “Retire by 50.”

Please view all these links and find out what type of learning style suits you best. These resources have been created to help dental students and dentists learn the fundamental aspects of business. These dental professionals have seen the greatest struggles in running a practice and have developed innovative ideas to help others avoid those same mistakes. I hope that these resources open your eyes and give you a glimpse of what’s out there. Enjoy!

~ Alex Piedra, Utah ’18, District 10 Community Service Chair