As a new dentist, one of the biggest decisions you will make is choosing the type of dental practice to join or establish yourself. There are many factors to weigh like practice setting, location, finances, work-life balance, and clinical interests when selecting your first practice situation.

First, decide if you want to be in a solo practice, join an existing group practice, or enter into a partnership with other dentists. In a solo practice, you take on more risk and responsibilities but have complete autonomy. Joining a larger established group practice provides mentorship, a built-in patient base, and collaboration with other dentists, but less flexibility.

Determine if you want to purchase a practice vs. starting your own from scratch. Buying an existing practice reduces startup costs and effort, but limits customization. Carefully vet potential practices through extensive due diligence first. If going the startup route, know it requires significant capital investment upfront.

Location factors like urban vs. rural, proximity to hospitals and specialists, competition, and patient demographics will impact your practice’s success. Consider whether you want a general practice or to specialize. Assess your finances to determine how much you can afford to spend purchasing or launching a practice after student loan debt.

Your work style preferences and life outside dentistry should also inform your practice choice. Do you want travel flexibility, time for family or hobbies, less overnight emergencies? Define priorities like expected income, hours, vacation time, administrative duties, etc.

Talk with experienced dentists in different types of practices to understand the pros and cons before deciding. Find the right situation that aligns with your vision and sets you up for success as you embark on your career.