The Pros and Cons of Being a Dentist: Personal Insights

Being a dentist can be a fulfilling profession, but it also comes with its own set of challenges. In this article, we explore the unique aspects of this profession through the eyes of a seasoned dental practitioner.

The Four Types of Dental Patients

My experience as a dentist reveals that no two patients are the same, and each one presents their own set of psychological and practical challenges. Here’s a breakdown of the four main types of patients I encounter, and insights into the psychology behind them:

1. The Uptight, Demanding Patient

When a patient walks in with seemingly awful teeth, expecting immediate improvements, it can be a challenging scenario. These individuals are often overly critical, and even the best before-and-after results may not satisfy them. Their lack of satisfaction can stem from dissatisfaction in life in general or from a deep-seated need for attention. Some of these patients are simply difficult to work with, and there might be times when I would reject them unless they sign a consent form. This was particularly true for a patient who had already been blacklisted by several dentists in San Diego.

2. The Emotional Patient

On the flip side, there are patients who undergo complete transformations. They come in feeling depressed and leave with a renewed sense of self-esteem and joy. It's heartwarming to see such positive changes, and these patients often bring in more referrals. We dentists play a double role as both medical professionals and emotional counselors, which can be both rewarding and demanding.

3. The Doctor-Patient Relationship

I feel fortunate to see only a few patients a day, allowing me to connect deeply with each individual. This hands-on approach helps me understand their needs and develop a personalized treatment plan. Building trust and understanding with patients is a key aspect of my practice, and it often leads to strong, long-lasting relationships.

The Benefits of Being a Dentist

Beyond the day-to-day challenges, there are numerous advantages to choosing this profession:

1. Self-Employment and Financial Freedom

One of the biggest pros is being your own boss. You can operate your own clinic, hire dental hygienists and associates, and set your own schedule. You can also generate passive income through these employees. The financial independence that comes with this can be immense, especially if you have associates helping you manage the practice.

2. Never Bored

The field of dentistry is always evolving. From new technologies and procedures to innovative dental materials, there's always something new to learn. This flexibility in the practice allows you to continue growing and developing professionally. Additionally, you can refer specialized procedures to specialists or invite them into your practice on a regular basis if you have a large office.

3. Deep Fulfillment

Another significant benefit is the deep sense of fulfillment that comes from helping others. Many dentists initially choose the profession for the prestige of the doctor title or the potential high income, but if they are not passionate, they may find themselves in a career that makes them unhappy. Finding joy in the work and making a positive impact on your patients' lives can be incredibly rewarding.

The Challenges of Being a Dentist

Like any profession, dentistry comes with its fair share of challenges. Here are some of the main ones:

1. Difficult Cases and Patients

There are times when a case or a patient can be particularly challenging. For instance, a difficult extraction that takes unexpectedly long or an anxious patient who is hard to work on can disrupt your schedule. Additionally, a patient with an overabundance of saliva can make procedures more difficult. Effective risk management and attention to detail are crucial in such scenarios to avoid any risks.

2. Risk Management and Documentation

Documentation in dental practice is key to ensuring smooth operations and avoiding legal issues. Each patient, even your close friends, must be treated with the utmost care and documentation. It’s essential to be meticulous in your records to avoid any potential legal pitfalls, as there are many lawyers who encourage patients to sue their dentists for the smallest issues that could be harmless.

3. Front Desk Operations

Hiring trustworthy and responsible front desk employees is crucial for a dentist's success. Any errors in billing or copayments can lead to significant financial losses. Therefore, managing the front office responsibilities effectively is another important aspect of running a dental practice.

Conclusion

Overall, being a dentist can be a fulfilling but challenging career. If you're considering this profession, I strongly recommend shadowing a dentist for at least a month to gain a better understanding of the daily realities. After 28 years in the field, I am still excited to go to work every day and see new and existing patients. Choosing a career you love is a key factor in making your professional life truly rewarding.

Please reach out to me with any questions you might have.