If you've been hearing that private practice is on its way out, we're here to tell you: that narrative is wrong.
We've heard for decades, "Insurance is taking over." "Consolidation is inevitable." But after nearly 70 years combined in dentistry, we see a different story unfolding. The future of private, doctor-led dentistry isn't fading. In fact, it’s entering a new golden age.
“Private practice dentistry is a noble profession. It’s the best path to freedom, profitability, and the life you want.”
– Dr. Barrett Straub
Private practice still makes up 86% of U.S. dentistry. That’s not a dying model—that’s a dominant one. And yet, many dentists feel overwhelmed, underpaid, and unsure how to move forward. The pressure is real. But the opportunity is even greater.
If you’re a dentist who wants more freedom, more fulfillment, and more control over your future, now is your time. But it requires a new mindset—and the right support.
In our coaching at ACT Dental and our leadership at Smile Source, we talk about three overlapping roles that every successful dentist must learn to balance:
When dentists get stuck, it’s usually because they focus too much on the clinical circle and neglect the other two. But when all three circles work together, private practice becomes a source of strength, autonomy, and joy.
Global dentistry is projected to grow from $449 billion in 2023 to $610 billion by 2030. That’s a massive leap. And this growth is being driven by innovations outside traditional insurance-based care: dental implants, dental sleep medicine, clear aligners, cosmetic dentistry, and more. These are areas where patients are paying out of pocket and seeking differentiated care.
“Dental sleep medicine has a 14–16% annual growth rate. Clear aligners? Closer to 30%. If you want to grow, start there.” – Dr. Jeff Osborne
Want to grow your practice? Focus on what dental school didn’t teach you. Learn to lead, build value, and deliver care that insurance doesn’t dictate.
Many dentists today are working harder than ever for less. The average general dentist works 220+ days a year. But high-performing practices—those who think strategically, charge appropriately, and lead effectively—are thriving with fewer clinical days and stronger profits. They're not grinding. They’re designing their practice to support the life they want.
And that’s the point. Private practice gives you freedom to set your hours, choose your care model, and lead with purpose.
“The most successful dentists aren’t working more—they’re working smarter.” – Kirk Behrendt
We believe in what we call “future pull”—creating a compelling vision for the years ahead and surrounding yourself with people who help you get there.
That’s why Smile Source and ACT Dental have joined forces. We’re building an ecosystem of support for private dentists: community, education, coaching, and tools that help you reclaim your practice and reimagine your future.
Start with our Best Practices Association app. Use tools like the “Financial Gaps” assessment to better understand your business model and where you want to go. Don’t make big decisions based on fear, frustration, or what someone said in a random Facebook group. Learn to think better. Make informed choices. And do it with people you trust.
Private practice isn’t dead. It’s just evolving—and it’s yours to shape.
Whether you want to lead a low-volume, high-touch practice or a larger, multi-location model, there’s room for you. Just don’t go alone. The road to a better practice and better life starts with a shift in mindset, a plan, and a community that has your back.
“Owning your own practice is the only real security in this world.”
– Kirk Behrendt
Let’s build the future of independent dentistry together!