Reflections on dental management service organizations

There are a multitude of practice options for the young dentist today. First, many practicing clinicians remain in solo practice or small group settings; flexibility, autonomy, and the ability to control one's environment are important factors in deciding to practice privately. The modern dentist, in order to succeed, will have to learn the business side of dentistry quickly and apply it more strategically in this new economic environment. A second choice is working in a large clinic or clinic environment, which is an option for those interested in a group setting with related benefits but no ownership option. The third alternative is working for a DMSO that operates facilities and offers their staff commensurate salaries and benefits, professional pride, and the potential for ownership that will be a stable component of caregiving in the future. Lastly, joining the military as a dental practitioner is worth noting; 10 percent of the men and women of the TUSDM 2010 graduating class opted for this clinical setting.