The Evolving Dental Industry: The Future of Private Practice – Steve Parker: Ep #548

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by DSOs, insurance battles, and mounting student debt. But what if private practice isn’t dying—it’s evolving? In this episode, Steve Parker—editor-in-chief of The Profitable Dentist—joins David to break down the real opportunities emerging in modern dentistry. Together, they explore the new digital-first ecosystem, the decline of the big seminar model, and the rise of high-impact niche events. Most importantly, Steve shares how solo practice owners can still win—by doing what corporate can’t.

Whether you’re a fresh dental grad wondering if ownership is worth it or a seasoned doc questioning your next move, Steve’s insights will help you reframe your mindset around profitability, leadership, and long-term sustainability. This isn’t about “grinding harder”—it’s about building smarter, staying profitable, and maintaining clarity on what success truly means. Private practice isn’t just surviving—it’s adapting. And it may be stronger than ever.

Minute Markers:

00:00 – Intro
02:20 – The legacy of The Profitable Dentist and Steve’s digital pivot
06:24 – The decline of CDs, DVDs, and the rise of YouTube and digital CE
08:06 – Why in-person events still matter in a digital-first age
13:17 – What we lose when we stop meeting in person
15:25 – The ADA’s slow shift and the power of dentist-owned practices
20:35 – The false DSO takeover narrative
25:09 – Why clinical excellence ≠ business success
29:03 – Don’t buy the practice… yet
34:06 – Know yourself before chasing the “owner” identity
36:46 – What is “profitable leadership” in dentistry?
39:45 – Why most dentists are financially unprepared for retirement
41:29 – The difference between income and wealth

If you like this episode, here are more episodes we think you’ll enjoy:

Ep #547 – The Lost Art of Restoring Trust, Resolving Conflict, and Emotional Intelligence – Greg Stephens
Ep #283 – Coming Back Stronger – Steve Parker

Links Featured on the Show:

#steveparker #privatedentistry #profitabilitymindset #dentalownership #freedomfounders #privatepractice

Watch full length Interviews on video!

Watch full length interviews on David’s YouTube channel by going to www.DentistFreedomBlueprint.com/YouTube. Don’t forget to subscribe to David’s YouTube Channel for more content on maximizing your business, wealth, and creating a financial blueprint to reach your Freedom faster!

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P.S. Whenever you’re ready, here are some other ways I can help fast track you to your Freedom goal (you’re closer than you think):

1. Schedule a Call with My Team:

If you’d like to replace your active practice income with passive investment income within 2-3 years, and you have at least 1M in available capital (can include residential/practice equity or practice sale), then schedule a call with my team. If it looks like there is a mutual fit, you’ll have the opportunity to attend one of our upcoming member events as a guest.

2. Get Your Dentist Retirement Survival Guide:

The winds of economic change are here, and now is the time to move to higher ground. This guide gives you the steps to protect your retirement, your family, and your peace of mind. Get the 25-point checklist here.

3. Get Your Free Retirement Scorecard:

Benchmark your retirement and wealth-building against hundreds of other practice professionals, and get personalized feedback on your biggest opportunities and leverage points. Click here to take the 3 minute assessment and get your scorecard.

Want to know more about David and schedule him as a speaker or podcast guest? Go to doctorphelps.com to book David now.

Power Concepts:

“Dentists don’t just need better margins—they need better mindsets.” – Steve Parker

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“If you’re not comfortable with conflict, you’re not ready to own a business.” – Steve Parker