Buying a dental practice is one of the biggest financial decisions a dentist will make, and getting it right starts with knowing what to look for. This guide walks through the essentials: understanding why a practice is being sold, reviewing patient records and collections history, assessing the condition of equipment and the facility lease, and evaluating the local competitive landscape.
Start by getting clear on what you're looking for: a fully-equipped general practice, a specialty practice, a solo office, or a multi-provider group. Your goals, whether that's building long-term equity, taking over an established patient base, or transitioning into ownership for the first time, will shape which listings are worth pursuing.
Once you've found a practice that fits, request the financial documentation: profit and loss statements, tax returns, and production reports for the past three years at minimum. Compare these against the asking price and consider bringing in a dental-specific CPA or valuation specialist before you make an offer.
Finally, plan for the transition itself. Will the selling dentist stay on to help with the handover? How will staff and patients be notified? A clear transition plan protects the value of the practice you're buying and helps patients and team members feel confident about the change.