Host: Dr. Tanya Sue Maestas
Guest: Dr. Jennifer Bell
Edited By: Candy Velez CRDH
Dr. Jennifer Bell shares her expert advice on finding the right fit for your dental practice and the power of partnership.
The Importance of Practicing in Community
Dr. Bell’s journey in dentistry took an unconventional turn when she chose to partner with a colleague right out of a residency program after dental school.
She explains that the two of them took a little time to hone their skills with the goal of opening a business together in 2010. Dr. Bell emphasizes the value of practicing in community rather than alone, highlighting the benefits of having a trusted colleague by your side.
She shares her experience, saying,
“The ability to have a colleague whom I trust implicitly to say, what would you do here? How would you do this differently? Do you want to look at some cases together? What’s a journey, a future goal that we could do together that we could share?”
Dr. Bell’s advice resonates with the idea that two heads are better than one. Having a partner in your dental practice allows for collaboration, shared decision-making, and the opportunity to learn from each other’s strengths.
It creates a support system to help navigate the challenges and uncertainties of running a dental practice.
Building a Strong Partnership
Choosing the right partner is crucial for the success of a dental practice. Dr. Bell emphasizes the importance of building a solid foundation before entering into a partnership.
She shares her experience, saying, Â
“We were in a residency program together, building our relationship, dating, courtship, if you will. Discussing cases together, discussing finances together, discussing life goals and visions together, and really spending that time in community and fellowship and sort of dating one another.”
Getting to know your potential partner personally and professionally is essential. It allows you to assess compatibility, shared values, and goals. Dr. Bell highlights the significance of shared vision, balance of skills, and complementary strengths in a partnership.
She says,Â
“We had a balance of skills. I’m good at some things, and she’s good at others. And combined, we make this very powerful, cohesive force together.”
Treating Partnership Like a Marriage
Dr. Bell’s approach to partnership goes beyond the traditional business model. She believes in treating the partnership like a marriage, with equal commitment and shared responsibilities.
She says,Â
“We are 50-50 split. There is not a lot of tracking between the two of us because we each have highs and lows. We each have maternity leaves, sick leaves, sick kids, whatever. At the end of the day, when the practice is successful, when our people are happy, and our patients are well cared for, we are successful.”
This mindset of equality and mutual support fosters a strong bond between partners. It allows for open communication, trust, and shared responsibility. Dr. Bell’s advice challenges the traditional notion of partnerships, where one partner may have more control or decision-making power.
Treating the partnership like a marriage gives both partners an equal stake in the practice’s success.
The Impact of Partnership on Practice Culture
Dr. Bell’s partnership model extends beyond the relationship between the partners themselves. It also has a significant impact on the practice culture. She emphasizes the importance of building a practice that reflects the shared vision and values of the partners.
She says,
“There’s this whole vibe happening and then building that practice to reflect this culture you believe in and having one another side by side. So, if you partner with somebody, you need a marriage, period, or dating period. You really need to know who you’re going into business with.”
Having partners who are aligned in their values and goals creates a cohesive and positive practice culture. It sets the tone for how the team interacts with each other and with patients. Dr. Bell’s advice highlights the power of partnership in shaping the overall atmosphere and experience within the practice.
The Future of Dental Partnerships
Dr. Bell’s insights into the power of partnership in dentistry have far-reaching implications for the future of the profession. As the dental landscape continues to evolve, the traditional solo practice model may no longer be the norm. The benefits of collaboration, shared decision-making, and mutual support are becoming increasingly recognized.
Partnership in dentistry is not limited to two individuals coming together. It can also extend to larger group practices, where multiple dentists work together towards a common goal. This model allows for even greater collaboration, specialization, and the ability to provide comprehensive care to patients.
In Conclusion
In conclusion, Dr. Jennifer Bell’s advice on finding the right fit for your dental practice and the power of partnership is invaluable.
Practicing in community, building a solid partnership, treating it like a marriage, and shaping practice culture are all key elements to consider. As the dental profession continues to evolve, the power of partnership will play a vital role in shaping the future of dentistry.
So, whether you’re a recent dental graduate or a seasoned practitioner, take Dr. Bell’s advice to heart and consider the power of partnership in building a successful dental practice.
Until next time, keep learning, keep exploring, and fuel your dental dreams with knowledge!
Keep Reading: Building a Strong Dental Team with Dr. Jennifer Bell
