For associate dentists
There is more than one way to own a practice. Here are the three paths we help associates take, what each one asks of you, and a short questionnaire to see where you fit.
Three paths
You purchase an established practice with patients, staff and cash flow from day one.
You buy a share of a practice and lead it alongside an existing owner.
A mentored partnership into ownership, with Bigler's operating team running the business side alongside you.
Find your path
Your answers suggest which path to explore first. You'll still see all three options, and we'll talk through any of them on the call.
Your suggested starting point
We've highlighted it in the comparison above. Every path is worth a look, and the right answer depends on details we'd cover together.
Questions associates ask us
Clinical confidence is only part of it. You're ready when you can picture yourself leading a team, you've thought about where you want to live long term, and you understand the basics of practice finances. If you're unsure, the Acquisition Strategy Call is a good place to test it.
Less than most associates expect. Dental acquisitions are commonly financed through SBA and specialized dental lenders, and some sellers carry part of the price as a note. The cash you need depends on the lender, the practice and your credit. We model it with you before you commit to anything.
Buying gives you the whole practice and every decision. Buying in gives you a share of a practice and a partner to lead it with. Buying in usually takes less capital up front, and both paths come with real trade-offs in control, income and timeline.
JV Mentorship is a partnership path into ownership with Bigler Enterprises. You focus on patient care and leading the clinical side of the practice, while our team supports operations, finance and growth, and our founders mentor you as you build toward fuller ownership. Every JV is structured individually, so we explain the specific terms on a call.
It varies with the practice and the financing. Finding the right practice can take a few months on its own, and diligence, financing and closing add more. Starting the conversation early gives you more choices.
It's a free 30-minute call with Andrew Bigler, joined by our Financial Director, Samuel Scott. We talk through your goals, your financing picture and any practice you're considering, then outline what we'd recommend next.
Start with our free monthly webinars and consider applying to the Young Doc Ownership Program. It's built to prepare you for exactly these decisions.
Acquisition Strategy Call · 30 minutes
Answer a few questions, then choose a time on Samuel Scott's calendar. Sam covers your financing picture and Andrew Bigler joins. The call is free.