E72: Owning a Practice That Doesn't Own You

ResiDental Movement

In this episode, I wanted to take a moment to share a poignant story about a patient I’ll call James Doe. Over a year ago, James reached out, seeking help for a sharp tooth problem that was cutting his tongue. When I first visited his charming home, I was greeted by his wife, Elaine, and navigated through their cozy residence to find James seated in a recliner. Our initial appointment was filled with heartfelt conversations; James regaled me with stories about his five kids, grandchildren, and his adventurous past, including his service in the military and a long career that took him around the world. After treating his immediate dental issue, I advised James that he needed a comprehensive oral exam to address other dental concerns—advice he surprisingly heeded.

Weeks later, I returned for a complete examination and treatment planning session. James and Elaine were faced with tough choices, such as whether to undergo transportation for oral surgery or to manage his condition at home. Elaine’s emotional response emphasized the overwhelming nature of caregiving and the importance of support systems. Despite the challenges, James made pragmatic choices typical of many of my patients: opting for SDF placements and focusing on visible restorations to maintain his appearance. Unfortunately, James's health took a downturn, leading to a temporary stay at a care facility where dental hygiene was not prioritized. This exacerbated his dental issues, and upon his return home, we had to adjust our treatment plans.

The story reached a touching and insightful conclusion during our last session. James, now bedridden and beset by rheumatoid arthritis, chose comfort over aesthetics for his dental care. He shared life lessons with me, reflecting on the time he wished he could reclaim to spend with his family. This sentiment resonated deeply, reinforcing my own philosophy of valuing time and cherishing moments with loved ones. House-call dentistry, as James' story illustrates, is not just about medical procedures—it’s about connecting with patients on a personal level and making a profound impact on their lives. This fulfilling practice model is a unique and rewarding career choice that stands apart from traditional chair-side dentistry. If you’re interested in exploring this path, I invite you to join my free masterclass, “Own a Practice That Doesn’t Own You.”

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Produced by: Social Chameleon