A recurring question among dental assistants seems to be whether they should apply for a corporate dental office or a private practice. Most assistants have heard “good and bad” things about both the corporate and private dental fields. The truth is, both are good choices , but only when it fits the needs of the dental assistant. To help break down the advantages and disadvantages of each dental sector, we can begin with the similarities of corporate dentistry and privately owned offices.
It is important to realize that first, some things just are not going to be any different when making a decision for hire. For instance…
1) You will still have to drive to work each day so be sure to factor the distance from your home.
2) You will have days that you love…and days that you don’t. Do NOT bank your decisions solely on the atmosphere or decor the dental office. In the end, we all get use to our environments.
3) It is likely that you will always wish for more money. As soon as another cost enters your lifestyle, so will the press for more money. Consider what other amenities might be important to you.
4) People will change; turn-over happens. While important, do not bank your decisions on specific individuals.
Now, some of the above comments may surprise you as they might seem contradictory to the old “find the right fit.” But they are not entirely. Finding the right fit is still important, but because you are struggling with going corporate vs. private, you should be sure to look at the total deal package.
To begin the comparison of corporate and private dentistry it seems fair to begin with the advantages of both. As you read, carefully consider the thoughts that are most appropriate for your needs.
Advantages pertaining to the work and schedule environment:
Corporate: Usually a busier office in which the dental assistant will perform tasks quickly. There is usually a turnover in patients; receive new ones often and see just as many leave over a short period of time. Usually large enough to include more than doctor and several dental assistants. Different schedule options are usually available. Paid holidays are likely to be offered.
Private: Likely to enjoy one or two dentists and just a few dental assistants in office. Patients usually are more apt to stay with the office for a very long time. Usually a bit slower with occasional busy days. Likely to keep a standard schedule that will not vary too much.
Other advantages:
Corporate: Most corporate businesses offer succession plans that allow the dental assistant to move laterally in positions or move up to larger responsibilities. With succession, pay scales are often used, meaning there will be a “cap” to the potential wages allowed for each position. Benefit packages are usually offered by a corporate group, which is nice. Vacation days, sick days, are likely to be offered just in most cases; however, a corporate office may be able to give paid days off. If needing to relocate, you may not have to lose your job, but just transfer! For those who value continuing education, corporate offices often make training, in-services, and additional learning opportunities a priority. Even better, they will likely cover costs.
Private: Most private offices will base pay increase on merit or “good job done” , which it is nice to be recognized for your hard-work. Private office will generally offer small bonuses for various reasons, which is fun! Private offices usually offer a “close-nit” feel that tends to draw loyal patients who desire the same feel. Private offices are generally pretty good about considering the employees’ opinions in business practices, really listening to new ideas and best practices. Private offices often complete continuing education as a “family” to keep everyone on the same page. If a new dentist is being added to the team or a current dentist is “phasing out”, a private office will generally build in a transition plan to ensure the comfort of the employees and patients.
The Disadvantages?
Corporate: It is not uncommon for corporate offices to utilize a “motivational system” of which certain goals are set and rewards are given to encourage production of care, sales, and budget management, which does not fit everyone’s philosophy. Another disadvantage of corporate dentistry may be that the business is truly set on budget forecasting, meaning they can only afford employees who deliver. Turn over may be high. Often, corporate offices will not warn employees of re-structuring until the very last moment, meaning the dental assistant may not be aware the dentist is being fired until the last minuet; however, they will be expected to continue with optimal performance, regardless.
Private: There is very little room for a small business to offer significant pay increases. Some small offices do not value credentials; if they don’t, the assistant pay have to pay for CE credit out-of-pocket. Depending on the size of the private office, they may not be able to pick up the costs of professional memberships, credentials, or licensure. Private offices may not have another option for employment should the dental assistant need to relocate. If a private office is hurting for money, it is not unusual for a dental assistant to become part-time or decreased in hours. Benefit packages are usually not offered in a private setting due to the costs associated with carrying an insurance for employees.
Remember, regardless of which choice fits your needs the most, it is your attitude that will predict your happiness! Dentistry is a great career…make the best of it!
TheUltimateDentalAssistant 