DSO vs. Private Practice: Looking Beyond the Job Offer

One of the first questions new grads ask me is, “Should I work for a DSO or a private practice?”

And every time, my answer is the same:

You’re asking the wrong question.

The real question isn’t whether a DSO or private practice is better. The real question is: Which environment is going to help you grow into the clinician you want to become?

I can’t tell you how many new grads come to me convinced they only want private practice because they’ve heard DSOs are all about production. Others are determined to work for a large organization because they assume private practices don’t offer growth opportunities.

The truth is I’ve seen amazing offices and terrible offices in both categories.

Working for DSOs 

Let’s start with what many DSOs do really well.

As a new grad, one of the biggest things you need is support. Many larger organizations have structured onboarding programs, mentorship opportunities, continuing education pathways, and leadership tracks. Some even offer opportunities to move into roles involving training, recruiting, management, education, or operations later in your career.

For a new grad who is eager to learn and grow, those opportunities can be incredibly valuable.

But let’s talk about what else can come along with it.

With larger organizations, there can sometimes be increased expectations around productivity, efficiency, and production goals. That doesn’t automatically make it a bad environment, but it does mean you need to understand how success is measured. Ask questions. What does a typical day look like? What support is available? How are new graduates onboarded? What are the expectations during your first six months? The more you know, the more you can expect what your future will look like.

Working in Private Practice 

Now let’s talk private practice.

Many hygienists are drawn to private practice because it often feels more personal. Smaller teams can create close relationships with coworkers and patients. Some private offices offer incredible mentorship, flexibility, and autonomy.

But private practice isn’t automatically the dream job either.

Some smaller offices may offer fewer benefits, less structured training, limited opportunities for advancement, or minimal support for continuing education. Others may be absolutely phenomenal places to build a career.

What to Consider Before Accepting Any Position

This is why I always encourage new grads to take a peek behind the curtain.

Before you accept any position, spend time in the office. Shadow if possible. Watch how team members interact with one another. Pay attention to how the doctor speaks to the staff. Observe how patients are treated.

Ask yourself:

• Would I feel comfortable asking questions here?
• Is there mentorship available?
• Are employees respected?
• What opportunities exist for growth?
• Do the values of this office align with my own?

What You Can Do Right Now 

There are a few ways you can set yourself up for success and make sure every opportunity you consider is measured against your real goals and motivations. 

1. Before you even start your search, make a list of your priorities. What matters most to you right now? Maybe it’s mentorship. Maybe it’s benefits. Maybe it’s flexibility, a short commute, or opportunities for advancement.
2. Research offices before applying. Explore their websites and social media accounts. Read patient reviews. Talk to classmates, instructors, alumni, and colleagues. Networking often reveals insights you won’t find in a job posting.
3. When you receive a job offer, don’t focus solely on the hourly rate. Ask about benefits, continuing education, mentorship, scheduling, growth opportunities, and office culture. The highest-paying offer isn’t always the best offer.
4. Most importantly, trust your instincts. If something feels off during the interview process, pay attention to that feeling. As hygienists, we’re trained to notice the details. Use that skill when evaluating potential employers. Try and be mindful of the “love bombing” that can come from the interview stage.

At the end of the day, there is no universal winner in the DSO versus private practice debate.

The best office is the one that aligns with your values, supports your goals, and helps you become the clinician you aspire to be.

Because your first job isn’t just about where you’ll work.

It’s about who you’ll become.