Posted May 03, 2016
If you are thinking of starting your own business, you are not alone. Many hygienists are exploring unconventional business models that allow them the flexibility and freedom of being their own boss. Some ways that hygienists may be their own bosses include these inventive business models:
There are many benefits to a mobile dental practice. First of all, you may be able to find a niche in any area where dental services are inaccessible or difficult for individuals to obtain. Second, the overhead costs of a mobile practice may fall far below what a brick-and-mortar office commands. The theory of going where you are needed could be the key to attaining and maintaining a loyal clientele amid a competitive market.
If you want to make your hours and be your boss, consider offering your services as a consultant. This could be in terms of a market or product you are offering insight on, or it may be to an agency or business in the dental industry. You are a clinician, and your experience is valuable; allow this insight to forge the way toward an independent role as a consultant in some manner or niche in the dental industry.
Want to make a difference? Give some thought to starting your non-profit agency. This could be providing much-needed dental services to a particular demographic, such as shut-ins, the elderly, or the incarcerated. Research available grants and funding that may be available as you begin to design and plan your business model; seek out other professionals with similar missions that may want to contribute some of their time or expertise to your cause. Over time, this agency could grow into an enterprise that allows you the freedom to be your own boss and the income to support your desired lifestyle.
If you dont mind leaving direct dental care, you may put your experience to use as a speaker, writer, or teacher. Share your knowledge, experience, and insights with others through journal articles, blogs, motivational speaking gigs, or academic lectures. Typically, speaking arrangements will pay a flat fee and per diem, while a writer may receive royalties and per-word compensation. Depending on the level of freedom you seek, you could find freelancing in these fields the best way to utilize your dental expertise.
Businesses are born both out of frustration and as a way to improve things. While working as a dental hygienist, I started DentalPost on the side. I placed ads everywhere, took calls, and spread the word about DentalPost. Often I had to multitask: making dinner with my twin babies attached to both my legs and having the phone sandwiched between my ear and shoulder while taking calls! Then, I worked after the twins went to sleep around seven at night.
I promoted DentalPost during my dentist’s lunch break. During this time, I would eat lunch in my car on the way to other dentists’ offices to drop off flyers and tell them about DentalPost. I would stay up late at night sending letters to dental professionals telling them about our service. I wanted to help people connect, and I believed I had the service for them.
Updated October 2022.