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E81: How Owning a House-Call Practice Can Be a Liberating Side Hustle

Writer's picture: Ashleigh RobinsonAshleigh Robinson


In today's fast-paced world, finding the right career path can be a challenge, especially for those in the dental profession. Recently, I had the opportunity to consult with a dentist during my office hours, who was navigating the crossroads of her career and contemplating her next steps. If you're a dentist interested in exploring new opportunities, you're welcome to sign up for a consultation at residentialmovement.com/officehours.


The Journey from Practice Ownership to Associate Dentist

Eighteen months ago, this dentist was overwhelmed by the responsibilities of traditional practice ownership. Her top concerns included managing a team and the financial burdens associated with significant debt. These stressors prompted her to sell her practice, and she recently transitioned to working as an associate in another practice. While this move alleviated some of her previous burdens, she now finds herself struggling with new challenges. The practice environment sometimes leaves her feeling like she has to hold back her opinions when owners make decisions that conflict with her views. Her desire for independence and self-employment has not diminished, yet she is hesitant about taking on team management and the extensive responsibilities of practice ownership again.


Why a Dental House Call Practice Could Be the Perfect Fit

When she shared her aspirations, I recommended that she consider owning a dental house-call practice. You might think I'm biased, but in her case, it genuinely seems like the ideal path. A house call practice circumvents the need for a team and debt. Plus, she possesses a genuine passion for assisting those who are homebound, making this option a natural alignment with her values and goals.


A dental house call practice addresses many challenges that dentists face today, providing services to a frequently underserved population. Excitingly, this dentist was enthusiastic about the concept but had one significant concern—her love for performing complex surgical and cosmetic cases.


Balancing House Calls with Cosmetic Dentistry

I reassured her that she wouldn't have to forgo these procedures. Patients who are homebound typically don't require such extensive procedures, and those who do should have them conducted within an office setting. However, she could still engage in these intricate cases in her current associate role. This practice mode could essentially become a "side hustle," complementing her primary job. She could balance her time between her part-time associate position and her house call practice.


The Side Hustle: A Pathway to Independence and Flexibility

For those unfamiliar with the term, a side hustle refers to operating this practice alongside other income sources. Personally, I've always believed in diversifying income streams, having had multiple jobs even during my education. My own dental house call practice initially started as a side hustle. This dual approach allowed me to explore the house-call business with financial security, offering flexibility to learn and grow the business on my terms.


House call practices are uniquely advantageous, offering opportunities for change and expansion while minimizing infrastructure and team complexities. For instance, during my pregnancy, I was able to tailor my schedule to meet personal needs. Currently, I remain committed to offering house calls several days a week, balancing my professional responsibilities with precious time spent at home with my daughter.


Conclusion: Embrace the Opportunity of a House Call Practice

Ultimately, a dental house call practice offers unparalleled flexibility and opportunity. This mode of practice will not restrict you to one facet of dentistry; instead, it liberates you to explore diverse paths while positively impacting patients who need it most. If you're considering the potential of house-call dentistry, remember that it opens doors rather than closes them.


Thank you for considering this path and for your dedication to expanding access to dental care. Your willingness to explore house-call dentistry is truly appreciated.




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Reach Dr. Ashleigh Robinson at hello@residentalmovement.com

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