Should dental education include business management?

Stacey McMaster considers the benefit of business skills for young dentists and whether its feasible to teach them within dental training.

Over the years, there have been ongoing efforts from both within and outside the dental profession to incorporate business management into dental education.

At first glance, this idea seems logical; after all, a dental practice is fundamentally a business. If it does not generate a profit, it will ultimately struggle to succeed. However, while the integration of business management skills is valuable, it should not overshadow the primary focus of dental education: mastering the art and science of dentistry.

As Dr Ben Atkins, a seasoned dentist who has established three practices around Manchester, aptly puts it: ‘Dentistry is so complicated; I don’t think during dental school there is enough time to study business alongside.’

This statement resonates deeply with many dental professionals who believe that the rigorous demands of dental education should take precedence over anything more than the very basic business training during the formative years of a young dentist’s career.

The complexity of dental education

The pressure is immense and students often find themselves balancing demanding coursework with hands-on clinical practice. As Dr Atkins notes: ‘There is so much pressure on students coming through. I wish they could enjoy it more. During my time, I got to focus on dentistry, and I enjoyed my time studying.’

We know that this focus on clinical dentistry is crucial. The more hands-on experience dental students gain, the more confident and competent they will be when entering the workforce. Dental procedures require not just theoretical knowledge but also practical skills, which can take years to refine. Would adding too much focus on business management be detriment to clinical training?

Let’s face it, there are only so many teaching hours in a day. If students are expected divert their attention toward business management as well, they may miss out on essential clinical training that enhances their capabilities as practitioners.

Balancing education and experience

Incorporating business education into the dental curriculum could lead to an imbalance. Students may feel overwhelmed with the amount of material they need to master, which could diminish their overall learning experience.

Moreover, the transition from student to professional can be daunting. Many new dentists often find themselves navigating the various complexities of day-to-day practice without the confidence that is gain by experience. It is essential to cultivate clinical confidence first. After developing strong dental skills is usually prime time to consider delving into the intricacies of managing a practice.

The role of business knowledge

While dental students need to immerse themselves in their studies, it is also undeniable that understanding the business side of a dental practice can enhance their career. The reality is that after graduation, dentists must navigate the complexities of practice management, including finance, marketing, and patient relations. However, this knowledge does not need to be acquired during dental school.

Dr Atkins suggests that newly qualified dentists who are interested in business management should consider pursuing courses or webinars after graduation, once they have gained some clinical experience.

‘There are many options available, and these business classes or webinars do not necessarily need to focus specifically on dentistry,’ he explains.

The principles of running a successful business can be found in various industries. For instance, many other businesses operate under similar models to dental practices, such as private healthcare clinics, veterinary practices, and law firms. These professions rely on the ability to manage a client base, maintain strong customer relationships, and handle financial aspects, all while delivering specialised services. The ability to manage a client base, maintain customer relationships, and handle financial aspects are skills that transcend public-facing industries.

Many providers, including the Chamber of Commerce, offer excellent business courses. By waiting until after graduation to pursue business education, new dentists can first concentrate on refining their clinical skills, ensuring they are fully prepared for the challenges of their profession.

Fostering a passion for dentistry

Ultimately, the heart of dentistry lies in patient care. A genuine passion for helping others and a commitment to providing high-quality care should be the driving forces behind a career in dentistry. This passion will not only enhance their technical abilities but also translate into better patient experiences, but this should not lessen or understate the importance of learning the necessary skills to run a successful business.

Encouraging a culture of excellence in clinical education will ensure that future dentists are well-prepared to serve their communities. If students can embrace this enjoyment and dedication, they will emerge as competent professionals ready to tackle the challenges of the dental world.

Final thoughts

While the integration of business management into dental education is a topic worthy of discussion, it is crucial to prioritise clinical skills during the formative years of dental training.

By focusing on dentistry first, students will build a solid foundation that will serve them well throughout their careers. Once they have honed their clinical skills and gained experience in the field, they can then explore business management courses that will enhance their understanding of practice operations.

The dental profession is about more than just running a successful practice; it’s about providing quality care and making a difference in patients’ lives. By emphasising the importance of mastering dentistry, we can ensure that future dentists are not only skilled professionals but also passionate advocates for their patients.

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