From Solo Practice To Scalable Legacy: What Dentists Must Know About DSOs, EBITDA, and Real-World Profit

Only a handful of dentists can truly afford to stop working—and the reasons have little to do with clinical skill. We invited Kerry Strain to pull back the curtain on the real levers of profit, the truth behind DSO multiples, and the simple systems that turn production into durable wealth. This is a candid conversation about discipline, not hype: how to allocate cash so lifestyle, taxes, debt, and retirement all get funded; why hygiene capacity is the fastest path to meaningful growth; and how AI, intraoral imaging, and clear standards transform diagnosis, case acceptance, and patient loyalty.

We dig into the market’s shift from quick 5–6x cash deals to partnership structures where owners sell a portion of EBITDA, receive cash plus holding company equity, and keep working under clear performance expectations. Kerry breaks down the three income buckets every owner should build—W‑2 production pay, K‑1 EBITDA distributions, and equity appreciation—and explains why this “legacy strategy” beats chasing an exit. We also get specific on what buyers actually want: $1.5M+ revenue, strong hygiene ratios, predictable systems, and leadership that shows up in reviews, retention, and financial reporting.

If you’re trying to add $600k without adding days, you’ll hear exactly how: reappoint close to 100%, tighten collections at time of service, expand perio maintenance, price with intention, and match capacity to your active base. If you’re considering a DSO or DPO, you’ll learn how to evaluate fit, protect your upside, and avoid the common traps that turn a big check into a slow slide.

Listen, take notes, and choose your path with clarity. If this helped, follow the show, share it with a colleague who needs a playbook, and leave a quick review so more dentists can find these conversations.