Summary

Many dentists are exploring new revenue channels to boost financial security and well-being.

These come from multiple factors, such as:

• The rise in AI tools, offering dentists more downtime to engage in advisory roles for the dental industry
• A less progressive earning model in the dental field, especially in developing countries
• Increased reporting of burn out rates in the dental profession
• Increase in the DSO culture giving dentists an opportunity to think about their careers in an expansive way.

The growing field of dental tech offers a unique opportunity to leverage clinical expertise in exciting, profitable ways.

In today’s article, Dr. Namrata Upadhyay summarizes the global observations of the progression of the dental field and invites dental practitioners to arm their careers bulletproof with the right MedTech training. Discover how to become an industry advisor, help shape cutting-edge dental products, and join a global network of dental innovators. Check out how our Premium Dental Advisor Program can help you redefine what’s possible for your career.

Why Dentists Should Consider Alternate Revenue Channels in an Evolving Industry 

The dental profession is facing a unique crossroads, and more than ever, it’s crucial for dentists to consider expanding their revenue streams beyond traditional clinical practice.  

The combination of high burnout rates, lower-than-expected earnings, the intense demands of patient care, and even the increasingly competitive landscape are pushing many dental professionals to seek new ways to build financial stability and career resilience. 

One way to do this is by entering the realm of dental technology and product advisory—a field with growing opportunities for those willing to adapt their clinical expertise to a broader market.  

This article outlines the challenges many dentists face today and offers a path forward: embracing an advisory or tech-focused role that provides greater financial stability and a healthier work-life balance. 

Why Alternate Revenue Streams Matter for Dentists 

Burnout and Mental Health Concerns

Dentistry is notorious for its high levels of burnout and mental health challenges. Dentists rank among the highest professions for stress and depression, often stemming from long hours, high pressure, and, unfortunately, high rates of suicide. For many, the daily grind of clinical work is unsustainable in the long term, necessitating a more balanced approach to their careers.

Earnings Plateau

While dentistry can be lucrative, many dental practitioners face a plateau in income, especially if they are limited to working within a clinic setting. Traditional revenue models often do not scale well, meaning earnings are capped by the number of hours a dentist can spend with patients. Pursuing advisory roles in dental tech or engaging in side projects can provide supplementary income, helping them overcome the earnings ceiling inherent in clinical practice.

AI and Automation in Dentistry

The advent of artificial intelligence and digital tools in the dental industry has started to change how practitioners work. With AI assisting in diagnostics and treatment planning, dentists find themselves with more time and flexibility. Instead of seeing this time as downtime, it presents an ideal opportunity to explore non-clinical projects that leverage their skills in new, profitable ways.

The Demand for Expert Advisors in Dental Product Development

The dental product and medical device industries are rapidly expanding, and there is a growing need for Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs) and expert advisors to support the development of these products. Dental tech companies often struggle to access experienced practitioners who can guide the design, usability, and effectiveness of their tools. As a dentist, your practical insights are invaluable in shaping these innovations and ensuring they meet real-world clinical needs.

Bridging the Gap: A Platform for Dentists to Thrive in Dental Tech 

Recognizing the immense opportunity in this space, we’ve created the Premium Dental Advisor Program—an e-learning and mentorship initiative specifically designed for dentists interested in expanding into the dental tech arena. This program not only offers in-depth training on the process of medical device development but also provides a structured path to becoming a trusted advisor for dental product companies. 

The Premium Dental Advisor Program equips you with the knowledge and skills to: 

• Understand the intricacies of medical device design and regulatory requirements. 
• Position yourself as an advisor who can consult on product strategy, usability, and clinical applicability. 
• Network with other forward-thinking dentists and dental tech companies seeking partnerships with experienced practitioners. 

You can find more details about the program and how it can help you diversify your career here. 

A Win-Win for Dentists and Dental Product Companies 

Not only do dentists benefit from these additional revenue channels, but dental tech companies are also eager to tap into a pool of knowledgeable professionals. As companies strive to create effective, market-ready products, they often face challenges in gathering insights from active practitioners. Many of these firms are looking for experts who can act as KOLs, provide validation for their concepts, and ultimately ensure that their products meet the practical needs of end-users. 

To bridge this gap, we’ve developed the Global Dentists Pool®, a platform that connects dental companies with highly skilled practitioners who are ready to consult, advise, and collaborate. Whether you’re interested in acting as an advisor, testing new products, or providing strategic insights, this platform offers an excellent opportunity for professional growth and influence. 

For more information on how dental product companies can benefit from accessing our pool of experts, visit this link. 

Taking the Next Step 

If you’re a dentist looking to explore new revenue channels, the time to act is now. With the Premium Dental Advisor Program, you can take charge of your career, reduce burnout, and unlock new financial opportunities in a growing industry. Not only will you gain valuable knowledge, but you’ll also position yourself as a key player in the future of dental tech. 

Together, let’s reshape what’s possible for dental professionals—beyond the clinic walls. 

References: 

1. Alexander RE. Stress-related suicide by dentists and other health care workers. Fact or folklore? J Am Dent Assoc. 2001;132(6):786-94.  

2. Rink LC, Oyesanya TO, Adair KC, Humphreys JC, Silva SG, Sexton JB. Stressors Among Healthcare Workers: A Summative Content Analysis. Glob Qual Nurs Res. 2023;10:23333936231161127.  

3. Stack S. Suicide risk among dentists: A multivariate analysis. Deviant Behav. 1996;17(1):107-117.  

4. Grossman M. Dentists and Suicide: A Look at the Numbers. Accessed 14 June, 2024. https://www.mcgill.ca/oss/article/health/dentists-and-suicide-look-numbers 

5. Grytten J. Payment systems and incentives in dentistry. Community Dent Oral Epidemiol. 2017;45(1):1-11. 

Image credits: Dentally

Meet the Author

Dr. Namrata Upadhyay is a dental surgeon, an ex-executive at a dental tech company, and an experienced clinical and regulatory consultant with expertise in all risk classes of medical devices. As the Founder & CEO of NamNR Pro, she guides Dental Tech teams to build better devices in collaboration with dentists worldwide.