Dr. Sten Ericson’s Origin Story-Part 1-Initial Interest in Dentistry and the Business Aspect as a Solo Practitioner
Welcome to the first installment of our special Toolbox Tuesday series, where we delve into the origin stories of our esteemed doctors. This week, we kick off with Dr. Sten Ericson as he shares the journey that led him to the world of dentistry—a field he now calls home.
Discovering Dentistry
Sten’s path to dentistry, while familiar, is uniquely his own. With a burgeoning interest in science and a knack for working with his hands, Sten’s early exposure to dentistry through shadowing a friend’s father ignited a passion. The prospect of being his own boss and infusing creativity into his work sealed the deal for Sten, steering him away from the medical field where his experiences as an EMT and in various medical settings left him desiring something different. The elective aspect of dentistry appealed to him, aligning with his temperament and aspirations.
The Evolution of Dental Practices
Reflecting on the industry’s evolution, Sten describes the path many new dentists envision post-graduation—associating temporarily, then owning a practice. However, as the industry has evolved significantly over the last decade, so has Sten’s vision. Initially following the conventional route, he soon realized the need to forge his own path to maintain autonomy and achieve his vision of success. This realization prompted him to explore various practice models, ultimately seeking a middle ground between traditional private practices and corporate DSOs.
The Business Aspect of Dentistry
Sten candidly discusses the limitations of dental school in preparing graduates to run their own businesses. While dental school equips graduates with the essential clinical skills to practice safely, the intricacies of business management remain largely unaddressed. Driven by determination, Sten navigated the steep learning curve of managing a practice, making mistakes, and gathering insights along the way.
Emphasizing the importance of viewing a dental practice as an owner rather than just an operator, Sten highlights the potential pitfalls of complacency. The dental industry can offer a comfortable career, but realizing the full potential of a practice requires deliberate, informed business strategies.
Conclusion
Sten’s story is a testament to the value of self-discovery and adaptation in a rapidly changing dental landscape. His journey underscores the importance of embracing change, seeking mentorship, and maintaining a clear vision for the future. As we continue this series, we will explore how Sten transitioned to group practice and the impact of mentorship on delivering exceptional patient care.
Stay tuned for the next installment, where we delve deeper into the evolution of group practice and its benefits. For those interested in evaluating their business models or exploring new opportunities, Pathway Dental Solutions is here to guide you through the complexities of modern dental practice management. Contact us to learn more!
