Support for new dental practice owners: Adam’s experience

When Adam took on his first practice, he was focused on building a steady footing for his business. So, when an unexpected and daunting employment issue surfaced, he turned to us for support.

What followed was a challenging time, both professionally and personally. The support he received was vital in helping him navigate a situation that felt overwhelming.

“It was quite nerve-wracking. I remember making the call and saying that I really needed some help. I was really struggling.”

Support from the outset

Our advice team asked Adam to send across everything he had relating to the matter, including his practice’s policies, and relevant documents. With this foundation, our team reviewed every document carefully and kept in close contact as the case progressed.

“They asked if I had responded, checked what I had acknowledged, and went through everything with me. You start to repeat things in your head and question yourself, especially early on in practice ownership. After the first couple of calls, it all became much more transparent.”

As the situation developed, we ensured Adam understood each stage clearly and directed him to our HR consultancy service which ran the internal formal processes.

“It felt like suddenly I had people in my corner who understood the nuances of employment law. Because everything was documented, and in the BDA’s templates, they could sift through it and see exactly what had happened. They helped me manage the situation and kept me updated.”

Finding strength and reassurance

One of the most challenging moments came when a tribunal claim appeared unexpectedly, after the deadline.

“I came back in the new year, and this big brown envelope landed on my desk, right where I am sitting now. I opened the envelope, and it felt like the walls closed in. I thought that was it. That was when the team stepped in and reassured me. That was probably the scariest time for me. The support from the BDA at that moment really helped.”

For Adam, having support from people who understand dentistry made all the difference.

“Dentistry is very unique, especially in a mixed practice. We are a small independent family business, just trying to provide a service, and the BDA understands the day-to-day pressures.”

He also found that being able to set time aside to continue physical training for a charity Ironman Triathlon gave him an outlet that helped him cope during the most intense stages.

“It really helped to have somewhere to put that energy, it was one of the best things I could have done. It also helped realising the advice team were working on other tribunal cases. It made me realise that this is much more common than people think. It is just not something that often appears in forums or magazines, even though it is very much a reality for a lot of business owners.”

Keeping things moving during a difficult time

The emotional strain was significant, and the case often weighed heavily on his mind.

“I still don’t think I’ve completely got over it. There were sleepless nights and times where I had panic attacks. But the advice team were available to just touch base when I was concerned about the possibilities. It helped give me peace of mind. I do not know where I would be, or how I would be, without the support of the BDA who stepped in and said, ‘we've got you’.”

Despite everything, Adam continued caring for patients and running his practice.

“As much as you care about your patients, your patients do care about you. That’s something I have noticed that, hand over heart, has been amazing.”

Using BDA resources to grow the practice

Adam also valued the templates, downloads, and guidance available on the website, which continue to support his practice management and growth.

“It is coming up to the time when I will be issuing new contracts, and the BDA’s contracts are very good. It helps to have everything under one umbrella rather than separate subscriptions with different providers.”

Moving forward

We were able to achieve a successful outcome which brought significant relief, although naturally the experience has stayed with him.

“It’s still not left me, and it is quite raw. The accusations were difficult, especially because I had gone through a lot personally only months earlier. But the outcome is incredible for me and my family. Now I can begin to build the business I envisage.”

Advice for others facing something similar

Adam hopes that sharing his story will help other dentists who find themselves in the same position.

“Speak to friends and colleagues. Do not be ashamed. Be open with your team. Small teams talk, so do not be afraid to tell them what is happening and that you are working through it. It builds trust. Lean on your friends and family, because I didn’t, and it became quite lonely at times.”

Above all, he encourages others not to face these situations alone.

“If sharing this helps even one dentist, then it is worth it. You can find yourself in a dark place, but you need to be present not just to patients, but for yourself, and those close to you. Don’t let your mind wander too much and lean on the BDA. They are there to help, and they are very good at what they do.”