Every dental practice is different. However, there are several legal issues that commonly arise as practices grow and evolve.

 

Professional Corporations

For many dentists, incorporation represents an important stage in the development of their practice. While incorporation may provide tax planning and operational advantages, it should also be supported by appropriate corporate governance and long-term planning.

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As practices expand, additional considerations often arise, including shareholder relationships, practice succession, corporate governance, and legal documentation that supports future growth.

 

Associate & Dental Hygienist Agreements

Many dental practices engage associate dentists and registered dental hygienists.

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Well-drafted agreements should clearly define each party's rights and responsibilities while addressing considerably more than compensation.

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Important considerations may include:

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• Patient relationships and continuity of care

• Production and compensation arrangements

• Scheduling expectations

• Restrictive covenants

• Confidentiality obligations

• Use of clinic equipment and facilities

• Insurance requirements

• Continuing education responsibilities

• Administrative support

• Termination provisions

• Post-departure obligations

 

The agreement should accurately reflect how the professional relationship operates in practice.

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Practice Purchases & Sales

Purchasing or selling a dental practice is often one of the most significant transactions in a dentist's career.

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These transactions frequently involve corporate structuring, due diligence, commercial leasing, financing, equipment, employment matters, patient records, and goodwill.

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Careful legal planning can help facilitate a smoother transition while protecting both the purchaser and seller throughout the process.

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Shareholder & Partnership Arrangements

Where practices have multiple owners, clearly drafted shareholder agreements can help establish expectations regarding ownership, governance, decision-making, succession planning, dispute resolution, and future transitions.

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These agreements become increasingly important as practices continue to grow.

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Privacy & Patient Information

Dental practices routinely collect, use, and maintain sensitive personal health information.

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Policies should accurately reflect how patient information is collected, stored, retained, accessed, and disclosed. Practices using digital imaging, electronic records, online booking platforms, or third-party technology providers should ensure these processes are appropriately documented.

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Building & Expanding a Practice

Growth often introduces increasingly complex legal considerations.

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Whether you are hiring additional associates, bringing on hygienists, purchasing another clinic, leasing larger premises, introducing new services, or expanding into multiple locations, your legal framework should evolve alongside your business.