Running a dental practice takes its toll.
You didn't plan to feel like this. But recently, it's started creeping in - the heaviness, the low-level resentment, the lack of energy where there used to be fire.
You're not alone. In fact, over 68% of practice owners who've been in the game 9-13 years say they've hit a point where something needs to shift.
Most don't talk about it. They assume it's just pressure, or a rough patch, or something they'll figure out later.
But owner fatigue isn't a blip. It's a pattern.
And if you don't recognise it, it can quietly sabotage your team, your health - even the value of your practice.
That's why we build the Owner Fatigue Scorecard.
It's fast. Thoughtful. And built from decades of experience with practice owners just like you.
It give you instant insight - no fluff, no sales pitch - just a clear sense of where you stand and what comes next.
Take our quick online test now — just 7 questions in under 2 minutes.
The Ownership Curve
Ignition
You’ve either bought or built your practice. It’s exciting, intense, and a bit chaotic.
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High energy
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Lots of learning
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Strong emotional drive
Common thoughts:
“I’m finally doing it.”
“There’s so much to figure out… but I’m in!”
Expansion
You’ve got your feet under the table. You start investing in people, marketing, systems.
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Growing confidence
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Strategic experimentation
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Sense of momentum
Common thoughts:
“Let’s see how far I can take this.”
“We could scale this if I hire right.”
Optimisation
The practice stabilises. You’ve got recurring revenue, solid staff, and fewer surprises.
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System refinement
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Profit-focus emerges
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A clearer structure
Common thoughts:
“I want to maximise what we’ve built.”
“Now I need to make this work for me too.”
Plateau
You’re running a mature practice. But the spark dims. Decisions feel heavier.
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Strategic fatigue
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‘Flatline’ feeling despite success
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Growing reflection: “What next?”
Common thoughts:
“I can’t keep doing this forever.”
“Do I reshape, sell, or just survive?”
"It's time to design my next chapter."
Why this curve matters
Recognising where you are on the curve helps you:
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Make better decisions
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Protect your energy
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Stay in control of your options
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Avoid drifting into regret
The most dangerous time for a practice owner isn’t during chaos — it’s during coasting.
That’s when fatigue takes hold quietly.
Wherever you are on the curve, you are not alone.
Every stage has its own challenges — and its own opportunities.
The key is recognising the moment you’re in…
And acting with clarity.
TESTIMONIALS
"I have had the pleasure of having Andy Acton and FT Associates assist me at key stages in my business for some years.
Andy is a patient, hugely positive and very able business consultant. His personable attitude and extensive business contact list that is always ready and able to assist almost make it seem as if a friend is helping you out because it's his pleasure.
Andy is someone I must thank regularly for always being there with a friendly ear and good advice."
Dr. Koray Feran - Practice Principal, LCIAD
Find out more about
Andy Acton...
Great speaking to Andy today! So generous with his time and advice. Honest, clear and concise. Look forward to the future!
Bikram Narang
Andy is great at breaking down everything into easy to digest points, helping to navigate the minefield of buying/selling dental practices that exists today. Thanks again and looking forward to working with you again in the near future.
Nav Bhatti
Andy was generous with his time and his knowledge and so many have benefitted from it. Thank you Andy.
Jay
Had a great conversation with Andy Acton, really helpful and explained things really well!
Hussein Bandali