After years of study and dedication, newly graduated dentists face challenges when entering the job market and considering opening their own practice. Here's some important information for those looking to start their career as a dentist and open a clinic:
Dental Market in Brazil:
The dental market in Brazil is constantly growing and evolving. Here are some key points about the sector:
- Currently, Brazil has, according to the website of the Federal Council of Medicine (CFO), on August 1, 2024, the number of dental surgeons (CD) in Brazil was 414,368 , with the states with the most professionals being: São Paulo, Minas Gerais and Rio de Janeiro.
- Dentistry offers a wide range of services, from private practices to dental product companies and public health agencies.
- Growth and Recovery: After the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Brazilian dental sector has shown significant recovery. In 2023, the market generated approximately R$181.16 billion.
- Rising Trends: Some of the current trends include orofacial harmonization, teeth whitening, dental implants, and the use of digital technologies such as teledentistry.
- Employability: Dentistry is one of the most profitable professions in Brazil, with an average salary of R$19,000 per month for dental surgeons.
- Importance of Aesthetics: Concern for aesthetics and appearance is a key factor driving demand for dental services in Brazil. Aesthetic procedures such as aligners and teeth whitening are highly sought after.
If you're a newly graduated dentist dreaming of opening your own dental practice, congratulations on your initiative! Here are the essential steps to making that dream a reality:
Detailed Business Plan:
A business plan is an essential document for any venture, as it describes in detail the objectives, strategies, resources, and financial and operational expectations of a business. It serves as a guide for the entrepreneur, helping with decision-making and planning the actions necessary for the business's success.
Main Components of a Business Plan:
- Executive Summary : An overview of the business, including the mission, vision, and key objectives.
- Market Analysis : Research on the target market, competition and industry trends.
- Marketing Plan : Strategies to promote and sell products or services.
- Operational Plan : Details about the day-to-day operation of the business, including location, facilities, and processes.
- Financial Plan : Financial projections such as cash flow, balance sheet, and income statement.
- Risk Analysis : Identification of main risks and strategies to mitigate them.
Main Obstacles to be Overcome:
- Unfortunately, most colleges don't teach you how to start your business, how to charge for services (see the CRO reference table), how to attract clients, how to seek financing to purchase equipment, and how to prepare for retirement.
- If you or your parents don't have the resources to purchase the equipment, there are bank credit lines like Leasing and CDC for this purpose, where you can pay in long-term installments. Leasing is more attractive because it has lower rates and is exempt from financial transaction tax (IOF). To obtain this line of credit, you must have someone with sufficient income to qualify for the credit limit (the amount the bank will grant) for the equipment purchase, which will be pledged as collateral for the loan.
- Once the credit limit has been approved, the next step is to choose the location (see our topic: What is the ideal location for your office?)
- Invest in quality and technology and believe in yourself.
Legal Requirements:
- Register as a self-employed person and obtain a license from the Health Surveillance Agency.
- Comply with the Regional Dental Council (CRO).
- Look for a checklist of inspections from the Health Department of your municipality.
Recruit Competent Professionals:
- Hire a qualified team. Receptionist, assistant, hygienist, etc.
- The success of the practice depends on everyone working in harmony.
Remember that every step is important to the success of your practice. Good luck on this journey! 🦷💙
