316. Before You Quit Dentistry, Watch This

82% of dentists report major stress. 60% have considered changing careers or retiring early. If you've felt that way, you're not alone — but selling the practice isn't the only exit. In this episode, Dr. Steve Van De Graaff breaks down a practical framework for beating dental burnout and rediscovering satisfaction in your work, without blowing up everything you've built: Get specific — Burnout isn't one giant issue. It's several small triggers left unresolved. Make the list, then attack them one by one. Fix the team tension — There's usually one person weighing the doctor down. Set expectations, have the conversation, make a plan. Stop doing dentistry you hate — The pediatric appointment that changed everything, and why cutting the work you dread can transform your week. Move away from low-fee dentistry — Renegotiate PPO fees, drop your worst plans, raise out-of-network fees, and stop getting paid nickels on the dollar. Work less — Why dropping to a 3 or 3.5-day week almost never lowers income, and how two clients redesigned their schedules around their lives. You are not trapped. Your practice should support your life — not the other way around. Dentistry is challenging, but it shouldn't be miserable. Connect with us: Take our FREE lifestyle and practice assessment: https://thelifestylepractice.com/practice-assesment/ Learn more about 1-on-1 coaching: https://thelifestylepractice.com/coaching-services/ Get access to TLP Academy: https://thelifestylepractice.com/coaching-services/ Get the TLP Student Academy for $20 (lifetime access): https://the-lifestyle-practice.teachable.com/p/studentacademy Subscribe to The Lifestyle Practice Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tlp-podcast-for-dentists/id1476544801 Email Derek at [email protected] Email Matt at [email protected] Email Steve at [email protected]