My View: A strategic alliance

ADA, APDP join forces to strengthen private practice dentistry

In March, ADA President Brett Kessler, D.D.S., and Academy for Private Dental Practice President Julie Spaniel, D.D.S., announced a landmark strategic partnership between their respective organizations. This collaboration marks an exciting chapter for private practice dentistry — one that promises expanded resources, mentorship and support for dentists at every stage of their careers.

As both a past president of the Dental Society of Southeast Texas — my local affiliate — and the current president of APDP, I see this alliance as a natural and necessary step forward. My own journey with the ADA began over 40 years ago, shortly after graduating from Baylor College of Dentistry. As a young dentist trying to find his way in private practice, I quickly came to rely on the ADA for continuing education, guidance on legal and regulatory issues, and a sense of connection to a broader profession. I’ve maintained my ADA membership every year since; and not out of habit or obligation but out of genuine appreciation for its role in my growth as a clinician and practice owner.

My early career trajectory in private practice could hardly be seen as meteoric. More like a flat line. I received a solid educational foundation from the Baylor College of Dentistry but knew almost nothing about the business of dentistry. I knew how to take a good impression, but not how to make a good impression. I knew how to close a margin but not how to close on a treatment plan. I knew how to remove a tooth but not how to remove a troublesome employee. I knew how to be a good dentist but not how to be a good leader. I wasn’t burned out, but I was certainly frustrated.

That changed when I encountered the Academy for Private Dental Practice. My introduction came through a serendipitous meeting with my oral surgery professor, Arlet Dunsworth, D.D.S. At a time when I was stuck — professionally capable but lacking clarity and momentum — Dr. Dunsworth told me about APDP and the impact it had made on his life and practice. He said I’d hear speakers I hadn’t heard before and meet colleagues from all over the country who shared my values. On his recommendation, I decided to attend an APDP Annual Session.

From the moment I walked into that first session, I sensed this was something different. I assumed it would be like most dental meetings — clinical lectures and product showcases. Instead, I found myself listening to thoughtful, inspiring talks on leadership, service, mentorship and the pursuit of a life well lived. I’ve never been one to cry easily, but more than once I sat in a keynote session with tears in my eyes, thinking, ‘This is what I’ve been looking for.’ Not just how to be a better dentist but how to live a more meaningful life.

I joined APDP immediately after that first meeting, and I’ve been an active member ever since. Now, 10 years later, I can say without hesitation that APDP has been one of the most influential forces in my career. Through the academy, I’ve met some of the most dedicated, insightful and generous dentists in the country. Our membership spans the full spectrum of private practice: solo and group owners, young associates, retired clinicians and those in mid-career transitions. What we share is a commitment to excellence in private practice and a belief that mentorship, leadership and lifelong learning are essential to that goal.

The heart of APDP lies in its Seven Pillars:

• Business development.
• Financial management.
• Practice culture.
• Clinical excellence.
• Patient experience.
• Leadership.
• Mentorship.

These are the elements that define great private practices; not just from a profitability standpoint but from the perspective of fulfillment, purpose and legacy. They are also the very areas where most of us receive the least formal training in dental school.

The new strategic partnership between the ADA and APDP means that more dentists will be exposed to this powerful framework. Together, we can combine the ADA’s national reach and influence with APDP’s deep focus on private practice success and personal growth. It’s a collaboration that has the potential to bring more joy, more connection and more meaning to our profession.

So yes, I’m a proud member of both organizations and for good reason. The ADA helped me build my clinical foundation and stay informed in an ever-changing landscape. APDP helped me find my voice as a leader and build a practice — and life — I’m proud of.

If you are a private practice dentist seeking more—more purpose, more clarity, more community, I invite you to explore APDP. Visit APDP.net and see what makes this community so unique.

Dave Carpenter, D.D.S., is the current president of APDP. He practices in Beaumont, Texas.