title: Assessing the viability of the independent practice of dental hygiene--a brief communication.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  This paper deals with the economics of the independent dental hygiene practice.
  
  
  METHODS
  Using historical data from dental practices in Cincinnati, Ohio, we developed a business model for an independent hygiene practice. We tested the sensitivity of the model to variations in key assumptions (initial capitalization, interest, employee salary, and owner's draw). We described the profitability on the basis of the breakeven point.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Under the most permissive regulatory and financial environment, the practice would breakeven after 26 months. However, the owner would not equal the earnings of a salaried hygienist until the initial loan is paid off after 7 years. The model was not sensitive to 20 percent changes in the key assumptions.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Under ideal circumstances, an independent hygiene practice could be profitable.
authors: Department of Periodontics, TexasA&M University, Health Science Center, Baylor College of Dentistry, Dallas, TX 75246, USA. mmbeach@bcd.tamhsc.edu
authors: M Miles
authors: MM
authors: Beach
authors: Jay D
authors: JD
authors: Shulman
authors: Glenna
authors: G
authors: Johns
authors: Jeffrey C
authors: JC
authors: Paas
mesh_terms: D003729:Dental Care / Q000191:economics / Q000458:organization & administration; D003756:Dental Hygienists / Q000191:economics / Q000458:organization & administration*; D003777:Dental Prophylaxis / Q000191:economics*; D004468:Economics, Dental; D006801:Humans; D018803:Models, Economic; D009820:Ohio; D011215:Practice Management, Dental / Q000191:economics*; D017009:Professional Autonomy; D011364:Professional Practice / Q000191:economics / Q000458:organization & administration