California
Selling or Transitioning a Dental Practice in California
Based in the Bay Area and serving dentists across California, Practice Transitions Institute guides you through valuations, sales, buy-ins, and DSO decisions — with the local market knowledge these deals require.
California is one of the most active — and most nuanced — dental transition markets in the country. Practice values, buyer demand, and deal structures here look different than they do elsewhere, and small mistakes can cost real money. Whether you are planning a sale years out, weighing an unsolicited DSO offer, or bringing on an associate who wants to buy in, the right guidance makes the difference between a good outcome and a great one.
Our office is in San Mateo, and our roots run deep in California dentistry — including years teaching the next generation of dentists at the University of the Pacific and UCSF. We know this market because we are part of it.
What Makes a California Transition Different
The local factors that shape value, timing, and deal structure
Dentist-owned practice rules
California restricts practice ownership to licensed dentists, so DSOs operate through management-services arrangements. That shapes how offers are structured here — and why an independent read of the deal matters.
High overhead markets
Bay Area and coastal rents, wages, and buildout costs run well above the national average. Overhead directly affects profitability — and therefore value — so a credible valuation has to account for your specific market.
Dental Board of California compliance
Licensing, corporate structure, and the change-of-ownership steps a transfer requires all have California-specific wrinkles that need to be handled correctly alongside your attorney and CPA.
Competitive buyer pool
California's metros draw strong interest from associates, private buyers, and DSO groups alike. More demand can mean a better price — if your practice is positioned and marketed to the right buyers.
This overview is general information, not legal or tax advice. We work alongside your attorney and CPA on the specifics of your transaction.
How We Help California Dentists
Know what it's worth
Start with an Opinion of Value grounded in your practice's real cash flow and your local market — or get a quick estimate with our practice value calculator.
Sell to the right buyer
We guide your practice sale end to end, and if a DSO comes calling, we help you weigh the offer against a private sale.
Structure a buy-in
Bringing an associate toward ownership? We structure associateships and buy-ins and partnerships that work for everyone.
Plan around your goals
Retirement timeline, tax planning, team continuity, and legacy — we help you sequence the decisions so the transition happens on your terms.
California Communities We Serve
Thinking About a Transition in California?
Start with a confidential conversation about your practice and your timeline — no obligation to sell.
Book Your Free ConsultationWhat Dentists Say
I have known Dr. Michael Nio since 2016, and over the years he has played an important role in some of the biggest professional decisions of my career. When Michael sold our practice in 2020, he delivered exactly what he said he would. His valuation proved accurate, the process was smooth, and his guidance gave us confidence every step of the way. In an environment where uncertainty can be overwhelming, Michael brought clarity, honesty, and calm leadership. I've also watched him step in for colleagues during some of the most stressful moments of their careers - navigating difficult partnership disputes, unexpected health crises, and other situations that required not just expertise, but compassion. He never shrinks from the hard conversations, and he always leads with integrity. Michael has also helped me personally during a very contentious partnership situation. His advice steadied me when I could have easily made decisions I would have regretted. His perspective was invaluable, and his loyalty was unwavering. What makes Michael unique is that he doesn't just act as a broker - he becomes a trusted advisor. He engages deeply with each client's goals, fears, and priorities. He takes the time to truly understand the full picture before offering guidance. Beyond his professional skill, Michael is someone I consider a friend and like family. He has a steady, calm presence that reassures you in difficult moments, and a genuine passion for helping dentists succeed - not just in transactions, but in building meaningful careers. I recommend him without hesitation to any dentist facing a transition, partnership decision, or major career move. Few people combine experience, integrity, and genuine care for their clients the way Michael does.
Dr. Lee Boese
Practice Seller
After 35 years of owning my private dental practice, deciding to sell was both a deeply personal and professional milestone. I was fortunate to work with Michael Njo at Practice Transitions Institute, whose expertise, integrity and calm guidance made all the difference in this life changing process. Michael approached the transition with genuine care. As a fellow dentist himself he understood the emotional weight of passing on a practice built over decades - not just the business side, but the relationships with my patients, staff, as well as the legacy I wanted to preserve. His firsthand experience gave me confidence and I knew I was in good hands. Michael navigated every stage of the transition with professionalism and respect for my goals. He found the perfect buyer who shares my commitment to high quality dental care and will carry on the legacy I worked so hard to build. I know my patients and staff will be left in good hands. If you are considering selling your practice and want a team that truly understands the emotional and practical complexities of the process, I highly recommend Michael and the Practice Transitions Institute.
Brian Valle
Practice Seller
I attended Mike's practice transition seminar and read his book. He was a very knowledgeable and seasoned expert in this area. I decided to use his consultation service to handle my practice sale. He was able to match a buyer within 2 weeks and completed the transaction within 45 days. He was so amazingly efficient throughout the transition process. I highly recommend him to any dentist interested in selling or buying a dental practice. Thanks again, Mike, you are my Superman.
Tony Choi
Practice Seller