The Profitable Dentist Magazine (TPD) has been a trusted resource for practice-owning dentists for over 35 years, born from the need for business expertise in an industry where education is largely clinical. Founded by Dr. Woody Oakes, a dentist who, like many in his profession, discovered that mastering dentistry did not automatically equate to running a successful practice, especially in a field where 85% of clinicians are also business owners.

Early in his career, Woody faced significant financial challenges despite his clinical skills. He realized his struggle wasn’t in performing dentistry, but in his lack of business knowledge. After learning valuable strategies from colleagues, Woody transformed his practice and shared his experiences in his book The Winning Combination. What began as personal notes evolved into a bestselling guide for dentists, and soon Woody found himself fielding requests from dentists across the country, eager to learn more.

This demand led Woody to create The Nationwide Dental Newsletter, initially produced on a Xerox copier in his practice’s basement. The publication grew into The Profitable Dentist Newsletter and eventually became The Profitable Dentist Magazine, one of the most respected business resources for dental professionals today.

From the start, TPD’s mission has been clear: to provide practice-owning dentists with the tools, knowledge, and connections they need to balance their roles as clinicians and business owners. The magazine offered practical business advice, empowering dentists to thrive in an industry where entrepreneurship is often learned on the job rather than in school.

TPD was more than just a publication—it was a community. In addition to the magazine, Woody pioneered private seminars for dentists, most notably the Destin Spring Break Seminar, a platform that helped launch many of today’s leading dental speakers and influencers.

Despite his professional success, Woody faced personal hardships. After suffering a heart attack and stroke, he was forced to sell his practice and focus fully on helping other dentists succeed. Through these challenges, Woody remained dedicated to TPD, continuously finding ways to adapt and grow.

In 2015, Steve Parker, an entrepreneur with a background in dental labs and practice ownership, partnered with Woody to bring The Profitable Dentist into the digital age, eventually purchasing the company in 2017. Steve, intrigued by the unique challenges practice-owning dentists face—especially balancing clinical and entrepreneurial demands—saw the potential for TPD to stay relevant in a rapidly evolving industry, particularly as digital platforms and online education gained prominence.

Under Steve’s leadership, TPD expanded its reach through online content, ensuring dentists have access to valuable resources anytime, anywhere. The organization began emphasizing emerging trends such as small group practices and oral-systemic health, while addressing the financial and emotional well-being of dentist-owners, who often face a higher incidence of mental health struggles.

Today, The Profitable Dentist continues its legacy of helping dentists balance clinical excellence with business success. By providing insights into practice management, fostering connections, and championing the well-being of dental professionals, TPD remains a beacon of opportunity in an ever-changing industry. Just as Dr. Woody Oakes once learned that adversity leads to growth, The Profitable Dentist thrives by helping dentists turn challenges into opportunities.