In this episode of Beyond Bitewings, Ash sits down with estate planning attorney Antoinette Bone to explore a topic many dental practice owners delay far too long: creating a trust. With decades of legal experience, including time as a JAG in the Air Force, Antoinette has helped countless professionals protect their assets, businesses, and families through thoughtful estate planning, and she’s on a mission to help dentists understand why trust-based planning is essential.

Antoinette explains that while wills serve an important purpose, they don’t offer the flexibility, privacy, or control that trusts do, especially for practice owners. A well-structured trust can streamline the transition of ownership, provide for loved ones, and preserve the value of a dental practice long after the owner retires or passes away. For those with multiple practices or a desire to avoid probate, trust-based planning becomes even more critical.

She also highlights a key point many dentists overlook: estate planning isn’t just about death – it’s also about protecting your practice in the event of incapacity. If you’re sidelined by illness or injury, having the right legal tools, like durable powers of attorney, healthcare directives, and properly structured trusts, ensures someone you trust can manage your affairs and keep your business running.

Throughout the episode, Antoinette warns against taking shortcuts, such as using online legal forms or skipping the operating agreement when forming a business. Without proper planning and coordination between your estate plan and business structure, your assets, and your loved ones could be left vulnerable. She stresses that estate planning is deeply personal and should reflect both your family dynamics and your financial goals.

Perhaps most importantly, Antoinette reminds listeners that creating an estate plan is an act of love. It reduces the burden on your family during emotionally difficult times and helps avoid confusion or conflict. Whether you’re just starting your practice or planning to retire in the coming years, now is the time to put the right plans in place.

To learn more about Antoinette Bone and the resources she offers, visit abonelaw.com or check out her educational videos on YouTube at youtube.com/abonelaw. And for more expert insights on managing the business side of dentistry, be sure to subscribe to Beyond Bitewings.