Dr. Richard Low admits it upfront: most dentists never talk about Roth versus traditional accounts. Not once. Not at dental investment group meetings, not with their financial advisor, not even with each other.
In this episode of Smiles and Cents, Ian McGinnis breaks down exactly why that silence is costing dentists real money — and walks through the simple framework that makes the Roth versus traditional decision almost a non-issue for most high earners.
This is the episode that explains marginal tax brackets in a way that finally makes sense, reveals why today's tax rates are historically low, and shows why "FU money" might be the most underrated retirement goal in dentistry.
What You'll Learn:
→ Why almost no dentist ever discusses Roth vs traditional with their peers
→ The marginal tax bracket misconception that confused even Dr. Low for years
→ Why today's 37% top tax rate is historically low compared to the 1950s
→ The simple rule of thumb: fund your Roth and stop overthinking it
→ How to stack a Roth 401k, Roth IRA, and profit sharing to hit $70,000 in contributions
→ Why a $10 million Roth account is untouchable — and why that matters
→ The real psychology behind tax-free "FU money"
→ Why spending money in your 30s and 40s often matters more than saving it for your 70s

About Dr. Richard Low:
Dr. Richard Low is a 2016 dental graduate, Army veteran, and founder of the Shared Practice podcast with over 3.25 million lifetime downloads. He is also the founder of Next Level Fathers, a transformation program helping dentists rebuild their health, marriages, and purpose.

About Smiles and Cents:
Smiles and Cents is a fee-only, non-commissioned financial planning podcast built specifically for dentists. Hosted by Ian McGinnis, the show explores what it means to build real financial freedom — not just a bigger practice.

💬 Be honest — have you ever actually talked to another dentist about Roth vs traditional? Drop a yes or no below. We want to know if Richard's experience is universal.

Connect with Dr.Richard :
Insta: @dr.richard.low
FB Group: Next Level Dentist — Rising Beyond Burnout

Connect with Smile and Cents:
Host: Ian McGinnis, Website: Dental Wealth Partners
Insta: @ianvmcginnis

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