Today many young dentists want to find a way to make their practices satisfying in ways other than the financial rewards of dentistry. Some of these practitioners have gained additional training in diagnosis and treatment of medically and physically compromised patients in hospital-based, general practice residency programs. A hospital affiliation can create a unique niche that will allow dentists to differentiate themselves from other dentists. By welcoming those ongoing relationships for patients with special needs, and having the resources and desire to treat them, dentists will achieve greater visibility and a reputation as caring, capable practitioners in their community.