Create a harmonious workplace through effective communication and mutual respect
A dental practice thrives on collaboration. When dentists, assistants, front desk staff, and managers work together harmoniously, patient care improves, stress decreases, and job satisfaction soars. Building strong professional relationships isn't just nice—it's essential for success.
They are the first and last impression patients have of your practice
Front desk staff manage appointments, handle billing, deal with insurance, and manage difficult patients. Acknowledge their contributions regularly.
When you're running late or need to adjust the schedule, inform the front desk immediately. They manage patient expectations and need accurate information.
When front desk staff make scheduling or policy decisions, back them up publicly. If you disagree, discuss it privately later.
Give them detailed notes about treatment plans, costs, and next steps so they can answer patient questions accurately.
"I understand you wanted to help the patient in pain. Let's discuss how we can handle emergencies without disrupting the schedule. What if we set aside specific emergency slots?"
"Why would you do that without asking me? I need my lunch break!"
Your chairside partners who make efficient, quality care possible
Work on developing non-verbal communication and anticipating each other's needs. Great dentist-assistant teams operate like a well-choreographed dance.
Support their professional development by explaining techniques, encouraging CE courses, and teaching them new skills.
Assistants often notice patient concerns, equipment issues, or supply needs. Value their observations and feedback.
Be friendly and respectful, but maintain professional boundaries. Create a comfortable working environment without crossing lines.
Step in when patients become rude or aggressive toward assistants. Show them you have their back.
Review the day's schedule together, discuss special cases, and align on priorities
Ensure your assistant knows the treatment plan and has necessary materials ready
Quick 2-minute sync to adjust if schedule is off track or issues arise
Thank them for specific things they did well that day
Strategic partners in building and maintaining a successful practice
Managers handle operations, HR, finances, and compliance. Trust their business acumen even if you don't always agree.
Schedule weekly or biweekly meetings to discuss practice performance, challenges, and opportunities.
Learn to read key performance indicators. When you understand practice metrics, you can work together more effectively.
Back their decisions with staff, especially regarding policies and procedures. Undermining them creates chaos.
Conflicts are inevitable in any workplace. How you handle them determines whether they strengthen or damage relationships.
Always address conflicts privately, never in front of patients or other staff. Choose a calm moment, not in the heat of the issue.
Let them explain their side fully without interrupting. Often, conflicts arise from misunderstandings or unspoken frustrations.
Identify shared goals. Usually, everyone wants the practice to succeed and patients to be happy. Start there.
Brainstorm solutions together rather than imposing your will. People support what they help create.
Establish specific, actionable agreements. Vague promises don't resolve conflicts.
Check in after a few days to ensure the solution is working. Show you're committed to improving the relationship.
Acknowledge team achievements, birthdays, work anniversaries, and personal milestones. Create shared positive memories.
Regular informal gatherings build relationships beyond work tasks. Even simple pizza lunches create bonding.
Create systems for feedback and suggestions. Make it safe for team members to speak up about concerns or ideas.
Support continuing education, cross-training, and skill development for all team members.
Regularly thank team members for specific contributions. Genuine appreciation builds loyalty and motivation.
Respect boundaries, honor time off, and create schedules that allow for personal life. Burnout helps no one.