Proven Retention Strategies for Dental Teams

Retention isn’t just about keeping people—it’s about keeping the right people engaged and performing at their best. High turnover rates in dentistry are disruptive and costly, impacting both your practice's growth and patient care. Sustainable growth becomes challenging when great team members walk out the door.

Why This Matters:

Turnover in dental practices is both expensive and disruptive, draining valuable time, money, and energy with each lost team member. Sustainable growth relies on more than just hiring well—it requires retaining high-performing individuals who feel connected, valued, and clear about expectations. People don’t leave jobs; they leave environments that lack engagement and support. With only 32% of U.S. employees feeling engaged, according to Gallup, the best leaders focus on creating workplaces where people want to stay, fostering cultures that promote connection, growth, and long-term success.

What You'll Learn:

Build a Team Around Core Values

- Use Core Values to guide hiring, onboarding, and feedback
- Attract individuals who align with your practice culture

Establish a Consistent Rhythm of Communication

- Systemize one-on-one check-ins
- Foster consistency, transparency, and empathy

Provide Feedback Consistently

- Use the Right People/Right Seat Scorecard
- Support growth with proactive feedback

Demonstrate Workplace Appreciation

- Apply the 5 Workplace Appreciation Languages
- Foster loyalty through personalized recognition

Empower and Elevate Your Team

Implement the PLOW Framework to engage and motivate your team

Key Takeaways:

You Were Trained to Fix Teeth, Not to Lead People—But Your Team Needs You.
Dental school prepared you for clinical excellence, but leadership is a different skill set. Retaining a great team isn’t about luck—it’s about intentional strategy and connection.

Small, Consistent Efforts Create Big, Lasting Change.
Building a strong team doesn’t happen overnight. Regular check-ins, clear expectations, and genuine appreciation make all the difference.

Retention Isn’t Just About Keeping People—It’s About Keeping the Right People.
A strong, values-driven team fuels your practice’s success. Invest in those who align with your vision, support their growth, and create a culture where they thrive.