By: Ronda Holman
In any workplace, the idea that “time served” automatically warrants a raise can create misunderstandings.
While tenure shows loyalty, raises should reflect the value added to the dental practice. Helping your dental assistant understand this principle is crucial to maintaining a positive work environment while emphasizing performance and growth.
Shift the Conversation: From Time to Contribution
Acknowledge your dental assistant’s dedication and loyalty, but steer the conversation toward the practice’s goals and how they can contribute to its growth.
It’s not about diminishing their time served; it’s about emphasizing their evolving role in driving success.
Key Markers of Contribution
Here are some clear, measurable areas to help your dental assistant understand how they can demonstrate value and deserve a raise:
Patient Retention and Satisfaction
- Do they help create a welcoming, professional environment that keeps patients coming back?
- Are they proactively addressing patient concerns, ensuring excellent chairside manners, and facilitating positive reviews for the practice?
Efficiency in Clinical and Administrative Tasks
- Are treatment rooms turned over quickly and thoroughly?
- Do they stay ahead of scheduling challenges, ensuring the dentist’s time is optimized?
- Are they cross-trained to help with front-office duties when needed?
Initiative and Leadership
- Have they taken on leadership roles, such as training new team members or improving office workflows?
- Do they offer solutions to practice challenges or take ownership of key responsibilities?
Commitment to Continuing Education
- Are they staying up-to-date on the latest techniques, tools, and practices?
- Have they pursued certifications or additional training to improve their skills and elevate the patient experience?
Contribution to Practice Growth
- Do they actively participate in educating patients about treatment options, leading to increased case acceptance?
- Are they mindful of reducing waste, managing supplies, and contributing to the practice’s financial efficiency?
Setting Clear Expectations
Dentist owners can avoid misunderstandings by establishing transparent performance review processes.
- Create a Growth Plan: Work with your dental assistant to set measurable goals, such as improving patient satisfaction scores, completing specific training, or streamlining processes.
- Regular Check-Ins: Schedule quarterly or semi-annual meetings to discuss their progress, contributions, and areas for improvement.
Recognize and Reward Tangible Growth
When raises are tied to achievements rather than tenure, it motivates team members to focus on their impact.
If your assistant excels in one or more of the key markers above, it’s time to recognize their growth—not just financially but with acknowledgment of their hard work and contribution to practice success.
Key Takeaway
By framing the conversation around contribution rather than time served, you foster an environment where growth, collaboration, and shared success take center stage.
Photo by Artem Podrez
