By: Dawn Patrick, Dental Practice Coach + Director of Operations IgniteDDS
In a busy dental practice, it’s easy to assume a new hire will “figure things out” after a few shadowing shifts. But that’s a fast track to burnout—for the new team member and for the team trying to train them on the fly.
Onboarding Systems for New Hires That Set Clear Expectations
A well-structured onboarding system helps your practice avoid costly turnover, build team confidence, and ensure every patient experience stays consistent.
That’s why a 30/60/90-day onboarding plan is more than a training checklist—it’s a blueprint for success.
Why Structured Onboarding Matters
The first 90 days are critical in setting expectations, establishing trust, and building momentum. When a new team member knows what success looks like at each stage, they feel supported—not overwhelmed.
In dental practices, where systems and patient care are tightly connected, onboarding helps:
- Clarify roles and reduce confusion
- Prevent repeated mistakes or misunderstandings
- Free up other team members from constant, reactive training
- Build long-term loyalty and a strong team culture
How to Design an Onboarding System That Works
1. Start Before Day One
Send a welcome email with:
- A brief intro from the doctor or office manager
- First day logistics (arrival time, who to ask for, lunch plans, etc.)
- Dress code, team photo, and daily schedule
- Practice values or mission statement
2. Assign a Mentor or Training Buddy
Choose someone in the same or similar role who can answer day-to-day questions, model systems, and offer support. This builds connection and trust from the start.
3. Create a Customized Training Binder or Digital Guide
Include:
- Office login credentials
- Phone scripts and communication expectations
- Checklists by week and by role
- Paperwork (time-off forms, policy summaries, etc.)
- A space for notes and questions
Your 30/60/90-Day Onboarding Framework
Here’s a sample structure you can adapt for clinical or administrative roles:
Days 1 to 30: Learn and Observe
Goal: Introduce systems, culture, and routines. Prioritize shadowing and learning, not perfection.
Benchmarks:
- Complete OSHA/HIPAA compliance training
- Shadow each team member’s workflow
- Learn clock-in/out procedures, office software basics
- Observe 5+ patient handoffs
- Understand scheduling protocols and role responsibilities
Days 31 to 60: Practice and Participate
Goal: Begin performing core tasks with supervision. Reinforce communication skills.
Benchmarks:
- Assist with or complete role-specific duties (with support)
- Use verbal skills and scripts during real patient interactions
- Participate in morning huddles and team meetings
- Weekly check-ins with the team leader or doctor
- Start working more independently in scheduling, charting, or setup
Days 61 to 90: Own Your Role
Goal: Operate with confidence, consistency, and accountability.
Benchmarks:
- Fully manage daily responsibilities in your role
- Handle patient conversations independently
- Complete a self-assessment or reflection form
- Final 90-day review with feedback and clear next steps
- Identify goals for ongoing growth or cross-training
Tips for Long-Term Success
- Consistency is key: Use the same system for every new hire. Update as needed.
- Celebrate progress: Acknowledge small wins in team meetings or morning huddles
- Avoid info dumps: Spread training out to prevent overload.
- Document everything: Keep checklists and notes in each team member’s file.
- Ask for feedback: New hires often have the best insights into what’s missing in your current system.
Conclusion: Strong Starts Create Strong Teams
Your new team member wants to succeed—your onboarding plan helps them do it. A thoughtful 30/60/90-day process doesn’t just train someone, it tells them, “You matter here. We’re invested in your growth.”
And that investment? It pays off with lower turnover, better systems, and a team that truly works together.
Would you like a 30/60/90 downloadable checklist resource for onboarding new hires?
- Email me: dawn.patrick@ignitedds.com
- USE SUBJECT: NEW HIRE RESOURCE
Keep Reading: How Clear Agreements Create a Thriving, Accountable Dental Team
Photo by RDNE Stock project
