By: Ronda Holman
You’ve probably heard the old story about four people named Everybody, Somebody, Anybody, and Nobody. A job needed to be done.
Everybody thought Somebody would do it. Anybody could have done it, but Nobody did it.
It’s a cute parable — but in the dental office, it plays out with serious consequences. A tray doesn’t get set up, sterilization isn’t finished, lab cases aren’t tracked, or supplies run short. Suddenly, the schedule falls behind, the team is stressed, and patients are left waiting.
Clear Delegation Matters in Dentistry
The truth is, dental assistants are some of the most resourceful professionals you’ll ever work with. They can multitask, anticipate needs, and keep the day flowing smoothly. But even the most talented team can’t succeed without clarity.
If roles aren’t defined, things fall into the “somebody-else-will-handle-it” trap.
Leadership Must Assign Tasks
That’s where leadership comes in. Dentists sometimes hesitate to assign tasks, worried it will feel like micromanaging or controlling. In reality, it’s the opposite. Clear delegation builds trust, efficiency, and accountability. It gives your assistants the confidence of knowing exactly what’s expected of them — and the pride of owning their role.
Think of it this way: when you say,
“You manage supply inventory, you handle sterilization, and you oversee lab cases,”
Each team member knows their lane. They can become experts in their area, and the practice benefits from consistency and reliability.
Patients notice when your team runs smoothly. Your staff feels empowered, less stressed, and more productive. And you can focus on what you do best — delivering excellent dentistry — without worrying that Nobody remembered to complete the task.
In a thriving dental practice, “That’s not my job” doesn’t exist. Everyone knows their job, and everyone plays their part in creating a seamless experience for patients.
Photo by Yan Krukau
