Congratulations, new dental graduate! You’ve survived the gauntlet of dental school, and now you are stepping into the real world of practice as an associate dentist. The journey ahead promises opportunities to hone your skills, connect with patients, and, yes, master the art of fitting in with your new team. Think of it as learning the choreography for a complex dance – with fewer pirouettes and more perio probes.
So how do you become the kind of associate who not only fits in but thrives? Let’s break it down.
1. Understand the lay of the land
Your first day at a new practice is like walking into someone else’s kitchen: everything is organized, but not necessarily the way you’d expect. The suction tips are here, the gauze is there, and the coffee machine is sacred ground. Take time to observe the workflow and team dynamics.
Every practice has its unique rhythm. Some prioritize efficiency above all, while others lean heavily into creating a spa-like experience for patients. Pay attention to the unspoken rules, like who controls the music playlist, or which assistant always claims the corner of the break room closest to the snacks. These details matter more than you think.
2. Don’t be a know-it-all
Yes, you’ve spent countless hours poring over textbooks, and you can recite the classifications of malocclusion in your sleep. But nobody likes the associate who rolls in with an air of “I just graduated, and I know everything.” Remember, your new colleagues have years of hands-on experience under their belts. Instead of showing off, focus on showing up. Ask questions, listen, and absorb the wisdom of seasoned pros.
Pro tip: If your hygienist says, “That patient’s bite is tricky,” they’re not just making conversation. Heed their advice; they’ve been in the trenches.
3. Embrace the “we” mindset
As an associate, you’re part of a team. You’re not a lone wolf scaling the mountain of dentistry. From the front desk staff who juggle schedules with Jedi-level precision to the dental assistants who anticipate your every need (and occasionally save you from fumbling with the suction), everyone plays a role in the practice’s success.
Show gratitude. A simple “thank you” goes a long way. Did your assistant perfectly prep a room for a complex procedure? Acknowledge it. Did the office manager squeeze in an emergency patient for you? Show your appreciation. These small acts of recognition build goodwill and make you someone people enjoy working with.
4. Communicate clearly and kindly
Good communication is the cornerstone of any successful dental practice. This applies not only to your patients but also to your team. Be clear about your needs during procedures (but maybe leave the dramatic hand gestures to the opera). When giving instructions, avoid jargon that might confuse your team.
For example:
- Instead of: “I’ll need an RCT setup with an MTA application.”
- Try: “Can we set up for a root canal? I’ll need the material for the final seal.”
And remember, kindness is free. If something goes wrong (and it will), address it with grace. No one wants to work with a dentist who treats their team like they’re an extra in a dental drama.
5. Be flexible and adaptable
If there’s one thing that’s certain in dentistry, it’s that nothing is certain. Schedules change, emergencies arise, and that one patient always shows up 15 minutes late with a coffee the size of a fire hydrant. Roll with it.
Your ability to adapt to the unexpected will endear you to your team. If you’re willing to step up and help when things get hectic, your colleagues will notice. And trust me, they’ll remember it when you need their support down the line.
6. Respect everyone’s role
In a dental practice, every role is critical. The receptionist who greets patients is just as important as the assistant handing you instruments. Never underestimate the value of what each team member brings to the table.
And please, don’t be the associate who thinks the steri tech is beneath your notice. They’re the unsung heroes who ensure your instruments are spotless and your procedures run smoothly. Show them the respect they deserve.
7. Own your mistakes
Mistakes are inevitable, especially when you’re starting out. The key is to own them, learn from them, and move forward. If you nick a patient’s tongue or miss a tricky root canal curvature, acknowledge it. Sweeping errors under the rug is a quick way to lose trust.
When you’re transparent about your mistakes, you’ll find that your team is more willing to support you. After all, everyone in the office has been there at some point – yes, even the lead dentist who seems unflappable.
8. Invest in relationships
Building relationships with your team goes beyond professional interactions. Take a genuine interest in their lives. Does your assistant’s kid play soccer? Ask how their game went. Did the hygienist recently adopt a dog? Get her to tell you about it and how it’s working out.
These connections create a positive work environment where everyone feels valued. Plus, it’s a lot more fun to work with people who feel like friends.
9. Keep the ego in check
Dental school might have been competitive, but the real world is about collaboration. There’s no room for diva behavior. Be humble enough to accept feedback and learn from it. If your lead dentist suggests a different approach, consider it an opportunity to grow, not a critique of your abilities.
And remember: it’s okay to not have all the answers. Dentistry is a lifelong learning journey, so embrace the chance to expand your knowledge.
10. Bring a sense of humor
Let’s face it: dentistry can be stressful. But a little humor can lighten the mood and strengthen team bonds. Just make sure your jokes are workplace-appropriate (and maybe avoid using dental puns as a primary strategy – they wear thin faster than cheap composite).
For example, if a patient’s x-ray reveals something unexpected, a light-hearted comment like, “Well, that’s one for the scrapbook,” can ease tension. Just don’t joke at anyone’s expense, especially your team’s.
11. Stay curious and keep learning
Your degree is just the beginning. Stay curious about new techniques, materials, and technologies. Attend continuing education courses and share what you learn with your team. Showing that you’re committed to growing professionally will inspire those around you and keep you at the top of your game.
Final thoughts
Fitting in as a new associate dentist isn’t just about mastering the technical side of dentistry – it’s about becoming a valued member of your team. By showing respect, staying humble, and bringing a positive attitude, you’ll set yourself up for success.
And remember: the dental field isn’t just about fixing teeth, it’s about building trust and creating smiles – for your patients and your team. So go out there, be the associate everyone loves working with, and make your mark. You’ve got this!
About the author
Janice Wheeler is the President of The Art Of Management Inc. which has helped grow more than 750 Canadian dental offices over the last 35 years. She is an international speaker, has written over 500 practice management articles (www.amican.com), regularly contributes to various Canadian healthcare journals, wrote a book “Practical Advice for Practice Owners” and another called “50 Ways to Lose a Patient”, and has an awesome team who love helping dentists reach their practice goals.