As a dental practice owner, you probably didn’t get into this line of work because you love HR. But if there’s one thing we’ve learned from working with hundreds of dental practices, it’s this: your people are just as important to your success as your patients – and your numbers.

You can’t deliver great care without a reliable, motivated, and engaged team behind you. And in today’s competitive labor market, retaining that team takes more than paychecks and PTO.

Here’s what the research says and what your practice can do about it.

According to talent expert Jeremy Wortman, employees leave when they feel unheard, undervalued, or disconnected from their workplace culture. It’s not just about money. It’s about meaning. That’s why building a talent-centric culture is no longer optional, it’s a strategic necessity.

Here are a few ways to start:

• Clarify your vision and values. Just like your practice has clinical protocols, your workplace culture needs a clear foundation. What do you stand for? What kind of environment do you want to create?
• Invest in your team. Whether it’s leadership development, team-building, or professional growth opportunities, supporting your staff beyond the daily tasks goes a long way.
• Measure engagement. Annual surveys, regular check-ins, and “stay interviews” can help you spot problems before they become turnover.
• Give feedback often. Employees want to know how they’re doing and where they can grow. Don’t wait for annual reviews; make feedback a part of your routine.
• Create a workplace they won’t want to leave. People stay where they feel seen, supported, and aligned with the practice’s purpose. And when they stay, your patients benefit too.

It’s true, our expertise lies in accounting, tax, and financial strategy. But we’ve seen firsthand how practices thrive when they focus on the people side of the business, too. If you want to talk more about building a practice that performs, on paper and in person, reach out anytime.