What was once labeled as a shortage is now being referred to by some as a “national crisis.” Since the pandemic and the “Great Resignation,” the dental industry has been left with the seemingly never-ending struggle of staffing and retaining loyal employees. Coupled with the increased demand for dental care, dental practices are stretching themselves thin to meet patient needs, and more dentists are having to get creative to address this dilemma.
While the journey to staff dental practices may be ongoing, employers should be careful not to overlook the current members of the team. According to an annual survey by Dental Post, 30% of dental employees are considering changing jobs this year. Besides looking for better pay, many dental professionals are looking for a “more positive work environment”. Combatting the dental shortage is not a battle won without reducing turnover, so employers should prioritize building an affirming workplace that will help retain their employees. Pacific Dental Services is one practice that has been focusing on just that with successful results. Over three years, they have invested in educating and training dental assistants while offering competitive pay. Through their initiatives, they have fostered an environment that not only attracts valuable professionals but keeps them as well.
For dental practices that finally achieve full capacity status, they should consider overstaffing as a preventative strategy. It’s true this will cost the practice more money, but it is a necessary measure to take when the dental industry is still seeing a high turnover rate and low numbers of recruitment. In any case, the benefits of having extra staff members on hand can outweigh the overhead costs. Extra team members can be cross trained to offer services in multiple areas, ensuring work gets done quicker with a high level of efficiency. Not only will you see a difference in reduced stress among your team, but you’ll also see an increase in patient satisfaction as the team will now have more resources to ensure they are treated effectively.
The dental workforce shortage is not an issue easily solved, and it will most likely continue to be present in the coming years. However, dental practices can still find ways to minimize potential damage caused by the shortage if they stay open-minded and look inward on how they can maintain a practice where staff members are acknowledged, supported, and empowered.
