Road to Recovery:COVID-19 Info Hub
DentalPost Blog - All Posts
How (And Why) 2020 Should Be Your Year of Career Growth
January 24, 2020
The DentalPost Team
“New year, new me!” It’s a statement we’ve all heard—or said—before at the turn of the year. It is no surprise that most resolutions (even when they’re made with the best of intentions) are rarely kept. According to INC Magazine, 80% of resolutions don’t make it to mid-February. Yikes. While that might make us feel cynical […]
Time to Move On? 6 Signs it’s Time to Quit… and How to Exit Your Job Gracefully.
January 17, 2020
Tonya Lanthier
Ever leave the office feeling drained or even angry? Do you come home and dump it all on your family and friends? While no job is perfect (they don’t call it work for nothing!), there are offices that are perfect for us. We all have a bad day or week at work but some of […]
Create a More Inviting Dental Practice Reception for Your Patients
January 8, 2020
Katrina Hatchett
Those within the dental profession may have noticed that dentistry doesn’t always promote positive reactions in people. The cliché is that a trip to the dentist is something to be dreaded, with the dentist portrayed as some kind of intimidating practitioner, often utilizing loud implements feared by apprehensive patients. While this may seem like a […]
Do You Belong? 5 Reasons to Join DentalPosters
January 6, 2020
Tonya Lanthier
At DentalPost, we believe there’s strength in numbers and comfort in communities. This is why we’ve created local and national Facebook groups called DentalPosters to help you grow your career by connecting with professionals in your community, learning about trends and hot topics in the field, tapping into growth and development tools, and more. Our […]
Hire Slow. Fire Fast. Know When to Let Go.
January 6, 2020
Tonya Lanthier
The Job Title With No Roadmap Owning your own business comes with so many moving parts. Some are rewarding, while others – like dealing with hiring, managing, and firing people – are a drag. If only there were an instruction manual that they’d hand out at your dental school graduation on all the non-dental jobs […]
Seven Habits of Highly Effective Job Seekers
December 20, 2019
Doug Perry
As this is a time of year for reflection, I encourage you to set some professional goals for 2020. Raise your virtual hand if you’ve read the book Seven Habits of Highly Effective People by the late Stephen R. Covey? It’s considered a classic – among the top productivity books ever published. I read Covey’s […]
How to Build a Marketing Culture Within Your Practice
December 20, 2019
Whitney Speir
To continue to grow and thrive, dental practices must invest in marketing. There are many avenues that can be a part of a successful dental marketing strategy, including efforts that can be handled within the office, like blogging, posting on social media, asking for reviews, sharing referral programs and special offers, and more. But… It […]
4 Ways to Improve Your Dental Office Communication with Patients
December 20, 2019
Anica Oaks
Your patients are at the heart of your dental practice. Without their loyalty, you wouldn’t be able to love what you do each and every day. Here are four simple ways you can enhance your communication with your valuable clientele. Use Open-Ended Questions This first tactic is for the face-to-face communication that you have with […]
5 Reasons Your Dental Practice Needs an In-House Membership Program
December 19, 2019
Jeff Cole
Dental practices are increasingly feeling the pressure of declining reimbursement rates on their bottom line. According to a survey by Bankers Healthcare Group, nearly three-quarters of dentists state declining reimbursement rates as their top industry concern. Forward-thinking dental practices are protecting themselves by offering in-house membership plans directly to their patients. Similar to loyalty programs […]
How to Attract and Hire Marketing Rockstars
December 18, 2019
Whitney Speir
Your dental practice’s brand is the total experience patients have with your practice. This encompasses everything from the first look a person has at your website, to their first phone call to your front desk, to their interactions with you and the rest of your team, and more. Therefore, every interaction your team members have […]
How High Is Your EI? Emotional Intelligence is the New “Smart.”
December 13, 2019
Tonya Lanthier
Did you know that your ability to recognize and respond to your emotions can directly tie to your level of success in life? It’s called “Emotional Intelligence” (EI) and it is defined by how aware and in control we are of our emotions, how we express them, and how we handle them. Studies show that emotional […]
The Power of Assessments: Get to Know a Candidate Before You Hire Them
December 2, 2019
Tonya Lanthier
How to narrow down the candidate pool.
4 Networking Tips for Dental Professionals
November 20, 2019
Kara Masterson
Medical and dental professionals should be constantly engaged in a lifelong learning process. There are so many new procedures and treatment options being uncovered on an annual basis that it requires constant vigilance in order to stay on top of it all. This is especially important for dentists. The temptation might be to remain so […]
Hygienist Heroes: The Power to Save Lives
November 15, 2019
Tonya Lanthier
A Brush with Fame Because I am passionate about improving the lives of dental professionals and our industry, I spend a lot of time in airports traveling to conferences to meet with all kinds of dental professionals, including my fellow hygienists. Along the way, I also get to meet interesting people who aren’t in our […]
The Cost of a Bad Hire
November 8, 2019
The DentalPost Team
Can you imagine how (understandably) frustrated your team would be if you hired your mom, wife or girlfriend for a job they were totally unqualified for? While hiring mistakes usually are not that blatant, whenever a new hire is a bust, your trusted employees may feel let down, almost betrayed, that this person is not […]
HIPAA and Dental Records: What Do You Need to Know?
November 8, 2019
Adrian Johansen
Many healthcare professionals forget about the sensitive nature of dental records when it comes to cybersecurity breaches, privacy, and confidentiality. Patient profiles in dental offices contain many of the elements of private health information that are governed by federal law. If you are applying for an administrative or medical records position in the dentistry field, […]
5 Things Employers Are Looking for in New Dental Assistants
October 24, 2019
Anita Ginsburg
If you’re looking for a start in the dental industry, becoming a dental assistant is a wise career choice. You’ll be tackling tasks necessary to running a dental office, like helping patients feel at ease and supporting the dentist during procedures. Also, the dental assistant field is growing, so it’s a safe bet for job […]
DentalPosters and the Impact of Community
October 18, 2019
The DentalPost Team
Working in the dental industry, you can often feel very small in the grand scheme of dental professionals at large. You might have strong relationships with the dental professionals at your practice, but there’s no reason to limit your connections to the practice you’re working with. Here at DentalPost, we wanted to offer a way […]
Be a Boss People Love to Work For
October 11, 2019
Tonya Lanthier
Great bosses do this…
4 Reasons You Should Be Celebrating Customer Service Week
October 7, 2019
The DentalPost Team
Have you ever called a company’s support number only to find yourself stuck navigating dial pad responses and arguing with a robot? These days, getting a real person on the phone at a business is nearly unheard of. Automated phone services, AI messaging, and other prerecorded voice systems have replaced traditional customer service portals. There’s […]
Why I Became a Dental Hygienist
October 4, 2019
Tonya Lanthier
It’s that time of year again – yes, it’s Dental Hygiene Month! For me, it’s an opportunity to reflect on my journey in the dental industry that began 25 years ago, when I first practiced as a registered dental hygienist. My mission of providing the best possible patient care has intensified over the years, and […]
Taking Control of Your Time
October 4, 2019
Tonya Lanthier
Ask yourself, “What do I want?”
6 Skills That Boost Your Chances of Getting a Job in the Dental Industry
September 27, 2019
Daniela McVicker
While some industries are slowing down, the dental industry’s outlook is bright. The Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Occupational Outlook Handbook rates the growth in jobs for dentists, dental hygienists, and dental assistants at “much faster than average.” Besides working in a growing industry, being a dental professional is a truly rewarding profession. However, finding the job […]
The Secret Life of the Dental Office Manager
September 24, 2019
The DentalPost Team
What makes a great manager?
How to Present Your Best Self in a Dental Assistant Job Interview
September 20, 2019
Lizzie Weakley
Making a good first impression is always important during an interview. You need to be able to find ways to set yourself apart from other applicants. There are many ways you can achieve this. For example, you need to be punctual, professional, and knowledgeable about the position. The following information will provide a closer look […]
Compensation Trends for Working Moms
September 13, 2019
The DentalPost Team
Staying on top of labor trends in dentistry is important for everyone, but especially for working moms. A working mom needs to understand what’s happening so she can plan ahead for herself and her family. Here’s the overall picture of what’s popular, what’s on its way out, and what’s next with compensation trends in the […]
4 Must-Ask Interview Questions When Staffing a New Dental Office
September 12, 2019
Kara Masterson
With the dentistry field continuing to evolve, it is important to hire only qualified, trained, and professional staff. If you are responsible for hiring staff in a new medical office, you will want to ensure that a positive tone is set right from the beginning. To do that, you will want to make full use […]
Why Emotional Intelligence is Crucial to Hiring the Right Candidate
September 6, 2019
Tonya Lanthier
What is Emotional Intelligence? How much do I have? The Oxford dictionary defines Emotional Intelligence (EI) as “the capacity to be aware of, control, and express one’s emotions, and to handle interpersonal relationships judiciously and empathetically.” Some experts boil this down to balancing what’s in the head and in the heart, and approaching a challenge […]
Don’t Get Ghosted!
August 28, 2019
Tonya Lanthier
In recent years ghosting describes an unsettling end to a relationship–a friend or someone you are dating who suddenly disappears without any explanation at all. Almost like they are dead and never coming back! The “ghosting” phenomenon has made its way into the business world, acknowledged now even by the Federal Reserve as an official […]
3 Reasons Your Claim Keeps Getting Rejected By Insurance
August 28, 2019
Kara Masterson
Health insurance can be tricky to navigate for everyone involved. If your information isn’t exactly correct when you file claims for your patients, the rules involved will cause the claims to be denied and lead to lost time, the patient’s frustration, and extra work for insurance billing adjusters. Here are three of the most common […]
Are job seekers not applying to your job? Here’s how to fix it.
August 23, 2019
Tonya Lanthier
You’re offering a job, so why aren’t you getting applications? You need to figure out why you people are not applying to your ad or showing up to interviews. It is likely a combination of things: You are in competition with many other hiring dental offices. You have to offer something they want. Does your ad […]
Cosmetic Dentistry: On the Rise
August 16, 2019
Dr. Jasmine Naderi
Cosmetic dentistry popularity is on the rise again. In fact, according to the results of a recent survey from the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), 96 percent of U.S. laborers feel a beautiful smile is very or somewhat important to your appearance. Psychology experts also suggest that nice smiles create trust, reduce stress, and helps us live a […]
Labor Day. There’s a Temp for that…
August 16, 2019
Tonya Lanthier
tick, tick, tick… Pop quiz for employers, when’s the next time you have a team member going away on vacation? Looking at the calendar, it’s probably Labor Day. You aren’t alone. Roughly 25% of Americans plan to be out of town for Labor Day. Check-in with your staff Always the first Monday in September, almost every […]
Is a Valued Team Member About to Make a Move? How to Recognize the Signs and Steps You Can Take.
August 7, 2019
Tonya Lanthier
Something feels different in the office. It’s hard to describe. The patients are happy, no complaints. The schedule is full, revenue is strong. Internal conflicts among staff are at a minimum. In fact, things are working so well that you’re answering fewer staff questions and requests. These are the situations we all work hard to […]
5 Takeaways from the 2019 RDH Under One Roof Conference
August 6, 2019
Tonya Lanthier
We’re back from another incredible RDH Under One Roof event! This year, we traveled to the Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center in Grapevine, Texas to learn and share alongside our extended RDH family. After hearing from nearly 40 unique speakers, we’re feeling energized about the future of dental hygiene and what our friends in […]
Why Dentists Must Learn to Negotiate
August 1, 2019
The DentalPost Team
Many dentists are learning that good negotiation skills can have a positive impact on their income levels. Dentistry is a competitive field, with many new graduates joining the workforce each year. The American Dental Association (ADA) currently consists of more than 163,000 dentists (and counting). Attending business negotiation workshops can equip you with valuable skills […]
How to Build Great Relationships With Dental Temps
July 30, 2019
The DentalPost Team
The freelance economy is changing how Americans work and the dental industry is no exception; dental temps are becoming an increasingly popular way to solve complex scheduling challenges. Hiring temps is great for when everything happens at once. When your dental hygienist needs time off for vacation, or a sick kid calls them away from […]
Three Trends at AADOM 2019
July 24, 2019
The DentalPost Team
Happy 15th birthday, AADOM! It was incredible to celebrate their journey with founder Heather Colicchio and the AADOM team. It felt extra special for us since DentalPost also celebrates our 15th birthday this October, so we’ve watched our “babies” grow up together. It was a very special milestone and a true testament to how hard […]
How to Market Your Orthodontic Practice Using Social Media
July 19, 2019
Dr. Satish Pai
Did you know that one of the best ways to promote your orthodontic practice is to launch a social media page? With social media, you can find a way to leverage everything that is unique about your practice. You can also strengthen your bond with existing patients and build a new one with potential clients. […]
The 7 Best Exercises for Dental Professionals
July 15, 2019
The DentalPost Team
Sitting hunched over patients’ mouths for several hours a day is extremely taxing on your body. Dental hygienists and dentists are prone to problems as a result of poor working posture, eye strain, and unnatural hand positioning. Regular exercise, however, can help you minimize those problems and enjoy benefits such as: Greater comfort while working […]
How to Be a More Socially Responsible Dental Office
July 8, 2019
Adrian Johansen
The dental industry continues to be one of the most popular areas of healthcare when it comes to job growth. According to the United States Department of Labor, between 2016-2026, job growth for the dental industry is expected to jump by 19%— much faster than the national average. Dental jobs are booming because the industry itself […]
Dental Hygiene, the flexible, inflexible job.
July 5, 2019
Amanda Hill
One of the great things about a career in dental hygiene is how flexible the job is. I have worked as little as two days a month when my kids were little. It was perfect. But for as flexible as the work days can be, once you commit to a day the flexibility ends. You […]
Is New Dental Technology Changing Dental Hygienist Duties?
July 4, 2019
The DentalPost Team
Each year delivers more new dental technology that makes dentistry easier, faster, and more cost-effective than ever before. But like many other hygienists, this trend has you a bit concerned. You’re wondering how all the rapidly-developing technology will impact your dental hygienist duties. Could new dental technology devalue the work you do or render your […]
5 Dental Marketing Tactics to Bring New Patients
July 3, 2019
Meggie
With the increasing competition in the dental industry, it makes it more critical that you have effective marketing. Online marketing is the best way for your clinic to generate more patients if done correctly. The fact is most of your dental customers are online now. The best way to reach out to them is if […]
Want to Temp as a Dental Hygienist or Assistant? Use This Mindset Checklist for Success
June 21, 2019
The DentalPost Team
Spend more time with family. Have more time to pursue hobbies, go back to college, or write a book. Earn extra income to supplement your current job. Why do you want to temp as a dental assistant or hygienist? Temping in a dental office can be a super-convenient way to earn while maintaining a flexible […]
The Dental Lab Technician: A Unique Member of Your Dental Team
June 21, 2019
Caitlin Dawson
Often forgotten, the dental lab technician (tech) is a valuable member of any dental team. We’re usually huddled away in a separate location, sometimes miles away, musing over a case. The “out of sight, out of mind” adage holds true, but it doesn’t have to. Your preferred lab tech may not be in your immediate […]
Tips for Turning a Temp Gig into a Permanent Opportunity
June 21, 2019
The DentalPost Team
Dental practice owners and office managers enjoy hiring temporary workers. It’s a great non-committal way to see if someone has the skills the practice needs in a permanent role. You’ve been temping for quite some time. Now, you’re ready to move on to something more stable and you’re hoping that a permanent position will open […]
How the Dental Industry Is Becoming More Eco-Friendly
June 17, 2019
Adrian Johansen
What is your dentist doing to reduce their carbon footprint? Every year, we learn more and more about the threat of climate change, and over the last several years, many industries have been looking to make a difference. They understand that climate change can have adverse effects, and they want to do their part to […]
Need More Dental Patients? Here Are 7 Ways to Generate New Referrals
June 14, 2019
The DentalPost Team
Do you wait for patients with a toothache to call you for an appointment? It’s time to stop hoping the business will come to you. No matter how busy you are, you need to constantly search for new patients. A steady stream of new dental patient referrals will keep your cash flow healthy and help […]
Lessons Learned From “This Beautiful Trauma”
June 10, 2019
Tonya Lanthier
Millions of women know what it is like to start again, whether it is moving on from a job that has become toxic, or boldly making a change in a family situation that is no longer fulfilling. For me, the struggle has been real over the past few years. Divorce can be a tangled combination […]