Written by: Alan Stern, DDS
Leadership is one of the most common buzzwords in today’s world. Leadership books, seminars, and courses are everywhere—and I’ve taught quite a few myself.
Depending on your beliefs, you may view a certain political, religious, or business figure as a great leader—or not. These figures rarely interact with us directly. But what about the leaders in our own lives?
Every member of the dental team is a leader. So let’s get personal.
Why do some coaches succeed with one team and fail with another? Why do some dentists inspire loyalty while others face constant turnover?
For years, my dear friends Mary Osborne, Joan Unterschuetz, and Lee Brady have taught a powerful definition: “Leadership is a conversation that supports mutual growth and learning, with a bias toward action.”
Let’s look at how this applies to every role in the dental office.
The Owner Dentist Leader creates a safe space. This doctor is a nurturer, an illuminator, and a DOCTOR in the truest sense of the word. They share knowledge generously, seek input, encourage honest communication, and lead with vulnerability. Mistakes become learning opportunities. Criticism transforms into support. This leader hires with care—and invites the team into the hiring process to ensure a strong cultural fit.
The Associate, Hygienist, or Clinician Leader follows the same path. These leaders share knowledge and listen deeply—with curiosity and compassion. They seek to understand before offering advice. They guide patients and teammates without judgment, using supportive language and tone. And they recognize blind spots. Some of my best insights came from assistants who saw things I didn’t—from a different angle, literally and figuratively.
The Assistant Leader is a real-time leader in action. They often see what the clinician can’t and can alert them with calm and tact. Before the doctor even enters the room, the assistant can build trust with the patient through warmth, curiosity, and care. They liaise between the clinical and front office teams, help the day run smoothly, and offer and accept help when things go off script—which they inevitably do.
The Administrative Leader holds a powerful position. That first phone call? That’s leadership. Navigating tough conversations around scheduling, emergencies, or money? That’s leadership. When done with empathy and clarity, administrative leadership leads to better outcomes for everyone involved.
The Office Manager Leader is the glue. They carry the owner’s vision, guide the team, and have the authority to make decisions. When grounded in growth and action, their feedback becomes empowering, not punitive. The manager’s words and actions tip the balance of culture.
The truth is—we are all leaders. At work, at home, and even in how we speak to ourselves. And when we view leadership as a conversation that supports mutual growth and learning with a bias toward action, we elevate not only our team, but our entire profession.
That’s how we become Better, Richer, and Stronger.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Alan Stern, DDS, retired from clinical dentistry in 2023 and now operates Better, Richer, Stronger, LLC. He is a dental practice coach, keynote speaker, and author.
His book, Enjoy the Ride, is available on Amazon.
Join his Facebook group, strangely called Better, Richer, Stronger.
He can be reached at [email protected].
FEATURED IMAGE CREDIT: DesignwithSonet/Shutterstock.com.
