5 qualities of great dental teams

We spend so much of our time at work, it helps if you love what you do and the people you work with. We talked to dental assistants across the country to find out what makes their dental teams so great. These are some of the things they told us.

Respect

Respect is the foundation for any good relationship, and that’s no exception for work relationships. The best dental teams respect each other and know that every person plays an important role.

“I will say my doctor truly appreciates me and I am lucky. I work hard and am paid well and am respected.” — Courtney R.

Sense of humor

Laughter is the best medicine, especially after a tough day. The best dental teams know how to lighten the mood when needed and give each other a boost at just the right moment.

“There was one day that I got my foot tangled and almost tripped. I was mortified, but the doctor just laughed it off and told me to be careful – he needs me too much for me to get hurt!” – Jessica S.

Encouragement

To be a great dental team, each player must feel as if they are encouraged to be their best. Dental assistants appreciate it when their doctor supports their professional growth, such as getting additional education or earning a professional credential.

“My boss encouraged me to go for my RDA and I got it! What a great feeling!” — Mary R.

Compassion

Dental assistants know how important it is to have compassion for patients, but dental team members should have compassion for each other. Co-workers often become a second family because of the care and concern they have for one another.

“We all work together to run the best clinic – it takes understanding, devotion, and compassion!” — Anne H.

Teamwork

"Teamwork" is easy to say but not always easy to do. To be a great dental team, everyone needs to have the same mindset of working toward the greater good.

“To me, being part of a team means we are all equal with the same goal in mind. It means when you fall, your team will pick you up; and when you are rocking it, they will pat your back and encourage you to keep up the good work.” — Kathy E.