How to Lead Dental Employee Reviews That Actually Work: The 1–10 Practice Grade Technique
If you're opening your own dental practice, you’re not just building operatories—you’re building a team. And one of the fastest ways to create a loyal, high-performing staff isn’t with bonuses or retreats.
It’s a 10-minute conversation done right:
the dental employee review.
I get it—these conversations can feel awkward. But if you want a team that sticks with you, solves problems, and fuels your vision, this is where it starts.
Why Dental Employee Reviews Matter More Than You Think
Reviews aren’t just a box to check. They’re your chance to:
Align expectations
Boost morale
Catch issues early
Reinforce your vision
And no, dental school probably didn’t teach you this. That’s where Ideal Practices comes in.
Here’s one of the simplest, most effective review tools we share with startup clients:
The 1–10 Practice Grade Technique
Ask your team member this question during their review:
“On a scale from 1 to 10, how would you grade the practice as a place to work—and what would make it a 10?”
Then pause. Let them answer. Really listen.
What you’ll gain:
Honest feedback on culture, systems, or communication
Insights you won’t get in everyday conversations
Early warning signs of burnout or disengagement
A stronger bond built on trust and contribution
Why this works: When people help shape something, they stay more committed to it. That’s the psychology of ownership.
What Happens When You Use It
You’ll likely see:
Higher team loyalty and lower turnover
Fewer front-desk headaches and less drama
Clearer expectations and smoother operations
A boost in your leadership confidence as a new owner
And yes—some of your best practice improvements will come from these conversations.
Want a Pro-Level Resource for Dental Team Growth?
For deeper team strategy, I recommend reaching out to Ginny Hegarty, a nationally respected expert in dental HR and leadership. Email her for a complimentary copy of her chapter in Powerful Practice:
“Stop Kissing Frogs: How to Find, Manage, and Keep the Best People.”
I’ve worked with her personally—she’s the real deal.
You’ve got this.
—Stephen Trutter