Welcome to 2025! Time flies, doesn’t it? Before I knew it, we were in the middle of December, and now here we are, ready to tackle a new year. As dental practices prepare for the challenges and opportunities ahead, one thing stands out: the importance of team training in dental practices as they kick off 2025.
In this post, I’ll share insights from my recent conversation with Claire Dickinson, the director of operations for Puget Sound Perio. Claire manages multiple practices, and she’s passionate about ensuring dental teams stay strong and adaptable through consistent training. Together, we discussed strategies to make training a priority, motivate team members, and ensure they apply what they’ve learned to deliver better patient care.
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Why Team Training Is Essential
The importance of team training in dental practices cannot be overstated. Training is the foundation for consistency, efficiency, and excellence in patient care. However, many practices struggle to prioritize it. Team members often feel overwhelmed by daily responsibilities, pushing training to the bottom of their to-do lists.
Claire highlighted how training ensures that everyone on the team follows the same processes, especially when managing multiple locations. This consistency keeps operations running smoothly and ensures patients receive a seamless experience no matter which office they visit.
Without proper training, even small knowledge gaps can lead to inefficiencies, miscommunication, and frustration. As Claire said, “Training isn’t something you can afford to put on the back burner.”
How to Address Learning Styles
One of the most valuable takeaways from our discussion was the need to recognize and accommodate different learning styles. Not everyone learns the same way, and a one-size-fits-all training approach often falls short.
Claire explained that some people are visual learners who need to see a demonstration, while others learn best by doing. For example, hands-on learners may need to practice a task several times before feeling confident. Still, others may prefer written instructions or auditory explanations.
When planning training sessions, it’s essential to consider these differences:
- Use visual aids like videos or slides.
- Provide hands-on practice opportunities.
- Offer printed guides for team members who prefer written materials.
Another critical point Claire raised is that some team members may face challenges like ADHD or fear of failure. These factors can hinder their ability to learn and apply new skills. Creating a safe, supportive environment is key. Instead of criticizing mistakes, use them as teaching moments.
By accommodating different learning styles and fostering a positive environment, you can ensure all team members have the tools they need to succeed.
Motivating Your Team to Embrace Training
Motivating team members to prioritize training is another challenge many practices face. As Claire and I discussed, the importance of team training in dental practices isn’t just about providing knowledge—it’s about creating a desire to learn and grow.
One strategy Claire uses is framing training as an investment in the team’s professional development. For example, if hygienists need laser certification, the practice funds the training and allows them time during work hours to complete it. This shows that the practice values its employees and wants them to succeed.
Another tip is to focus on the “why.” If team members don’t understand why a change is happening or how it benefits them, they’re unlikely to engage with the training. Start by building awareness and desire before diving into the knowledge portion of your training.
Overcoming Resistance and Building a Unified Team
Resistance to change is natural, but how you handle it determines whether your team will embrace or reject new systems and processes. Claire emphasized the need to tailor your approach based on your team’s dynamics.
For example:
- If your team includes “heavy processors” who need time to think, avoid rushing changes.
- For fast-paced decision-makers, implement changes efficiently and provide only the essential details.
Another common roadblock is fear of failure. Claire shared her approach: encouraging “safe failures.” By allowing team members to make mistakes in a supportive environment, they gain confidence and learn without fear of judgment.
Finally, consider hosting training sessions where the entire team participates together. This fosters collaboration and ensures everyone hears the same message. It also opens the door for valuable discussions, where team members can share insights and resolve concerns collectively.
Staying Ahead in 2025
As we kick off 2025, it’s clear that the importance of team training in dental practices is greater than ever. The dental industry is constantly evolving, with new technologies, materials, and patient expectations shaping the way we work. To stay competitive, practices must invest in their teams.
Here are a few action steps to prioritize training in your practice:
- Carve Out Time: Dedicate an hour a week to team training, even during busy periods.
- Invest in Development: Provide resources like courses, certifications, and workshops.
- Accommodate Learning Styles: Use a variety of training methods to ensure everyone benefits.
- Create a Safe Environment: Encourage open communication and support team members as they learn.
By focusing on these steps, you can build a cohesive, high-performing team that’s ready to tackle whatever 2025 brings.
Final Thoughts
The importance of team training in dental practices as they kick off 2025 goes beyond learning new skills. It’s about fostering a culture of growth, collaboration, and excellence. When your team feels supported and equipped to succeed, they’ll deliver better patient care—and that’s something every practice should strive for.
If you’d like to connect with Claire Dickinson for more insights, you can reach her at [email protected].
Here’s to a successful, well-trained 2025!
