Episode 390: The Real Reason Dental Offices Feel So Stressful — And How to Fix It

Dental Assistant Nation

When dentists and dental assistants support each other, everything gets better In this episode, Dr. Alan Stern opens up about the hidden tension that lives inside many dental practices—not between patients and staff, but between dentists and dental assistants themselves. He shares why miscommunication, lack of feedback, and unspoken expectations are doing more damage than any full schedule ever could. Dr. Stern challenges the old top-down model of dental leadership and makes the case for a more human approach—where assistants feel empowered, dentists feel supported, and mutual respect drives the entire practice forward. From hiring the right fit to giving feedback with empathy, this conversation is a blueprint for reducing stress and creating a workplace people actually want to be part of. If your office feels tense, this episode might explain exactly why—and how to finally fix it. Connect with Alan: Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterricherstronger/ Email: [email protected] —-------------------------------------------- Hey friends—cool news! The Dental Assistant Nation Podcast was featured on Feedspot’s Top 100 Dental Podcasts and their Top Dental Assistant Podcasts list. Huge thanks to you for listening, subscribing, and supporting the show. Couldn’t have done it without you. Go check it out—we’re listed alongside some amazing shows! 100 Best Dental Podcasts - https://podcast.feedspot.com/dental_podcasts/ 4 Best Dental Assistant Podcasts - https://podcast.feedspot.com/dental_assistant_podcasts/ —-------------------------------------------- 🎤 I’m Speaking at Accelerate: The Dental Revenue Workshop! Accelerate is where the brightest minds in dental revenue come together — and I’m heading to Nashville to share insights that will challenge, inspire, and help practices grow. 🗓 Date: July 31 - August 1 2025 📍 Location: Nashville, TN 🎟 Grab $150 off your ticket with my code: KevinH If you’re ready to level up your systems, strategy, and revenue, this is the event you don’t want to miss. I’d love to see you there! Let’s make this the most impactful dental event of the year. See you in Music City! 🎶 —-------------------------------------------- Attention Dental Leaders! I'm thrilled to speak at the 2025 AADOM Conference in Round Rock, TX – AADOM's 20th anniversary celebration! Join me for my sessions: ㅤ ➡️ Wednesday, Sept 3 "DPLN Leadership Meeting" - Learn how to maximize publicity for your DPLN ➡️ Saturday, Sept 6 "Simple Steps to Help You Become an Author " - We'll dive into how you can formulate a plan for your best article and how to find your voice as an industry leader. Early bird pricing ends 3/31! Don't wait—secure your spot now and be part of the biggest dental management event of the year! Plus, lock in your stay on-site at the Kalahari Resort before rooms fill up! 📅 September 4-6, 2025 📍 Kalahari Resort, Round Rock, TX Register now at aadomconference.com 🔗