Navigating the Complexities of Hiring Associate Dentists

Episode Summary:
In this episode, Dana Pardue Salisbury and Sandy Pardue unpack one of the most complex topics in dentistry: hiring an associate dentist. From knowing when your practice is truly ready to bring on another provider, to understanding why most associateships only last one to two years, this conversation blends humor, real-world stories, and practical numbers.

You’ll hear how culture, contracts, and communication can make or break the associate relationship—and how to avoid costly mistakes that so many practice owners make when expanding their teams.

💡 Key Takeaways

• Don’t hire on a hunch. Use data—2,000+ active patients, 30+ new patients monthly—as your benchmark.

• Always use a customized legal contract; handshake agreements and borrowed templates lead to disaster.

• Culture and ethics matter as much as production.

• Get clear on who supervises the associate: owner vs. manager roles.

• Most associates leave within two years—alignment and transparency change that outcome.

🔊 Episode Sponsors:

Identity Dental Marketing
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Plan Forward
The #1 membership plan platform for dental practices—simple, secure, and patient-friendly.
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Mango Voice
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✨ Upcoming Event – Don’t Miss Out!
Want to take your front desk skills to the next level? Join Sandy Pardue and the Classic Practice team for Front Desk Pro in Las Vegas on Friday, November 7, 2025. This one-day seminar is packed with proven systems to reduce cancellations, boost treatment acceptance, and transform your patient experience.

Register now at 👉 www.ClassicPractice.com and save $100 with code Secret Sauce.