In this episode, we’re tackling a tough but necessary topic: when (and how) to fire a hygienist. Let’s be clear—hygienists are the backbone of our practices, and we’re lucky to work with some truly incredible ones. But every now and then, a bad apple sneaks in, and it becomes clear they’re just not the right fit for the team.

We get into what makes a great hygienist (hint: humility, teamwork, and patient care are at the top of the list), and we share some real-life examples of when things didn’t work out. From hygienists who refuse to clean their own instruments to those who clash with the team culture, we’re breaking down how to identify red flags and when it’s time to let someone move on.

But this isn’t just about saying goodbye—it’s about building an amazing team that aligns with your practice’s values and vision. We also share tips for hiring hygienists who will thrive in your office and how to create an environment where they can grow and succeed.

👉 Hit play now to hear our full conversation, and don’t forget to check out the free PDF download of our 8 Lessons for Growing a $20M Practice!

Share your thoughts or your own team-building stories in the comments below! Visit www.thedentistsshow.com for more insights and resources.

www.thedentistsshow.com/downloads/the8lessons/

Episode Minute By Minute:

• 00:00 Welcome to The Dentists Show!
• 01:00 Why this topic matters: Firing vs. letting go.
• 02:30 What makes a great hygienist? Key traits to look for.
• 07:00 Red flags: When a hygienist doesn’t fit your culture.
• 12:00 Building rapport with patients: A must-have skill.
• 15:00 Prepping patients for the dentist—how top hygienists do it.
• 18:00 Real stories: The ones we’ve had to let go.
• 22:00 Why letting someone go can save your team culture.
• 25:00 Tips for hiring hygienists who align with your vision.

Welcome back to the Dentists Show! In this episode, we’re taking a break from the serious stuff to share the funniest, most awkward, and downright bizarre moments we’ve experienced in our years of dentistry. From TikTok hacks gone wrong to patients making unexpected bodily contributions, we’re spilling the stories that made us ask, “Did that really just happen?”

Ryan talks about the time he got up close and personal with a patient’s breakfast burrito (don’t ask), and Chase shares a memorable encounter with a patient who was locked in during a procedure—vomit hose and all. Whether it’s unexpected messes, runaway patients, or assistants caught in the crossfire, there’s never a dull moment when you’re working in dentistry.

These stories are a reminder that while dentistry is rewarding, it’s anything but predictable. They’ll make you laugh, cringe, and maybe even feel a little better about your own practice mishaps.

👉 Hit play now to hear the full episode, and share your wildest practice stories with us at www.thedentistsshow.com. We’d love to laugh (and commiserate) with you!

www.thedentistsshow.com/downloads/the8lessons

Episode Minute By Minute:

• 01:00 The joys of awkward moments in dentistry.
• 02:30 Chase’s TikTok hack gone hilariously wrong.
• 05:00 Ryan’s “breakfast burrito” patient—literally.
• 08:00 Blood, vomit, and the messiest procedure ever.
• 12:00 Did that really just happen? Chase’s unforgettable interview story.
• 16:00 Halcyon adventures and slap-worthy moments.
• 20:00 Patients who keep you guessing: From shoes off to fainting in the lobby.
• 24:00 Why these moments make dentistry unforgettable.
• 28:00 Closing thoughts—send us your stories!

In this episode, we’re breaking it all down—the 8 lessons that helped us, grow from a single struggling practice to running seven thriving offices grossing $20 million annually. Spoiler alert: these lessons aren’t just about numbers; they’re about mindset, leadership, and creating a team and culture that drives growth.

We talk about everything from setting big, scary goals and taking care of your patients first, to knowing your numbers and recruiting the right people. We even dive into the importance of replicating yourself to scale your practice effectively. And yes, there are a few laughs and stories sprinkled in (like how Chase turned a failing practice into a gold mine).

Whether you’re aiming to grow a single practice or dream of running multiple offices, this episode is packed with actionable advice that can help you move the needle. We don’t just tell you what we did—we share the how and the why behind these game-changing lessons.

👉 Hit play now to learn how to apply these 8 lessons to your practice. Download our free PDF for more details, and let us know what you think in the comments! www.thedentistsshow.com/downloads/the8lessons/

Visit www.thedentistsshow.com for more resources and insights.

Episode Minute By Minute:

• 00:00 Welcome to Episode 4 of The Dentists Show!
• 01:00 Why these 8 lessons matter for your practice.
• 02:30 Lesson 1: You can do it—why mindset is everything.
• 07:00 Lesson 2: Take care of the patient first.
• 12:00 Lesson 3: Invest in your skillset and leadership.
• 17:00 Lesson 4: Know your numbers—understanding KPIs.
• 19:00 Lesson 5: New patients solve a lot of problems.
• 22:00 Lesson 6: Recruit and retain A-players.
• 24:30 Lesson 7: Keep your word and build integrity.
• 27:00 Lesson 8: Replicate yourself to scale effectively.
• 30:00 Download the free PDF and connect with us!