In the world of dentistry, technical skill is only part of the equation. What truly sets high performers apart is how they approach their work — their mindset, their habits, and their energy. After years of coaching dental teams and professionals, I’ve found that sustainable success boils down to six key habits.

Let's call them The Six Ps,.

Whether you're a dentist, hygienist, assistant, or practice manager, these principles can transform the way you work — and how you feel doing it. Let’s dive in:

1. Prepare

Success doesn’t happen by accident. Every outstanding day in dentistry starts with preparation.

• Review your schedule ahead of time.

• Know your patients and anticipate any unique needs.

• Walk into each day with a clear, confident plan.

Preparation builds confidence — and confidence builds trust with your team and patients.

2. Practice

No matter how long we've been in the field, there’s always room for growth.

• Keep refining your clinical skills.

• Role-play tricky conversations with your team.

• Seek out feedback — and act on it.

Excellence isn’t one big leap. It’s thousands of small improvements made daily.

3. Professional

Professionalism is the foundation of trust — and in dentistry, trust is everything.

• Communicate with kindness and clarity.

• Own your mistakes and take responsibility.

• Maintain high standards, even when no one’s watching.

Being professional isn’t about perfection. It’s about consistently showing up with integrity, for yourself and for others.

4. Participate

Dentistry is a team sport. Showing up and doing your own job isn’t enough — active participation is where real magic happens.

• Contribute ideas during team meetings.

• Support your colleagues without being asked.

• Celebrate both team and individual wins.

When everyone leans in and participates, the entire practice elevates.

5. Passion

Patients can feel it — and so can your team — when you genuinely love what you do.

• Reconnect with your "why."

• Let your passion for patient care fuel you.

• Stay curious and inspired about new techniques and technologies.

Passion isn’t something you either have or you don’t. It’s something you can cultivate — and when you do, it transforms your work.

6. Personality

Dentistry is clinical, but it’s also deeply personal. Patients come to us vulnerable, sometimes scared — and they remember how we make them feel.

• Smile. Laugh. Be real.

• Build meaningful relationships with patients and team members.

• Bring your unique personality into every interaction.

At the end of the day, it's not just about teeth — it’s about people.

Mastering the Six Ps — Prepare, Practice, Professional, Participate, Passion, and Personality — isn’t about being perfect. It’s about being intentional. When you make these habits part of your daily work life, you don’t just succeed — you thrive. You create a career that’s not only productive but also deeply rewarding.