Vermont Dental Conference

Program #3 From Chaos to Confidence: How Systems Can Save Your Sanity (and Your Team)

Lynda M. Ulrich, DMD
Audience Code: H, A, O     3 CEUs/Clinical Lecture

What if your practice could hum along beautifully—even when someone calls in sick or moves on? In this uplifting and practical session, Dr. Lynda will guide your team in shifting from “person dependent” to “systems dependent,” so your best work doesn’t rely on any one person’s memory or presence. You’ll learn how simple systems can reduce burnout, speed up onboarding, and help everyone shine—no matter who’s out for the day. Expect real-world solutions, a few laughs, and a clear path to more joy, less stress, and better days for the whole team. Because when your systems are strong, your people can thrive.


Learning Objectives:

  • Clearly distinguish between a person-dependent and a systems-dependent practice—and understand how that shift directly improves daily efficiency and morale.
  • Explore ways to reduce friction and confusion at the front desk when team members are out, using documentation and checklists to keep patient communication seamless.
  • Gain tools for cross-training and onboarding that empower new hires to contribute quickly and confidently— even without shadowing a “go-to” person.
  • Identify small, manageable changes that create more calm, fewer bottlenecks, and allow everyone—from assistants to admin—to work in a state of “flow.”
  • Leave with a practical plan to start building a systems-based culture that supports team resilience, improves patient care, and restores joy to your practice. 

SEE HANDOUT PAGE for ATTENDEE LECTURE MATERIAL (available in September)