The shortage of skilled workers in orthodontics is hitting many practices hard, but the causes are often closer than you might think. If you are lacking qualified employees or they are leaving after a short time, it is worth taking an honest look at your own leadership culture. Today, good professionals choose their employer carefully and look for much more than just salary. Values, working atmosphere and genuine appreciation determine whether talented people choose your practice or the competition.
Dr Martin Baxmann sums it up: The shortage of skilled workers in orthodontics starts with you. This statement may sound uncomfortable at first, but it holds enormous potential. Because if you, as a practice owner, know the levers, you can actively counteract this. The LeanOrthodontics® training programme not only teaches orthodontic treatment methods, but also the basics of modern employee management. Over 1,864 international course participants have already learned how targeted changes in practice culture can increase both employee satisfaction and the number of applicants.
Structured processes reduce the pressure caused by staff shortages
When every step is perfectly coordinated and processes are clearly defined, a practice needs fewer staff to deliver the same level of service. This is exactly where LeanOrthodontics® comes in. The concept is based on lean management and applies its principles specifically to orthodontic practices. Instead of chaotic multitasking situations, standardised workflows are created that even new team members can quickly adopt. This not only relieves the burden on existing employees, but also makes the practice less dependent on individual persons.
The shortage of skilled workers in orthodontics can be overcome particularly well if processes are systematically analysed and optimised. Dr Baxmann has proven in his own practices within the Orthodentix® Group that efficient structures lead to measurable results. The 5-second model analysis, Baxmann Keys and the ABCD system for therapy planning are concrete tools that can be applied immediately in everyday practice. Spending less time on unnecessary coordination frees up capacity for the essentials. This reduces stress levels across the entire team and makes the practice more attractive to potential applicants.
LeanOrthodontics® by Dr Martin Baxmann for successful orthodontic practices
Dr Martin Baxmann's training programme is aimed at dentists specialising in orthodontics, Master of Science in Orthodontics and specialist dentists who want to take their practice to the next level. The content combines scientifically based treatment methods with tried-and-tested management expertise. Whether in compact Powerweeks®, in the online curriculum or in personal 1:1 coaching: the knowledge can be flexibly adapted to individual needs.
The following overview compares the different learning formats:
| Powerweek® | 5 days intensive | Up to 12 | VIP small group with university certificate |
| Online-Curriculum | 1 year | Unlimited | 40+ hours of learning material with AI tutors |
| Master of Science | 2 years | Limited | 120 ECTS at DTMD University |
| 1:1 Coaching | Individual | 1 Person | Personal support from Dr. Baxmann |
Each format has been developed to overcome the shortage of skilled workers in orthodontics. The combination of clinical excellence and entrepreneurial thinking sets LeanOrthodontics® apart from traditional training courses. Dr Baxmann was awarded the International Healthcare Award and the Gamechangers Award in 2018 and the European Business Award in 2019 for his innovative approaches.
Overcoming the shortage of skilled workers in orthodontics through clear systems
Clear systems provide guidance for existing and new team members alike. When treatment procedures, communication channels and responsibilities are clearly defined, the training period is significantly reduced. New employees find their feet more quickly and can start working productively sooner. This is particularly valuable when the labour market is tight and every vacancy remains unfilled for a long time.
The LeanOrthodontics® concept provides exactly this common thread for the entire field of orthodontics. From diagnostics and treatment planning to patient communication: every area is systematically thought through. Dr. Baxmann's Amazon best-selling book series serves as a practical workbook for the entire practice team. Instead of isolated training impulses, a holistic system is created that allows all the cogs in the practice to mesh together. Overcoming the shortage of skilled workers in orthodontics thus becomes a solvable task instead of a permanent problem.
Increase employer attractiveness and attract top talent to your practice
Today's qualified professionals are looking for more than just a secure job. They want to be part of a team that shares common values and works together professionally. The external image of your practice often determines whether someone applies or not, even before the first interview. Your website, social media presence and general reputation in the industry shape the image that potential applicants have of you.
In the LeanOrthodontics® training programme, you will learn how to position your practice as an attractive employer without having to rely on expensive recruitment agencies. Dr Baxmann will show you specific strategies for attracting both your ideal patients and top employees. The Orthodentix® practice group demonstrates how modern employer branding works in orthodontics. If you want to overcome the shortage of skilled workers in orthodontics in the long term, you have to start with your own employer brand. This does not require a large budget, but above all clarity about your own values and authentic communication of these values to the outside world.
Book Free Consultation