Unlocking success: How sleep management can transform your Dental Practice

Possibly the most important aspect of your well-being - sleep

Are you getting enough sleep? I suspect that for many readers the answer will be a "NO!".

Sleep is often seen as a luxury or a hobby, something to enjoy when time allows. For dental practice owners and managers, this mindset can lead to burnout, reduced focus, and lower productivity. But what if sleep was treated as a vital management tool? Setting a fixed bedtime and waking time for just 14 days, and protecting this schedule like a clinical session, can bring remarkable benefits to your practice and personal well-being.

Here are my stats for the last month (including some very early starts during the Peak to Plains charity bike ride in Africa and overnight flights):

Since returning, I'm working as hard as possible to reclaim sleep-debt and improve my overall recovery score.

Running a coaching or a dental practice demands sharp decision-making, clear communication, and steady energy throughout the day. Sleep directly affects these abilities. Research shows that adults who maintain consistent sleep schedules experience better cognitive function, improved mood, and stronger immune systems. For all of us, this means fewer mistakes, better client/patient interactions, and more effective leadership.

Inconsistent sleep patterns cause fatigue, which can lead to errors in patient care or administrative tasks. Protecting your sleep schedule is as important as protecting your patient appointments. Treat your sleep time as a non-negotiable block in your calendar.

Start by choosing a bedtime and wake-up time that allows for 7 to 8 hours of sleep. Commit to this schedule every day, including weekends. Here are practical steps to help:

• Set an alarm for bedtime as well as wake-up time to remind yourself to wind down.

• Create a relaxing pre-sleep routine, such as reading (that's for me) or light stretching.

• Avoid screens and bright lights at least 30 minutes before bed.

• Keep your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet.

• Inform your team about your sleep commitment so they respect your off-hours.

  
  

Treat this sleep schedule like a clinical session: protect it from interruptions and distractions.

After 14 days of consistent sleep, you will likely notice:

• Increased focus during patient consultations and team meetings.

• Improved mood and patience with staff and patients.

• Greater energy to handle unexpected challenges.

• Enhanced decision-making and problem-solving skills.

• Reduced stress and better overall health.

  
  

These improvements can lead to smoother practice operations and higher patient satisfaction.

Encourage your team to adopt healthy sleep habits as well. Consider sharing your experience and results during team meetings. When everyone values rest, the entire practice benefits from improved performance and morale.