Building Long-Term Relationships Between Dental Practices and Locum Dentists

As the dental industry is always evolving, many dental practices are increasingly relying on locum dentists to fill in for unexpected absences, staffing gaps or to handle busy periods. This flexible solution has become a very important part of modern day dentistry. 

While locum positions are often temporary, there are loads of benefits from building a long term relationship with locum dentists. Establishing strong and ongoing collaborations can lead to better patient outcomes and greater job satisfaction 

In this blog we will explore:

• The value of long-term relationships

• The common challenges 

• Actionable strategies for building lasting relationships  

2. The Value of Long-Term Locum Relationships

Building a relationship between a dental practice and a locum dentist offers a range of benefits that go beyond just filling staffing gaps. Establishing consistent, ongoing collaborations can significantly enhance both patient care and workplace dynamics.

Improved patient continuity and trust

When locum dentists regularly work with the same practice, patients benefit from greater continuity of care. Familiarity with the dentist builds patient trust and comfort, leading to better treatment outcomes and higher satisfaction. Patients appreciate seeing a familiar face, even when their usual dentist is unavailable. To learn more about how locum dentists can improve patient care, visit Opal Dental Locums’ blog about patient care

Increased Efficiency

Retaining reliable locum dentists helps to reduce time and resources spent on onboarding and training new staff members. Dental practice can maintain consistent workflows and the locum dentists will become more adept with the practice software, system and protocols. This will result in more efficient service and faster integration into the practice.

Potential for Future Permanent Hires

Dental practices that develop long term relationships with locum dentists tend to find that these professionals are more likely to transition to permanent roles. After working together over time, both (the dental practice and locum dentist) will have a clear understanding of skills, compatibility and commitment, making it easier to move from a temporary to a full time position.  

3. Common Challenges

While long term relationships between dental practices and locum dentists have many advantages, they also come with some challenges that can disrupt workflow and patient care. Identifying and addressing these challenges early is key to building successful relationships.

Differing Work Styles or Clinical Approaches

Every dentist brings their own style, but sometimes these differences can clash with a practice’s established protocols. Whether it’s treatment planning, record-keeping, or communication style, alignment is key to smooth operations.

Scheduling Inconsistencies

Last-minute or erratic scheduling can make it difficult for locums to plan ahead and can strain the relationship. On the practice side, relying on inconsistent availability can create staffing gaps that impact patient care.

Lack of Integration with Permanent Team Members

When locums aren’t properly introduced or included in the team, it can create an “outsider” feeling. This affects team morale and the locum’s ability to collaborate effectively.

4. Strategies for Building Lasting Relationships

Establishing strong, long-term relationships with locum dentists requires more than just regular bookings. It’s about creating a professional environment where locums feel valued, supported, and integrated. Here are some proven strategies to help dental practices foster meaningful partnerships with their locum professionals.

 Clear Communication and Onboarding

Setting expectations from the start is crucial. By clearly outlining key details such as workload, working hours, protocols and treatment preferences, misunderstanding will be avoided.

A structured induction helps locums settle in quicker. Introduce them to staff roles, practice software and daily routines.

Fair Pay and Benefits

Timely and competitive pay is a non negotiable for building loyalty and relationships. Offering rates that reflect the skills and experience will set your dental practice apart in the competitive market.

Consider offering small but meaningful perks such as CPD (Continuous professional development) support, Travel reimbursement or access to clinical training sessions. These show that the dental practice values long term collaboration.

Ready to Build Stronger Locum Relationships?

At Opal Dental Locums, we believe that the best patient care starts with the right people — and that includes dependable, professional locum dentists who feel truly valued.

Whether you're looking to create a more stable team, improve patient continuity, or reduce onboarding time, our experienced locum professionals are ready to support your practice long-term.

Request reliable locum cover today or speak with our team to find out how we can help you build lasting, productive relationships with top-tier locum dentists.