Why Employee Benefits are Key to Boosting Retention in the Workplace

Between October and November 2024, DentalPost conducted its annual salary survey for dental professionals, engaging 2,230 registered dental hygienists across the United States. The survey covers a range of topics, including current salaries, benefits offered, the positive and negative aspects of their careers, and whether they plan to change jobs or retire in the upcoming year. While the responses vary, one trend has consistently emerged year after year: higher pay and better benefits are the two key factors driving hygienists to explore new job opportunities.

Average Income Increase

The average income for dental hygienists has steadily increased over the past few years. In the 2024 Salary Survey, the average salary was $81,267, marking a 2.9% increase from the 2023 average of $79,340, and a 10% rise from the 2022 average of $73,745. Despite this pay increase, only 50.3% of registered hygienists report being satisfied or very satisfied with their total 2024 compensation. This includes primary wages, bonuses, commissions, and benefits. 

The lack of benefits is a significant factor contributing to the relatively low satisfaction with total compensation, despite salary increases. Compare to other industries, the dental field has earned a poor reputation for not offering benefits to employees. Offering benefits like health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off can be costly. And many small, privately-owned dental practices operate on tighter budgets. But for many dental hygienists, receiving benefits is essential with the rising cost of medical care and overall cost of living.  This is most likely why 20% of hygienists looked for a new job last year. And nearly half of hygienists in this survey have been with their office less than 4 years.

The Connection Between Employee Benefits and Staff Retention

Employee benefits have a significant impact on job satisfaction and, as a result, employee retention. A strong benefits package shows employees that the organization values their well-being and long-term commitment, which can lead to higher morale, productivity, and loyalty. As we all know, retaining staff is crucial to the success of any organization, and dental practices are no exception. High turnover can disrupt workflows, increase recruitment and training expenses, and potentially compromise the quality of patient care. Offering employee benefits can be a key factor in improving staff retention.

Employee Benefits That Matter The Most:

Continuing Education Reimbursement 

• When dental practices invest in their staff’s education, it shows that they value their team’s skills and long-term success. This investment not only boosts employee morale and job satisfaction but also helps staff stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in dental techniques and technologies. As a result, employees feel more confident, capable, and engaged in their roles, which can lead to increased loyalty and a greater desire to stay with the practice.

Work-Life Balance

• Promoting a healthy work-life balance  is crucial for employee retention because it helps reduce burnout, stress, and job dissatisfaction. Dental professionals often face demanding schedules, which can lead to physical and emotional exhaustion if not properly managed. Offering flexible schedules, reasonable work hours, and time for personal pursuits allows staff to recharge and maintain a healthier, more fulfilling lifestyle. This not only increases job satisfaction but also enhances productivity, morale, and loyalty, making employees more likely to stay with the practice long-term. Prioritizing work-life balance ultimately leads to better retention, fewer sick days, and a more engaged, motivated team.

Financial Security

• Offering benefits like health insurance, life insurance, and retirement plans is essential for ensuring employee longevity because these benefits provide financial security and peace of mind, which can significantly increase job satisfaction and overall loyalty to the practice. Health insurance ensures that employees have access to necessary medical care, reducing stress about potential healthcare costs and promoting their well-being. Life insurance offers protection for employees’ families in case of unforeseen events, while retirement plans help secure employees’ financial future. Providing these benefits demonstrates a commitment to the long-term health and stability of staff, making them feel valued and supported. 

In conclusion, employee benefits play a crucial role in staff retention for dental practices. Despite the challenges involved in offering these benefits, the return on investment can be highly rewarding. As dental practices face the ongoing challenge of retaining skilled staff, a comprehensive, competitive benefits package will continue to be an essential strategy for fostering long-term success and staying competitive in the job market. 

Work Cited

DentalPost. “2025 Dental Hygienist Salary Survey .” DentalPost, 1 Jan. 2025, amplify360.com/hubfs/Salary%20Survey%202025/2025-DentalPost-Salary-Survey-RDH.pdf.

“The Importance of Employee Benefits in Staff Retention for Dental Practices.” The Dental Marketer, thedentalmarketer.site/articles/the-importance-of-employee-benefits-in-staff-retention-for-dental-practices.