A Day in the Life of a Dental Practice Manager (2026)
To understand what the role of a Dental Practice Manager really looks like in 2026, we spoke to Claire Michel, Practice Manager at a busy London dental practice.
With rising patient expectations, staffing pressures, and increasing operational complexity, we wanted to know how the role has evolved — and what a typical day actually involves.
Here’s what Claire told us.
What does a typical day look like for you?
Claire:
“No two days are ever exactly the same, but there’s definitely a rhythm to how my day runs now compared to a few years ago. The biggest difference is that I’m far less reactive and much more planned.”
Morning: Setting the Day Up Properly
Claire:
“My mornings are all about visibility and preparation. I usually start before the practice opens, reviewing staffing, appointment flow, and any patient feedback that’s come in overnight.
Once the team arrives, I do quick check-ins with reception, nursing leads, and clinicians. It’s not micromanaging — it’s about making sure everyone knows where the pressure points are for the day.”
She adds that mornings used to feel chaotic.
“Years ago, mornings were firefighting. Now they’re about alignment. That’s made a huge difference to stress levels — for me and the team.”
Midday: People, Patients, and Progress
Claire:
“Midday is usually when I focus on people rather than processes.
That might be a one-to-one with a senior nurse, supporting our Treatment Coordinator with patient flow, or talking through development or training requests. Retention is a massive focus now, so those conversations are really important.”
She also uses this time to review patient experience and complaints.
“Addressing issues quickly and properly saves so much time in the long run. It’s not just about fixing problems — it’s about preventing them.”
Afternoon: Business, Strategy, and Growth
Claire:
“The afternoons are where I add the most value to the practice. That’s when I step back and look at the bigger picture.
I’ll review performance data, look at how patient journeys are working, discuss marketing performance, or plan operational improvements. I also work closely with the practice owners on finances, staffing strategy, and future growth.”
Claire explains that this part of the role has grown significantly.
“In 2026, you can’t just ‘run the practice’. You have to understand how everything connects — people, patients, systems, and profitability.”
How has the role changed over time?
Claire:
“The role is much more respected now — but it’s also more demanding. You’re expected to lead, not just manage.
What’s helped is having clearer systems, better-trained staff, and people I can delegate to. That’s what gives me flexibility and keeps the role sustainable.”
What would you say to someone considering becoming a Practice Manager?
Claire:
“It’s a brilliant career if you enjoy responsibility, variety, and making an impact. But you have to invest in yourself.
The role has moved on. Training, development, and understanding the business side of dentistry are no longer optional — they’re essential.”
Final Thoughts
A day in the life of a Dental Practice Manager in 2026 is no longer about constant crisis management. It’s about leadership, planning, and creating stability — for patients, staff, and the business.
As Claire’s experience shows, the role has evolved into one of the most influential positions within a dental practice — and for those prepared for it, one of the most rewarding.
Practice management has changed. In 2026, experience alone no longer cuts it. A deep understanding of leadership strategies, modern HR, effective communication, DEI, financial management, and more is essential to truly succeed in the role.
The Dental Training College Certificate in Dental Practice Management equips you with the knowledge and confidence needed to thrive in today’s modern dental practices.