Running a successful dental practice requires balancing clinical excellence with effective leadership, strategic marketing, sound financial management, and strong team dynamics. Below is an overview of some of the best books that can help a practice owner or manager develop the business and leadership skills necessary to thrive. Each recommendation includes a link for convenient purchasing.
1. “The Driven Dental Practice: Lessons in Leadership, Growth, and Potential” by Matt Robinson
Matt Robinson unveils a comprehensive guide that bridges the gap between dental knowledge and business acumen, equipping dental professionals with the strategies and insights needed to achieve lasting success. Through a unique blend of personal anecdotes, industry-specific examples, and practical advice not taught in dental school, Matt demystifies the complexities of dental business practices.
Purchase link:
https://www.amazon.com/Driven-Dental-Practice-Leadership-Potential dental+practice+books&qid=1738852844&sr=8-7
2. “by David Moffet
Dr. David Moffet is an international expert in dental practice management. With over 32 years of dental experience, he has developed a simple, practical, and incredibly effective way of increasing the number of patients you see…the amount of money you charge…and the percentage of large case revenues your patients will happily accept. In some cases, Moffet’s strategy has resulted in over $100,000 in additional cash flow in just weeks. All you need is a decent team and his secret weapon, “The Ultimate Patient Experience™.”
Purchase link:
https://www.amazon.com/Build-Dental-Practice-Your-Dreams/dp/1599325217
3. “Good to Great: Why Some Companies Make the Leap and Others Don’t” by Jim Collins 
Though not dentistry-specific, “Good to Great” is a foundational business book that explores how companies transition from being average to exceptional. The lessons on leadership, organizational culture, and the importance of the right team can be directly applied to running a high-performing dental practice.
Purchase link:
https://www.amazon.com/Good-Great-Companies-Leap-Others/dp/0066620996
4. “Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us” by Daniel H. Pink
Daniel Pink dives into what truly motivates people in the workplace. Understanding intrinsic motivation is key 
for practice owners who want to inspire their team members, improve staff retention, and foster a culture of engagement and innovation.
Purchase link:
https://www.amazon.com/Drive-Surprising-Truth-About-Motivates/dp/1594484805
5. “Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action” by Simon Sinek
Simon Sinek’s influential book focuses on the power of purpose in leadership. By 
identifying and communicating a core “why,” dental practice owners can unify their team around a common vision, enhance patient loyalty, and create a distinctive brand.
Purchase link:
https://www.amazon.com/Start-Why-Leaders-Inspire-Everyone/dp/1591846447
6. “Built to Sell: Creating a Business That Can Thrive Without You” by John Warrillow
Although it’s not specific to dentistry, “Built to Sell” is invaluable for practice owners who want to streamline 
operations, build value, and potentially prepare for a future sale or transition. The book explains how to shape your business so it’s not overly dependent on the owner, which can significantly increase its worth and longevity.
Purchase link:
https://www.amazon.com/Built-Sell-Creating-Business-Without/dp/1591845823
7. “Leadership and Self-Deception: Getting Out of the Box” by The Arbinger Institute
Team conflict, communication breakdowns, and misunderstandings can be major 
obstacles in a practice. This book uses a story format to discuss how self-deception undercuts workplace relationships and performance, providing tools for more empathetic and effective leadership.
Purchase link:
https://www.amazon.com/Leadership-Self-Deception-Getting-Out-Box/dp/1523097809
8. “The Advantage: Why Organizational Health Trumps Everything Else in Business” by Patrick Lencioni
Lencioni argues that organizational health is one of the most important factors in a company’s long-term 
success. In a dental setting, this means fostering cohesive teamwork, aligning goals across the practice, and establishing clear communication. The principles covered can help practice owners maintain a strong, unified culture.
Purchase link:
https://www.amazon.com/Advantage-Organizational-Health-Trumps-Everything/dp/0470941529
By investing time in books that cover marketing, leadership, organizational health, and innovation, dental practice owners and managers can sharpen their business acumen and create a thriving environment for both patients and staff. These recommended reads offer a blend of practical tips, real-life examples, and strategic insights that can transform your practice and help you stand out in an ever-evolving field.