What Is a Dentist Employment Contract?
A dentist employment contract is an essential legal document that outlines the terms and conditions of employment between a dental practice and a licensed dentist. It should include details such as the dentist’s job description, compensation and benefits, work schedule, and performance expectations.
By having a clear and detailed agreement, the dental practice and the new dentist can be confident in their working relationship and focus on providing quality dental care to their patients.
Sample Dentist Contract
If you need help drafting the contract, view a dentist employment contract sample or consider using our free template, available in PDF and Word formats.
What to Include
- The date that the agreement was entered into, and the name of the company and employee
- Terms of employment
- Job description
- Information on compensation, benefits, expenses, and overtime
- Any accommodations for a disability
- Any confidentiality and non-compete agreements
- Grounds for termination
Verify a Dentist’s License
Any dentist you hire should be licensed to practice in your state. You can check this by using the state’s professional licensure database.
Non-Compete Clauses
Many dentists are solo practitioners, but those in a group practice often sign a non-compete clause to ensure that no one takes business from the firm. Sometimes, these non-compete clauses will require that the dentist not compete with the firm even for a certain period after leaving.
As an employer, protecting your business while creating a fair non-compete clause is essential. Look at other standard non-compete clauses for dentists to understand what’s fair. Try to keep the non-compete period reasonably short.
How to Write
Need to draft your dentist employment contract? Here’s the step-by-step process.
Step 1 – Write an Introduction
Your introduction is one brief paragraph. It includes the contract’s date and purpose, the company’s name, and the employee’s name. The final sentence states that the terms of the agreement bind both parties.
Step 2 – Cover the Terms of Employment
The first sections you write will cover the nature of the employment, including the employee’s job description and duties. It should include whether the employee is a full-time or part-time employee and the length of the employment term if it is a temporary position. If there is a probationary period, this should also be covered here.
Step 3 – Cover Compensation and Benefits
Compensation should be laid out in the contract, including the standard compensation and any additional compensation, such as bonuses or overtime. Non-financial benefits, such as time off or insurance, should also be included in your contract. Make sure to cover expenses, as well. What is the company’s responsibility, and what is the employee’s responsibility? How are these expenses reimbursed?
Step 4 – Lay Out Any Restrictions
This includes non-compete clauses, non-solicitation clauses, and confidentiality clauses. These clauses let the new employee know what they can and cannot do while working for your company. The contract should also explain the ownership of the employee’s work and the repercussions for irreparable harm.
Step 5 – Discuss Grounds for Termination
Explain the grounds for termination and the right the company has to terminate the contract with the employee.
Step 6 – Add Anything Left Out
Any relevant miscellaneous terms can be added at the bottom. Then, sign the contract to make it official.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is a dentist employment contract important?
As in any profession, employment contracts are vital to protect the employer and employee. There are several reasons why you should use a dentist employment contract:
- Clarifies expectations for both the dentist and the employer.
- Protects the interests and rights of both parties involved.
- It helps prevent disputes and conflicts during the employment period.
- Provides legal protection and ensures compliance with relevant laws and regulations.
- Outlines compensation, benefits, working hours, and other important provisions.
- Establishes terms for termination, notice periods, and dispute resolution mechanisms
Are any specific benefits offered in a dentist employment contract?
Specific benefits offered in a dentist employment contract can vary depending on the employer and the terms negotiated. Here are some common benefits that may be included:
- Health and dental insurance coverage
- Retirement savings plans (such as a 401(k) or pension)
- Paid time off, including vacation and sick leave
- Continuing education allowances or reimbursement
- Professional liability insurance coverage
- Reimbursement for licensure fees and professional association memberships
- Disability insurance coverage
- Life insurance coverage
- Flexible work schedules or options for work-life balance
- Bonus or incentive programs based on performance or productivity
- Relocation assistance for dentists moving to a new location
- Assistance with student loan repayment
- Childcare or dependent care assistance programs
Are there any legal requirements or regulations governing dentist employment contracts?
The legal requirements and regulations governing dentist employment contracts vary by jurisdiction. It is important to consult legal professionals to ensure compliance with local laws regarding employment, licensing, privacy, non-compete agreements, termination, and dispute resolution.
