One year ago, Heartland Dental officially launched HDflex, a game-changing staffing platform designed to solve one of the most persistent challenges in dentistry: the growing demand for flexibility amid nationwide hygienist and dental assistant shortages. Since then, HDflex has helped supported practices across the country rise above staffing disruptions, maintain continuity of care, and create new opportunities for team members.
“HDflex has played a significant role in our practice over the past year,” said Joshlyn Wilson, DMD of Dental Care at Coventry. “Like many offices, we’ve experienced growth, but also periods when we were short on dental assistants or hygienists, whether due to illness, family needs, or other circumstances. Having HDflex as a dependable resource has been a true game-changer.”
“It’s been a lifesaver for our practice,” added Stephanie Flinchum, DMD of My Dentist, Midtown. “We found ourselves down two hygienists unexpectedly, and their schedules were fully booked. Without HDflex and the fantastic hygienists from Heartland Dental’s network of supported offices, we would’ve been in a serious bind.”
The ability to post a shift and have it filled quickly, often by professionals already trained in Heartland Dental’s systems and processes, has helped reduce stress and maintain productivity.
“Before HDflex, a single absence could mean rescheduling patients or canceling an entire day,” said Dr. Wilson. “That was always disheartening because our goal is to provide consistent, reliable care and our patients depend on us. Now, we’re able to keep our schedule intact without unnecessary stress.”
“The best part was that most of the hygienists who filled in were from other Heartland Dental supported offices and already knew Dentrix and our systems,” said Dr. Flinchum. “They fit in seamlessly, delivered excellent care, and even helped convert adjunct procedures and SRPs.”
For both supported doctors, the value of HDflex extends beyond logistics, it’s made a cultural impact.
“It’s helped us create a healthier work environment,” said Dr. Wilson. “Our team members know they can take time off when needed without feeling guilty. And several of our assistants have even picked up HDflex shifts at other offices, earning extra income and building relationships across the community of Heartland Dental supported practices.”
“Each hygienist brought something new to the table,” Dr. Flinchum added. “Hearing different verbiage, learning new tips, it’s been refreshing and collaborative.”
The reliability of the system has made a real difference in high-pressure moments too.
“One morning, about 30 to 45 minutes before our day started, a team member fell ill,” said Dr. Wilson. “Our PMO submitted a shift request through HDflex, and it was filled almost instantly. That kind of reliability takes away so much stress, especially when it’s last-minute.”
“We’ve even used HDflex when our hygienist returned part-time after maternity leave,” said Dr. Flinchum. “It helped us maintain hygiene hours and avoid overloading our remaining staff.”
How HDflex Works: Easy to Use, Built for Offices
Team members log onto HDflex and post available shifts. Those shifts are prioritized first for internal Heartland Dental supported hygienists and dental assistants. If they remain unfilled after a set time, they’re opened to trusted agency partners like Kwikly, helping to ensure coverage and continuity.
“There’s no interruption in your day, no inconvenience for your patients, and no scrambling to find coverage,” said Dr. Wilson. “It just makes sense. The peace of mind it brings is unmatched.”
“It’s easy to use, and the quality of support we’ve received has been outstanding,” added Dr. Flinchum. “If you haven’t tried it yet, don’t wait.”
Looking Ahead: The Future of Flexibility
After one year of real-world success, one thing is clear: HDflex isn’t just a temporary fix for staffing shortages, it’s a positive step forward.