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DSO Spotlight
With 82% of dentists reporting burnout, Tend launches a first-of-its-kind compensation model to retain, reward, and support clinicians.
Tend, the innovative dental company that redesigns the dental care experience, is raising the bar for dentist compensation to combat industry-wide challenges such as clinician shortages, burnout, and turnover—while meeting rising patient demand.
Effective September 1, Tend dentists are now eligible to earn up to 40% of adjusted production, representing one of the highest commission structures in the U.S. dental industry. In addition, the model provides equity opportunities, comprehensive mentorship, continuing education (CE), and a full benefits package including paid time off, full malpractice coverage, medical, dental, and a 401(k) match.
This change comes at a critical time for the dental industry. According to the ADA Council on Communications’ 2024 Trend Report, 82% of dentists report experiencing major stress and career burnout. By providing higher earning potential alongside equity and professional development, Tend’s model helps alleviate financial stress and reduce burnout. On top of that, Tend’s industry-leading paid time off supports work-life balance and overall well-being, further strengthening career satisfaction and retention.
Dr. Chris Salierno leads the DSO and is a respected industry leader with over two decades of experience in clinical practice, dental publishing, and practice management. A graduate of Stony Brook School of Dental Medicine, he started his own practice on Long Island and went on to become an educator, international lecturer, and magazine editor.
In his current role at Tend, Dr. Salierno oversees clinical strategy and provider experience across the company’s expanding footprint of modern dental studios. He advises Tend on all clinical matters, helps to lead expansion efforts, and attracts talent.
Dr. Salierno’s unique perspective bridges both the clinical and business sides of dentistry, offering valuable direction for practices looking to evolve in today’s competitive healthcare landscape.
“At a time when many dentists face burnout and turnover, Tend is redefining what it means to truly invest in clinicians,” said Dr. Chris Salierno, Chief Dental Officer at Tend. “Our updated compensation model, paired with structured mentorship, equity opportunities, and robust CE support, empowers dentists to focus on providing exceptional care while growing their careers in a supportive, sustainable environment.”
“At a time when many dentists face burnout and turnover, Tend is redefining what it means to truly invest in clinicians,” said Dr. Chris Salierno, Chief Dental Officer at Tend. “Our updated compensation model, paired with structured mentorship, equity opportunities, and robust CE support, empowers dentists to focus on providing exceptional care while growing their careers in a supportive, sustainable environment.”Founded in October 2019, Tend combines cutting-edge technology and a hospitality-driven approach. With 30+ locations across New York, Washington DC, Boston, Atlanta, Nashville, and Connecticut, Tend employs over 650 team members.
With a focus on attracting and retaining clinical talent, Tend combines competitive pay with meaningful professional development. Dentists benefit from one-on-one mentorship from Lead and Market Lead Dentists, free access to CEZOOM’s live and on-demand courses, and a $2,000 annual continuing education stipend after one year. Lead Dentists also have access to equity options, giving clinicians a true stake in the company’s success, a benefit rarely seen in the industry.
Dr. Adetunji Sijuwade, Market Lead Dentist at Tend, added: “This new compensation structure is a real shift. It rewards the work I put in and gives me the resources to keep leveling up as a clinician. Most practices stop at commission, but Tend actually invests in my growth. That makes me feel valued and pushes me to deliver the best care for our members.”
“This model reflects our commitment to fostering a workplace that attracts and retains top dental talent,” said Miriam Scholes, Chief People Officer at Tend. “Equity and mentorship opportunities are virtually unheard of in dentistry. We’re proud to lead the way in reimagining what a dental career can look like.”
Industry benchmarking underscores Tend’s differentiation. According to Drill Down Solution, the average production-based compensation in U.S. dental practices typically ranges between 25–30%. In contrast, Tend offers up to 40%, paired with benefits and opportunities that set a new standard in dentistry.
By redefining compensation and support, Tend is shaping the future of dental careers—creating a more sustainable path for clinicians and a more accessible experience for patients. This initiative reinforces Tend’s commitment to clinician satisfaction, reduced burnout, and talent attraction, all while maintaining its focus on delivering patient-centered care across a rapidly expanding network.
