Associate Dentist Contract Glossary
Understand what you’re actually signing before it costs you.
Most bad associate contracts aren’t “evil.”
And vague language is expensive — because the practice controls the schedule, the books, and how the contract is interpreted.
This free Contract Glossary translates the most common compensation, contract, and control terms in associate agreements into plain English, so you can make informed decisions with confidence.
What This Glossary Helps You Do
Decode confusing contract language
Understand how compensation is actually calculated
Identify red flags before you sign
Know which questions to ask — and why they matter
You don’t need to memorize everything.
You just need to understand the terms that impact your income, workload, and future mobility.
What’s Inside
This glossary breaks down real associate-level contract terms, including:
Production vs. collections
Adjustments, write-offs, and your effective pay rate
Lab fees, minimums, and draws
Schedule control and clinical autonomy
Non-competes, non-solicits, and exit traps
Termination clauses and clawbacks
“Ownership pathway” language that quietly fails associates
Operational terms that predict success — even when they aren’t “legal”
Who This Is For
Dental students reviewing first offers
Associate dentists questioning their pay
Anyone considering a job change
Dentists who want clarity before negotiating
If a term affects your income, schedule, or ability to work later — it’s worth understanding.
Get the Free Glossary
Stop guessing what your contract means.Start understanding it.