Costs & Pricing
Dental Staffing Platform Fees Compared: What Practices Actually Pay in 2026
By Dental Staffing Reviews January 22, 2026 8 min read
Understanding the true cost of dental staffing platforms requires looking beyond advertised rates. Here is what practices actually pay in 2026.
How Platform Pricing Works
Most dental staffing platforms use one of three pricing models:
- Markup Model: Platform adds a percentage on top of what the professional earns (typically 20-40%)
- Flat Fee Model: Practice pays a fixed booking fee per shift regardless of hourly rate
- Subscription Model: Monthly fee for access, with reduced or no per-shift fees
Example Calculation:
If a hygienist earns $55/hour and the platform charges a 30% markup, the practice pays $71.50/hour. For an 8-hour shift, that is $132 going to the platform.
Common Hidden Costs
Watch for these fees that may not be obvious upfront:
- Cancellation fees: Some platforms charge practices for late cancellations, even when the temp cancels
- Minimum shift requirements: Some require 6 or 8-hour minimums even if you need less
- Rush booking premiums: Same-day or next-day bookings often carry extra fees
- Payment processing fees: Credit card processing may be added on top
- Temp-to-perm fees: Converting a temp to permanent staff can trigger placement fees
Comparing Value, Not Just Price
The cheapest platform is not always the best value. Consider:
- Fill rate: A cheaper platform that rarely fills your shifts costs more in lost production
- Cancellation rate: High no-show rates negate any price savings
- Quality of professionals: Better vetting can mean better patient care and fewer issues
- Support availability: Access to help when problems arise has real value
Questions to Ask Before Signing Up
- What is the total cost per hour including all fees?
- Are there minimum shift requirements?
- What happens if the temp cancels?
- Is there a fee to hire a temp permanently?
- Are there subscription or monthly fees?
- What is your cancellation policy for practices?
Bottom Line:
Request complete pricing information in writing before committing to any platform. The best platforms are transparent about their fees—if a company is evasive about costs, consider that a red flag.
Share this guide: