Dentistry is a profession that demands precision, empathy, and adaptability. Yet, even the most skilled dentists, hygienists, therapists, and practice managers encounter challenges that can leave them feeling stuck. Whether it’s managing team dynamics, improving patient satisfaction, increasing profitability, or achieving work-life balance, finding the ideal job, overcoming or preventing burnout, progress begins with structured reflection.
One powerful tool that I use with my clients is the CIGAR Model of problem solving. It provides a simple yet effective framework to help you move from where you are now to where you want to be. Each letter in CIGAR represents a key step in the process: Current state, Ideal outcome, Gap, Actions and Accountability, and Resourcefulness and results
C = Current State
The first step is to take an honest look at where you are right now. This means facing your reality without exaggeration or minimisation. Ask yourself:
For example
- What’s happening with my patient list – is it growing, stable, or shrinking?
- Are patients happy, or are complaints increasing?
- How is the practice performing financially, how am I doing with my personal finances? Is there more month than money?
- Am I happy at work, am I doing work which I find rewarding?
- Is there conflict and a toxic environment at work, with unhelpful team members?
- Am I part of a successful, happy, supportive team?
- Am I fulfilled, or am I stressed, tired, and burned out?
This stage is about acknowledging the good, the bad, and the uncomfortable truths. By naming things as they are, you give yourself a clear starting point for meaningful change.
You can find a series of self-reflection questions and balance wheels on my website to helps you build a true picture of your current state https://iodb.co.uk/self-evaluation/
I = Ideal Result
Next, define what success looks like for you.
- What is your desired result in the next week, three months, or year?
- What kind of dentist or team member do you want to be?
- How do you want your personal and professional life to be different?
- How will you know you’ve achieved it?
- What sort of dentistry do you want to be doing?
- what do you want to be true about your finances?
Your ideal outcome gives you direction and clarity. It transforms vague dissatisfaction into a specific goal. Whether it’s improved communication, better treatment planning, or a calmer, more cohesive team, this step creates a compelling vision to work towards.
G = Gap
Now that you know your current state and your desired destination, identify the gap between them. This is where the real insight lies. What’s missing or blocking your progress?
- Are your clinical skills holding you back?
- Do you struggle with patient communication or case conversions?
- Are unresolved conflicts or self-doubt affecting your confidence?
Where can you look for solutions?
- Your environment?
- Your behaviours?
- Your skills and capabilities?
- Your belief and values?
- Your sense of Identity?
- Your purpose and meaning?
Is your gap a result of lack of resourcefulness In your mindset, how you use your time, or how you use your money?
The gap often contains a blend of practical and psychological factors. Recognising these helps you focus your energy where it will have the most impact.
A = Actions and Accountability
Bridging the gap requires action. Identify the steps you need to take to move forward. These might include training, coaching, process changes, or personal development. Write them down and prioritise them.
Equally important is accountability. Holding yourself accountable is valuable, but progress accelerates when someone else – a coach, mentor, or trusted colleague – helps you stay on track. Regular check-ins keep momentum and ensure you adapt you’re approach, so you reach your ideal state.
R = Resourcefulness and Results
To achieve your ideal outcome, you’ll need the right resources. The resouraces you need will act a bridge that will take you from where you are now in your current state to your ideal state. They will include not only time, money, and tools but also mindset, skills, and support. Ask yourself:
- What new skills do I need to learn?
- What beliefs or values will support me?
- Who can help me achieve my goal?
Resourcefulness is about using what you have and finding what you need. Over time, as you take consistent action, you will begin to see tangible results – in your performance, your practice, and your peace of mind.
When you apply the elements of C I G A R you will notice the results. Review your progress regularly. The path to success Is never a straight line, and remember the Is never failure only feedback as to what Is working and what Is not.
Bringing It All Together
The CIGAR model is a roadmap for clarity and growth. It helps you take a structured approach to challenges, ensuring you move with intention rather than reaction. Whether you’re a dentist seeking to regain joy in your work, a practice manager striving for team harmony, or a hygienist wanting to improve patient relationships, CIGAR gives you the framework to make progress.
If you’d like to learn more about the CIGAR model or explore how coaching can help you move from frustration to fulfilment, visit www.iodb.co.uk. Together, we can take you from where you are now to where you want to be.
