Human RDH

I’m committed to this. ❤️ . . . . hygiene mentor, RDH growth, clinical hygiene, hygiene problems, RDH humor, career development, dental hygienist, RDH #humanrdh #dental #rdh #dentalhygienist #hygienementor #rdhlife

We all have different professional goals. Mine is to be the most “human” I can possibly be. 🫂 . . . . hygiene mentor, RDH growth, clinical hygiene, hygiene problems, RDH humor, career development, dental hygienist, RDH #humanrdh #dental #rdh #dentalhygienist #hygienementor #rdhlife

JUST TO BE CLEAR: Production is not the end goal—quality care is. If you are providing comprehensive care that is founded in a thorough clinical assessment, I promise you that the numbers will follow. But you’ll never find anything with your eyes closed. 💋 . . . . hygiene mentor, RDH growth, clinical hygiene, hygiene problems, RDH humor, career development, dental hygienist, RDH #humanrdh #dental #rdh #dentalhygienist #hygienementor #rdhlife

A common misconception with monitoring and improving hygiene production is that the provider has to be sales-driven and practice unethically. I’ve heard many RDHs say, “I’m a hygienist—not a salesperson. I’m here to provide patient care, not to worry about making the practice money.” I’ve got a few thoughts on this: 1️⃣ No matter what your job or industry is, we all work in sales. We exchange goods and services for a fee, and that’s okay. The “patient experience” we focus so heavily on is a form of customer service, which keeps our clients coming back, the bills paid, and steady paychecks for the team. All healthcare providers work in sales, including nurses, therapists, and surgeons. 2️⃣ We need to reframe our perception of hygiene products and services. It’s not about selling extra things to boost the value of the appointment—it’s about performing a thorough patient assessment and recommending what is truly needed. It’s about taking what we learn in continuing education courses about the prevalence of perio, the oral microbiome, pH, caries risk, the science of disease prevention. . . and actually applying it in clinical practice. Nothing salesy about that. 3️⃣ Limiting beliefs can kill a hygienist’s success in the op. Whether it’s the fear of rejection, the assumption that the patient can’t afford what is needed, or worrying that they will get upset when we break the “bad news”—these thoughts stem from our own self doubt and aren't fair to the person we’re providing care for. I would even go as far to say that acting on limiting beliefs when it comes to recommending treatment is a form of patient discrimination because we’re withholding services based on our perception of their socioeconomic status, behavior, age, and ability. It’s true, they might say no—but that’s their right. It’s also their right to know if a prophy won’t address their periodontal decline, if home care products are avail

Many of you have messaged me asking, so let’s play pretend with accelerated hygiene! I’ll set the scene: Every recare block is 60 minutes SRP blocks are 120 minutes Your perio percentage is at least 30% Hyg asst takes X-rays, sits in on exams, schedules next appts, sets up/tears down rooms You have a solid 30-40 minutes with each patient for instrumentation (20-30 min) and education (10 min) This template can totally be customized for your comfort, needs, vision Let’s also make up some fees: $90 BWX $125 Prophy $175 Perio maintenance $400 SRP per quad As is, this is a $2,485 day in hygiene production—not counting possible adjunctives like fluoride/nHA, night guards, laser, whitening products, remineralization and pH aides, etc. Working four days per week in this model would average $9,940—equalling $39,760 per month in production. I know this is going to stir up questions. Maybe some strong opinion, too. 😅 Let’s talk in the comments! . . . . hygiene mentor, RDH growth, clinical hygiene, hygiene problems, RDH humor, career development, dental hygienist, RDH #humanrdh #dental #rdh #dentalhygienist #hygienementor #rdhlife

Accelerated hygiene—otherwise known as assisted or double-column hygiene—is a controversial topic in this industry. Some clinicians love it, while others despise it. Personally, I love an accelerated workflow. I stay busy throughout the day, am able to focus on the things I enjoy most (instrumentation and patient education), and have made the best salary of my career—$130k+ in 2019 (includes being out on unpaid maternity leave for the last 2 months that year). Conversely, I have been in accelerated scenarios where things were bad. Really bad. I was overworked, didn’t have enough time to treat my patients comprehensively, and left work many days ashamed of the steps I had to skip to survive. Experience has taught me that in order for accelerated hygiene to truly work for you (and your patients), three conditions MUST be met: 🧱 You need two columns on the schedule with staggered appointments. This means that every 30 minutes, your next patient arrives. You *cannot* have two appointments starting simultaneously—you’re only one clinician! 💰 You need to be paid at an increased rate. You’re seeing twice as many patients than a single-column provider, bringing in twice as much revenue for the practice. In a perfect world you should be paid 1/3 of your production (accelerated or not), so a base salary plus commission compensation model works well for this. 🤝 You need a dedicated hygiene assistant—not an assistant who can help if he/she isn’t assisting one of the doctors. A hygiene assistant will perform X-rays, sit in on exams, schedule next appointments, tear down/set up rooms, process instruments in sterilization, prep trays, and allow you to focus on your patient care. I cannot speak highly enough of hygiene assistants—they are the brains behind the entire operation. With this in mind, they need to be treated with respect, spoiled with goodies, and shown your appreciation through a shared bonus. Have you performed accelerated hygien

A dental hygienist is a prevention specialist who provides individualized care to patients throughout the day. As licensed providers, we run somewhat of a small business inside of our operatory that can either help or hinder the overall goals of the practice. There are many reports available for you to monitor your business, but the most important one to familiarize yourself with is the day sheet—a detailed account of services that you rendered during that particular day. On a day sheet, you will see a breakdown of individual services (x-rays, prophy, SRP, adjunctive services, products, etc.) you provided to each patient. You will also see the fee charged and payment received. The main purpose of checking your day sheet is to confirm that codes are entered appropriately and you as a provider are credited for the procedures you *actually* completed. Not only does this help to prevent insurance fraud, over- or under-charging patients, or incorrect provider credit—it helps to make sure your value as a provider is documented. This helps when you are in the process of negotiating your salary. Do you review your day sheet at the end of each day? Are you able to access to yours? 📊 . . . . hygiene mentor, RDH growth, clinical hygiene, hygiene problems, RDH humor, career development, dental hygienist, RDH #humanrdh #dental #rdh #dentalhygienist #hygienementor #rdhlife

“Overhead.” The word gets thrown around a lot at the office but is rarely dissected for the whole team to understand. Thankfully, you happen to know an RDH who loves business and has been included in teams where there was transparency about numbers. 📈 There are many expenses that are incurred by providing dental services to the public. They get listed on a P&L (profit & loss) statement. While many hygienists believe that the only thing that should matter is patient care, it’s just not true. There are strategies that must be developed and followed to keep the practice afloat. The same goes with expecting a raise; practices can’t just grant your request without having to make several other adjustments or unrealistic sacrifices. And from a business standpoint, your provider production needs to significantly outweigh your salary (2:1 ratio). . . or you will become more of a liability than an asset for the practice. How can you learn more about the business? Start by looking at your provider reports each day. It might feel intimidating and foreign at first, but your reports tell important stories about your patient care, will make you a better clinician, and increase your knowledge of things like production, write-offs, adjustments, etc. You can also ask your practice owner to sit down and talk business with you. A good teacher-employer will appreciate your interest and welcome your questions. They’re not obligated to disclose every little expense or decision with you, but the more you know as a provider, the more you can contribute to the practice and truly own your role. Do you know how to view your reports? What other questions do you have? Read more about overhead: https://www.dentaleconomics.com/practice/overhead-and-profitability/article/14201431/tracking-dental-practice-overhead-and-what-the-results-mean . . . . hygiene mentor, RDH growth, clinical hygiene, hygiene problems, RDH humor, career development, dental hygienist, RDH #humanrdh #d

As an RDH, you’re only as good as your scalers—period. How are you doing in this area? . . . . hygiene mentor, RDH growth, clinical hygiene, hygiene problems, RDH humor, career development, dental hygienist, RDH #humanrdh #dental #rdh #dentalhygienist #hygienementor #rdhlife

Your passion, enthusiasm, and curiosity don’t make you “too much” when you’re in proper alignment with like-minded people. You deserve that. 💋 Audio credit: Pastor Keion Henderson . . . . hygiene mentor, RDH growth, clinical hygiene, hygiene problems, RDH humor, career development, dental hygienist, RDH #humanrdh #dental #rdh #dentalhygienist #hygienementor #rdhlife

It’s not about making a high salary for a minimal amount of work—it’s about receiving the benefits necessary to live a meaningful, healthy life. It’s about valuing the disease prevention department of the practice. It’s about the fact that clinical hygiene is often a one-man show with little-to-no support. It’s about the fact that practices are still signing contracts with low-paying dental insurance companies. Why?? It’s about offices lacking the growth mindset that enables them to elevate their patient care while boosting their bottom line. It’s about the lack of trust, appreciation, and collaboration among dental teams. What did I miss? . . . . hygiene mentor, RDH growth, clinical hygiene, hygiene problems, RDH humor, career development, dental hygienist, RDH #humanrdh #dental #rdh #dentalhygienist #hygienementor #rdhlife

“The year Fones graduated dental school, it was discovered that bacteria caused tooth decay. Dentists across the country came up with various ideas to combat that, including something called “Odontocure,” in which a woman with an orange wooden stick, pumice, and a flannel rag patrolled the neighborhood cleaning teeth. Most gave up, having no time in their busy schedule of yanking and pulling to actually clean the teeth. But Dr. Fones had another idea. He trained his cousin and chair-side assistant, Irene Newman, to do this delicate work” Moral of the story: It took over 100 years for the dental hygiene profession to evolve into what it is today. Going back in time is not to answer to a staffing shortage. 🫳 🎤 Source: https://bportlibrary.org/hc/education/dr-alfred-fones/ . . . hygiene mentor, RDH growth, clinical hygiene, hygiene problems, RDH humor, career development, dental hygienist, RDH #humanrdh #dental #rdh #dentalhygienist #hygienementor #rdhlife

If you happened to attend RDH magazine Under One Roof last year, you probably know that Cloud Dentistry and Pac-Dent, Inc know how to throw a party! 😎💃🏽🕺 They’re teaming up again to host the big Friday night reception and I’d like to invite YOU! Details: Friday, July 19th 7:30-9:30 p.m. Wear your favorite ski outfit! (I looked up “après ski outfit” on Pinterest for inspo) You can expect: 🍢Small bites 🍸Drinks 🤩Prizes 🎤DJ ☃️Giant snow globe 📸Ski lift Photo Booth 🏆Chance to win FREE registration, airfare, hotel to UOR 2025 in Dallas!! Will I see you there?? . . . hygiene mentor, RDH growth, clinical hygiene, hygiene problems, RDH humor, career development, dental hygienist, RDH #humanrdh #dental #rdh #dentalhygienist #hygienementor #rdhlife

You know what I love to use on stubborn areas of dirt and grime when I’m cleaning my house? A mixture of hot water, dish soap, and white vinegar. To me, vinegar is the superhero ingredient because it breaks down hardened debris with its acidic power. 💪🏽 A study conducted in 2023 by D’souza and others* found that low salivary pH inhibits calculus formation, while high salivary pH encourages it. This particular article evaluated the relationship between salivary urea (a buffering agent), calculus formation, and whether it had any impact on a person’s periodontal status. The results of the study were mixed. Ultimately, the level of oral hygiene (good, fair, poor) was the key player in perio status, while the influence of urea levels was deemed weak and insignificant. But there was something in the study that stuck with me: “Increase in salivary pH was associated with increased odds of higher calculus index score.” One can then infer that low salivary pH is associated with less calculus formation. The acids present in this environment break down calcium phosphate. . . a key ingredient in calculus AND tooth enamel. 🥲 Surely you’ve had these patients—no calculus with nonstop cavities and “watch areas.” Personally, I see this all 👏🏻 the 👏🏻 time. . . and there’s an explanation. This is why testing and discussing salivary pH is important. Thoughts? *doi: 10.1016/j.jobcr.2022.10.004 . . . hygiene mentor, RDH growth, clinical hygiene, hygiene problems, RDH humor, career development, dental hygienist, RDH #humanrdh #dental #rdh #dentalhygienist #hygienementor #rdhlife

As a registered dental hygienist, it can be really difficult navigating the sea of products and services used for clinical care or home hygiene. What’s legit? What’s trustworthy? Is there substance beneath the fancy packaging and trendy advertising? Here are some questions I ask when deciding whether or not to promote a product to my patient or peers: 💡Does it provide a solution to a real *health* problem that my patients face? ✨Does it provide a solution to a real *clinical* problem that I (as a professional) face? 🔬Is there scientific evidence to support the claims? Where can I access the research? Is there a white paper available? 🧑🏽‍⚕️Has the company invested in marketing directly to licensed professionals or just to the public? 🗣️Do professional peers that I respect and trust openly endorse this brand/product? 🧠Does this brand prioritize educating the dental profession? Are they present in our professional publications and conferences? Do they sponsor CE courses/lunch & learns that introduce professionals to the science behind their product? 🤔Do their social media posts primarily feature professional educators. . . or lifestyle influencers? Does the content discuss clinical applications or is it just entertainment? There’s a big difference here. 🙋🏼‍♀️Is this a product I have tried myself? Is it easy for me as a licensed professional to trial? What was my personal experience with it? Companies that value science and the clinical expertise of the dental hygiene community go the extra mile to make it known. 🦷🩵 What other questions would you add? . . . hygiene mentor, RDH growth, clinical hygiene, hygiene problems, RDH humor, career development, dental hygienist, RDH #humanrdh #dental #rdh #dentalhygienist #hygienementor #rdhlife

Can you imagine? 🖤 . . . hygiene mentor, RDH growth, clinical hygiene, hygiene problems, RDH humor, career development, dental hygienist, RDH #humanrdh #dental #rdh #dentalhygienist #hygienementor #rdhlife

We all have areas we can improve, but don’t try to be someone you’re not. Trust your gut, lean on your mentors, and move with confidence. 💋...hygiene mentor, RDH growth, clinical hygiene, hygiene problems, RDH humor, career development, dental hygienist, RDH #humanrdh #dental #rdh #dentalhygienist #hygienementor #rdhlife

Depending on who you talk to, many people believe everyone should experience: 🪖 Serving in the military 🧑‍🏫 Being a substitute teacher 👨‍🍳 Working in the food service industry 👷‍♀️ Laboring in construction Why? Perspective. The people who have done these things know that you would have a new appreciation for their line of work if you experienced it for yourself. That’s how I feel about temping as a hygienist! There is so much to be learned about different practices, specialties, and *yourself* when you’re exposed to a new environment. Here are 3 reasons why I recommend everyone try it: 💪🏽 You learn that you can do “hard things.” If I’m being completely honest, temping is not nearly as hard or scary as it sounds. Once you jump into it, you realize that you’re more capable of stretching and growing than you realized. 🌈 You experience variety. When it comes to dental offices, no two are alike. Even within the same DSO company, the humans that comprise each practice makes them unique. You will learn new schedule flows, how to use different instruments and technology, and practice management styles. 🧩 It makes you a more seasoned, well-rounded professional. Why do you think nursing students complete clinical rotations? They know that getting exposure to all the different facets of their industry will not only help them to know which specialty they’re most aligned with—it will also equip them with the knowledge and experience to do well in virtually any scenario. Have you tried temping? Have you been thinking about it? Share your thoughts! . . . hygiene mentor, RDH growth, clinical hygiene, hygiene problems, RDH humor, career development, dental hygienist, RDH #humanrdh #dental #rdh #dentalhygienist #hygienementor #rdhlife

I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: “Drama” comes in all shapes, sizes, and team roles. Hygienists who bring drama are out there—just like dentists, admin team members, assistants, and office managers who bring drama. What we really need is to accept and appreciate each member of the dental team for the unique skills and knowledge they bring. Everyone has an essential role and is valuable. ❤️ . . . hygiene mentor, RDH growth, clinical hygiene, hygiene problems, RDH humor, career development, dental hygienist, RDH #humanrdh #dental #rdh #dentalhygiene #hygienementor #rdhlife

What happens to most hygienists on their interview day? Let me break it down: We show up with sweaty palms, overstimulated, and underprepared. We smile, do our best to answer (sometimes unusual) questions, and work hard to prove that we are worthy of a job offer. On the drive home we mentally replay the interview several times, wondering if the office could tell how awkward and nervous we felt. We realize that although the interviewer learned a great deal about us, we learned very little about them. How is this fair? We have to remember that the interview is not just for the hiring office—it’s for us, too! Come prepared with a few important questions as you weigh your options and make your selection: 1️⃣ “What does a typical day look like in this role?” This is your opportunity to learn about how the schedule flows, how long appointments are, and how many patients you will be expected to see each day. Tactical stuff. 2️⃣ “How do you approach team conflict, unexpected issues with the schedule, or upset patients?” The main theme to this questions is *culture*. A lack of detail or the sense of a “hands off” approach in the office’s response would be concerning. 3️⃣ “How do you show value for your hygiene department?” This is my favorite question because only the real ones can answer it confidently. We’re looking for action items here, not “Oh, we LOVE our hygienists!” or “We know that the hygiene department is the heartbeat of the practice.” *How* do you show it? Do you give your hygienist clinical and operational autonomy? Do you provide a monthly budget for instruments and supplies? Do you take swift action when something is broken or malfunctioning? Do you invest in new technologies and training? Friendly warning: You might rub some offices the wrong way by asking these questions. Consider it quality assurance. ❤️ . . . hygiene mentor, RDH growth, clinical hygiene, hygiene problems, RDH humor, career developm