It is time for re-evaluation and restructuring of the hygiene department. A high percentage of the adult population has some form of periodontal disease. Therefore, the need for a strong hygiene program in your office is important. In addition, an ongoing upgrade of maintenance recording, documentation, and patient communication skills will be needed to maintain a high standard of care.
Understand the duties of an effective hygienist:
- Communication of dental and hygiene treatment plans
- Hygiene education
- Gathering diagnostic data
- Documenting existing conditions
- Periodontal treatment planning
- Monitoring of ongoing periodontal treatment
Don't sabotage the hygiene appointment. Hygienists should never allow any team member to refer to a "cleaning." Patients need no encouragement in this area. Too often, patients break appointments because they feel it's just a cleaning. Defeat this mentality through careful patient education, which helps patients accept more responsibility for their dental needs.
