Dental hygienists play a pivotal role in fostering oral health. Yet, the challenge lies in the stark contrast between the brief encounters in the dental hygiene operatory and the year-round responsibility patients bear for oral care. This article explores the complexities surrounding the guilt dental hygienists often feel when appointments extend beyond a single appointment or necessitate out-of-pocket expenses. It prompts reflection on our role as educators and advocates for embracing comprehensive oral care routines beyond the clinic walls.
The Dance of Dental Hygiene: A dental hygiene appointment typically spans one hour, 2 or 3 times a year. However, what happens during the remaining 362 or 363 days is a solo dance routine choreographed by the patient. The question that often arises is: Have we, as dental hygienists, adequately educated our patients about the significance of this independent oral care journey?
The Guilt Factor: Guilt creeps in when we can’t complete a patient’s treatment in one appointment or additional services require out-of-pocket expenses. However, this needs a re-evaluation. It is essential to recognize that guilt doesn’t stem from a lack of effort or dedication on our part; rather, it arises from a genuine desire to provide comprehensive care within the constraints of a limited timeframe.
The Manual Toothbrush Dilemma: Another facet of this challenge revolves around the widespread use of manual toothbrushes. Have we succeeded in imparting the knowledge that relying solely on a manual toothbrush hinders the attainment of optimal health? It is crucial to address this misconception, guiding patients toward adopting effective oral care tools that align with the principles of modern dentistry.
Brushing Habits vs. Professional Advice: Patients are advised to brush twice daily for two minutes and clean between their teeth, yet compliance remains a hurdle. Understanding the reasons behind this lack of adherence is crucial. Is it a matter of inadequate education, misconceptions, or simply a need for reinforcement? Recognizing patients’ barriers allows us to tailor our approach and enhance our educational efforts.
Overcoming the Demand for Instant Gratification: The demand for completion in a single appointment often stems from the inconvenience patients face in travelling to the clinic. The guilt intensifies when we acknowledge the effort they have put into reaching our offices, only to leave with unfinished treatment. Addressing this requires a delicate balance between managing patient expectations and emphasizing the importance of quality over speed in oral care.
Educational Strategies: Empowering patients with the proper knowledge is vital in transforming their approach to oral care. Incorporate visual aids such as a digital scan, intra-oral camera pictures or demonstrating with a clean hand mirror. Patient-specific care makes the patient feel important, and it highlights the areas of improvement.
Shifting Perspectives: As dental hygienists, we must shift the narrative surrounding guilt. Instead of viewing it as a shortcoming, it should be perceived as a catalyst for continuous improvement. Embrace the role of an educator, recognizing that every appointment, whether treatment has been completed or not, contributes to a patient’s oral health journey.
Navigating the delicate balance between the time in the dental chair and patients responsibilities is a complex dance. The guilt experienced by dental hygienists reflects a commitment to providing the best care possible. We can foster a shift towards comprehensive, year-round oral care by re-evaluating our educational strategies, addressing misconceptions, and managing expectations. Let us continue to refine our approach, recognizing that dental hygiene is a collaborative effort that extends beyond the confines of the dental clinic.
About the Author:
Jennifer Turner is the Vice President of Dental Hygiene Operations at 123Dentist. She is the Past President and Chief Governance Officer at Ontario’s College of Dental Hygienists, Director of Dental Hygiene Practice with the Canadian Dental Hygienists Association, Director of Dental Hygiene Programs at DentalCorp and a Key Opinion Leader for many leading dental companies. In 2024, Jennifer was awarded a fellowship in the International Academy of Dental Facial Esthetics. Her influence extends globally, with Jennifer being named one of the “10 Most Influential Healthcare Leaders to Watch in 2022”.
