Picture this: A temp dental hygienist walks into an unfamiliar practice, feeling nervous yet determined to do their best. They are given minimal instructions, a quick overview, and shown to an operatory they have never worked in before. With barely 20 minutes to prepare, they catch their breath just as their first patient arrives. Is this a setup for success or frustration?
For a dental practice, a smooth operation is essential for quality patient care. But when a temp dental hygienist fills in, is your office prepared to set them up for success? Temporary dental hygienists play an essential role, especially during staff shortages and vacations. Yet, the experience they have in your office reflects directly on your practice—and on the patient experience. Let’s explore how setting them up for success can bring efficiency, positivity, and growth.
The impact of empathy: Stepping into their shoes
Temp dental hygienists often walk into the unknown. They don’t know where to park, what operatory they will be in, or even the quality of instruments they will be working with. This uncertainty creates unnecessary stress, impacting their ability to provide the best care to your patients.
Remember your first day in a new practice? That anxious feeling of not knowing the office flow, patient preferences, or where to put your belongings? For temps, this is a daily reality. Empathy goes a long way; by stepping into their shoes, you can better understand their challenges and recognize how your actions, big or small can set the tone for their day.
Preparation beyond the basics
How do you prepare when a temp dental hygienist is scheduled? Is it a quick, “You’re in op two; please stay on time,” or do you go further? Imagine the difference if, the day before their shift, you sent them a brief video tour of the office. Show them where to park, give a quick look at the operatory, the sterilization area, the lunchroom, and a rundown of what to expect for the day. Mention small but important details, like how and when they will be paid, how the dentist likes to be notified for exams, and the day’s general patient flow.
This thoughtful approach sets them at ease and shows you care about their experience. By doing so, you are creating a culture of respect and professionalism that positively affects the entire practice.
Prioritizing quality instruments
One simple yet powerful way to set a temp dental hygienist up for success is by providing the best dental hygiene instruments available. It’s easy to think, “They are only here for a day; they can use the older instruments.” But think of how that impacts their performance and, ultimately, your patients care.
Dental hygiene is about precision and care. Providing dull or unusable instruments not only hinders their ability to work efficiently but also compromises the quality of care your patients receive. Consider this: Would you expect your permanent dental hygienists to provide high quality care with subpar instruments? Why expect different for a temp?
Equipping temps with sharp, well-maintained instruments and properly functioning equipment shows your commitment to quality care and your respect for their role in delivering it.
Communication is key: Going beyond the basics
Clear communication is essential. While it is common to cover the basics—how to let the dentist know that you are ready for them to come in to do an exam, stay on time, and manage the day’s schedule—going beyond shows your commitment to their success.
Temps do not have the luxury of time to adapt to your office’s specific workflow. They need quick, detailed communication on everything from patient preferences to any quirks in the practice’s routine. A clear understanding of expectations helps them feel more integrated, even if they’re there for just a day.
Why it matters: The ripple effect of care
The way you treat temp dental hygienists directly impacts patient care. A temp who feels supported and well-prepared is more likely to deliver excellent care, connect with patients, and seamlessly fit into your team. On the other hand, a stressed, under-prepared hygienist might unintentionally compromise patient experience, leaving both the practice and the temp frustrated.
Moreover, these temps may become part of your permanent team or return for future shifts. The impression you leave determines whether they will want to come back or if they’ll share a positive or negative experience with others in the dental community.
Building a legacy of positive experiences
When you invest in setting up temp dental hygienists for success, you are not just filling a short-term staffing need. You are building a reputation. Temp dental hygienists talk, and your practice can become known for being welcoming, organized, and respectful of all team members, temporary or otherwise.
Ask yourself: Will they come back? If the answer is yes, you are creating more than just a well-run practice. You are fostering an environment that attracts top talent, supports quality care, and ensures a positive patient experience, regardless of who is in the chair.
If not now, when?
Taking the extra steps to prepare for temps benefits not just them but your patients and your practice reputation. In doing so, you enhance patient care, reduce team stress, and build a supportive culture. By prioritizing empathy, preparation, quality instruments, and clear communication, you lay the groundwork for a practice where everyone, from temps to patients can thrive.
About the Author
As CEO of Hygiene Headquarters Inc, Jennifer has transformed countless dental practices, achieving substantial growth through expertly navigating change and implementing clinical systems while achieving optimal patient care. Jennifer Turner is a two-time recipient of the North American “Dr. Bicuspid Award” in the Educator category and she was named one of the “10 Most Influential Healthcare Leaders to Watch in 2022” globally, her impact is undeniable. Jennifer is renowned for her leadership, professionalism, and unmatched expertise in dental hygiene.
