Replacing an adored, seasoned dental hygienist is a challenge many hygienists face in their careers.
I had the opportunity to start in a new practice, which was described as being periodontally focused. The initial interview did not indicate any of the drama that was about to unfold.
“Bleeding and pus-filled pockets were ignored for far too long.”
Most patients do not realize that a loved hygienist has left until they return for their next appointment. I could see the look of abandonment in patients’ eyes as I met them for the first time. The familiar room they had known for years was about to change into foreign territory.
Fun hour-long chat sessions were replaced by appointments consisting of blood pressure readings, periodontal exams, oral cancer screenings, and intraoral photos.
“She was their friend. I became the enemy.”
The changes weren’t easy for anyone. The dentist was tiptoeing through difficult conversations with patients. He had to tell them why their disease wasn’t discovered earlier without throwing his sister—or himself—under the bus.
Months passed and positive changes continued. I was slowly being seen as an advocate instead of an adversary. Patients began asking questions about their health and wanted to talk about their progress.
It didn’t happen overnight but the drama did settle.
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