Juggling a double column of hygiene working with an assistant is a timely conversation because we’re seeing more of the double-column model in this age where there’s a shortage of hygienists and an abundance of work.
Understandably, a lot of doctors are wanting to explore this model. Dental hygienists are very polarized on this point, however. Some really love the model; they like being busy and the concept of having somebody else working alongside them. Others want to focus only on the hygiene part of the appointment instead of being involved in the entire process of care with the patient.
Communication with all involved—hygienist, assistant, and doctor—is incredibly important to make this model successful. In this video, we talk about what to do if you are a hygienist and don’t like working in a double-column model, as well as how to make it a seamless process if you do like the model.
Dental pros and dental patients, send us your questions! We’re talking about important topics that happen all day every day in the dental practice.
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Editor’s note: This article first appeared in Through the Loupes newsletter, a publication of the Endeavor Business Media Dental Group. Read more articles and subscribe to Through the Loupes.