Having solid clinical protocols in place is half the battle. Having the correct team members in place is the other half. All too often I find myself in a discussion with a client that involves an underperforming or negative hygienist. And after some coaching to help this team member things get better for a few weeks or even a few months. Soon, however, we are having the same discussion about the same team member again, and again. Does this sound familiar? If so, it may be time to ask yourself if you have the right players on your team.

Dental hygienists are well-paid, highly trained and skilled, health care professionals and should conduct themselves as such. An A-Team hygiene department consists of those that exhibit strong levels of commitment and dedication to not only their patients, but their team members as well. An A-Team hygienist may emerge as a leader; you will recognize them by their qualities and behaviors:

• On time and prepared for the morning huddle by having reviewed each patients’ chart and treatment needs
• Timely with patient appointments
• Compassionate with patients and team members
• Mastered the art of a great handoff
• Participates actively in a positive encouraging way during team meetings
• Has a generally positive outlook with a ‘can do’ attitude
• Willing to try something new if it’s better for the patient and the business
• When faced with a challenge will often come up with a solution
• Puts effort into using correct verbal skills and values communication
• Willing to grow and develop (with) the hygiene department
• Understands the business of dental hygiene and the importance of tracking statistics
• Seeks out advanced continuing education, rather than just fulfilling the minimum requirements

Having a solid foundation with clear systems, written protocols and agreements in place creates an environment, and the opportunity, for hygienists to function at the top of their game. Setting some reasonable and clear goals provides benchmarks for performance so that each hygienist can measure their progress and success. A-Team hygienists can be developed when these systems are in place.

Kim Miller, RDH, BSDH, is a contributing author for Spear Education.