title: A profitable hygiene system: not an undervalued practice resource, part 2.
abstract: In this 2-part article, we have addressed the correct methods to use in selecting the right hygienist and the importance of creating a purposeful vision for your dental hygiene department. We have touched on the role of having the doctor discuss practice expectations, and the qualities and traits a dental hygienist should possess. Finally we have briefly reviewed some ideas regarding hygienist compensation as well as the integration of the new technologies to help you build a successful, productive, and profitable dental hygiene department. Many of today's practice owners have invested hundreds of thousands of dollars in updated facilities and state-of-the-art technology. They have invested in management and leadership courses, developed their business acumen, and have worked to insure that their clinical assistants' skills stay sharp. However, when it comes to dental hygiene, too many practices still operate a 1980s-style "prophylaxis mindset palace." The time has come for more dentists to embrace up-to-date dental hygiene practice standards.
authors.affiliation: Doctor's Financial Network, USA. hughdohertydds@comcast.net
authors.forename: Hugh
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Doherty
authors.forename: Karen
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Davis
authors.forename: Kimberly
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Miller
mesh_terms: D003756:Dental Hygienists; D003792:Dental Records; D006801:Humans; D007587:Job Description; D023861:Photography, Dental / Q000295:instrumentation; D011215:Practice Management, Dental; D012456:Salaries and Fringe Benefits; D013674:Technology, Dental