Tackling burnout as a dental hygienist
In a report from Dentistry IQ, Kimberly Erdman, a health dental hygiene practitioner, outlined strategies dental hygienists can use to manage burnout.
Ms. Erdman recommended that hygienists allow for schedule flexibility and autonomy so they can give certain tasks the time and attention they may require. Some practices currently provide full benefits to hygienists who are working part-time, thereby increasing interest in part-time work.
She also suggested that hygienists balance their work and personal lives. Dedicating meaningful time away from work can allow hygienists to partake in other opportunities such as teaching and mentoring, participating in continuing education, advocating for the profession and influencing policies. These types of changeups may help reduce burnout.
Ms. Erdman concluded that hygienists who aren’t satisfied with their current positions should ask themselves what factors are contributing to their burnout and potentially seek work at dental offices that align with their needs.
Read more: Dentistry IQ
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