Staying Connected, Staying Current: A Call to Action
October 1, 2024 at 4:00 AM
by Kathleen Bokrossy

I had a conversation the other day with a dental hygienist who has been practicing for 27 years. She’s the only dental hygienist in a small private practice, and yet, despite working alone, she prioritizes staying connected. She shared with me how important it is for her to participate in Professional Development activities and how grateful she is to have rdhu as a place to connect, learn, and share with others in our profession.

What we both found concerning is how many dental hygienists are out there working on their own, without staying current. Many are not attending in-person events or engaging in hands-on training to keep up with evidence-based research and new technologies. This isn’t just about maintaining registrations or fulfilling requirements—it’s about the quality of care we provide to our clients and patients.

How would you feel being treated by someone who is not up to date? Worse yet, how would you feel knowing your family was being treated by someone who isn’t keeping current?

This conversation really made me think: How do we connect with those who are out there practicing in isolation? How do we reach the dental hygienists who aren’t expanding their skills or staying aware of what it means to be a true professional in this fast-changing field? These are the ones who may not even realize what they’re missing by not staying engaged with their peers and current with industry advancements.

I would love to hear your thoughts. How do you think we can reach these groups of dental hygienists who might be slipping through the cracks? Hit reply or email me directly at kathleen@rdhu.ca—I’d love to hear your ideas!

Together, we can keep the profession strong and ensure that we’re all providing the best care possible.

Thank you for your support and reading! Please take a look through our website for upcoming Live Streaming Courses, Events, Free Webinars, Hands-on Courses, Career Postings and our Partner Specials.

Have a great week!

Warm regards,

Kathleen

Kathleen Bokrossy, RDH, BSc ~ President

Upcoming rdhu Events
September 24, 2024 at 4:00 AM
by Kathleen Bokrossy

With so many exciting rdhu events and opportunities coming up, I wanted to take a moment to highlight a few in this week's blog!

Our Fall Myofunctional Therapy: A Practical Program, with the wonderful Joe Siegfried, is officially SOLD OUT! If you missed out, don’t worry—we’ve already opened registration for Spring 2025. This is a great time to secure your spot and set up a payment plan if needed. Just click here to explore more details on our website.

If you're a graduate of this program, we invite you to ensure your information is listed in our Find a Myofunctional Therapist section! If you haven’t yet sent us your details, please reach out at info@rdhu.ca, and we’ll make sure you’re included. Also, we’re excited to share that we now carry the Myo Essentials Kit, containing all the tools your clients will need during therapy. Click here to check it out.

For those interested in orthodontics, we still have a few spots left for this weekend’s Ortho Fundamentals workshop! This is a two-day, hands-on experience with the brilliant Liisa Moore at rdhu. It’s a fantastic opportunity to dive deeper into ortho fundamentals, so if you’re looking to learn a new skill or strengthen an existing one, click here for more information and to register.

And finally, don’t miss our FREE upcoming webinar with the inspirational Jo-Anne Jones, titled Breaking the Silence: How to Discuss HPV and Oral/Oropharyngeal Cancer. The live session takes place next Wednesday, October 2nd at 7pm EST, and all registrants will receive the recording along with practical Talking Points that you can print and bring back to your practice. This will be a fantastic resource for those crucial conversations with your patients and clients, so be sure to join us! Click here to register!

Thank you for your support and reading! Please take a look through our website for upcoming Live Streaming Courses, Events, Free Webinars, Hands-on Courses, Career Postings and our Partner Specials.

Have a great week!

Warm regards,

Kathleen

Kathleen Bokrossy, RDH, BSc ~ President

Positive Mindset Equips You For Career Longevity
September 17, 2024 at 4:00 AM
by Kathleen Bokrossy

I had a wonderful call today with Deb Jutras, a long-time rdhu member who is truly a bright light in our community. I always love seeing Deb at rdhu events or conferences, as she radiates positivity and passion for our profession.

During our conversation, Deb shared some exciting news—her dentist is registering 10 dental hygienists for our December laser training. Although Deb is already certified in lasers, she’s joining them because, as she puts it, "You can always learn something new, and a refresh is always good." I love that mindset! Deb is the definition of a lifelong learner, and I'm excited to have her with us as we introduce some updates to our laser training. Her dedication to continuously growing and implementing new skills into her practice is truly inspiring.

We also talked about something that’s been on a lot of minds lately—retirement. Deb is currently working three days a week and, after 41 years at 'Dentistry at the Lake' in Peterborough, she still loves what she does. She’s surrounded by good people and finds fulfillment in her practice. For her, there’s no rush to retire, and she’s found a beautiful balance between work and personal life. Deb rows with her Dragon Boat team twice a week after work and, while she admits to being tired afterward, it’s a “good kind of tired.”

Our conversation got me reflecting on the times I’m asked, "When are you going to retire?" In fact, just last week, my hairstylist asked me that very question. My answer was simple—I wouldn’t know what to do with myself! Her response? "Enjoy life." But here’s the thing: I amenjoying life, and I don’t need to retire to do that. Deb and I are on the same page. We both find joy in our work, which allows us to have that great work-life balance.

One of the reasons this balance works for us is energy management. I hear from so many people who leave their work feeling drained, barely able to make it through the rest of the day. This is why I’m so passionate about presenting on Energy Management, a topic I recently wrote about in Women in Dentistry. That article is coming out in October, and I can’t wait to share it with you!

Deb also shared something that resonated deeply with me. She’s always treated her operatory as if she owns it—she runs it like it’s her business. I love to call this kind of mindset 'Intrepreneurship.' An Intrepreneur is someone who works for someone but takes ownership of their role as if it were their own business. This mindset is so fulfilling, not just for the individual but for the entire practice. Deb embodies this. She cares deeply for her patients, runs a productive and positive operatory, and has helped her practice thrive.

If you’re feeling drained or unheard in your current role, it might be time to ask yourself if the practice of your dreams is just around the corner. Can you shift your energy? Can you approach your day like an Intrepreneur? Maybe the change you need is already within your reach—whether that’s a refresh in skills, a new mindset, or even finding a practice where your voice is truly heard.

Thank you for your support and reading! Please take a look on our website for upcoming Live Streaming Courses, Events, Free Webinars, Hands-on Courses, Career Postings and our Partner Specials.

Have a great week!

Warm regards,

Kathleen

Kathleen Bokrossy, RDH ~ President

Setting Intentions For The End of The Year
September 10, 2024 at 4:00 AM
by Kathleen Bokrossy

As we enter the final quarter of 2024, it’s natural to feel the momentum of the year winding down, but this time can also be an opportunity for reflection and renewal. Whether you’ve been coasting along or striving toward big goals, the last few months of the year are the perfect time to pause, reflect, and set new intentions. Today, I invite you to consider what you want to accomplish before the year closes.

I like to picture myself at the end of the year, as if I’ve already accomplished my goal. Then, I work backwards: What steps did I take to get there? This exercise can help you map out the actions you need and guide you in creating smaller, actionable goals that lead to your ultimate achievement.

Reflecting on Your Goals

Take a moment to think about the goals you set at the beginning of the year—both personal and professional. Have you made the progress you hoped for? Have new priorities shifted your focus? It’s okay if things didn’t unfold exactly as planned; life has a way of surprising us! What matters is how we respond and reset.

Now is the time to ask yourself:

  • What small wins can I celebrate?
  • Are there any goals I still feel passionate about?
  • What adjustments can I make to finish the year feeling accomplished?

By celebrating even the smallest of wins, you remind yourself that every step forward counts. This practice keeps you motivated, whether it’s successfully implementing something new in your practice, like incorporating oral probiotics into patient care, or finding a better work-life balance.

Setting New Intentions

Rather than focusing on what hasn’t been done, let’s shift the perspective to what’s still possible. Setting new intentions allows you to ground yourself in purpose, without the pressure of rigid goals. Think of your intentions as a guide to finish the year with clarity and fulfillment, rather than a checklist to conquer.

  • Have you reached your personal and professional goals for 2024?
  • What can you do to support your professional growth?

Maybe it’s about deepening your knowledge in a specific area or attending one last course or program before the year ends to feel more connected and confident.

Many dental hygienists I’ve spoken with feel a bit unsettled about the courses they know they need or should take but haven’t gotten around to yet. It isn’t too late! Look at what’s coming up, create a goal, and join that course. You’ll end the year feeling strong and ready for what’s next.

Thank you for your support and reading! Please take a look on our website for upcoming Live Streaming Courses, Events, Free Webinars, Hands-on Courses, Career Postings and our Partner Specials.

Have a great week!

Kathleen

Kathleen Bokrossy, RDH ~ President

Finding Focus After a Difficult Goodbye
September 3, 2024 at 4:00 AM
by Kathleen Bokrossy

This past weekend was an emotional one for me and my family. We had to say goodbye to our sweet dog, Banjo, on Friday. He was 14.5 years old and had been struggling with some health issues. With all three of our kids visiting us, we knew it was the right time to give Banjo a peaceful send-off. While it was a fitting farewell, my heart aches, and I know it will take time to heal.

In the midst of this, I felt the need to focus on something positive to help me move forward. With the arrival of a new month—coinciding with the start of rdhu's academic year—and the end of a busy summer filled with visitors, I decided it was the perfect time to return to a healthy routine. I printed out my 30-Day Tracker and committed to making some positive changes. Just the act of printing it and setting a plan has already helped ease my heartache and shift my mindset.

I thought that many of you might also benefit from a 30-Day Challenge/Tracker, especially with the kids going back to school or perhaps one leaving for university for the first time. It’s a perfect opportunity to refocus and set some goals.

Below, you'll find the 30-Day Challenge/Tracker. I’m using mine to track my daily walks (now without my Banjo), my weightlifting sessions (thank you, Liisa Moore, for the workout videos you created for me), my vitamin and supplement intake (AG1 and Fish Oil), and my professional development goals (Complete my Nail-Biting Research Paper).

For those of you who registered for our Summer Specials or have registered for some courses, I’m also including additional helpful worksheets for planning and tracking your progress! What are your intentions for taking the course? When will you review your notes and create an implementation plan? What are your next steps?

Thank you to everyone who registered for the Summer Specials! I’m excited to be on this journey with you.

And a special thank you to the group I sent the Nail-Biting Survey to. My research paper is coming along nicely, and it’s been a helpful distraction during this time.

Thank you for your support and reading! Please take a look through our website for upcoming Live Streaming Courses, Events, Free Webinars, Hands-on Courses, Career Postings and our Partner Specials.

Have a great week!

Kathleen

Kathleen Bokrossy, RDH ~ President

30-Day Tracker (Click to download)

Goal Planner

Monthly Activity Planner

Activity Worksheet

Grateful For Our 16th Academic Calendar Year!
August 27, 2024 at 4:00 AM
by Kathleen Bokrossy

At the bookend of summer, we’re gearing up for another exciting season!

As many of you prepare for your little ones to return to school, we here at rdhu are ready to kick off our 16th Academic Calendar Year. We've been working diligently behind the scenes, refining our curriculum, and we're thrilled to launch our new offerings next week.

With 20,000 RDHs trusting their professional development to us, I want to extend my deepest gratitude to each of you. Whether you're joining our FREE webinars, participating in our LIVE Streaming online courses, attending our HANDS-ON courses, or diving into the Dental Hygiene Quarterly, your commitment to growth is what drives us.

For those who have taken advantage of the All Access Virtual Pass—what an opportunity! Access to ALL our LIVE streaming courses, with recordings available, means endless possibilities for learning at your own pace.

Our in-person programs, such as Ortho, Myo, and our Boutique Style Conference, also offer unique opportunities to expand your knowledge in a hands-on setting.

But to those of you who are still on the fence, maybe thinking, "I should take that course" or "I should sign up for that"... I encourage you to turn those "shoulds" into action. Now is the time to leap! Invest in your growth and let us help you on your journey.

When I started rdhu, it was because I felt a passion for learning that goes beyond just checking boxes. I wanted to create a space where dental professionals could not only learn but feel inspired to implement what they’ve learned. My background in personal development and business ownership has always driven me to seek meaningful transformation, and I wanted to bring that same drive to our profession.

When you fully engage in a topic, you’ll not only see your practice transform, but you’ll also rediscover the excitement and engagement that drew you to this profession in the first place. Set your goals, dive into learning activities that support them, and create a plan to implement your new knowledge. That’s when true transformation happens.

Only 4 Days Left to register for the All Access Virtual Pass and/or Dental Hygiene Quarterly Summer Special!!

Thank you for your support and reading! Please take a look through our website for upcoming Live Streaming Courses, Events, Free Webinars, Hands-on Courses, Career Postings and our Partner Specials.

Have a great week!

Kathleen

Kathleen Bokrossy, RDH ~ President

rdhu Summer Specials
August 20, 2024 at 4:00 AM
by Kathleen Bokrossy

As summer winds down, our Special Summer Deals will be ending on August 31st.

We've received several inquiries about the differences between the two Summer Specials we're offering, so I wanted to clarify.

Here are the differences:

1. The Dental Hygiene Quarterly (DHQ) Summer Special offers an on-demand CE option. You can receive 3 years for $469 (or $369 for CDHA Members). This includes access to 3 years of DHQ, starting with the Spring 2024 Edition and ending with Winter 2026. If you already have a subscription, we will automatically extend it on your existing account. If you need to backdate your CE to catch up, this option is available. Please email info@rdhu.ca with any special requests and we can send you past editions.

Each quarter, we deliver 3 hours of CE content directly to your personal portal. Every course includes short quizzes and a Certificate of Completion, with total savings of nearly $200.

Our courses are video-based, similar to our live streaming sessions. In addition, we provide a Goal Statement, Bibliography, and Additional Resources for those who maintain a learning portfolio.

DHQ is an excellent way to stay on track, with gentle reminders and prompts each quarter to keep you current. By subscribing to DHQ, you’ll earn 12 CE Hours per year!

Click here to view the DHQ on-demand courses we have lined up from Spring 2024 to Spring 2025. We will keep you updated with future course selections! Our DHQ Board is always vetting content to ensure it’s current and relevant for you.

2. The All Access Virtual Pass (AAVP) gives you access to all LIVE streaming courses we offer from September 2024 to June 2025. With our new one-click feature, you can easily sign up for any course you want!

If you can't attend a course live, the recording will be uploaded to your personal portal and available for 30 days. Extensions can be provided upon request. A short quiz and Certificate of Completion will also be stored in your personal portal. Click here to view the amazing courses and presenters lined-up for the next Academic Year that are included in the All Access Virtual Pass!

Only 11 days left to take advantage of these Summer Specials!

Thank you for your support and reading! Please take a look through our website for upcoming Live Streaming Courses, Events, Free Webinars, Hands-on Courses, Career Postings and our Partner Specials.

Have a great week!

Kathleen

Kathleen Bokrossy, RDH ~ President

Continuing to Deliver a 5-Star Experience After the Appointment!
August 13, 2024 at 4:00 AM
by Kathleen Bokrossy

To continue our marketing series shared over the last few weeks, let's take a look at what more you can do in the 'During' appointment phase and how you can deliver a 5-Star Experience!

Most patients and clients don't expect to hear from you after the appointment and after they've paid for services. They often view it as a transaction that is now complete. A great way to stand out is by surprising them with something after the appointment.

It could be a phone call, an email to check in, or a link to a video with more information on something you discussed. You could even send them a whitening syringe as a home treatment if it was part of their procedure. This unexpected follow-up makes people step back and think, "Wow, the appointment is over, and my office is still connecting with me."

So, let's explore the 'During' appointment phase, focusing on the period after they have left, using OralRisk™ AI Genetics Testing as an example.

You could reach out via email, sending them additional information on the OralRisk™ AI Genetics Testing. You could also send an email outlining what can be done if they discover they are at high risk for caries or periodontal disease, reassuring them that you've got them covered.

Once you and your client receive the results in the portal, after an OralRisk™ AI Genetic Testing, there are several thoughtful and impactful follow-up actions you can take to ensure a 5-Star Patient Experience.

1. Personalized Test Results Overview

  • Detailed Report: Both you and your client/patient will receive a personalized report that explains the results. Which includes visuals to help them understand their genetic predispositions.
  • Video Explanation: Create a personalized video where you can explain the results and what they mean for the patient's oral health.

2. Customized Preventive Plan

  • Preventive Care Recommendations: Create a tailored preventive care plan based on their results, including recommendations for at-home care, dietary adjustments, and professional treatments.
  • Product Suggestions: Recommend specific home-care products (e.g., Stannous Fluoride toothpaste, rinses) that are suited to their genetic profile and let them know where they can get these products (or perhaps you can offer them in your practice).

3. Exclusive Access to Educational Resources

  • Educational Webinar: Invite them to a webinar or workshop where they can learn more about their condition and how to manage it. This is a great opportunity to collaborate and invite other healthcare professionals from your area.
  • Informational Articles: Send links to articles or blog posts related to their test results, helping them stay informed about their oral health.

4. Personalized Appointments

  • Scheduled Appointments: Offer to schedule follow-up appointments to monitor their condition and adjust their treatment plan as needed. Perhaps you need to put your client on a 3 month re-care appointment versus a 6 or 9 month.

5. Custom Health Packages

  • Care Package: Send them home with a care package with items like floss, or other interdental aids, an iO head, mouthwash, etc., tailored to their needs based on the test results.
  • Wellness Check-Ins: Schedule routine wellness check-ins via phone or email to discuss their progress and any new concerns. They may love to hear from you if they are at high risk for perio or caries.

6. Reassurance and Ongoing Communication

  • Reassuring Message: Send a personalized message reassuring them that, regardless of the results, your practice is there to support their oral health journey.
  • Regular Updates: Keep in touch with updates on new treatments or advancements in genetic testing that might benefit them. A monthly newsletter is also appreciated to help keep patients up-to-date with the services you provide.

These follow-up actions not only reinforce the value of the OralRisk™ AI Genetic Testing but also build long-term trust and loyalty with your patients. It also creates an opportunity to increase your referrals and boost retention rates.

I hope you enjoyed this 5-Star Experience series. If you missed the beginning of this marketing series on On-Track Tuesday, you can read it below.

If you would like more information about OralRisk™ AI Genetic Testing and missed our recent webinar, watch the webinar here and contact Curion, the exclusive Canadian Distributor!

Thank you for your support and reading! Please take a look through our website for upcoming Live Streaming Courses, Events, Free Webinars (coming up next month), The RDH View, Hands-on Courses, Career Postings and our Partner Specials. Be sure to check out our Summer Specials for the Dental Hygiene Quarterly and All Access Virtual Pass! Only 2 Weeks Left to Sign-up for these Savings!!

Have a great week!

Kathleen

Kathleen Bokrossy, RDH ~ President

What Happens Once The Client/Patient Visits Your Practice
August 6, 2024 at 4:00 AM
by Kathleen Bokrossy

What a great long weekend that was! I hope you are enjoying the summer and taking plenty of time to relax and have some fun!

To continue our marketing series shared over the last few On-Track Tuesday Blogs, let's take a look at what happens once the client/patient visits your practice on the actual appointment day.

So far, we have identified the patient profile type and compelled them to reach out to us. We have educated them on the service they are interested in, communicated effectively, and seamlessly scheduled an appointment.

This is all part of delivering a 5-Star Patient Experience. The experience isn't just about the appointment day; it encompasses Before they become a patient/client (or before the appointment), During the actual appointment, and the After experience.

In this blog, we will delve into delivering the 5-Star Patient Experience on the appointment day! Let's continue using the OralRisk™ AI Genetics Testing as the service that has prompted our patients to reach out to us. This could be for an existing active patient, an inactive patient returning for this service, or a new patient.

Warm and Welcoming Environment

  • Friendly Team: Ensure that your team is trained to greet patients warmly and make them feel comfortable. Always have a friendly face to greet your patients. The person who greets them should be happy and welcoming. Remember, patients are doing us a favour by choosing our practice.
  • Personalization: Greet your patients by name and let them know how great it is to see them. Make each patient feel like they are the only person that matters. I have been in medical and dental offices where I felt like just a number, and I have been in offices and even hospitals where I felt like the only person that matters. Every person deserves a 5-Star Experience Welcome!
  • Comfortable Reception Area: Provide a pleasant and comfortable reception area. Consider offering free WiFi and also provide educational material. Avoid having monitors or screens with the news playing, as it can often trigger anxiety. Instead, play educational videos, calming content like a Fish Aquarium Channel, a fun Pet Channel, or in the winter, the Fireplace Channel.

Thorough Consultation

  • Personalized Consultation: During the appointment, offer a thorough consultation where you explain the OralRisk™testing process, answer questions, and address any concerns.
  • Transparency: Be transparent about the costs, benefits, and what patients can expect from the results.

Efficient Testing Process

  • Smooth Procedure: Ensure that the genetic testing process is quick and efficient. Always explain what you are doing so they aren't left wondering.
  • Professionalism: Maintain a high level of professionalism and care throughout the entire appointment. Ensure the entire team is aware of the services you are providing so that communication can continue seamlessly at the front desk if someone has a question.

Ensure a Smooth Check-Out Experience

  • The front team/admin should inform patients that you will be in touch once the results are in. If necessary, a consult will be arranged for the next steps.

Stay tuned for next week as I continue on this marketing path and share what is next with delivering the 5-Star Patient Experience. If you missed the beginning of this marketing series on On-Track Tuesday, you can read below.

Thank you for your support and reading! Please take a look on our website for upcoming Live Streaming Courses, Events, Free Webinars (coming up next month), The RDH View, Hands-on Courses, Career Postings and our Partner Specials. Be sure to check out our Summer Specials for the Dental Hygiene Quarterly and All Access Virtual Pass! Less than One Month Left for these Savings!!

Have a great week!

Kathleen

Kathleen Bokrossy, RDH ~ President

What Happens After a Patient or Potential Patient Reaches Out
July 30, 2024 at 4:00 AM
by Kathleen Bokrossy

To continue on our marketing series that has been shared over the last few On-Track Tuesday Blogs, we will take a look at what happens after a patient or potential patient reaches out to you for more information and to book an appointment.

This is where you really want to be The Easy Button for your patient.

You have caught their attention. You have connected with them and educated them on the service that interests them. In this situation, as an example, we used OralRisk™ AI Genetic Testing.

Ready to Transform Your Dental Health?

Don’t wait to take control of your dental future. Schedule your OralRisk™ AI Genetic Testing appointment today and join the many who have already benefited from this cutting-edge technology.

__________________________

You would then include a link to call, book online, or provide a quick reply prompt. This makes it easy for them to connect with you and book an appointment.

If they haven't booked the appointment, you could also send them a brochure, available for download in last week's email and included below, in case you missed it. If they don't schedule a visit, you can send this as a second communication. Hopefully, you have some sort of CRM or process for communication in place!

This is where you connect with your patient or potential patient and offer them an appointment. Reach out to those who have showed interest and make it easy for your patient to book the appointment. Make sure your admin team is aware of this campaign that you are running so they know how to communicate and answer potential questions that your patients/clients may have.

Having the entire team on board with all programs and services you offer is so important. The front team should not be disconnected from the efforts going on with the clinical team.

This is why team meetings and morning huddles are so important.

Have everyone on board to deliver a 5-star patient/client experience with OralRisk™ Genetic Testing. It involves several key steps to ensure that your patients/clients feel valued, informed, and cared for throughout their entire journey.

It starts with the first communication! The first interaction they have with your practice. This is not only for new patients but for those who may not have been in to see you for some time. Consider treating these people like they are new patients!

What we have covered so far that is part of delivering the 5-Star Experience:

1. Personalized Communication

  • Initial Contact: Use personalized messaging when patients first learn about OralRisk Genetic Testing. Tailor your communication to address their specific needs and concerns.
  • Follow-Up: Send personalized follow-up messages to answer any questions and provide additional information.

2. Comprehensive Education

  • Informative Brochures and Guides: Provide detailed brochures and guides that explain the benefits, process, and implications of the OralRisk Genetic Testing.
  • Educational Content: Offer easy-to-understand educational content through emails, videos, and in-office materials that highlight the importance and benefits of genetic testing.

3. Seamless Scheduling

  • Easy Booking Options: Make it simple for patients to schedule their appointment through various channels such as online booking, phone calls, or quick reply prompts.
  • Timely Reminders: Send timely reminders via email or SMS to ensure patients remember their appointments.

Stay tuned for next week as I continue on this marketing path and share what is next with delivering the 5-Star Patient Experience. If you missed the beginning of this marketing series on On-Track Tuesday, you can read below.

Thank you for your support and reading! Please take a look through our website for upcoming Live Streaming Courses, Events, Free Webinars, The RDH View, Hands-on Courses, Career Postings and our Partner Specials. Be sure to check out our Summer Specials for the Dental Hygiene Quarterly and All Access Virtual Pass! Only One Month Left for these Savings!!

Have a great week!

Kathleen

Kathleen Bokrossy, RDH ~ President

OralRisk™ Patient Brochure

Delivering The Information Your Patients Want To Know
July 23, 2024 at 4:00 AM
by Kathleen Bokrossy

In the last few weeks' On-Track Tuesday Blog, we explored profiling our patient/client profile types and crafting messages that compel our patients/clients or prospective patients to reach out to us.

What happens next is crucial, as this is where you deliver the information they want to know more about.

If they raised their hand and you compelled them to reach out, now you deliver!

For example, if you sent out an email to your patients, posted a Google Ad, or shared on social media, you would have them opt in to learn more.

Remember, you can use this approach for anything you are offering, such as implants, whitening, sports guards, Invisalign, or soft-tissue diode laser treatment.

Using OralRisk™ AI Genetics compelling headline for your email or post, here is an example:

"Revolutionary testing to determine whether you are predisposed to cavities and gum disease! Click here to learn more."

In this next section, you would provide an educational brochure, guide, or a series of emails. It is the compelling headline that drove them to this section. Now is the time to educate them about OralRisk™ AI Genetic Testing and share all the reasons why they would want to have this test.

Here's the information series:

Welcome to Your Personalized Dental Health Journey!

Thank you for your interest in OralRisk™ AI Genetic Testing. You’ve taken the first step towards a healthier, brighter smile. In this section, we’ll provide you with everything you need to know about OralRisk™ AI Genetic Testing and why it’s a game-changer for your dental health.

What is OralRisk™ AI Genetic Testing?

OralRisk™ AI Genetic Testing is a revolutionary approach that uses a simple cheek or gum swab to determine your genetic predisposition to dental caries (cavities) and periodontal (gum) disease. This test helps identify whether you are at low or high risk, allowing for personalized preventive care.

Why Choose OralRisk™ AI Genetic Testing?

Early Detection: Identify potential dental issues before they become serious problems.

Personalized Care: Tailor your dental treatment plans based on your genetic profile.

Preventive Measures: Take proactive steps to maintain optimal oral health.

Peace of Mind: Gain insights into your (or your child's) dental health and reduce the risk of future complications.

How Does It Work?

Easy Sample Collection: A simple cheek or gum swab is taken in the comfort of your dental clinic.

Advanced Analysis: The sample is sent to Mount Sinai in Toronto, Ontario for comprehensive genetic analysis.

Secure Results: Results are uploaded to a private personal portal accessible only by you and your dental professional.

What Happens Next?

With your genetic test results in hand, you and your dental professional can:

1. Develop a Customized Prevention Plan: Focus on areas like nutrition, fluoride treatments, and possible more frequent hygiene appointments.

2. Monitor and Adjust Treatments: Continuously optimize your care based on your genetic insights.

3. Empower Your Health Decisions: Make informed choices about your dental care and overall well-being.

Real Impact for Real People

Hear from patients who have transformed their dental health through OralRisk™ AI Genetic Testing. [Share testimonials or case studies!]

Ready to Transform Your Dental Health?

Don’t wait to take control of your dental future. Schedule your OralRisk™ AI Genetic Testing appointment today and join the many who have already benefited from this cutting-edge technology.

__________________________

You would then include a link to call, book online, or provide a quick reply prompt. This makes it easy for them to connect with you and book an appointment. Be the Easy Button!

You could also send them a brochure, available for download below. If they don't schedule a visit, you can send this as a second communication. Hopefully, you have some sort of CRM or process for communication in place!

Stay tuned next week as I continue on this marketing path and share what to do once they opt in to learn more. If you missed the beginning of this marketing series on On-Track Tuesday, you can read it below.

Thank you for your support and reading! Be sure to check out our Summer Specials for the Dental Hygiene Quarterly and All Access Virtual Pass!

Have a great week!

Kathleen

Kathleen Bokrossy, RDH ~ President

OralRisk™ Patient Brochure

How to Craft Messages Tailored to Specific Patient Profiles
July 16, 2024 at 4:00 AM
by Kathleen Bokrossy

In last week's On-Track Tuesday Blog, we delved deeper into identifying Patient/Client Profile Types.

By focusing on one type of patient at a time, we can address their specific needs more effectively. Instead of offering generic messaging that doesn’t resonate with anyone in particular, we craft messages tailored to specific patient profiles. This approach ensures that each message speaks directly to the unique characteristics and concerns of a particular patient type.

Let's now explore how to create compelling headlines that speak to those specific patient/client profile types.

Using OralRisk™ Genetic Testing as an example, consider this: if your marketing simply states, "We offer Genetic Testing!" it probably wouldn't compel anyone to reach out to you.

Instead, let's consider a couple of the Patient Profile types I mentioned last week and create compelling headlines for them.

1. Compelling Headlines to attract the High Risk of Dental Issues patients. i.e. Patients with a family history of dental caries or periodontal disease.

Revolutionary testing to determine whether you are predisposed to cavities and gum disease! Click here to learn more.

Or

Do you have gum disease in your family? Get genetic testing for only $--- to discover if you carry the gene and get on your prevention plan.

2. Compelling Headlines to attract the Preventive Care Enthusiasts: Those who are proactive about their health and interested in preventive care measures.

The future is here. Take an OralRisk™ AI Genetic Test to determine if you are predisposed to cavities or gum disease.

And a few more Compelling Headlines:

~ Unlock the Secrets of Your Dental Health: Discover Your Genetic Risk Today!

~ Prevent Dental Problems Before They Start: OralRisk™ AI Genetic Testing for Optimal Oral Health

~ The Future of Dentistry is Here: Personalized Care with OralRisk™ AI Genetic Testing

~ From Prediction to Prevention: How OralRisk™ AI Genetic Testing Can Revolutionize Dental Care

By crafting compelling headlines for one specific client or patient profile type at a time, you are sure to attract existing patients to seek a particular treatment or service that you are providing. Additionally, this approach will attract new patients/clients to your practice!

You can use these compelling headlines in your email marketing, on your social media channels, Google Ads, and in pamphlets or brochures for take-home communication.

Stay tuned next week as I continue on this marketing path and share what to do once they opt in to learn more. If you missed the beginning of this marketing series on On-Track Tuesday, you can read them below.

Thank you for your support and reading!

Have a great week!

Kathleen

Kathleen Bokrossy, RDH ~ President

Focusing on One Potential Patient Type
July 9, 2024 at 4:00 AM
by Kathleen Bokrossy

In last week's On-Track Tuesday Blog, we discussed identifying Patient Profile Types.

By focusing on one type of patient at a time, we can address their specific needs more effectively. Instead of offering generic messaging that doesn’t resonate with anyone in particular, we craft messages tailored to specific patient profiles. This approach ensures that each message speaks directly to the unique characteristics and concerns of a particular patient type.

I remember seeing an ad about neck pain last year. The ads message was, "Are you experiencing numbness and tingling in your arm?" So here, we have anyone who may be experiencing numbness and tingling in their arm reach up their hand and say, "Yes! Yes I am experiencing numbness and tingling in my arm(s)." Then I clicked on the next link to learn more. Instead of "We fix Constricted Necks" or "We adjust Necks!" I wouldn't have clicked through to learn more.

So, think about potential patient types for Oral Risk Genetic Testing (AI Genetics), as an example. We held a webinar a couple of weeks ago with Dr. Lou Graham and a panel to share a revolutionary genetic test that has just launched in Canada!

If we were to consider potential patient types for Oral Risk Genetic Testing it could look like this:

Potential Patient Profile Types for Oral Risk Genetic Testing:

1. High Risk of Dental Issues: Patients with a family history of dental caries or periodontal disease.

2. Preventive Care Enthusiasts: Those who are proactive about their health and interested in preventive care measures.

3. Patients with Frequent Dental Problems: Individuals who have recurrent issues with cavities or gum disease despite regular dental care. Let’s help them put their mind at ease and discover if they are predisposed to dental disease.

4. New Patients: Providing a comprehensive initial assessment to tailor their dental care plan.

5. Patients with Compromised Immune Systems: Individuals with conditions like Diabetes, Obesity or Autoimmune Diseases that could exacerbate dental issues.

6. Patients with a Family History of Systemic Disease: Individuals who have a family history of systemic diseases such as Alzheimer’s, Diabetes, Heart Disease, and more, would benefit from the test due to the well-known oral-systemic connection.

7. Parents Concerned About Their Children's Dental Health: Offering early intervention for children who might be genetically predisposed to dental problems.

8. Patients Planning Major Dental Work: Those preparing for extensive dental procedures or orthodontic work, ensuring optimal long-term outcomes.

9. Patients Interested in Holistic Health: Individuals looking to integrate their dental health with overall wellness plans.

10. Regular Dental Hygiene Patients: Encouraging those who visit for regular hygiene appointments to take the next step in personalized care.

11. Patients in High-Stress Jobs: Stress can impact oral health, making preventive measures even more critical.

12. Lifestyle Choices (i.e. smoking, vaping, alcohol, diet): Individuals who smoke, vape, or consume alcohol regularly are at a higher risk for dental caries and periodontal disease due to the negative impacts these habits have on oral health.

Once you have this list for any treatment you offer in your practice, the list will grow and your messaging will be directed to that one particular patient on a larger scale, helping them identify that you might have what they need.

Stay tuned next week as I continue on this marketing path and will share some compelling headlines that will attract specific patient profile types. If you missed last week's On-Track Tuesday, you can read it below.

If you would like to watch the one-hour webinar on Oral Risk Genetic Testing, I am happy to share, we have it on our YouTube Channel. If you would like to learn more about how you can get Oral Risk Genetic Testing in our practice, visit Curion.

Thank you for your support and for reading!

Have a great week!

Kathleen

Kathleen Bokrossy, RDH ~ President

Attracting New Patients to Your Dental Practice
July 2, 2024 at 4:00 AM
by Kathleen Bokrossy

With the patient attrition rate in most dental practices ranging between 10-20%, it's crucial to have a proactive strategy to attract new patients. Relying solely on word of mouth isn't enough.

One effective approach is to focus on specific patient profiles and design targeted campaigns for each type. By investing effort upfront, these campaigns can become self-sustaining and be repeated multiple times a year.

Consider the type of campaign you would like to run. For example, if you want to promote laser treatments, identify the patient profiles that would benefit most from these treatments. Create a campaign to attract these new patients while also encouraging your existing clients to explore more laser treatment options.

Promoting your services consistently is key. When patients see that you offer treatments for various conditions through your email communications and social media postings, they are more likely to be receptive when you introduce these options during their visits. This familiarity can make a significant difference in their willingness to consider new treatments.

It's a great idea to meet with your team and discuss the patient profile types you would like to attract to your practice. This is the foundation of an effective marketing strategy. Stay tuned for more helpful tips in next week's On-Track Tuesday!

Thank you for your support and for reading!

Have a great week!

Kathleen

Kathleen Bokrossy, RDH ~ President

Dental Hygiene Quarterly Summer Special
June 25, 2024 at 4:00 AM
by Kathleen Bokrossy

Our Dental Hygiene Quarterly (aka DHQ) Summer Special ~ Learn and Save ~ with the CDHA is underway!

Why do I love DHQ so much? DHQ has been available to dental hygienists for 22 years! We just delivered the Summer Issue and it is our 88th Volume! I did the math yesterday... 88 Volumes/4 year = 22 years! Wow!

That is something worth celebrating and something that we are so proud to be a part of.

Dental Hygiene Quarterly was created many years ago and I remember my first speaking opportunities were with DHQ. I was super nervous and not too comfortable in front of a camera! Fast forward to 2016 when DHQ came under the rdhu umbrella and I am thrilled to be the publisher and enjoy connecting online!

My son, Aiden, would do any video-taping (prior to the pandemic) and now manages the editing and production part.

With the Summer-Time upon us, as I mentioned last week, summer is a time for relaxation and rejuvenation, but it’s also a prime opportunity to invest in your future professional growth. Enjoy the peace-of-mind over the summer knowing that you are all set to stay current this Fall! Our Dental Hygiene Quarterly Summer Special offers an incredible chance for members to elevate their expertise and stay ahead in their field and save money!

Here are the top benefits of signing up for this exclusive offer:

1. Continuous Professional Development

Our ‘Dental Hygiene Quarterly’ program ensures that you receive approximately 3 hours of high-quality continuing education every quarter. This consistent learning schedule helps you stay up-to-date with the latest advancements and best practices in dental hygiene, ensuring your skills and knowledge are always current and helps keep you On-Track with half of your QA Requirements!

2. Diverse and Relevant Topics

Each quarter, we bring you a carefully curated selection of topics and ideas that are both relevant and forward-thinking. These topics are designed to challenge your existing knowledge and introduce you to new concepts and techniques that you might not have considered. This diversity ensures a well-rounded professional development experience.

3. Convenience and Flexibility

We understand the demands of a busy professional life. That’s why our program is designed to be convenient and flexible. You can access the educational content at your own pace and on your own schedule, making it easier to fit professional development into your life without sacrificing other commitments. And a little hint...you can put it on a faster speed if you learn better this way. Rewind, recapture, the options are at your fingertips!

4. Expert-Led Sessions

Our courses are led by industry experts who bring a wealth of experience and insight to each session. Learning from these professionals ensures that you receive practical, real-world knowledge that you can apply directly to your practice.

5. Enhance Your Career Prospects

Continuous learning and professional development are key to career advancement. By participating in our quarterly program, you demonstrate a commitment to your profession and your ongoing education. This dedication can make you a more attractive candidate for promotions, new job opportunities, or specialized roles within your field. Add DHQ to your CV!

6. Stay Ahead of Industry Trends

The dental hygiene field is constantly evolving. Our quarterly updates ensure that you stay ahead of industry trends and innovations. Being knowledgeable about the latest developments allows you to provide the best possible care to your patients and positions you as a leader in your practice.

7. Boost Confidence and Competence

Regular professional development boosts your confidence and competence in your role. As you gain new knowledge and skills, you’ll feel more assured in your abilities and more prepared to tackle any challenges that come your way. If you are anything like me, I just love learning and it charges me!

8. Exclusive Summer Special Offer

Our Summer Special is an exclusive offer designed to make it even more enticing to join. Take advantage of special pricing available only during this period. This is a membership benefit with the Canadian Dental Hygienists Association and it's the perfect time to commit to your professional growth and reap the rewards of continuous education.

Join our Summer Special today and take the first step toward a brighter, more successful and fulfilled future!

Thank you for your support and for reading!

Have a great week!

Kathleen

Kathleen Bokrossy, RDH ~ President

Making The Most Out Of Your Summer
June 18, 2024 at 4:00 AM
by Kathleen Bokrossy

We held our last in-person program on Saturday and look forward to taking a break in the summer from in-person and online courses to prepare for getting back at it in September! Our summers are so short. We have always planned to block off July and August and have our Academic Year from September to June so that we can also give our members the opportunity to unplug over the summer.

The summer is a time for a well-deserved break! This seasonal pause is important for our mental and physical well-being, setting the stage for a more productive and fulfilling professional development journey when September rolls around.

Whether you are working in clinical practice for a DSO or private practice, you have your own independent practice or are in a non-traditional role as a dental hygienist, here's why unplugging in the summer is essential and how it can supercharge your professional growth in the fall.

1. Recharge Your Mental Batteries

As dental professionals our lifestyle often entails a relentless pace, with constant demands on our time and energy. Over time, this can lead to burnout, reducing our creativity, productivity, and overall happiness. Taking a mental break during the summer allows our brains to rest and rejuvenate. Just like a computer needs to reboot to function optimally, our minds need downtime to process and recover from the stress and challenges of our work life!

2. Boost Creativity and Innovation

Stepping away and taking the time to relax can foster creativity. Engaging in different activities, exploring new environments, and simply allowing your mind to wander can spark fresh ideas and perspectives. When we are not tethered to our usual routines, we can think more freely and innovatively. By the time September arrives, you might find yourself brimming with new ideas and solutions that can be applied to both your personal and professional development!

3. Strengthen Personal Relationships

Summer is an excellent time to reconnect with family and friends. Strengthening these personal bonds is vital for emotional support and overall happiness. These relationships provide a grounding influence, helping to maintain a healthy work-life balance. It takes effort to plan get togethers and weekends away. Now is the time to start making plans with your loved ones!

4. Reflect and Realign Goals

Taking a step back during the summer allows you to reflect on your career goals and achievements. Where are you at with your professional goals, Pearl? Are you happy in your practice? This time of reflection is crucial for realigning your efforts and make changes where you need. If something isn't working for you, you can plan more effectively for the future during this time.

5. Improve Physical Health

Summer offers the perfect opportunity to engage in physical activities. Whether it's hiking, swimming, biking, or simply walking in nature, these activities can improve physical health, reduce stress, and enhance overall well-being. Take time for you over the summer. A healthy body supports a healthy mind.

6. Prepare for a Fresh Start

Unplugging in the summer creates a natural break in the year, offering a chance to start anew in September. I always feel like September is January. It's a frest start. A new beginning! This period of rest helps clear your mind, making it easier to absorb new information and tackle new challenges. When you return back to the 'norm' with a refreshed perspective, you are more likely to be motivated and enthusiastic about learning and growth.

7. Increase Productivity and Focus

A well-rested mind is more productive and focused. After a summer of mental relaxation, you will likely find it easier to concentrate and engage deeply with your professional development activities. This enhanced focus can lead to more effective learning and skill acquisition, ultimately benefiting your career.

Unplugging mentally during the summer is not just a luxury; it’s a necessity. It allows you to recharge, foster creativity, strengthen relationships, reflect on goals, improve health, and prepare for a fresh start. By taking this time to relax and rejuvenate, you set yourself up for a successful and productive return to professional development in September.

So, as the summer sun is calling, embrace the opportunity to unplug, knowing that it’s an investment in your future professional!

Stay tuned for our Summer Specials! Purchase over the summer and save time and money throughout the year. The 'All Access Virtual Pass' (get access to ALL live streaming courses with one price/one pass) and 'Dental Hygiene Quarterly Summer Special' (Purchase 3 years for $369). Stay tuned for separate emails on these.

Thank you for your support and for reading!

Have a great week!

Kathleen

Kathleen Bokrossy, RDH ~ President

Upcoming Professional Development Opportunities
June 11, 2024 at 4:00 AM
by Kathleen Bokrossy

We are almost halfway into June, just before we take a little break from courses for the summer.

I wanted to share with you what we have coming up so you can feel good about the first half of your Professional Development for 2024!

We have one spot remaining for our Laser Certification course at rdhu. This is the last chance for lasers until we return in September. Click here if you would like to take that last spot!

We have an amazing opportunity to discover how you can revolutionize your practice with AI-Driven Genetic Insights. We have a FREE webinar on Thursday, June 27th from 8:15PM - 9:15PM EST. We sent out an email yesterday to our members and have a few hundred already registered. We can only take 1000 registrants, so if you are interested, please register ASAP. The email we sent to you is now connected with Zoom so you no longer have to register separately in Zoom! That said, this means that link is unique just for you. If you would like to invite your dentist and other members of your team, you will need a separate link for them. You can share this one: https://www.rdhu.ca/AIGenetics

Live Streaming this Month:

Your National Crash Course for Implementing the Classifications of Periodontal and Peri-Implant Diseases and Conditions

  • Part 1: Recording Available
  • Part 2: Monday, June 17th - 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM EST

What Lies Beneath: Discovering the 'Path' in Common Abnormal Oral Lesions

  • Part 1: Thursday, June 13th - 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM EST
  • Part 2: Thursday, June 20th - 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM EST

Our Summer Specials will be launching very shortly! All Access Virtual Pass (get access to ALL live streaming courses with one price/one pass) and Dental Hygiene Quarterly (Purchase 3 years for $369). Stay tuned for separate emails on these.

Thank you for your support and for reading!

Have a great week!

Kathleen

Kathleen Bokrossy, RDH ~ President

An rdhu Update
June 4, 2024 at 4:00 AM
by Kathleen Bokrossy

I wanted to take a moment to share some important news regarding a significant change within our leadership team.

Beth has decided to leave rdhu to pursue an exciting new opportunity with one of our valued sponsors, Curion. Friday will be her last day! Beth, being the awesome person she is, gave us plenty of notice. She wanted to make sure that all is in place for our next Academic Calendar Year (September 2024 - June 2025). Thank you, Beth!

We both have a very special relationship with Curion and rdhu works closely with Curion, so it is a nice fit for Beth.

Beth has been an integral part of our organization for the last 6 years, contributing immensely to our growth and success! We have also had a lot of fun together along the way travelling to Finland and from coast to coast across Canada. We often kid how we are like a married couple as we are so in sync with each other and often don't even need to use words to communicate.

While we will miss her leadership and vision, we are also supportive of this new chapter in her professional journey and excited for both Curion and Beth.

Please join me in extending our heartfelt thanks and best wishes to Beth as she embarks on this new endeavor. We are confident that Beth will continue to achieve great things and we will be continuing to work together in many ways so she won't be gone gone from rdhu :)

Thank you for your support and for reading!

Have a great week!

Kathleen

Kathleen Bokrossy, RDH ~ President

Staying Connected With Your Patients
May 28, 2024 at 4:00 AM
by Kathleen Bokrossy

The JDIQ Conference in Montreal is happening right now! If you are planning on being there today, be sure to go by the Curion Booth and say Hi to Beth and check out the LM Dental Instruments.

We presented two hands-on instrumentation workshops on Friday at JDIQ and it was so nice to meet many of our members in person. Thank you to all of you who joined us! Both Beth and I absolutely love presenting on all things instrumentation. As you may know, I have a passion for ensuring that dental hygienists always use optimal hand instruments and ultrasonic inserts. If you ever get a chance to take one of our in-person programs, I encourage you to do so. You will leave feeling excited to get back to practice and sharpen all of your instruments as well as getting your kits organized and adding a few additions!

On Saturday I left Montreal and went straight to Halifax where we celebrated my daughter's graduation yesterday. She completed a 5-year Co-op Chemical Engineering program. In a long line of guys coming down the convocation aisle, there was Gillian. This is a male dominating profession for sure. I remember during her gap year she was contemplating between Chemical Engineering and Dentistry. I would have loved for her to go into dental hygiene or dentistry but she chose her dad's route, and is now a Chemical Engineer! I couldn't be more proud of her. I am sitting here in a gorgeous beach house right on the coast as I type. I just love Nova Scotia and will miss my frequent trips here. But I will be back! I would love to have a conference out here one day. If you are from the East Coast and would attend an rdhu conference, please reply to this email and say "Yes, we would love a conference out here" and we shall see what transpires!

I am dedicated to my Tuesday emails no matter where I am. I always like to take the time to reflect and connect! There was a time where these emails would take me days to write, review and redo! I would overthink all things. I have come to enjoy writing, and like anything we do consistently, it becomes easier. I have also come to accept that it doesn't have to be perfect.

Creating content and value is more important than putting out less content that you feel needs to be perfect.

Do you share content and provide value to your patients? This is a great opportunity for you to stay connected with your patients when they are not in your chair. You can connect with them via email or create short videos on helping them maintain their oral health. You can also educate them on all the treatment and services you provide.

Creating content and providing value, even if it's not perfect, is essential because it fosters connection, authenticity, and continuous improvement!

This is a great opportunity for you to engage with your patients, build trust, and demonstrate a genuine commitment to their needs.

The patient/client experience doesn't have to end when they leave your practice. By staying connected with them, it will enhance the treatment you are currently providing.

Thank you for your support and for reading!

Have a great week!

Kathleen

Kathleen Bokrossy, RDH ~ President

Are You On-Track With Your Quality Assurance Requirements?
May 21, 2024 at 4:00 AM
by Kathleen Bokrossy

I hope you had an amazing long weekend! It is hard to believe that we just had the first long weekend kick-off to the summer! 2024 is going by too quickly!

We have been so fortunate to have taken part in, and hosted, so many wonderful professional development activities this year.

This is a good time of year to check in with yourself and assess where you are at with your PD/CE hours.

Are you On-Track with your Quality Assurance requirements?

When checking in with yourself, if you find you are a bit behind with your hours, think of ways to make things easier to help you stay on track. I am a big believer in The Easy Button!

The Dental Hygiene Quarterly is a great example of an Easy Button to help you stay on track. Every quarter we deliver approximately 3 hours of CE into your own personal portal.

The All Access Virtual Pass is another great way to keep up with your hours and also keep you feeling inspired and engaged along the way!

We created this initiative last year for the Academic Year (September 2023 - June 2024) as a trial, as we really weren't sure if this would be something that we could continue to offer.

It is a one payment option to have access to ALL rdhu's live streaming courses available for the year.

This is now coming to a close at the end of next month!

Given the success of our All Access Virtual Pass and hearing such positive feedback from our members, we are thrilled to announce that we will be offering this again!

Registration will be open first to our existing members who have taken part in this. This will happen on June 15th.

On July 1st we will make the registration available to all members.

As you can imagine, space is limited for such a virtual program, so it will be based on a limited number available and/or by August 31st. Whichever comes first!

Be sure to check out the registration once we make it available.

In the meantime, feel free to use the worksheet below to assess your Professional Development to discover where you might be situated and make a plan to stay on-track, if needed!

Thank you for your support and for reading!

Have a great week!

Kathleen

Kathleen Bokrossy, RDH ~ President

Click here for a QA Check In

Oral Cancer Screening in Your Practice
May 14, 2024 at 4:00 AM
by Kathleen Bokrossy

We had an incredible event on Friday with Jo-Anne Jones' Experiential Oral/Oropharyngeal Cancer Screening Workshop.

So much has changed over the years with respect to Oral Cancer, in the research, demographics and the societal trends, that it is essential for us to stay current with the latest advancements, communications and knowledge for prevention and screening.

We need to ensure that we are consistently delivering exceptional care.

We need to ensure that we are up-to-date with the stats and are comfortable having the HPV conversation with our clients and patients.

There was a very engaged group of dental hygienists with us on Friday. Some had mentioned they wished their team would have come with them. How do you go back to practice all excited to implement a thorough intraoral and extraoral examination consistently when so many others might be missing the mark and not being as thorough or perhaps not performing such an essential service to their clients?

Consistency is so important in any business and is the cornerstone of excellence in our profession.

Consistency ensures that every patient receives the same high standard of care, regardless of when they visit your practice or which member of your team they interact with. From hygiene appointments to more complex treatments, patients expect reliability and professionalism at every touchpoint. Consistent protocols and procedures help streamline workflows, minimize errors, and deliver a seamless patient experience from start to finish.

People notice when one performs exceptional care versus another who may be in a rush or have a focus on something else that may be important to them.

This is why going through the experience with your team is so important. When you have a solid team, who all know and implement the key elements of a protocol, you stand out from the crowd. It ignites your team when you work with a vision, synergistically.

Oral/Oropharyngeal Cancer Screening could be one of the topics that you bring up in your practice. Meet together as a group and work on each other. Are you consistent with your screenings? Are you making sure that your patients are thoroughly screened? Is your communication and messaging flowing from clinician to clinician? It shouldn't be a surprise when you provide a thorough oral cancer screening. We shouldn't hear "I have never had this done so thoroughly before." Or "I have not had this done before."

When patients know to expect an Oral Cancer Screening (and one that has quite changed from when most of us went to school) and don't receive it, they will notice and wonder why they aren't receiving it. They will notice that they are missing out on something and this will reflect negatively on the practice. We have all been in a situation where we have received exceptional service once, twice, maybe three times and then the next time, something has changed. We leave disappointed and perhaps never return.

Not only is consistency so important to deliver optimal care; it also serves as a powerful form of marketing that doesn't cost anything extra. When you provide consistent care, you make your patients happy. Happy patients come back and happy patients share their experience and refer!

See below for a template on the patient experience and go through this with your team. Perhaps start with your Oral Cancer Screening protocol. What does this look like? Have you updated your Intraoral and Extraoral Cancer Screening over the last 5 years? Are you referring your patients for the HPV Vaccination? Are you using an Oral Cancer Screening Device, like VelScope? Is your team comfortable having the HPV discussion with your patients? What does your protocol look like and how might you improve?

Our next Ultimate Experiential Oral/Oropharyngeal Cancer Screening Workshop is happening on Friday, November 8th, 2024 at rdhu. If you would like to join us, please click here to register. If you are from out of town, we have a few amazing courses set up for the weekend so you may want to make this a Professional Development weekend for yourself and your team if they would like to come with you. On the Saturday, November 9th is our next "The Bacteria Party: Who's on Your Guest List?" from 9am - 1pm. Stay and have lunch with us and join me for a hands-on Sharpening and Instrumentation Session, Sharpen Your Skills, from 2pm - 5pm! Sounds like a great opportunity for our in-town and out-of-town members! Click here to register for all 3 with one click (and save an additional $10)!

Thank you for your support and for reading!

Have a great week!

Kathleen

Kathleen Bokrossy, RDH ~ President

Click the links below to download:

6 Tips To Becoming Unstuck
May 7, 2024 at 4:00 AM
by Kathleen Bokrossy

I had a phone conversation with one of our members the other day and she was sharing how she is feeling stuck in her life. She isn't really feeling heard in her practice, not loving where she is working, and has a few personal things that she is dealing with as well.

We have all been there where we feel stuck and not sure of what to do.

One of the programs that I present on is 'Energy Management for the Dental Hygienist'. This topic is near and dear to my heart as I truly believe we have more power in managing our energy than we give ourselves credit for and I love to remind dental hygienists of this. We all need to be reminded of all the positive things that bring us joy as well as to take the time to recognize the negative ones as well.

When you are feeling stuck, lack motivation, and find that you are just going through the motions, there is a great chance that you have many things in your life that are considered energy drainers.

What can we do to get unstuck? Here are a few tips (I have many more!)...

1. Taking the time to reflect and acknowledge your feelings and figure out why you are feeling stuck is the first thing to do. Recognize the things that are not serving you and are draining your energy. Write down the things that you are not happy with in your life. Evaluate and self-reflect. Recognizing the energy drainers is key to becoming unstuck.

2. Take a look at your physical environment. De-clutter the things around you. Take the time to get organized in your home. Clean out your closet, your drawers, and donate where you can. Spring is the perfect time to do this! What is your work environment like? Are you using worn dull instruments and inserts? This can play a huge part on the lack of enthusiasm you may be feeling in your practice. Have you tried wearing loupes or getting a new chair?

3. Are you happy in your workplace? Do you feel heard? Take action and either voice your concerns with your team in a positive way to see if there is a possibility of things changing or start to look for a new position. There are so many opportunities out there for us as dental hygienists. Have faith in yourself and take the leap.

4. Look at where you want to be and create a plan on how you can get there. Create small goals that will help you achieve the larger goals. This can be an exciting exercise to go through!

5. Develop a daily routine and stay consistent. Once you have established a plan, review daily to ensure that you are on track. Perhaps you are going to journal for 5 minutes every morning or night. Perhaps you are going to start your day with a good stretch session. In order for change to happen we must remain consistent.

6. Learn something new! Whether it be in your personal life or professional life (or both!), learning something new is invigorating and can give you the jump start you are looking for. Perhaps you would like to start a new hobby like knitting or photography. Or perhaps you would like to learn about lasers in the dental hygiene practice. By learning something new, you are challenging yourself to step outside your comfort zone!

Getting unstuck requires taking intentional actions.

Through self-reflection, embracing and implementing small changes to make a big change, you will slowly become unstuck.

It won't happen overnight and will take some work. Recognize that it is up to you to make change happen. No one is going to come along and do it for us!

Thank you for your support and for reading!

Have a great week!

Kathleen

Kathleen Bokrossy, RDH ~ President

Implementing Lasers into Your Dental Hygiene Practice
April 30, 2024 at 4:00 AM
by Kathleen Bokrossy

Beth and I met with an office from BC last Friday to speak with them about implementing lasers into their practice.

They had already gone through the laser training with us to ensure that they meet the BC regulatory requirements and to have the confidence to treat their clients with lasers.

Implementation is a tough thing to do in every aspect of life.

We can learn something new and get excited about it but then life gets in the way. Navigating change can be challenging and fraught with obstacles. We can find ourselves going back to doing what we previously did and not implementing our new knowledge and skill.

I was so proud of this team to recognize that they needed assistance with implementation rather than just letting it ride and let lasers disappear in their practice like so many practices do.

What can we do to ensure implementation happens?! Change is the only constant in life, and in the dynamic landscape of our profession, implementing new programs is a crucial part of staying relevant and current, while standing out from the practice across the street!

Understanding the Why

Before diving into the implementation process, it's essential to understand the why behind the new program. What problem is it solving? What opportunities does it present? For example, create a list of potential clients/patients who can benefit from lasers. Knowing that you are providing best practice in your clinic will help ensure that everyone involved understands the purpose and benefits of the program. It creates buy-in and motivation, which are two crucial factors for successful implementation.

Clear Communication

Communication is the cornerstone of any successful change initiative. From the front administrative team to the clinical team, it's vital to keep everyone informed and engaged throughout the implementation process. Hold a team meeting and make sure everyone knows the importance of this implementation and that everyone knows their role.

Strong Leadership

Effective leadership is essential for guiding the implementation process and inspiring confidence in the team. Each practice should have one person who will lead the program. Leaders must set clear goals, allocate resources effectively, and provide support and guidance to overcome obstacles.

Tracking

It is important to monitor progress! We sent this office the 30-Day Tracker to help them track their progress. Implementing a new program is not a one-time event but an ongoing process. Monitoring progress is critical for identifying any issues early on and making necessary adjustments. Establishing key performance indicators (KPIs) and regularly tracking them allows you to measure the program's impact and make data-driven decisions to optimize its effectiveness. We have added this tracker for you below as a download.

Make changes where necessary and celebrate success! Keep an eye on the program and make changes where you need to. Perhaps you will need some additional mentoring for a team member, or a new patient communication strategy.

Implementing a new program is a complex and challenging process, but with careful planning, clear communication, strong leadership, and ongoing engagement, it is entirely achievable and very much worth doing!

Thank you for your support and for reading! Please take a look below for upcoming live streaming courses, events, hands-on courses, career postings and our partner specials.

Have a great week!

Kathleen

Kathleen Bokrossy, RDH ~ President

30-Day Tracker

A Dental Hygiene Quarterly Update
April 23, 2024 at 4:00 AM
by Kathleen Bokrossy

We had a great few days in Toronto last week for the ODA ASM. It is always so good to see friends and meet people who perhaps we only have met through emails or webinars! Thank you to all of you who came by to say hello.

I wanted to mention a couple of things that were brought up at the conference...

I had a few people ask about the Dental Hygiene Quarterly. It is still thought of as DVD's. We no longer offer the Dental Hygiene Quarterly in the DVD format, as most people no longer have a DVD player and it was becoming problematic for production. We do have a very easy-to-use portal where all the Dental Hygiene Quarterly courses are uploaded. We upload 3 hours of CE into your portal every quarter! You will have access to these courses for 3 years (some for 5 years) and can use them when you are submitting your QA. There is a short test after each course and you will receive a certificate, which is stored in the same portal! These are essentially rdhu's on-demand option.

The Dental Hygiene Quarterly is offered as a stand alone one year purchase or as a subscription. The choice is yours. We created an auto renewal after many requests to do just that. For me personally, I get that. I like subscriptions. Today I purchased a subscription for a wash cloth that is supposed to replace my overuse of paper towels! I know I will need to replace them in 4 months, so rather than me having to look for the link and run these towels beyond their use, I would rather have the company just send me new cloths! I do the same with my skin care, and my National and Provincial Associations as well. When I can, I subscribe. It helps me stay organized. With Dental Hygiene Quarterly, you can subscribe so you don't miss a season or two or even a year and then have to catch up! It is about keeping you on track! Do the 3 hours each quarter and you are doing great! But the choice is yours to order for one year or auto renew. Click here to access both options.

The next thing....

I loved when a few dental hygienists came with their list of the LM instruments that they were going to order at the Curion booth, and shared that their employer agreed once they showed them the actual breakdown of instrument cost per patient. I had sent those worksheets last month through an On-Track Tuesday and they did the breakdown and used the proposal form and their dentist agreed! When you breakdown the cost of instruments per patient, and it comes out to under $1.75 per patient, as an example, it really puts things into perspective and can help you get that annual instrumentation budget you need. It helped with the decision making! Yahoo! This is why I love doing what I do.

Thank you for your support and for reading these On-Track Tuesdays! I am thrilled that you like these, as I enjoy thinking of ways to help where I can. Pam, from Oral Science suggested that I turn these into a book! I love it :) One day I might! In the meantime, I have been asked to have my own column in a dental hygiene journal. Please stay tuned....

Thank you for your support and for reading! Please take a look below for upcoming live streaming courses, events, hands-on courses, career postings and our partner specials.

Have a great week!

Kathleen

Kathleen Bokrossy, RDH ~ President

rdhu at the Annual ODA ASM Meeting in Toronto
April 16, 2024 at 4:00 AM
by Kathleen Bokrossy

It is the Annual ODA ASM Meeting in Toronto this week! We have many people from all over Canada attend, so I wanted to send this out to all of our members, just in case you will be there.

Please stop by the Curion Booth at #1219. Beth Parkes and myself will be with Curion demonstrating the LM Line of Instruments. We will be sharing some of the new Sharpen-Free styles that have been recently launched. These are game changers as far as instrumentation goes.

Curion will also be launching the Oral Risk DNA Testing and will have a few people from this company joining us at the booth as well. This is revolutionary innovation right here that is being launched. The DNA testing is groundbreaking development in the field of oral health in Canada. Leveraging genetic insights will give us the opportunity to tailor preventive strategies even more. Do you think you would like to incorporate genetic testing in your practice? This isn't the bacterial testing of biofilm and saliva some of us are currently utilizing. This is genetic testing to see if your patients have the genetic markers for caries and/or periodontal disease. What do you think you would do differently if you knew a patient was predisposed to dental caries or periodontal disease? We have been doing DNA/genetic testing for years for uncovering risks for diseases like cancer or heart disease. Now, it is here, we can test to see if someone is predisposed to caries or periodontal disease. Perhaps you would see a patient more often? Perhaps you would apply fluoride varnish at each hygiene appoint? Perhaps you would educate more on nutrition and prevention? Perhaps a patient who has a parent with Alzheimers or Cancer would want to know if they are predisposed to periodontal disease? It is interesting isn't it? We are on the precipice of great things and knowledge to make for a healthier world.

Come by the booth if you have any questions about the DNA testing and speak with the experts.

Also, please stop by the BioGaia Booth at #1929 to learn about Oral Probiotics, get some samples and have a visit with Kerry Lepicek, as she will be at their booth.

Thank you for your support and for reading! Please take a look below for upcoming live streaming courses, events, hands-on courses, career postings and our partner specials.

Have a great week!

Kathleen

Kathleen Bokrossy, RDH ~ President

The Benefits of Networking and Learning Events
April 9, 2024 at 4:00 AM
by Kathleen Bokrossy

What a fantastic weekend we had! The Women in Dentistry 14th Annual Symposium was on Friday, and then we had Dr. Joy Void-Holmes with us at rdhu for two days of hands-on workshops.

If you haven't attended a networking/learning event like Women in Dentistry or participated in any hands-on in-person continuing education since school, it truly is the best gift you can give yourself.

What happens when you attend such events?

- Networking! You will meet people and leave feeling charged! Also, with networking, you never know who you are going to meet or what doors may be opened for you for future opportunities.

- Learn a new skill! Most of the attendees on Saturday and Sunday said that this was their first hands-on program that they have attended since school. Enhancing your skills doesn't end when you leave school. There is so much more to learn outside of the fundamentals you are taught in school.

- Re-engagement! After attending a networking event and hands-on program, be prepared to be re-energized! We often feel like we are doing the same ole, same ole. These events are critical for growth and continuous professional development.

Check out the Women in Dentistry March/April Edition of their Journal. The RDH View is featured on the cover along with such a great article. Thank you to Palmeri Publishing and Women in Dentistry for a lovely feature.

Looking for our next hands-on events? Click here to access!

Thank you for your support and for reading! Please take a look below for upcoming live streaming courses, events, hands-on courses, career postings and our partner specials.

Have a great week!

Kathleen

Kathleen Bokrossy, RDH ~ President

rdhu & National Oral Health Month!
April 2, 2024 at 4:00 AM
by Kathleen Bokrossy

With April being National Oral Health Month, I wanted to share some of the exciting things that are coming up! This is a great month to take part in networking and learning opportunities!

This Thursday, April 4th and Friday, April 5th is the 14th Annual Women in Dentistry Symposium in Toronto! The Thursday is set-up for hands-on education for the dentist, and the Friday is set-up for the entire team. You will find some of our team there on Friday at our booth as well as some of our presenters will be presenting, including myself! And exciting news! The next issue for Women in Dentistry magazine is being launched and The RDH View is on the cover! Click here to learn more and to register for Women in Dentistry.

Thursday, April 4th from 7pm - 8:30pm EST Jo-Anne Jones is presenting on Breaking the Silence - How to Discuss HPV and Oral/Oropharyngeal Cancer. We are currently at 1300 registrations! If you would like to register, please click here. You need to fill out the web form and then you will receive the Zoom registration. If you plan on joining us live that night, and have not filled out the Zoom registration, you must!

This weekend, Saturday, April 6th and Sunday, April 7th we are hosting Dr. Joy Void-Holmes at rdhu for a one-day workshop, rdhu mini conference! It will be a great day of learning and enhancing your skills. Click here to learn more and to register! There will be gifts and vendors present.

Our Myofunctional Therapy: A Practical Program, with Joe Siegfried, starts this month and we are SOLD OUT! If you would like to get into the next program in October, click here to register. If you would like a payment plan, please contact us at info@rdhu.ca

Orthodontic Fundamentals for the Dental Hygienist, a 2-Day Hands-On Course, with Liisa Moore is on Saturday, April 13th & Sunday, April 14th. There are 6 spaces available, if you would like to learn a new skill in Ortho or enhance your existing Ortho skill, we would love for you to join us. Click here to view all options for ortho.

The ODA ASM is April 18th and 19th. You will find myself and Beth at the Curion Booth and Kerry Lepicek at the BioGaia Booth. Jo-Anne Jones will be presenting there as well.

Our next Laser Certification for Ontario is Saturday, April 20th. Click here to learn more and to register. If you are from Alberta or BC, please email and we will add you to a waiting list.

And of course, our Live Streaming courses that are happening this month! Please click here to view and to register.

Wow! What a great way to celebrate Oral Health Month. I am so thankful every day that I chose a profession that I love so much. Happy Oral Health Month!

Thank you for your support and for reading! Please take a look below for upcoming live streaming courses, events, hands-on courses, career postings and our partner specials.

Have a great week!

Kathleen

Kathleen Bokrossy, RDH ~ President

Dental Hive Connecting Dental Professionals Across the Country
March 26, 2024 at 4:00 AM
by Kathleen Bokrossy

When I was at the Pacific Dental Conference a couple of weeks ago, I bumped into Dr. Aisling Whitaker on the exhibit floor. She is a fabulous dentist, an IT guru and co-owns an app called Dental Hive. This app is designed to connect dental professionals together and to provide resources, a directory and job opportunities. Dental Hive was built by Felicia Sprague and Dr. Aisling Whitaker, two dental professionals based in Canada.

They started Dental Hive to support dental professionals on key aspects of their working life – finding jobs, building teams and connecting with other professionals. In 2022 they launched a jobs app to match professionals and clinics. They have been on both sides of the job search and know how hard it can be to find the right fit. For the employers, they wanted to be able to connect with verified professionals who are qualified for the jobs they post. For the employees, they wanted to help find a clinic that fits their personal and professional growth.

In Jan 2023, they released a business directory to connect easily with companies that support dental offices (lawyers, accountants, IT specialists, contractors, designers etc.). They also launched a resources tab which contains useful information for all team members, such as KPIs for office managers, Insurance need to knows, tips for startups etc. It is an app to a virtual community where all dental professionals can connect and support each other.

I think it is brilliant what Aisling and her partner have created. If you are interested in joining this app you can go to their website and it will take you to the download.

Dr. Aisling, in her lovely Irish accent, asked me at PDC if I was aware that she sends all of her dental hygienists to rdhu for training. She has sent them for the Full Myofunctional Program, Laser Training and Live Streaming Courses.

They all meet after their courses and programs to discuss their learning and how they are going to implement it into their practice. They do this as a team. This is a Dream Come True practice for me and is a message that we have been sharing over the years.

If you want a cohesive team, one that works well together, implements AND sustains change, it really starts with taking the programs together. Sending the whole team and then doing the After Experience as a team to discuss Next Steps.

One extra thing that I loved to hear from Aisling was how her lead dental hygienist dives into the science and research and is very careful prior to offering "the things" into their practice. They want to make sure that whatever they bring into their practice is going to provide optimal treatment to their patients. Aisling said, the Soft-Tissue Diode Laser has been the biggest surprise to them all. They call it the Magic Wand, as they have experienced amazing results with patients who they just couldn't get healthy.

All in all, I had a lovely meeting with Dr. Aisling Whitaker. The respect she has for her team, and the way they feel toward her, is an example of the cohesion we can all strive for.

Those offices are out there, where you can contribute in the best possible way. You just have to find them. It is worth the search. Be sure to download the app and stay connected.

Thank you for your support and for reading! Please take a look below for upcoming live streaming courses, events, hands-on courses, career postings and our partner specials.

Have a great week!

Kathleen

Kathleen Bokrossy, RDH ~ President

Augmenting Your Professional Development with Hands-On Learning
March 19, 2024 at 4:00 AM
by Kathleen Bokrossy

Have you taken part in a hands-on program since you finished dental hygiene school? Many of you will say, yes, of course! However, there are still many who will say, no. Their hands-on didactical training ended after completing a dental hygiene program.

If you fall into the category of not participating in a post-graduate hands-on training program, I really would like to encourage you to do so!

When we are in school, we are taught the basics, and the fundamentals of dental hygiene. We cannot be taught advanced skills when we are learning the basics. There are skills, tips and tricks, and hacks, so to speak, that can only be taught after you master the fundamentals.

Professional Development or Continuing Education isn't about a check box for CE. It isn't about how many CE credits you need to get for this year's Quality Assurance. No. Professional Development truly is a journey. It is about learning new techniques. It is about learning advanced techniques so that you can take your skills, your art, to a new level. These are about skills that cannot be taught in school, because again, there are fundamentals that we need to conquer prior to being taught advanced skills.

To be taught a new way to fulcrum, or a tweak in the client's head position to access an area better, or to go to the other side to instrument, or to use an instrument that is hybrid and replaces 2 instruments with 1, or a flip of a Gracey to use a horizontal instead of a vertical stroke. There are so many things that can be taught and can be an eye-opening experience for you.

If you haven't participated in a hands-on program, it is time! Many of you feel like you are doing the same thing every day. Chances are you feel that way because, you are!

Join us and feel re-energized!

I know this email goes out to 20,000 members and many of you aren't near rdhu.

We are thrilled when we get members who travel from afar for our hands-on programs, like Myofunctional Therapy, or Ortho or Instrumentation. It truly is an amazing experience and we appreciate your commitment to learning so much.

I have travelled to Western Canada, California, Nashville and other areas, for personal and professional development and have come back feeling amazing and ready to take on the world. It is worth investing in YOU!

We have some hands-on programs in our calendar for April and May and then we won't have anything until the fall. I hope you will consider one of these amazing, transformational programs:

1. Joy of Instrumentation (with Dr. Joy Void-Holmes coming up from the USA)

2. Myofunctional Therapy: A Practical Program (with Joe Siegfried. We only have 5 spots left. This is a hybrid program ~ online and hands-on application)

3. Orthodontics for the Dental Hygienists. (with Liisa Moore. We have many programs to offer depending on your skill level. There are the Fundamentals of Ortho, Advanced, Clear Aligners and Scanners).

4. Elevate your Instrumentation Skills (with Anna Louise Tolan)

5. Piezon (with Anna Louise Tolan)

6. The Ultimate Experiential Oral and Oropharyngeal Cancer Specialized Workshop (with Jo-Anne Jones)

7. Sharpen Your Skills: An Instrumentation and Sharpening Workshop (with me)

These programs are designed to enhance your skills. To take your professional abilities to an all new level.

We hope to see you! Click here to access the hands-on programs.

And for those of you who have attended our programs, we thank you for your support. It means the world to all of us. Together we are elevating our profession and providing exceptional care to the public for a healthier world.

Thank you for your support and for reading! Please take a look below for upcoming live streaming courses, events, hands-on courses, career postings and our partner specials.

Have a great week!

Kathleen

Kathleen Bokrossy, RDH ~ President

The Life of An Instrument
March 12, 2024 at 4:00 AM
by Kathleen Bokrossy

Thank you to those who went to PDC in Vancouver last week and stopped by the Curion booth to meet Beth and I, and the BioGaia booth to meet Kerry! We had a fabulous conference! It is always so nice to meet up with friends, colleagues and members at these conferences. It's a reminder of how grateful I am that I chose this profession, way back when.

The LM-Dental Instruments were a hit at the Curion Booth. We had live demonstrations and introduced the new instrument designs that have been added to the Sharpen-Free line. The M23 Slim, Nevi I and 2 in particular.

The M23 is a popular instrument in the US and in Europe and we think that it is going to be a popular one in Canada. Especially now, since we have the Slim option.

We had dental hygienists returning to the show to purchase the Sharpen-Free after last purchasing at PDC 2023. I always like to hear how long the Sharpen-Free last, so when I see people coming back one year later and ordering more, it confirms what we already know about the life of an instrument.

We always get asked, "How long will the Sharpen-Free last?"

The answer to this question is this. It depends on many things. What kind of patients are you treating? Are you using ultrasonics 80% of the time? How many kits do you have? If you only have 3-4 kits and using them twice a day, you will go through your instrument faster than those who are set up with 8 kits to last throughout the day. How many instruments are in your kit? How are your patients presenting? Are you in a practice where the majority of patients are using power versus manual? There are many factors to consider.

They should last you as long as your regular instruments would last.

But here is the thing. Most dental practices use instruments longer than their intended use. This is a problem in most practices.

In many offices, purchasing instruments is an event. It should be part of your annual budget.

I do talk a lot about instruments because I believe they are fundamental to everything we do. We can't perform high quality care without high quality tools. We can't provide safe, effective and ethical care while using worn out instruments. That is why I am passionate about educating and empowering dental hygienist to approach the decision makers and order instruments on an annual basis.

So, let's use LM-Dental as an example to set up what an annual budget could look like. You can use this concept no matter what instrument brand you purchase. Curion is the Canadian Distributor for LM-Dental and is offering a show special. 20% off instruments (With the Ergosense Handles) and with every 5 purchased, you will receive an LM ErgoSense mirror handle and a Servo 8 Cassette!

So, let's say you were purchasing 8 kits with 5 instruments (regular scalers and curettes). That is 40 instruments for $80. That is $3200 for the year. Divide that by how many weeks you work in the year. In this case, I am going to say 52 weeks as I will assume a temp is in while I am away. Then divide by how many patients per week. In this case I am going to say 35. Essentially your instruments are costing $1.75 per patient.

When you have this information, you can use this when putting together your proposed instrumentation budget. And if you get the green light to go ahead, you will only need to do this once and ensure that you now have an annual budget.

Think about the size of the blades and the use that they are going through, each and every day, and on every patient. Assuming you should get 2-3 years is not best practice. If you use the instruments that you need to sharpen, chances are they are being sharpened by a variety of people, edges are becoming bevelled, and they are being used beyond the intended use.

I have been in the dental instrument business for a very long time. I have owned my own instrument company and my own line. We were in 10 dental hygiene schools across the country and have helped thousands of offices with their instrument needs. I did sell that company but along the way I have seen what is out there. It is time to not compromise. Not for one patient. As one patient will turn into one week, one month, and one year, etc. Think of your patient's health and the experience that they receive when worn-out dull instruments are used on them. We do so much to attract new patients to our practice. We spend money on advertising and do everything we can to create a great experience and then we can wreck all that by not investing $1.75 per patient. We also know the havoc worn instruments play on our health as well!

I have lots to add to this conversation!

I hope this empowers some of you who can relate to this. I have included the Instrument Worksheet and Proposal that you can use to create your case and be prepared so that you can arrange a meeting and have this discussion with the decision makers.

For those of you who are from a different country outside of Canada, you can visit the LM-Dental website to find out who your distributor is.

I am holding an online Sharpen Your Skills workshop on Friday, March 22 from 11am - 2pm EST so our western members can join in. I would love for you to join me. You will learn how to sharpen instruments and I will introduce you to some Sharpen-Free ones as well. I will share tips on how to get the instruments in your practice and will cover the worksheet and proposal found below (as a download).

For those of you who are a part of the All Access Virtual Pass, we are including this in your pass and a separate email will be sent to you for registration. You will just need to purchase the sharpening kit (if you wish).

Thank you for your support and for reading! Please take a look below for upcoming live streaming courses, events, hands-on courses, career postings and our partner specials.

Have a great week!

Kathleen

Kathleen Bokrossy, RDH ~ President

Working in the Field of Orthodontics
March 5, 2024 at 5:00 AM
by Kathleen Bokrossy

Has working in the field of orthodontics been on your radar but you haven't taken the leap to dive in and learn more?

We have heard this often and have received numerous requests over the years to offer an Ortho program through rdhu, so guess what? We now offer a variety of ortho programs here at rdhu!

Our new Ortho page is now available on our website. If you haven't checked it out, please click here to see all that is offered in our Ortho programs.

What can happen if you delve into the field of Orthodontics?

As dental hygienists, we have so many opportunities to explore. We often see in the Facebook groups dental hygienists feeling like they want something different. Then the group jumps in and will often guide them to different jobs or professions and advise that perhaps it is time for a change. If you love our field, why jump ship and go to a different profession altogether when there are so many opportunities for us to explore as dental hygienists?! Perhaps it is time to add a new skillset to the already amazing skills that you have mastered!

Becoming an orthodontic dental hygienist can open up new opportunities and provide a unique set of skills that can benefit both you as a professional and your patients.

1. Expanded Scope of Practice:

Expand your Scope of Practice and get equipped with specialized knowledge in orthodontics! Understanding the principles of tooth movement, orthodontic appliances, and treatment planning enables dental hygienists to actively contribute to comprehensive orthodontic care under the supervision of an orthodontist.

2. Enhanced Patient Care:

Learning about orthodontics allows us to better educate patients about the importance of orthodontic treatment for overall oral health. Being able to identify early preventative measures can be life changing for the patient and very rewarding for the dental hygienist.

3. Professional Development:

Continuing education is a cornerstone of professional growth. Delving into orthodontics provides us with an excellent opportunity for professional development. Courses and workshops focused on orthodontic procedures, technologies, and advancements will help you to stay current and expand your skill set. We are excited to offer a variety of ortho courses through rdhu! We are also creating a private group for those who have gone through our ortho program so that we can continue to collaborate as a group, seek help or advice when needed, and share job opportunities.

4. Collaboration and Teamwork:

Becoming an orthodontic dental hygienist fosters collaboration with orthodontists and other specialists. These are exciting times for collaboration with many focusing on airway dentistry and early detection. A collaborative approach ensures comprehensive patient care and encourages a more holistic view of dentistry!

5. Increased Job Opportunities:

There are so many opportunities for an orthodontic dental hygienist. We constantly see career postings. If you have the skills, you will be in demand.

6. Job Satisfaction:

The ability to be a part of a transformative change in a patient's smile, overall health and facial aesthetics can be highly rewarding. To add this skillset to your practice will elevate you as a professional and will give you the confidence on so many levels. Get ready to feel confident when you are doing an assessment, or educating, or documentating, and communicating with the dentist and team. There are so many treatment options available, it is so important to stay abreast so that we can be a part of that journey with our clients and patients.

Becoming an orthodontic dental hygienist is not just a career choice; it's a gateway to a dynamic and fulfilling professional journey. If it is something you are considering, perhaps you start with the Fundamentals of Ortho. Click here to see all that we offer through rdhu. Our next Orthodontic Fundamentals for the Dental Hygienist, with Liisa Moore, begins in April.

CE Hours: 12

Tuition: $649

2-Day Hands-On Course:

Dates: Saturday, April 13th & Sunday, April 14th, 2024

Time: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM EST

Click here for more info!

Thank you for your support and for reading! Please take a look below for upcoming live streaming courses, events, hands-on courses, career postings and our partner specials.

Have a great week!

Kathleen

Kathleen Bokrossy, RDH ~ President

Exciting Times For Dental Hygienists
February 27, 2024 at 5:00 AM
by Kathleen Bokrossy

These are exciting times for dental hygienists on many levels. For this blog, I would like to focus on the opportunities that we have as far as workplace options go.

I was asked to speak with a group of dental hygiene students, for their business class, who are in their final semester of school. This will be coming up next month and I look forward to the discussion. The instructor mentioned that many are looking at the Independent option since the Self-Initiation has been rescinded by the CDHO. It opens the door to independent practice and can also assist us in providing the under-served communities.

Initially, I thought, new grads should all be working in a general practice out of the gate to get that experience; however, is this me being close-minded? I am not sure. Just because it was the way I did it and I am sure many of you did, does that mean that it is the way of the future? It is time for change, embrace new thinking, and new opportunities.

Another option that we hear so much about these days, is the dental hygienist leaving employment and becoming a Temp so that he or she is in charge of what days they would like to work and not work.

Collab Dentistry is another great opportunity and a new concept where it connects dental hygienists with available operatories. This is for the dental hygienist who wishes to work independently but without the financial burden of starting up their own brick and mortar business. It also gives the opportunity for dental hygienists, who may be from a different city and would like to head back to that city from time to time, to use as an opportunity to work on friends and family. The possibilities are endless, really.

For some, working full-time in one office may be a great option. There is something great about being with a team full-time and giving it your all to help grow a practice and treat this practice like it's your own! I consider this type of dental hygienist an "intrepreneur" rather than an "entrepreneur". When I was working full-time in many practices, I always treated it like I was an intrepreneur. I always really cared about the success of the practice, looking for processes to put in place to help with costs and growth of the practice. It is about treating it like it's your own business, but essentially, you are an employee, not the owner. Some may read this and think that their voice doesn't matter and they can't implement any change in their practice and if that is your case, you should arrange a meeting and have your voice heard. Share the things you would like to implement and have a plan. Share that you are all in and play full out! And then, if you are working in a practice where you still feel you are not being heard, if you are unhappy, there are so many options for you. We spend 1/3 of our life working, you better believe you better be happy! Now is the time for you to explore all the options that are available to us.

In every On-Track Tuesday, we offer career postings and practices that are looking for great dental hygienists to join their team. Other companies also share when they are looking for sales reps, etc. The career postings are found at the bottom of the On-Track Tuesday emails and links to a designated page on our website as well. Always feel free to reach out to us when you are looking for that perfect someone to join your team. We are happy to share with our members. Please email pearl@rdhu.ca for any employment posts.

Over the weekend our friends at the dental clinic, from Etobicoke, ON, reached out as they wanted us to share that they are looking for a full-time RDH. I just loved the positive culture that is shared. It made me want to join their team! :) They are looking for an awesome dental hygienist to join their already awesome team! "If you are passionate about what you do, extremely gifted with people skills and would like to be a part of close knit team, we want to meet you!" Pretty compelling, right? I thought so! If you are interested in a full-time position with a team, where they have a 'putting their people first' culture, you may want to reach out to them! Email @: practicemanagertdc@gmail.com I have attached the image from their post below so you can either apply if you are interested, or see a very positive post that perhaps you could use to help you attract a RDH to your practice when hiring! There are still many great practices out there. You just need to find the one that fits you. Click here for more career postings, events and courses coming up!

Thank you for your support and for reading! Please take a look below for upcoming live streaming courses, events, hands-on courses, career postings and our partner specials.

Have a great week!

Kathleen

Kathleen Bokrossy, RDH ~ President

Pacific Dental Conference
February 20, 2024 at 5:00 AM
by Kathleen Bokrossy

The Pacific Dental Conference is fast approaching! Will you be attending this year?

You will find myself, and Beth Parkes, at the Curion booth. If you will be there, please be sure to come by the booth to say Hello! If you have been wanting to try the ergonomic instruments, LM-Dental, this is your chance to try the instruments at the Curion booth!

As you know, with every conference brings GREAT savings as well! So, whether you will be attending the PDC in person or not, you can take advantage of the conference specials!

Save 20% on all ErgoSense Instruments! They come in Sharpen-Free and Stainless Steel! To sharpen or not to sharpen? That is the only question! Also, with every 5 instruments purchased, you will receive a FREE ErgoSense mirror handle. Take care of YOU and invest in YOURSELF!

Beth will also be presenting with Dani Botbyl on the Thursday morning, Anna Louise Tolan, Jo-Anne Jones and Dr. Sanj Mohanta will all be presenting as well! Click here to learn more about their sessions! You will find Kerry Lepicek at the BioGaia booth! If you are looking to learn more about Dental Probiotics, be sure to stop by and see Kerry! I am sure there will be plenty of samples available for you as well!

I just love the PDC! We hope to see you there :)

Thank you for your support and for reading! Please take a look below for upcoming live streaming courses, events, hands-on courses, career postings and our partner specials.

Have a great week!

Kathleen

Kathleen Bokrossy, RDH ~ President

Turning Knowledge into Action: A Guide to Implementing What You've Learned from a Course or Program!
February 13, 2024 at 5:00 AM
by Kathleen Bokrossy

We all know the scenario... You just completed a course, or program, gaining valuable insights and knowledge and leave the program feeling excited and ready to take on the world! However, when you return to practice you are facing reality and the office is running at status quo. You get super busy dealing with the every day busy'ness' of the practice and before you know it, you're back at home, flaked out on the couch, feeling a little defeated. The next day it's the same thing.

So, how can we make change happen in our practice? How can we take our new acquired knowledge and turn it into action?

Here are some things that may help you:

The First Step: Reflect on Your Learning

Before diving into implementation, take some time to reflect on what you've learned. Consider the key concepts, skills, and practical applications. Identify the areas where you feel most confident and those that may require further exploration. This reflection will serve as a foundation for crafting a strategic plan.

Second Step: Set Clear Goals for the Program

Define specific and achievable goals based on what you've learned. Break down larger objectives into smaller, manageable tasks. Establishing clear goals will provide direction and motivation, making it easier to track the progress. Whether it's applying new skills, starting a project, or pursuing further studies, having concrete goals will keep you focused.

Third Step: Create an Actionable Plan

Develop a detailed plan outlining the steps you need to take to achieve your goals. Consider timelines, resources, and potential challenges. Break down the implementation process into smaller tasks, making it easier to tackle one step at a time. A well-thought-out plan will serve as a roadmap, guiding you through the practical application of your newfound knowledge!

Fourth Step: Collect Your Data

Take a look at your current practice and analyze all the things associated with where you are at in your practice. Document the status quo of the practice including the pros and cons with respect to your practice as a team as well as your patients.

Fifth Step: Present your Proposal

Arrange for a meeting with the decision makers of your practice and your team. When proposing a new program or a plan that you wish to implement, be strategic about it. Don't propose it 'on-the-fly' as you are passing someone's office. Set up a meeting, go in prepared and present your material. In this presentation you will also share who will sustain the program and how.

Sixth Step: Apply the Knowledge/Plan Consistently

Consistency is key when implementing a new program. Integrate the new concepts or skills into your daily routine or work processes. The more consistently you apply this new knowledge, the more it becomes ingrained in not only your thinking and behaviour but also your team as a whole. This steady integration will enhance proficiency over time!

Seventh Step: Track your Progress

When applying something new in your practice, track on a daily basis. Look at the day ahead the night before or morning of and also, look at the day behind and track the progress. As an example, perhaps you are implementing lasers into your practice. Take a look at your day ahead and select 2 patients that day who you feel would greatly benefit from being treated with lasers. Add this to your Daily Planner and then at the end of the day, use the Tracking Sheet to check off to confirm that you treated 2 patients that day with lasers. You could even track the production next to the check mark to show the impact it has on your day so that you can share this later with your team.

Eighth Step: Seek Feedback and Adjust

Don't be afraid to seek feedback and adjust when needed. Keep the team informed of how this new program is working. The worst thing to do is not keep the team up to date and leave them wondering what is happening. Track your progress and adjust when needed. Share this with your team. If we don't track, we can't progress. Track so you know if you are successful! Keep a record of your progress, challenges, and achievements. Tracking your journey not only helps you celebrate milestones but also serves as a valuable resource for future reference or showcasing your accomplishments to assist in the transformation.

Implementing what you've learned from a course or program requires deliberate effort and commitment, but the rewards are well worth it. This is where true Transformation will happen! By reflecting on your learning, setting clear goals, creating an actionable plan, applying knowledge consistently, seeking feedback, making adjustments when needed and tracking your progress, you'll transform theoretical knowledge into practical skills and experiences which will ultimately enhance your practice and patient care.

I have added the Daily Planner and Tracking Worksheet below as a Download. Please feel free to use in your practice. If you ever have any questions or would like to brainstorm with me, feel free to contact me :)

Thank you for your support and for reading! Please take a look below for upcoming live streaming courses, events, hands-on courses, career postings and our partner specials.

Have a great week!

Kathleen

Kathleen Bokrossy, RDH ~ President

Daily Planner

Tracking Worksheet

LM-Dental Midnight Sun Key Opinion Leaders 
February 6, 2024 at 5:00 AM
by Kathleen Bokrossy

As many of you know, Beth Parkes and myself were invited to the LM-Dental Instruments Facility in Finland last June, along with 13 other dental professionals from around the world.

It was truly a Dream Come True Experience for me, as I had this on my Bucket List. To visit the LM-Dental Facility in Finland (check box insert here!).

The LM group, who spent their time with us, were amazing people. They were such gentlemen, and the women were so kind. It was amazing from the beginning, right to the end, with respect to how we were greeted, the accommodations, the saunas, the swimming in the Baltic Sea, the serenading, the food, the scenery, the islands we visited and the workshops. To be surrounded by such an insightful group of educators and experienced clinicians was a privilege. We all shared our experiences with each other and I knew once we returned back to Canada, that we would want to share these people with our members.

So, with that said, here I am sharing some of the things that we have planned for you this year with the LM-Dental Key Opinion Leaders Group!

1. The RDH View: If you missed The RDH View on Friday, it was a great show! We had our good friends Cat Edney and Nina Farmer, who are from England, and Lauren Long, who is from Scotland, as our guests. They are all Dental Therapists, which includes Dental Hygiene under this designation. We spent an hour discussing Dental Hygiene and Dental Therapy in the UK. They are all trained, and it is in their Scope of Practice, to not only fill teeth, but also drill teeth. They shared some of their beautiful work with us. Nina specializes in nutrition and had some really great slides to share as well. If you missed it and would like to watch, we would be happy to upload this into your portal for you. If you don't have a portal with us, we would be happy to give you one! Just email info@rdhu.ca and we will set you up. You will also receive a 1-hour Certificate.

2. Dr. Joy Void-Holmes, from the United States: Dr. Joy was in Finland with us and we were so fortunate to spend some one-on-one time with her riding our bikes through Oros Islands and in the workshops. We have invited Dr. Joy to rdhu in Burlington, Ontario for a one-day mini conference! We have 3 sponsors who will be represented that day as well. There are two days to choose from. Saturday, April 6th or Sunday, April 7th. Click here to register. We are keeping this event intimate, and boutique style, so that you can experience the one-on-one time to help elevate your instrumentation skills. It doesn't matter what your skillset is like, we are 100% positive that you will come away with some new, refreshed techniques and treatments, to implement into your practice.

3. The 2024 Dental Hygiene Quarterly LM-Dental KOL (Key Opinion Leaders) Midnight Sun Series: This series is called Midnight Sun because when we were in Finland, we did not have any darkness. That is pretty cool, right? See the pictures below. This is myself, Beth, Cat, Lauren and Nina all sitting on the dock at midnight in Oros Isles, Finland. The other one with just Beth and I was taken at 10pm! We are thrilled to announce that this whole year, we will highlight some of the people we met while in Finland!

  • Cat Edney (from England) on Digital Scanning for Examinations and Communication.
  • Nina Farmer (from England) on Nutrition and Your Patients.
  • Lauren Long (from Scotland) on Digital Opportunities in the Hygiene Op.
  • Dr. Joy Void-Holmes (from the United States) on Instrumentation.
  • India Chance (from the United States) will present on two topics: Medical Emergencies and Abuse Awareness.
  • Ryan Ruter (from the United States) will present on two topics: Managing Anxiety within Ourselves and our Patients and Cultural Humility of LGBTQ patients.
  • Carmen Lonaway (from Germany who is also Canadian) on Implementing a Perio Protocol.
  • and Tatiana Brandt (from Copenhagen), on Oral Health of Chronic Kidney Patients.

This is the group that we have lined up for the Dental Hygiene Quarterly. We hope that you will sign up to be a part of this.

The Dental Hygiene Quarterly is approximately 12 hours per year. This year it will be more, approximately 14 hours. It is part of the membership benefit with the Canadian Dental Hygienist's Association as well, so if you are a member, it will be $169 for this series and if you are not a member, it will be $219 (CAD). We hope you join us with this series. Be sure to either select One Year ONLY or as a SUBSCRIPTION that Automatically Renews. The choice is YOURS! One Year or Subscription.

Thank you and we shall see you on the other side :)

Thank you for your support and for reading! Please take a look below for upcoming live streaming courses, events, hands-on courses, career postings and our partner specials.

Have a great week!

Kathleen

Kathleen Bokrossy, RDH ~ President

The Life of an Instrument
January 31, 2024 at 5:00 AM
by Kathleen Bokrossy

Many of our members reached out after last week's On-Track Tuesday blog letting me know that they liked and appreciated the reminders of how they can get new instruments in their practice. I will keep the Instrumentation Proposal Worksheet, that was included in last week, and add a new instrumentation worksheet to this week as well (see below for downloads).

Many were asking what a reasonable life of an instrument should be. How long should an instrument last?

I get asked this question often and there are many things to consider!

1. How many kits are you working with? If you only have 5 kits per op and are seeing 8 clients/patients a day, you will wear through your instruments faster than if you had 8 kits to get you through the day.

2. How many instruments do you have in each kit? If you only have 2- 3 instruments, you will go through your instruments faster than if you had 5-8 in a kit, as an example.

3. Are you using ultrasonic instrumentation? If you are typically using ultrasonics 80% of the time and using your hand instruments 20% of the time, your instruments will last you longer than if you were solely relying on hand instrumentation.

4. What kind of calculus or deposits are you dealing with? If you have a clientele that presents with moderate to heavy deposits (and is it tenacious?) at every appointment, you are going to go through your instruments a lot faster than if you had a clientele that presents with less. I have worked in practices where a large percentage of our patients presented with moderate to heavy calculus, they were not using power brushes. Versus, I have worked in practices where the majority of our patients were on a power brush and would come in and get their new power brush heads every few months. They definitely presented with less! To me, it all starts here with respect to how long your instruments will or could last. How your patients present at their appointments will affect the longevity of your ultrasonic inserts and hand instruments.

5. Are you following the MIFU for your instruments?

If you are using the Sharpen-Free instruments, you may find that they won't last as long as you are typically used to. This is because many dental hygienists are generally using instruments beyond the life expectancy of the instrument.

Some comp