Question: Hi! New grad here with a question. I was let go from my first dental hygiene job. The doctor said the reason for my dismissal was due to my inadequate calculus removal. One doctor would check every patient and point out missed spots, while another wouldn’t find anything or offer much input. I felt like I was getting conflicting feedback, and it really affected my confidence. What can I do to rebuild my skills and self-esteem?
Answer from Kimberly Augustus, BA, RDH: First, let me say that I completely understand how you’re feeling—I’ve been there. In my first job, I had a boss who checked every single one of my patients, meticulously blowing air and inspecting for any missed calculus. It was extremely nerve wracking. When he came into the room my anxiety was through the roof because unfortunately, he wasn’t shy about showing his frustration if I missed something. I remember feeling like a failure every time I saw him pick up a scaler to finish what I had started. But here’s the thing: was the patient in danger from a tiny piece of missed calculus? Absolutely not.
Looking back, I wish I hadn’t felt that level of stress. But I will say that this experience significantly improved my instrumentation skills. Over time, I became much more thorough, not because I had gained confidence, but because I was driven by fear. That’s not the ideal way to learn. Frankly, it’s unfair that you were let go because of something that should be worked on through mentorship and support. But maybe this was a blessing in disguise and a better office awaits you.
When we graduate from hygiene school, we’ve only seen a limited number of patients. It takes time and practice to truly refine our skills, and that’s OK. It’s unfortunate that you weren’t given the opportunity for remediation, because this is something every new grad faces. Calculus removal is something that improves with time, guidance, and practice.
Tips to help you in your next role
Use air to check your work: At the end of every appointment, I blow air on each tooth to help spot any missed calculus. The air helps distinguish areas I need to go back to, especially on the lower anteriors!
Floss to feel for calculus: I always use floss to check interproximal surfaces. If I feel any jumps or resistance, I go back and scale those areas. It’s a great way to double check your work.
Remember that nobody is perfect, though we all want to be: Keep in mind that you’re not expected to get every piece of calculus every time. And guess what? Doctors don’t perform perfect restorations right out of school. We’re all human, and we can do our best only with the time we’re given. It’s easy to fall into the trap of feeling inadequate, but remember that perfection isn’t the goal—progress is.
Find a mentor: One of the most helpful things you can do is find a mentor, someone who can offer feedback without the pressure of judgment. I remember when my office hired a consultant, and for the first time I felt like I was truly being taught how to be a hygienist post-academia. A mentor can guide you through challenging situations and help you build your confidence and skills as you navigate your new job. They can be the supportive figure who encourages you rather than the one who highlights your every misstep.
Finally, give yourself grace: Remember, every challenge you face is an opportunity to grow stronger roots in your career. Embrace each experience, learn from it, and allow yourself to blossom into the confident, capable hygienist you’re meant to be. Keep going! You’ve got this!
