Being a temp dental hygienist can be an extremely rewarding experience, offering you flexibility and the opportunity to work in a variety of different dental settings. However, it can also come with its own set of challenges. Whether you’re new to temping or just looking to improve your experience, here are a few dos and dont’s to keep in mind.
Dos as a Temp Dental Hygienist
- Be Professional: Treat every shift as if it were your permanent job. Be sure to arrive on time, dress appropriately, and maintain a professional and positive attitude.
- Communicate: Be clear when communicating with the office staff. Confirm the patient schedule for the day, ask questions if needed, and keep them informed of any barriers or changes.
- Be Adaptable: Every office you temp at will have its own way of doing things. Be adaptable and willing to learn new systems and protocols.
- Network: Being a temp is a great way to grow your professional network. Introduce yourself to other dental professionals and office staff and leave a great impression.
- Stay Positive: Temping can be challenging, especially in unfamiliar environments. Focus on staying positive and providing the best care possible to your patients.
Don’ts as a Temp Dental Hygienist
- Avoid Overstepping: While it’s important to be proactive as a dental professional, avoid overstepping boundaries. It’s pivotal to respect the office’s policies, protocols, and chain of command.
- Don’t Assume: Don’t assume that every office operates the exact same way. Take a few minutes at the beginning of your temp dental shift to familiarize yourself with the office’s procedures and standards.
- Don’t Complain: Every office has its quirks, but complaining about small concerns isn’t likely to leave a good impression. Instead, offer constructive feedback if needed. And, of course, if there is a major issue, reach out to the GoTu customer service department at 786.460.2170.
- Don’t Burn Bridges: Treat every temp shift as a potential long-term opportunity. Even if you don’t like working at a certain office, keep the interactions professional.
- Don’t Neglect Continuing Education: Stay up to date with the latest trends and developments in dental hygiene. Continuing education courses for dental hygienists can help you stand out as a temp dental hygienist.
Temping as a dental hygienist can be a fulfilling and flexible career choice. By following these dos and dont’s, you can make the most of your temping experience and build a successful career in dental hygiene.
