This morning, I was at the hair salon, and while I was there, I couldn’t help but reflect on how much the experience impacted me—not the haircut itself, but everything that surrounded it. As I sat in the chair, I found myself drawing powerful parallels to our work in dental hygiene—not to compare roles, but to reflect on how everyday interactions can influence how someone feels in our care.

Here are a few takeaways I thought might resonate with you:

1. Environment Sets the Tone
While I was getting my hair washed and sitting with a treatment, the TV kept looping negative news stories:

- A bear attack
- Missing children in Nova Scotia
- The Ukraine/Russia prisoner exchange
- A deadly drone strike
- A sunken boat with people missing

And the only "good news"? The Leafs beat the Panthers 5–4 last night!

I could feel the tension rising in my chest and throat. It reminded me just how important a calming environment is—especially in clinical settings where patients may already feel anxious or overwhelmed. Consider something soothing like a fish tank video, nature channel, or instrumental music in your reception area. A simple switch can shift the whole emotional atmosphere.

2. Confidence Builds Trust
While I sat nearby, a stylist was preparing a client for her wash. The salon owner walked over and said, “We’re going to use the new Densify treatment today.”
The client replied, “OK, I think you mentioned that last time.”

He said it with confidence—like a trusted expert guiding her care. That moment reminded me of the many dental hygienists I speak with who hesitate when recommending new or unfamiliar treatments like lasers, disclosing every time, or Airflow.

Imagine saying:
“Mrs. Jones, I’m going to use the laser today. You still have inflammation in the upper right. Let’s give it a try and re-evaluate in three months.”
She’ll likely reply, “Yes, I remember you mentioned that last time.”

Mentioning future treatments builds familiarity. Saying it with calm confidence reinforces your role as a trusted health professional.

3. Modern Tools, Proudly Used
Anthony, my stylist, pulled out a sleek new blow dryer—the Chi Alpha. It was so light! Only 9 ounces. “It took a vacuum company to solve our blow dryer problem,” he laughed.
Can you imagine years of stylists using heavy dryers all day long? What a game changer this is for their ergonomics.

I admired how openly they shared their tool upgrades. He was proud of their investment in ergonomic technology. It made me think of the ergonomic loupes, Woodpecker PT-B, and LM sharpen-free instruments many of us are incorporating into our work.

This is where our modern-day tools shine—like the Stimmie, the reimagined rubber tip stimulator.

"Mrs. Jones, I’m going to disclose today to identify the areas where plaque and biofilm are being left behind. Let me show you this easy-to-use, ergonomic device. It’s designed to clean along the gumline—on both the inside and outside surfaces—and it’s especially helpful after meals when something gets stuck between your teeth."

Having a small Stimmie Station for purchase? That’s patient-centred care in action.

4. Dull Tools Don’t Deliver
We chatted about his scissor set. “How often do you sharpen?” I asked.
“Regularly,” he replied. “Can’t cut hair with dull scissors.”

I nodded, thinking: And we can’t perform optimal clinical care with dull instruments either.

After nearly 30 years in the dental instrument field, I’ve seen firsthand what many hygienists are working with—often not by choice, but due to budget constraints or limited access. Not everyone, of course, but a significant number are compromising with sub-par instruments or worn ultrasonic inserts.

We deserve better—and so do our clients.

5. The Power of Personal Check-Ins
Throughout my visit, Anthony, the hair washer and the colourist checked in:
“How are you doing, Kathleen?”
“Still good?”

"Is the water too hot, Kathleen?"
“Great job keeping your chin down, Kathleen!”

Those small moments of connection made me feel cared for.

How often are we doing the same for our clients? Using their name? Checking in regularly during the appointment? These simple touches deepen the relationship and enhance the experience.

6. Recommendation + Convenience = Loyalty
Last visit, they recommended a texture spray that I purchased. I was ready to buy it again. At first, they thought they were out—but someone checked in the back, and thankfully, they found one. Had they not, I honestly would’ve been disappointed. With ODA this week and my 3-week trip to the UK and Vienna (including EuroPerio!), I wouldn’t have time to hunt it down nor do I want to!

If we’re recommending products—whether it's oral care tools, rinses, or brushes—let’s make sure they’re available in-office. Clients appreciate convenience, especially when it aligns with your professional guidance.

So here's the takeaway:
This isn’t about comparing professions—it’s about observing what works in real-life service experiences and applying that lens to our professional environment.

As dental hygienists, we are highly trained, educated healthcare professionals. And yet, it’s often the little things—how we greet our clients, the tools we use, the confidence we exude—that define the experience and set us apart.

Let’s take inspiration from the world around us and continue to lead with purpose, professionalism, and presence.

Wishing you a great week ahead! I hope to see you at ODA! I will be with my friends at the Curion booth.  Stay tuned for an ODA email from us :)

Warmly,

Kathleen

Kathleen Bokrossy, RDH, BSc ~ Founder | President

P.S.

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. You will also find easy access to your Payment Centre and your Personal Portal!