Think of a professional chef like Gordon Ramsay. A true professional sharpens their knives before the first ingredient is chopped, during preparation, and even after the meal is complete. Their tools are always in optimal condition — no dull, beveled edges in their kitchen. They sharpen every. single. time.
Why? Because they understand that their craft depends on the quality and precision of their tools. They are Masters of their Craft!
As dental hygienists, we are no different.
Every day, we rely on the instruments in our hands to deliver exceptional care. These tools aren’t just “supplies” — they are an extension of our skill, our precision, and our professional excellence.
We need to ensure they’re in optimal condition and that we have enough instruments on the tray to perform at our best. Every instrument has a purpose. Every handle and tip plays a role in how we feel, how we work, and ultimately, how we care for our patients.
And it’s not just your dominant hand that matters.
Take a look at the mirror handle in your non-dominant hand. If it’s heavy or thin, think about the strain you’re placing on your hand over time. If you work full time, that could mean nearly 2,000 hours a year of repetitive stress. We owe it to ourselves to make sure our tools work for us — not against us.
Have you ever considered how old your probe or explorer is? Once an explorer tip is worn down just a couple of millimetres, it’s no longer doing its job. And we should be using that explorer before, during, and after debridement or SRP — because that’s where you gather the most valuable information.
And yes, what’s on your tray matters — but so does what’s in your hand.
That’s exactly why I created The LM Challenge.
I want you to Feel the Difference for yourself.
The LM Challenge is a 6-week hands-on experience beginning Friday, October 31. I’ll be your guide throughout the challenge, supporting you every step of the way.
Here’s what to expect:
Kick-off Meeting (online): I’ll review different types of instruments and help you build your ideal kit based on your needs and practice environment.
Mid-Challenge Check-In: After using your kit for a few weeks, we’ll meet again to reflect on what you’re noticing — how your instruments feel in your hands, how your workflow shifts, and what changes you may already be experiencing.
Final Session: We’ll look at what’s next — creating an instrumentation budget (if you don’t already have one) and exploring strategies to advocate for what you need in your practice, especially if that’s been a challenge in the past.
All you need to purchase is one fabulous kit at a major discounted price (approximately $400), thanks to the incredible support of Curion and LM Dental for this pilot program.
I know this will be an eye-opening experience for everyone who participates.
For those maintaining a learning portfolio, we’ll also look at how to document this experience as part of your professional development and reflection.
Inside the LM Challenge Kit, you’ll receive:
Bonus Option: If you would like, you will also have the opportunity to add a second cassette dedicated to your diagnostic instruments. This allows you to expand your kit to 8 scalers and curettes for even greater versatility.
The total investment is approximately $400 CAD for the initial kit (and a little less if you choose the stainless steel option rather than sharpen-free).
LM Instruments are created in Finland, known for their excellence, precision, and innovation. Robotic manufacturing eliminates human error. The tapered silicone handles reduce fatigue and the risk of carpal tunnel, while the alloy core heightens tactile sensitivity.
There truly is no other line like this.
So this week, take a good, honest look at the instruments you’re using.
Are they supporting your hands — your career — your excellence?
- Don’t compromise.
- Put yourself first.
- Your future self will thank you.
Join me for The LM Challenge and Feel the Difference for yourself. We only have a few spots available and it starts next week!
Warmly,
Kathleen
Kathleen Bokrossy, RDH, BSc ~ Founder | President
