10/09/2026
Blandina- Dental Hygienist & Dental Therapist. Mentor and Coach.
What I wish I knew as a newly qualified Dental Hygienist! 🦷
When I first qualified, I thought the hardest part was passing my exams. Little did I know that stepping into the real world would come with a whole new learning curve! 😅
Here are a few things I wish someone had told me sooner:
🦷You don’t have to know everything.
Being newly qualified means you’re still learning. Dont be afraid to ask questions, seek advice, lean on experienced colleagues.
🦷Confidence comes with experience.
You might feel nervous walking into your first few appointments, but trust your training. You habe the necessary knowledge to treat your patients. Your confidence will grow with every patient.
🦷Every patient is different.
What works beautifully for one patient may not work for another. Learn to adapt your communication, education and approach.
🦷Your appointment time matters. At University you are given a lot of time, when you start working, you may habr anything from 20 min to 45 min for an appointment. Initially this can be challenging, but will get better with time. Learn how to manage your time without rushing your patients. It’s a skill that gets easier with practice!
🦷Don’t compare your journey to someone else’s.
Some people find their feet immediately, while others take a little longer. Both are completely normal. 🤍
🦷 A lot of patients are nervous and anxious of treatment. Its important not to take some comments personally like, " I hate Hygienists, I hate being here..." they may make these comments out of fear. Its important to remain calm, compassionate and reassuring to make them feel comfortable.
🦷Your qualification is the beginning, not the end. Courses, CPD, colleagues and everyday clinical experience will continue to shape you.
And most importantly… give yourself grace. 🫶🏽
One day, you’ll look back at the things that scared you as a newly qualified hygienist and realise just how far you’ve come!
If you are newly qualified and would like to join a supportive community click the link in Bio!
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