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Hygiene Morning Setup

Daily setup tasks for the hygiene department before the first patient.

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6 steps · about 27 minutes · published by Dental Document

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The steps

01

Set up hygiene operatory with instruments and supplies

Prepare the hygiene room with all necessary instruments, prophy paste, fluoride, and patient education materials.

5 min Required
Why this matters

Having a fully stocked operatory prevents delays between patients and ensures consistent care quality.

How to do it

1. Check the schedule for the first patient's needs. 2. Lay out scaler, mirror, explorer, prophy angle. 3. Stock fluoride trays, prophy paste, floss. 4. Prepare patient education materials if needed.

02

Test ultrasonic scaler and ensure proper water flow

Power on the ultrasonic unit and verify tip vibration and water spray pattern.

3 min Required
Why this matters

A malfunctioning ultrasonic can cause incomplete scaling or patient discomfort. Testing prevents mid-procedure failures.

How to do it

1. Power on the ultrasonic unit. 2. Attach the appropriate insert/tip. 3. Activate and check vibration pattern. 4. Adjust water flow to a light mist.

03

Review patient charts for first 3 hygiene appointments

Check medical history updates, periodontal charting, radiograph needs, and treatment notes for upcoming patients.

10 min Required
Why this matters

Pre-reviewing charts catches contraindications, ensures radiographs are current, and prepares you for patient conversations.

How to do it

1. Open each patient's chart in the PMS. 2. Check last visit date and services performed. 3. Review medical history for changes or alerts. 4. Note any outstanding treatment recommendations.

04

Verify prophy jet / air polisher is operational

Check air polishing unit for proper powder flow and water mix.

2 min
Why this matters

Air polishing is essential for efficient biofilm removal. A malfunction mid-procedure wastes time.

How to do it

1. Check powder level. 2. Attach handpiece. 3. Test spray on a napkin. 4. Verify nozzle direction.

05

Confirm recall and recare appointments for next week

Review the recare list for patients due next week and ensure they are scheduled.

5 min
Why this matters

Proactive recall management keeps the hygiene schedule full and prevents patient attrition.

How to do it

1. Run the recare report for next week. 2. Identify unscheduled patients. 3. Flag for front desk to call.

06

Check intraoral camera and sensor charging status

Verify the intraoral camera battery level and X-ray sensor connection.

2 min
Why this matters

Dead batteries during an appointment cause delays and missed diagnostic opportunities.

How to do it

1. Check camera battery indicator. 2. Place on charger if low. 3. Verify sensor cable connection to computer.

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