6. When to Fire a Hygienist: Building a Team That Fits Your Practice Culture

The Dentists Show | Advice for Dentists

In this episode, we’re tackling a tough but necessary topic: when (and how) to fire a hygienist. Let’s be clear—hygienists are the backbone of our practices, and we’re lucky to work with some truly incredible ones. But every now and then, a bad apple sneaks in, and it becomes clear they’re just not the right fit for the team.

We get into what makes a great hygienist (hint: humility, teamwork, and patient care are at the top of the list), and we share some real-life examples of when things didn’t work out. From hygienists who refuse to clean their own instruments to those who clash with the team culture, we’re breaking down how to identify red flags and when it’s time to let someone move on.

But this isn’t just about saying goodbye—it’s about building an amazing team that aligns with your practice’s values and vision. We also share tips for hiring hygienists who will thrive in your office and how to create an environment where they can grow and succeed.

👉 Hit play now to hear our full conversation, and don’t forget to check out the free PDF download of our 8 Lessons for Growing a $20M Practice!

Share your thoughts or your own team-building stories in the comments below! Visit www.thedentistsshow.com for more insights and resources.

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Episode Minute By Minute:

• 00:00 Welcome to The Dentists Show!
• 01:00 Why this topic matters: Firing vs. letting go.
• 02:30 What makes a great hygienist? Key traits to look for.
• 07:00 Red flags: When a hygienist doesn’t fit your culture.
• 12:00 Building rapport with patients: A must-have skill.
• 15:00 Prepping patients for the dentist—how top hygienists do it.
• 18:00 Real stories: The ones we’ve had to let go.
• 22:00 Why letting someone go can save your team culture.
• 25:00 Tips for hiring hygienists who align with your vision.