✨ 5 things you can do to be a better hygienist in 2026 ✨

1. Check EVERY patient’s blood pressure

Yes, every patient. Prophys, perio maintenance, all of them.

Blood pressure is not just for when we’re giving local anesthetic. It is a hypertension screening, and this is one of the ways we truly save lives through prevention.

Heart disease is the number one killer in the United States, and we are in a powerful position to catch red flags early.

2. Perform oral cancer screenings at every appointment

Every patient, every visit. No excuses.

We are the providers who spend the most time with patients, and that matters. Oral cancer screenings are exactly that… screenings. Early detection saves lives.

3. Take continuing education seriously

Stop taking CE just to check a box.

Choose classes that genuinely excite you and elevate you as a provider. There are amazing free options out there, and sometimes paying for a high-quality course is absolutely worth it if it makes you more confident and clinically stronger.

4. Sharpen your instruments

Sharp instruments mean better ergonomics, better outcomes, and a much more gentle and efficient cleaning for your patients.

This is actually one of my personal goals for 2026: sharpen more often and get confident doing it.

5. Stay curious and keep asking questions

The moment we get comfortable is the moment we stop growing.

Dentistry is evolving, especially prevention, and hygienists are at the forefront of that change.

Just because something has been done the same way for 20 years does not mean it’s the best way. Question things. Learn more. Advocate for better.

Let’s raise the bar in 2026 💕