What To Do About the Dental Hygiene Legislative Changes
Mad about the proposed changes in Nevada to RDHs? You should be. I know I am. It definitely feels like a bit of a slap for our education, qualifications, and love of health and prevention. We know so much and are currently underutilized, and yet we are at the brink of having our careers and profession completely washed.
Here are some things to do to support both Nevada but dental hygienists in your own state.
Engage in Legislative Advocacy:
Contact Legislators: Reach out to your state representatives to express concerns about AB334 and its potential impact on dental hygiene standards.
Participate in Advocacy Events: Join events like your local oral health day at the Capitol to meet with lawmakers and advocate for the profession.
Collaborate with Professional Associations:
Join ADHA: We need collective voices as part of the ADHA. No matter how you feel about politics and the ADHA, joining is literally saving our profession.
Educate the Public and Peers:
Inform Patients: Discuss the importance of receiving care from licensed dental hygienists and the training involved in ensuring quality care.
Peer Discussions: Engage with colleagues to share information about legislative changes and encourage collective action.
Utilize Social Media and Online Platforms:
Raise Awareness: Use social media to highlight the role of dental hygienists and the potential risks of expanding duties to less-trained personnel.
Organize Online Campaigns: Coordinate with peers to create unified messages and campaigns that can reach a broader audience especially in our local communities outside of dentistry. Gone are the days where we can think we in dentistry are going to protect our own. Dentists will not protect our profession.
Support Continuing Education and Autonomy Advocacy:
Promote Advanced Training: Advocate for the importance of formal education and continuous professional development in dental hygiene.
Participate in Autonomy: This is the only next step for dental hygienists. Only being able to work in 1 setting, and that seting activity working to get rid of us isn’t sustaining dental hygienists careers and goals. Working to promote autonomy (which doesn’t only mean having an indepentant practice) is key for us.
By taking these steps, dental hygienists can actively contribute to preserving the integrity of their profession and ensuring that patient care remains safe and of high quality.
What are you doing TODAY to help?
xoxo Melia Lewis, MEd, RDH
Why Using the 2017 AAP Classification in Dental Matters
Can you believe that the “new” updated American Academy of Periodontology Classification System was introduced 8 years ago?! Even though it is almost a decade old, we still regularly get questions on how to use it, and even more common, why does it matter? What we were doing in the past has worked for years, so why change a simple thing like naming a disease?
Simply put, this system is more than a name change. Yes, you will be doing similar things, like looking at radiographs and periodontal pocket depths, but there is more involved. Understanding the new AAP Classification System (2017 update by the American Academy of Periodontology) is critically important for dental professionals for several reasons:
1. Accurate Diagnosis and Treatment Planning
The updated system provides clearer definitions for periodontal diseases, including gingivitis, periodontitis, and peri-implant diseases.
It introduces staging and grading, helping clinicians determine the severity, complexity, and rate of progression of periodontitis.
This allows for more personalized and effective treatment plans.
2. Improved Communication
The new classification standardizes terminology across the dental field, improving communication between:
General dentists and specialists (e.g., periodontists)
Dental professionals and patients
Dental teams and insurance companies
3. Risk Assessment
The grading component (A, B, C) emphasizes risk factors such as smoking and diabetes, which helps tailor preventive strategies and patient education.
It enables dental professionals to identify high-risk patients early and implement interventions to slow disease progression.
4. Documentation and Insurance Compliance
Proper use of the classification system supports:
Clear documentation in patient records
Justification of procedures for insurance claims
Compliance with legal and regulatory standards
5. Patient Education and Engagement
With a more comprehensive and visual way to explain disease severity and progression, patients can better understand:
Their diagnosis
The importance of treatment
Their role in disease management and prevention
6. Recognition of Peri-Implant Diseases
For the first time, the classification includes peri-implant mucositis and peri-implantitis, which is essential given the rise in dental implants.
This ensures proper diagnosis, monitoring, and maintenance of implant health.
The 2017 AAP classification system represents a shift toward precision, prevention, and patient-centered care. Understanding and applying it is essential for providing the highest standard of periodontal care in today’s dental practice.
Want to learn more about how to apply this system to your practice? Here are a few resources we have loved:
We’re having a lecture on it through CE Zoom on June 5th, 2025. We’d love for you to come!
A great course through Dentsply for free from one of members who helped create the system.
xoxo Melia Lewis, MEd, RDH
Why Sharp Instruments Matter: Better Calculus Removal, Patient Comfort & Clinician Health
If you've ever struggled to remove tenacious calculus or found yourself overworking during a hygiene visit, chances are your instruments weren’t sharp enough. In the world of dental hygiene, sharp instruments aren't just a preference—they're a necessity for effective, efficient, and comfortable care. Whether you're new to clinical practice or have been scaling for decades, prioritizing dental instrument sharpening is one of the best things you can do for your patients—and yourself.
The Key to Calculus Removal: Efficiency with Every Stroke
When instruments are sharp, calculus removal becomes significantly easier. Dull curettes and scalers require more pressure, more strokes, and more effort. This doesn’t just lead to inefficiency—it can also result in burnished calculus, which is harder to detect and remove, especially during periodontal therapy.
A sharp cutting edge engages the calculus immediately, allowing for clean, precise removal with fewer strokes. This means less time in the chair for your patient and more confidence for you as the clinician.
Better Patient Comfort Starts with Sharpness
By using instruments that glide easily and require minimal force, we’re able to provide more comfortable dental cleanings, particularly for patients with sensitive gingiva or periodontal concerns.
A sharp instrument = fewer strokes = happier patients. It's that simple.
Protecting the Clinician: Your Career Depends on Ergonomics
Let’s talk about something that doesn’t get discussed enough: your long-term health as a clinician. Dull instruments force hygienists to work harder, increase pinch force, apply more lateral pressure, and engage awkward angles—leading to repetitive strain injuries, wrist pain, and even burnout.
By keeping instruments sharp, you reduce the strain on your hands, wrists, shoulders, and back. Sharp tools make your instrumentation smoother, lighter, and more ergonomically sound. That’s critical if you want to practice comfortably and pain-free for years to come.
Sharpening Doesn’t Have to Be Overwhelming
If sharpening intimidates you or has been pushed to the back burner in your clinical routine, you're not alone. But here's the good news: sharpening your instruments doesn’t have to be time-consuming or complicated. With the right guides, stones, or sharpening tools (like the ones we review and demonstrate here on Hygiene Edge!), you can quickly bring your instruments back to their ideal cutting edge.
Set a routine. Sharpen a few instruments daily. Keep a test stick handy. And don’t forget to train your eye to recognize dullness before it becomes a clinical issue.
Final Thoughts
Sharp instruments aren’t a luxury—they’re essential for excellent dental hygiene care. They help us scale calculus efficiently, keep our patients more comfortable, and support our own health and longevity in this amazing profession. Take a few minutes each week to assess and sharpen your instruments—you’ll feel the difference in your hands, and your patients will feel it too.
Stay sharp (literally),
Melia Lewis, MEd, RDH
Co-Founder, Hygiene Edge
Tips for Successful Injections for the Dental Hygienist
The only thing more stressful than giving an injection, is giving it and it doesn’t work for you patient. Has this happened to you before? I definitely have. It isn’t fun to have something not so fun for a patient, like an injection, not take and have to redo the procedure for the patient. Here are some helpful tips to keep you as a dental hygienist in top shape as you give injections during your clinical day.
1. Know Your Anatomy Inside and Out
Review landmarks for each injection frequently (we have lots of helpful videos on this to review!)
Palpate before inserting the needle to confirm anatomy.
Be aware of anatomical variations that may affect success (e.g., high mandibular foramen, bifid nerves).
2. Practice Confident Patient Communication
Explain the procedure calmly and clearly, without alarming words.
Reassure patients by describing what to expect in neutral or positive terms ("You’ll feel a small pinch, then some pressure.").
Ask about previous anesthesia experiences and address fears proactively.
3. Positioning is Key
Position the patient so the injection site is at your elbow level for better ergonomics.
Have the patient open just enough—not excessively—for better access and comfort.
Ensure your own posture is stable to avoid unnecessary hand movement during injection.
4. Use a Gentle, Controlled Technique
Apply topical for at least 1 minute with pressure for deeper penetration.
Stretch the tissue to stabilize it and reduce discomfort.
Insert the needle slowly and steadily—don’t rush.
Aspirate to avoid intravascular injection, and always re-aspirate if repositioning.
5. Deliver the Anesthetic Slowly
Administer the anesthetic at a rate of about 1 mL/min or slower.
Slow delivery significantly reduces discomfort and post-injection soreness.
6. Choose the Right Anesthetic and Volume
Match anesthetic type and dose to the planned procedure (e.g., 4% articaine for short, profound anesthesia; 0.5% bupivacaine for longer procedures).
Consider patient medical history when selecting vasoconstrictors.
7. Confirm Anesthesia Onset
Test the area with a blunt instrument before beginning treatment.
Ask the patient if their lip, cheek, or tongue feels numb depending on the injection given.
8. Manage Anxious Patients Thoughtfully
Use distraction techniques (wiggling the lip, verbal cues, visualization).
Consider using topical anesthetics with pleasant flavors to improve patient comfort.
For needle-phobic patients, consider sedation referrals or alternative pain management if appropriate.
9. Be Ready for Failures and Have a Backup Plan
Know the alternate techniques for missed blocks (e.g., Gow-Gates or Vazirani-Akinosi if IA fails).
Be prepared to repeat or supplement injections if needed, but allow adequate onset time before assuming failure.
10. Reflect and Learn
If an injection was difficult or didn’t succeed, take time to reflect:
Was the needle placed correctly?
Was enough anesthetic delivered?
Was there an anatomical variation?
Use each experience to build clinical confidence and skill.
We know you can do it with a bit of reflection and practice! Happy injecting!
xoxo Melia Lewis, MEd, RDH
Essential Elements to Include in an Attention-Grabbing Dental Hygiene Resume for a Clinical Position with Doug Perry
When seeking a clinical dental hygiene job, your resume needs to do more than list your skills. It needs to reflect your expertise, passion, and value as a dental professional. Here’s a breakdown of the key elements to include in your dental hygiene resume to grab the attention of employers and land your ideal clinical job.
1. Start at the Top
The top section of your resume is the most valuable space because you have one shot to grab their attention and hold it. Studies on eye-tracking and readability show that readers naturally start at the top and prefer content that gently guides them into longer content. To maximize impact, use a larger font (24-36 pt) for your name, followed by a concise 6–8-word headline and a clear, one-sentence objective statement (12-13 pt) that smoothly leads into your professional summary.
Headline Example: “Compassionate and Friendly Nature with Team-Oriented Professionalism”
Sub headline Example: “Excited to Leverage Clinical Experience and Passion for the Highest Standard of Care to Join a Progressive Office with a Patient-First Focus.”
2. Begin to Build Trust
A strong Professional Summary (or About Me) section should be next up. This is your opportunity to briefly showcase who you are, or in other words, what they can expect if they hire you. Talk about your years of experience, specializations (e.g., pediatric, periodontal care), and your commitment to patient care. This section is a snapshot of what makes you different or unique.
Example:
“Confident and collaborative dental hygienist with over 5 years of expertise in providing exceptional care to patients of all ages. Especially skilled in periodontal therapy, patient education, and using advanced diagnostic tools. Known for building rapport with patients and contributing to a positive team environment.”
3. Licenses and Certifications
Obviously, your professional state licensure is a key qualification. But you may also have a few other things of value. Perhaps you have specialized laser therapy certifications or maybe you have been trained in myofunctional therapy or sleep apnea screening. Whatever you have, ensure you include it all– even your basics like CPR for healthcare provider certification.
4. Clinical Experience
Your clinical experience should be the focal point of your resume. Rather than list it repetitively under each dental hygiene job, give its own section and emphasis above your work history. This gives the reader a focal point and saves space. Emphasize how well you do things, not just that you do them. Remember, you are selling yourself and why you are different.
Example:
Efficient in conducting routine cleanings…
Meticulous at performing periodontal treatments…
Influential with patient communication and education…
5. Work History
Keep this section very basic if your career to this point has been mostly dental hygiene and you are seeking a dental hygiene job. You don’t need bullets under each job unless there are some things you want to point out that are truly unique about that job. Those might include production levels you achieved, recognition you received, or additional responsibilities beyond your clinical work that you took on.
Example: Dental Hygienist | ABC Dental, Quakertown, PA | 2020 - Present
6. Professional Development and Continuing Education
Dental hygiene is an ever-evolving field. Employers appreciate candidates who stay current with industry trends. Include any continuing education courses, workshops, or seminars you’ve attended. This demonstrates your commitment to growing your skills and staying at the forefront of dental care. I have worked with some clients who have pages and pages of CE that are addendums to their resume. Most of the time you wouldn’t need that. But you should include in your main resume things that are unusual or make you stand out above most. This would include week-long specialized trainings, among other things.
7. Last and Possibly Most Important
Give your resume a unique design scheme. Don’t settle for templates that get used and reused on the Internet. You don’t want to be like everyone else – marketing yourself means personal branding. This does the employer a favor because you are not going to appear like all the other resumes. So, use some font variations (size and treatments), make your resume modular with columns and sections, and add a touch of color.
Final Thoughts
A well-crafted, well-designed dental hygiene resume should clearly present your qualifications, experience, and commitment to patient care. But more importantly it’s your opportunity to tell the story of you – why you are different, special, and of interest to employers. Doing this will create a little bit of buzz around you and could be one of the key reasons you land your dream job.
To learn more about resumes, check out these other articles from Doug:
Doug Perry is an expert resume writer and job search coach. He and his wife, Tracie, who is a dental hygienist, created GetHiredRDH in response to the challenging dental hygiene job market and have helped thousands of dental hygienists through tips and individual services. This includes basic job searches and strategically transitioning into different fields (within dentistry and outside). If you need individual help, click here to contact Doug.
Dear RDH
Dear Fellow Clinical Dental Hygienist,
I know you’re busy caring for patients and working hard to make a difference in their oral and overall health. Plus, many of us are caregivers to our families, volunteer in our communities, head up a household, and more. It feels like a lot all at once. Lately, it seems like our profession is under attack—from legislative changes that impact our scope of practice to the devaluation of preventive care at the national level. It’s frustrating and, honestly, a little scary to think about where things could be heading if we don’t take action.
So, what can we do? A lot.
1. Advocate for Our Profession
We can’t afford to stay silent. Get involved with your state and national dental hygiene associations (like ADHA) and stay informed about legislative changes. Attend meetings, send emails to lawmakers, and support efforts to maintain and expand our scope of practice. We need to be at the table when decisions about our profession are being made—otherwise, they’ll be made without us. Honestly, working with professional organizations in my state has shown how things change quickly behind the scenes and being plugged in can hopefully help steer the discussion to not forget about dental hygienists.
2. Educate the Public
Many people still don’t know what we do or how important preventive dental care is. Use social media, community outreach programs, and even simple chairside conversations to educate patients on the role of dental hygienists and the importance of professional cleanings, oral cancer screenings, and disease prevention. If fluoride is being removed from water sources, we need to teach patients about alternative ways to protect their teeth. If access to care is being threatened, we need to help patients find the resources they need.
3. Support Expanded Roles for Dental Hygienists
Some states are allowing dental assistants to perform duties that have traditionally been ours, yet many states still don’t allow dental hygienists to practice to the full extent of our education and training. We need to push for laws that allow us to work independently, provide more preventive services, and reach underserved populations. If we don’t fight for our profession, someone else will step in and take over.
4. Mentor and Inspire the Next Generation
If we want to strengthen our profession, we need passionate, skilled hygienists entering the field. Mentor new grads, speak to students, and encourage leadership within our profession. The stronger we are as a community, the harder we’ll be to erase.
5. Stay Connected and Engaged
You’re not alone in this fight. Connect with other hygienists, support each other, and share ideas on how we can protect and elevate our profession. When we stand together, we have a much stronger voice.
We became dental hygienists because we care about people, their health, and making a difference. Now, it’s time to channel that same passion into protecting our profession and ensuring we continue to be a vital part of the healthcare system.
Let’s take action—because if we don’t, someone else will.
With gratitude and determination,
Melia Lewis, MEd, RDH
Powerful Resume Wording That Gets You Interviews
As a dental hygienist, you’re likely more focused on patient care than perfecting your resume. But here’s the truth: your resume wording could be the difference between getting an interview and being passed over. The goal? To craft resume wording that pulls employers in within the first 10 seconds. Research shows that employers spend less than 10 seconds scanning each resume, so it’s crucial to make every word count.
Less Is More: Be Efficient with Your Wording
Your resume should be concise—ideally one or two pages. Anything beyond that risks losing the employer’s attention. Long-winded sentences and dense blocks of text can make your resume feel overwhelming or unfocused. Instead, keep your statements short and impactful. Think of it like this: every word is money. If you had to pay $20 for each one, would you still include the fluff? Here’s an example:
Before: “I started a new patient program that included an office tour and sit-down meeting with myself and the doctor. We improved patient retention by more than 25 percent.”
After: “Implemented new patient orientation program, elevating retention by 25%.”
Use Active, Attention-Grabbing Language
Start each bullet point with a strong verb. This grabs attention quickly and highlights your accomplishments. Skip pronouns like “I” and use the verb to drive home your results. Active words create a sense of urgency and effectiveness—qualities employers love. If you’re stuck for ideas, there’s a wealth of active verbs to choose from.
Speak the Employer’s Language
When it comes to industry-specific terms, accuracy matters. Using the correct terminology proves you’re knowledgeable and detail-oriented. For instance, make sure you use the correct brand names (e.g., DIAGNOdent) and terms like “radiograph” instead of “x-ray.” Getting these technicalities right shows you’re serious about your field—and the small details can make a big difference when competition is high.
Grammar, Punctuation, and Spelling Matter
It sounds basic, but errors in grammar or spelling can cost you an interview. Take the time to proofread, review it over several days, and ask others to look over your resume.
Ditch the “Objective” Statement
Objective statements are outdated. Employers already know you want a job. Instead, replace it with a concise Summary or About Me section. This is your chance to introduce your personal brand and show what makes you a great fit for the position.
Old Objective: “To obtain a position with a great practice that allows me to use my skills and grow as a dental professional.”
New Summary: “Energetic and optimistic dental hygienist with a gentle touch and personable nature, dedicated to giving every patient a reason to smile after each visit.”
Summary: Craft a Resume That Stands Out
Effective resume wording makes a strong first impression and keeps employers engaged. It’s about being clear, concise, and delivering the right message fast. Spend time perfecting your resume wording, and you’ll see more interviews and more job opportunities. I guarantee it!
Doug Perry is an expert resume writer and job search coach. He and his wife, Tracie, who is a dental hygienist, created GetHiredRDH in response to the challenging dental hygiene job market and have helped thousands of dental hygienists through tips and individual services. This includes basic job searches and strategically transitioning into different fields (within dentistry and outside). If you need individual help, click here to contact Doug.
Keeping Your Dental Hygiene Career Healthy with Zyris
I can’t believe that I will be 16 years as a dental hygienist this spring. 16 years?! Honestly, when I was in dental hygiene school, I didn’t think I could last 2 years in private practice. I Still remember being in the very back corner operatory of my dental hygiene program, seeing a very difficult periodontally involved patient that has been coming in for 3 hours appointments every week. I was working on the last quad (finally) and was instrumenting Quad 4. As I was working with the patient, I specifically remember thinking “Is this it? This is what I’ll be doing for the next 40 years of my life?”
Well, I’m happy to stay that I am still a dental hygienist, still seeing patients, and still loving the dental field. If I could go back and talk to myself as a dental hygiene student, I would definitely give myself some advice.
Focus on your ergonomics from day one. In the last year, I have noticed some pain in my nondominant hand, especially when using a mirror or retracting tissues with the low volume suction while using the ultrasonic scaler. If I focused on using the correct techniques and correct instruments for retraction and water management, I may not be having this hand pain. I wish I started using the Zyris Isolite system earlier in my career! This technology not only helps the patient stay open with a bite block, but also helps with water management as it connects to the high volume suction. Not only has it helped my left hand prevent injury, it helps proper operator positioning since the patient can stay open and the extra light on the system.
Keep learning. Nothing prevents burn out more than learning. We know that dental hygiene can get repetitive and we tend to do similar procedures each hour. However, learning new techniques, new technologies, and the latest research to help patients keep each appointment interesting and increase patient care. Making time to attend continuing education courses and conferences is key to being the best dental hygienists for both yourself and for your patients.
Keep a network of dental hygiene friends. This group of RDHs is key to having professional discussions, work through difficult cases, and just relate on living a dental life. I love catching up with other dental hygienists since it shows how we are all in this together and reignites the passion for what we do every day.
What advice would you give if you could talk to you as a dental hygiene student?
A huge thank you to Zyris for supporting Hygiene Edge, dental hygienists, and promoting amazing patient care. We love their goals of empowering clinicians since we have the exact same goal. To learn more about the Zyris Isolite, check out our latest video and visit their website.
xoxo Melia Lewis, MEd, RDH
Your Resume Introduction: Make a Powerful First Impression with Doug Perry
Your resume introduction is your first—and sometimes only—opportunity to capture an employer’s attention. It’s where their eyes go first, where your name and contact information sit, and most importantly, where you introduce yourself as the ideal candidate. Many people make the mistake of using this space ineffectively. Let’s change that.
Ditch the “Objective” Statement
If your resume still has “Objective” as the heading of your introduction, it’s time for an update. Employers already know your goal is to land a great job. Instead, opt for “Summary” or “About Me”—something that feels modern, personal, and engaging. Think of yourself as a brand. What’s your promise to an employer? Your introduction should showcase what drives you, what makes you unique, and what they can expect if they hire you.
Keep It Short, Keep Them Curious
Less is more. Your introduction should spark interest—not overload with details. Aim for 30-50 words (2-3 sentences) that give just enough insight to make them want to read more. Use confident, personality-driven language that makes your statement stand out. Employers are looking for candidates who bring something special to the table—this is your chance to show them why you’re the one.
How to Craft the Perfect Introduction
A great “About Me” statement is simple yet powerful. Use this structure:
Sentence 1: Highlight the kind of professional you are and your passion for your work.
Sentence 2: Showcase your value as a team member or why you’re seeking a new opportunity.
Example 1: Traditional Introduction- “As a skilled and personable dental hygienist, I take pride in creating a welcoming experience and helping patients feel confident in their smiles. I thrive in a collaborative team that values both professionalism and fun, ensuring exceptional patient care every day.”
Example 2: Story-Driven Approach- “I became a dental hygienist because I loved how my own visits made me feel—leaving with a healthy, bright smile. Now, I share that same passion with my patients, working alongside a team dedicated to outstanding oral care.”
Your resume introduction is your first impression—make it count. Use this space wisely, and you’ll stand out before they even glance at the rest of your resume.
Doug Perry is an expert resume writer and job search coach. He and his wife, Tracie, who is a dental hygienist, created GetHiredRDH in response to the challenging dental hygiene job market and have helped thousands of dental hygienists through tips and individual services. This includes basic job searches and strategically transitioning into different fields (within dentistry and outside). If you need individual help, click here to contact Doug.
Sharpening a Dental Hygiene Curette
Sharpening a dental hygiene curette is essential to maintain its effectiveness in removing calculus and providing optimal patient care. Follow these step by step instructionsto sharpen a curette properly:
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
Sharpening stone
Lubricant (if required for your stone)
Good lighting and magnification (optional but in my mind, is isn’t)
A stable work surface
Testing stick (for sharpness evaluation)
Step 2: Identify the Curette’s Blade and Angulation
A curette has two cutting edges (one on each side of the face) and a rounded toe.
Hold the curette with the face parallel to the floor so you can see the cutting edges clearly.
The ideal sharpening angle is 70–80 degrees between the stone and the lateral surface. Having a guide of some sort, either paper or something that connects to your sharpening stone or card is key.
Step 3: Position the Curette and the Sharpening Stone
Hold the curette in your non-dominant hand, using a stable grip.
Use your dominant hand to hold the sharpening stone.
The stone should be lined up at 110 degrees (use your guide to help)
Maintain a steady hand position to avoid altering the instrument’s shape.
Step 4: Sharpen the Cutting Edge
Start at the heel of the cutting edge and move toward the middle and toe using a short, controlled up-and-down stroke.
Maintain light to moderate pressure while sharpening.
Use a consistent stroke direction to avoid over-thinning the instrument.
Continue sharpening until you feel a slight “bite” when testing on a plastic stick.
Step 5: Sharpen the Rounded Toe
Curettes have a rounded toe that must be maintained.
Use semi-circular motions with the stone around the toe to keep its shape.
Avoid over-sharpening the toe to prevent flattening or shortening its lifespan.
Step 6: Test for Sharpness
Use a plastic testing stick to check sharpness.
A sharp curette “grabs” or bites into the plastic rather than sliding off.
If the curette is still dull, repeat the sharpening process in small increments.
Step 7: Rinse, Sterilize, and Store Properly
Rinse off any metal shavings.
Sterilize the instrument according to infection control protocols.
Store in a clean, dry place to maintain sharpness.
Sharpening a curette can definitely take time and practice, but it is so worth it to have a sharp instrument for both your patient and you as the clinician. I’m excited for you to practice your sharpening with these steps! If you’re a visual learner, we have several sharpening videos on YouTube, with lots coming soon.
Plus if you’re looking for a sharpening guide, we have our favorite in our shop. Get yours today!
xoxo Melia Lewis, MED, RDH
@meliardh
