Supporting the 92%

Nearly everyone has heard about the 8% of dental hygienists who did not return to the profession after the COVID-19 pandemic. But what about the other 92%? You have made a commitment to caring for patients now and in the future—and the future is full of exciting possibilities. New tools and strategies are continuously being introduced to increase and improve your treatment capabilities. That 92% is mighty.

This month's cover story explores the different ways that hygienists are connecting with patients outside the traditional dental office. In some cases, technology is the primary driver; in others, it is sheer creativity and a determination to reach more patients. Undoubtedly, the dental office will remain the primary venue for dental hygiene visits for the foreseeable future, but every hygienist—and every practice owner—should know there are other options.

The tools in your armamentarium are key wherever you practice, and our commitment to keeping you up to date on the latest products remains strong. In July and August, we have CE webinars from Tina Clarke, RDH, on anesthetics and topicals and Lory Laughter, RDH, MS, on remineralization, enamel strength, and xylitol. We encourage you to attend both offerings, either live at CDEWorld.com/webinars/live or on-demand at insidedentalhygiene.com.

Lastly, no discussion of the advancement of the profession would be complete without acknowledging the contributions of American Dental Hygienists' Association CEO Ann Battrell, MSDH, who passed away in June. The entire Inside Dental Hygiene team passes along our deepest sympathies to her family and friends.

Editorial Advisory Board

India R. Chance,BSDH, RDH, CDIPC

Maria L. Geisinger, DDS

Lory Laughter, RDH, MS

Ashley Leavitt, RDH

Sherri Lukes, RDH, MS, FAADH

Jill Meyer-Lippert, RDH

Tricia Osuna, RDH, BSDH, FAADH

Stephanie Pajot, RDH

Michelle Strange, MSDH, RDH

Joy D. Void-Holmes, RDH, BSDH, DHSC