Colleen Rutledge, RDH shares her experience which, if applied, can help you transform hygiene departments from “loss leaders” to “production leaders.” I just love the gems these consultants are giving away! Make the most of your day – Robin Morrison
Colleen Rutledge, Dental Hygiene Coach & Owner of Perio-Therapeutics & Beyond
When interviewing a new client, the majority of offices describes what I call a “mechanical model”, meaning the focus of perio therapy is removing calculus 1 -2 quadrants at a time. This approach usually fails because many patients do not complete their treatment. A year later they return and the treated quadrants are re-infected by bacteria from the untreated quadrants. Sadly, the patient is back to square one.
My recommendation is to employ a “medical model,” which focused on decreasing the bacterial load in the entire mouth, with treatment completed within 24 – 48 hours. Although longer appointments are necessary, the clinical results are amazing and patient compliance skyrockets!
Scheduling typically calls for (2) one and a half hour appointments rather than (4) one hour appointments. The incorporation of ultrasonics, locally applied antimicrobials, host modulation (PerioStat) and the use of risk assessment enhances clinical outcomes and substantially augments the services and profitability of the hygiene department.
Utilizing the “medical model” easily transforms hygiene departments from “loss leaders”, producing $800 – $900 daily, to “production leaders” achieving $2500+ when employing a comprehensive periodontal therapy program. Practices offering services based on current research and trends in periodontal therapy see hourly production rates soar from $90 – $120 to $150 – $400, with the average patient producing $ 400 – $700+!
Embracing this model, hygiene departments can flourish into indispensable channels of both quality and profitability!
Learn more about Colleen at https://www.dentalconsultantconnection.com/consultant_bio10.php