DEAR ABBY: I was a dental hygienist for 22 years and have been a practicing dentist for three years, so I feel qualified to respond to the hygienist who was disturbed by those who failed to brush their teeth before appointments.
Our job as oral health-care providers is not to judge our patients, but rather to relate to them as individuals and educate and motivate them to achieve better oral health.
Part of the hygienist's or dentist's job is providing proper brushing and flossing instructions. When my patients apologize for not having brushed before an appointment, I respond, "Relax. You're about to get a deluxe brushing," and I proceed to demonstrate proper techniques.
The hygienist who complained is probably burned out with her job and should either re-evaluate why she is a dental hygienist or choose another career. -- MICHELLE LEPAGE, D.D.S., LEE'S SUMMIT, MO.
DEAR DR. LEPAGE: Wise advice -- from the horse's mouth. (No offense, Doctor!)