Episode 8

What happens when oral health therapists and dental hygienists work without chairside support?

In this episode of Oral Health Evidence Bites, we explore a 2025 paper published in the International Journal of Dental Hygiene that examines the experiences of dental hygienists and therapists working with — and without — dental nurse support. 

Drawing on responses from 228 members of the British Society of Dental Hygiene and Therapy, the episode explores how chairside support influences clinical standards, patient communication, documentation, musculoskeletal health, stress, professional confidence, and long-term career sustainability. 

You'll hear a practical discussion about the difference between individual resilience and system design, why workplace structures matter, and how support can influence not only patient care but also clinician wellbeing and retention.

This episode is particularly relevant for oral health therapists, dental hygienists, dentists, practice owners, educators, and anyone interested in building safer and more sustainable models of care.

Key clinical takeaway

Working without adequate support doesn't just affect efficiency—it can influence communication, documentation, ergonomics, wellbeing, and the ability to consistently deliver the standard of care clinicians strive to provide. 

CPD reflection

Consider your current clinical environment.

How does the level of support available to you affect your ability to provide care, communicate with patients, maintain records, and protect your own wellbeing? What aspects of your workplace have you come to accept that may not be sustainable in the long term?