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Objective statements are outdated.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
Anxiety and Dental Hygiene Go Hand in Hand
Last week, I was chatting with my coworker and fellow RDH just about life, catching up kids, and seeing that’s new. With this convo, I expressed I was feeling so anxiety with a busy work load, 2 daughters to support in all the ways and raise, speaking at 2 new meetings about new topics in 1 week, and just life. She replied in jest, "Of course you do. You’re a dental hygienist. All dental hygienists have some low grade anxiety burning inside of us."
Of course that made me laugh and not feel so alone in my anxiety mess, but I haven’t stopped thinking about that conversation.
All dental hygienists have anxiety. Would you agree? I’m not going to lie- I’ve been asking so many of my dental hygiene friends this week about anxiety and they all agreed- working in a patient facing profession with a tight schedule all day is a lot on the body, let alone adding the stresses of life like spouses, kids, family dynamics, community responsibilities, and more. We feel a lot as healthcare provider and care givers, and those feelings often come out as anxiety.
So do you agree with this statement? How can we support dental hygienists at this high anxiety time in our lives?
If you yourself have noticed you are having boughts of anxiety in your clinical day, here are a few things you can do to help ground yourself.
Breathe. Breath is so fascinating. It is the one we can physically/mentally control when are feeling scared or anxious that will automatically have a physical response. Slowing our breathing will automatically start slowing our heart rate and break that “fight or flight” response.
Pause and look around. With feeling anxious, it is always about the future and thinking about what’s next, what if, what would happen, etc. Looking around and seeing that everything is good right at that very second can bring you back to the present.
Feel the warm of the sun. In between patients (if there is a second) head to the window or out the door. Feeling the sun can held regulate the nervous system.
And remember, you’re not alone in this hygiene world and feeling all the feelings. I’m experience the exact same thing and working through it each hour with each patient.
xoxo, Melia
Waterline Shocking with A-dec
When I first thought of shocking the lines of our dental operatories, I definitely imagined a much more intricate process of getting the proper chemicals into our waterlines and becoming a chemist to perform this much needed maintenance procedure. However, thanks to A-dec, the products are so easy to understand and implement that it takes out so much of the stress of the process. To see the step in action, see our latest video all about shocking:
Here are a few things we’ve learned about shocking your units that have helped.
Put it on your calendar to test and shock. Do you feel like time is flying? Days and weeks fly by and before we know it, a month is gone and we haven’t tested our ops. So, setting a reminder right on your practice management software is the best way to keep on top of it.
Don’t be scared of the process. I think the 1st time I tested, I was very scared to find out the results. But it’s better now than never and get your op on a path of a low bacteria count. Ops fail all the time, which is why shocking is a thing. When you need to shock, know you’re in good company.
Place a sign (like the one that comes with the A-dec shocking system) on your chair while the solution is in the lines. Without fail, someone will forget or won’t be told the chair is out of commission for a while. Having the sign keeps the lines of communication clear.
Have you shocked your lines before? What have you learned as you’ve been doing it?
xoxo Melia Lewis, RDH
Better Visibility with the Hoopla Retractor
The other day, I had a patient scheduled with me for nonsurgical periodontal therapy. It had been many years since seeing a dentist, and they knew something was going on with their gingival since it regularly bled as they brushed their teeth. Even though the patient knew they needed care, being at the dentist and with a dental hygienist can be a nerve wracking experience. This patient was no different. They were nervous to be with me, nervous about getting an injection to be numb, and their anxious energy was filling the room. I don’t know about you, but I always feel a bit of heightened stress when the patient is very nervous. After explaining the injection, what it would feel like, and the possibility of feeling a “zing” feeling with the IA, I sat the patient back and started to retract the cheek. Even with the coaching, the prepping, and calming of the patient, their tongue had a mind of its own. This definitely added to the stress in the room, having a needle in the patient's mouth while trying to wrangle a tongue and explain to the patient to relax.
After several minutes of trying (and not getting very far), I needed reinforcements to help hold the tongue. Unfortunately, the dental assistants were busy right then, and I was on my own to complete the injection. So, I decided to try a retractor to hold the cheeks so I had a free hand to gently hold the tongue. And it totally worked! It was like having an extra hand there to see the injection site better, hold the patient, and have a smoother experience with this patient. I was definitely kicking myself after this experience that I didn’t grab the retractor sooner and save so much time and energy for both the patient and myself.
If you find that you’re in a procedure and need an extra hand, try retraction like the Hoopla from Zyris! They are easy to place and can be used for so many things we do during the day- from sealants, to air powder polishing, to injections. To learn more about the Hoopla, check out our latest video:
To learn more about the Hoopla and to find out how to get it into your office, please visit their website.
A huge thank you to Zyris for sharing our same goals of empowering clinicians to be their best with great products, and for supporting us at Hygiene Edge.
xoxo, Melia Lewis, RDH
Instrument Recycling Programs- 2024
If 2020 changed anything in dentistry (what didn’t it change?!), one big aspect was instrument recycling programs. They definitely were stopped, paused, or cancelled completely. However, now that we’re back into the swing of things in 2024, a few programs are back up and running! Here is the latest information on who’s taking instruments as of now to be recycled.
Recycle ten used stainless steel instruments (any brand) to receive one new Premier hand instrument.
Instruments must be sterilized and packaged in bundles of ten.
A $14.99 processing fee applies per submission, with unlimited submissions allowed
https://www.premierdentalco.com/instrument-recycling-program/
ProDentUSA Instruments for Change:
Currently closed
Nordent Trade-In Program:
Currently closedHu Friedy
Recycle 12, Get 1 Free
Recycle up to 60 Instruments annually
Up to 5 Free Instruments per year
Choose from 4 Scaler designs
Exclusive promos throughout the year
Real-time Order Status & Push Notifications
These programs emphasize sustainability by reprocessing metals for reuse, and they help dental professionals reduce waste while keeping their instrument inventory updated. For more information, check out the websites above.
Have you recycled instruments before? What was your experience?
xoxo Melia Lewis, RDH
Maintaining Your Dental Waterlines with A-dec
What can we do during the month to keep our waterlines in top shape and keep the bacteria counts below the required CDC amount? Lucky for us in our busy dental day, maintenance is very easy and can be applied to our ops with 1 easy step- a tablet!
Tabs contain a low- level antibacterial to help keep your waterlines clean. A few helpful tips with the tabs:
Always add your tablet to a full water bottle of fresh water. This will keep the balance between water and antibacterial at an optimal level. If your bottle is half full in the morning and you want to top it off to last you the day, empty out the existing water, refill, and add a tablet.
Give the tablet 2 minutes to dissolve before using the water. Giving time will allow the antibacterial to move throughout the entire bottle, and keep a great balance in your waterlines. When you’re replacing your water, do it 1st thing in the morning to give it time to dissolve before your patient is in your chair.
Drop the tablet into your bottle without touching the tablet. To prevent cross contamination from your hand to your bottle and keep the bacteria counts down, gently open the packaging and drop the tablet in while your hand is only handling the paper.
To see how to maintain in action, see our latest video:
We are so excited for you on this waterline journey with us, with a huge step being maintenance! A big thank you to A-dec for supporting us at Hygiene Edge and allowing us to shine a light on such an important and often forgotten about topic.
Don’t forget to check out the entire Series!
Part 3 coming soon: Shocking
Black Friday Deals for the RDH
I’m a sucker for a good deal. Who isn’t in this economy? Here is a round of some of the best deals, just for us in the dental community.
What deals are you scoring today?
Elevate Oral Care- The All Day Dry Mouth spray and gel are chefs kiss for dry mouth
CE Zoom- Great deals on a years worth of CE courses. We’ll be there!
December 7th Conference: Only $50 with promo code BLACKFRIDAY50!
Elite Yearly Membership: Just $195, and the conference is included FREE with promo code BLACKFRIDAY24!
American Dental Hygienists’ Association- Join the movement of protecting dental hygiene. $50 off for new members. Use code THANKS before December 3
Ergosharp- The best sharpening device. 30% off with BFF2024
Snap it Bella- Buy 2, get 1 Free.
Stoggles- 50% off