How to address the dental assistant? Hygenist?

Question

I love seeing the dentist. I was wondering how to address the dental assitants and the hygenist. I know their first names but sees too imformal. Is it okay to call the hygenist "doctor" or is that incorrect. And for dental assitants? There are several when I go and can't usually say "hi" because my mouth is being worked on but I would like to thank them but don't know what's the proper adress.
Please serious answers only. Thanks!

Answer 1

Most dental assistants and Hygienists like to be called by their first names, it's not informal or disrespectful at all. I personally am pleased when a patient remembers my name and addresses me as a friend would.

Answer 2

Wow you have good upbringing. Just kidding, thank you for taking the time to ask your question. I am quite happy being addressed by my first name. I always introduce myself to new patients as "Hi I am Jill the hygienist, I will be taking care of you today" Most of my patients remember my name and I appreciate that. I however, living in the southeast where things are much more formal, I don't call my patients by their first name unless I say Ms.Jane how are you, or I will call them by their last name, Hi Mrs. Smith how are you today? I never address someone by their first name unless I add the Ms, Mrs. Ms, or Mr. If they give me permission than I will address them by their first name. This took a little getting used to as I am a yankee girl originally. Everybody called each other by their first names, unless they were your teacher, or another professional person such as a doctor. However to the southern population this is looked at as a sign of disrespect (by some), esp. the older crowd. Also many southerners insist on Ma"am or Sir when addressing someone older, or in a higher position such as a teacher etc. However where I come from people will say don't call me Sir, I am Paul, Sir makes me feel old.....so really it just depends on where you are from. But for me referring to me by my first name is fine. When I sign a chart or a note in my professional capacity, I will sign my name followed by RDH as emmulae said. Great question. I wish we had more patients like you.

BTW: ttpawpaw: hygienists DO have to have a degree: We have to have a BS or an associates to practice hygiene, we have to be licensed by the state that we practice in. However dental assistants don't have to HAVE a degree they can be trained on the job, however EDDA's (expanded duty dental assistant) do have to have at least a one year diploma or certificate to perform many functions that an on the job trained DA can't perform. Dental assistants and EDDA's are some of the hardest working dental professionals in the business, I value our two and can't imagine my job without them.

Answer 3

It is proper to address only the doctor as such.

Most hygienists and assistants I know would love it if you remembered their first name and used it to greet or thank them.

They don't stand on formality and don't use their credentials unless in professional settings. Hygienists have the letters "RDH" - for Registered Dental Hygienist - after their names.

First names are just fine!

Answer 4

Hygenists are not doctors. Some states don't require a college degree, just a diploma. It would be embarassing to them and it would show your ignorance. They do have a first name. Anyone who has their hands in my mouth can be called by their first name.

Answer 5

Personally, I would rather a patient call me by my name. I'm not a doctor, so they don't need to walk on eggshells around me. I have no problem with them calling me by my name.

Answer 6

You are so sweet! If you're being worked on and want to say "hi" just give us a wave and that alone will make us smile!

Answer 7

I am sure they prefer being called by their first name. It makes it sound more friendly and personal.