Building Stronger Dentist-Hygienist Partnerships: Insights from Scott Leune and Brittany Glauz
The relationship between a dentist and a dental hygienist plays a critical role in the success of any dental practice. But with rising dental hygienist salaries, shifting expectations, and workforce challenges, this partnership often faces tension. In the latest episode of The Dental CEO Podcast, Dr. Scott Leune sits down with Brittany Glauz to unpack these issues and explore how dentists and hygienists can work better together.
If you’re a dental practice owner, a dental hygiene assistant, or a dental hygienist seeking career growth, this conversation offers actionable insights to align goals and objectives for both sides.
Episode Summary
Scott Leune opens the episode addressing a common complaint from dentists: difficulty finding and retaining dental hygienists. Rising wages, lack of commitment, and resistance to new protocols often top the list of concerns. Enter Brittany Glauz, one of the most influential voices in dental hygiene today, to offer her perspective.
Together, they tackle tough questions:
- Why are dental hygienist salaries increasing so rapidly?
- How can hygienists better understand their role in practice production?
- What defines a positive dental work environment?
- Can continuing education and new technologies reshape the dental hygiene career path?
The episode also dives into assisted hygiene, facial aesthetics, and periodontal therapy—highlighting how dental hygienist education and expanding responsibilities can create stronger, more productive teams.
About the Hosts
Dr. Scott Leune: A seasoned dental entrepreneur and founder of The Dental CEO Podcast, Dr. Scott Leune has coached hundreds of dentists on business growth and leadership. His mission is to improve the relationship between dentists and their teams while helping practices thrive financially. Check out his coaching programs here: https://scottleune.com/startup-coaching/
Brittany Glauz (@BrushwithBritt): Brittany Glauz is a dental hygienist, educator, and social media influencer recognized by Incisal Edge as one of the 32 most influential people in dentistry. She advocates for dental hygienist education, career development, and stronger collaboration between dentists and hygienists.
Key Highlights
Dental Hygienist Salaries Must Reflect Value
Scott Leune teaches us that paying dental hygienists more isn’t the problem—paying them more without corresponding value is. He emphasizes that dental hygienist goals and objectives should include understanding production metrics. When hygienists produce three to four times their pay, salary increases are sustainable for both the individual and the practice.
Dentists Must Foster a Positive Work Culture
Dr. Leune believes dental practice leadership sets the tone for the entire team. He stresses that respect, communication, and team collaboration define a positive environment. For hygienists, working in a supportive dental home often outweighs dental hygienist salary considerations.
Assisted Hygiene Can Work—with the Right Systems
Scott emphasizes that assisted hygiene—where a dental hygiene assistant supports the hygienist working two columns—can be effective. But it requires clear structure: dedicated assistants, proper scheduling, and the right compensation model. Otherwise, it risks burning out the hygienist and compromising care.
Invest in Dental Hygienist Education and Growth
Dr. Leune encourages dentists to engage hygienists in planning their continuing education. Whether it’s expanding into facial aesthetics or refining periodontal therapy protocols, investing in education aligns with dental hygienist goals and objectives, leading to greater career satisfaction and retention.
Outdated Practices Drive Hygienists Away
Scott Leune teaches that outdated equipment and facilities can deter skilled hygienists. Modern technology like the AIRFLOW Prophylaxis Master elevates patient care and hygienist satisfaction. Dentists must prioritize updates to remain competitive in today’s market.
Creating Development Plans Strengthens Teams
Dr. Leune believes every dental hygienist deserves a development plan. He challenges dentists to sit down with their hygienists, outline goals for dental hygienist growth, and map out education opportunities that expand skills. This approach transforms the traditional dental hygiene career into a dynamic, evolving role.
Final Thoughts
This episode is a masterclass in redefining the dentist-hygienist partnership. Dr. Scott Leune and Brittany Glauz show that aligning on goals for dental hygienist growth, creating a positive environment, and investing in education can turn conflict into collaboration.
For dental practice owners, this is a call to lead with intention. For dental hygienists, it’s a reminder that your value extends far beyond the operatory.