As a dental therapist at Carew Dental, no two days are exactly alike. However, my daily routine has a rhythm that keeps me grounded, even on the busiest days. From early mornings to winding down in the evening, there’s a balance of responsibilities, self-care, and moments of connection that make my work rewarding. Here’s a glimpse into what a typical day looks like for me.
Morning Routine: Starting the Day Right
My day begins around 7 am—sometimes a little earlier if I beat the alarm. I start with waking up my two teenagers, who are generally pretty good at getting up during the week. Weekends, though? That’s a whole different story! Once they’re up and at ’em, it’s straight to the coffee machine for my first cup of the day. I also make sure the dishwasher is emptied before getting myself ready for the day. Along the way, I’ll check in with the kids to remind them how much time we have left before school. My son, in particular, has no concept of time and is easily distracted, so a few gentle nudges are necessary.
Once the kids are ready to catch the school bus, it’s time for us to head out. I drop them at the bottom of our hill and then make my way to the A1, where I typically catch up with my mum on the phone during my drive. It’s a nice way to start the day, and I always look forward to our chats.
If traffic isn’t too bad, I’ll try to get in a quick walk before starting work. Whether it’s a brisk walk through the estate or a few laps around Carew Dental, it’s a peaceful moment before the busy day ahead. As I walk into the practice, I’m always greeted with warm smiles from my colleagues, which sets the tone for the rest of the day.
Starting the Workday: Connecting with Patients
By 9 am, I’m ready to dive into my first patient of the day. The treatments I provide can vary depending on the needs of the individual, but there are a few common tasks that make up my daily routine.
- Hygiene Maintenance: This is often the first step in my day. It involves removing plaque, calculus, biofilm, and stains, polishing teeth, and providing patients with helpful advice on maintaining good oral hygiene at home.
- Periodontal Treatment: For patients dealing with gum issues, I record pocket depths and perform subgingival cleaning to remove bacteria and reduce inflammation, aiming to improve their overall gum health.
- Post-Treatment Advice/Education: After patients have undergone treatments like composite veneers, bonding, orthodontics, bridges, or implants, I guide them on how to care for their new teeth and use the right tools and techniques to maintain their results.
- Whitening Treatment: Whether it’s in-house whitening or our Carew take-home kits, I help patients achieve the brighter smile they desire, all while making sure they feel comfortable and informed throughout the process.
I try to squeeze in a short walk during my lunch break, even if it’s just a few minutes of fresh air to break up the day. It’s a small but important way to recharge.
In the afternoon, I see another round of patients.
After almost two years at Carew Dental, I’ve had the chance to build meaningful relationships with them. It’s not just about their dental needs anymore; I know about their families, their holiday plans, and the best ways to make them feel comfortable during their appointments.
Evening: Family Time and Self-Care
When the workday wraps up, I shift my focus to home. The main priority is dinner and catching up with my kids about their day. I always cross my fingers that we can enjoy a peaceful meal together without any arguments—getting us all to the table at the same time is a small victory!
After dinner, it’s time to prepare for the next day—making lunches, laying out uniforms, and doing any last-minute chores. Then, I enjoy a final walk of the day to unwind. A little Pilates helps me stretch and relax, and after a shower, I settle in for some quiet time with my current read.
Finding Balance: Self-Care in a Busy Life
With such a busy schedule, finding balance can be challenging. But I’ve learned to prioritise the moments that matter most, like connecting with family and taking time for myself. Whether it’s a chat with my mum, a lunchtime walk, or an evening of reading, I find small ways to recharge and keep my energy high throughout the day.
As a dental therapist, my work is fulfilling, but it’s the connections I make with my patients and colleagues—and the moments of self-care at the end of the day—that make it truly rewarding. And while no two days are ever exactly the same, I’m grateful for the routine that keeps everything running smoothly.
Blog post author: Leanne di Piano, Hygiene Therapist at Carew Dental
