A workspace revolution for the independent hygienist

As I began cultivating the ‘London Hygienist’ brand, I operated out of various dental practices, catering to a diverse patient base. Utilising channels like social media, Google, and word of mouth, I attracted a steady stream of patients who resonated with my approach. The onset of the pandemic necessitated adaptation, leading me to upskill to becoming a dental therapist and expand with a second location to continue serving my Direct Access patients. 

The introduction to Until—a concept geared towards empowering health and wellness practitioners through its sites that allow you to rent rooms —was serendipitous. Initially intrigued during the pandemic, my interest was reignited last summer when the founders approached me again. The timing felt right for a new challenge, presenting an opportunity to scale my business amid rising demand.

Owning and operating a dental practice demands unwavering commitment. However, Until's innovative model offers a refreshing alternative. By providing cutting-edge facilities in a CQC registered building, without the burden of traditional overheads or commissions, dental professionals like myself can seamlessly cater to our patient’s needs. The collaborative environment with other dental and healthcare professionals fosters networking, shared care and cross-referrals among healthcare professionals, amplifying the scope and impact of our services, which in turn gives me confidence in the delivery of my services, as I know I am not working alone. 

This paradigm shift not only empowers dental professionals but also improves access to quality oral healthcare. Through Direct Access and initiatives like Until, we're breaking down barriers and reshaping the narrative surrounding dental care, ultimately enhancing patient outcomes and satisfaction.

Venturing into this new phase of my career fills me with optimism. With Until poised for expansion, the future for dental hygienists and therapists appears promising. As these types of work space proliferate beyond London, spanning across regions and even internationally, opportunities for collaboration and growth will abound.

I envision a future where more clinicians embrace autonomy, propelled by the rising popularity of Direct Access. As our profession evolves, I anticipate further expansions in our scope of practice, enabling us to address diverse oral health needs and bridge existing gaps in accessibility. Together, we'll continue championing accessible, patient-centric dental care, driving positive change within the industry.

Knowing that I'm backed by an organisation that prioritises my well-being and safeguards my reputation allows me to pursue ambitious endeavours with assurance. With Dental Protection in my corner, I can navigate the complexities of the dental landscape with resilience and determination, empowering me to take bold steps forward in my career.