Help…My Dental Assistant is Always On Their Personal Cell Phone While On the Clock

Tackling Cell Phone Distractions in the Dental Office

By: Ronda Holman

Dr. Smith is preparing to see her next patient, but as she heads toward the operatory, she notices the patient has not yet been seated.

Curious about the delay, she checks the sterilization area and finds her dental assistant scrolling through social media on her phone. Frustrated, she wonders how to address the issue of personal cell phone use without creating tension in the workplace.

Smartphone addiction has become a common challenge across many industries, including healthcare. Studies show that the average person checks their phone over 80 times a day, and social media apps are designed to keep users engaged for as long as possible. This distraction can significantly impact productivity, patient care, and team morale in a dental practice.

Steps to Address & Prevent Cell Phone Usage During Work

Here are three steps to address and prevent personal cell phone use during working hours:

1. Set Clear Expectations and Office Policies

Establish a clear office policy regarding personal cell phone use during working hours. This policy should outline when phone use is acceptable (e.g., during breaks) and where personal phones should be kept (e.g., in lockers or a designated area). Communicate the policy during team meetings and ensure all staff members understand the expectations.

2. Use Positive Reinforcement and Accountability

Instead of focusing solely on the negative, use positive reinforcement to encourage good behavior. When dental assistants are fully engaged in their tasks and avoid distractions, acknowledge their professionalism. Creating a system of accountability, where team members are reminded of the importance of staying focused on patient care, can also help reduce the temptation of using personal phones.

3. Provide Alternatives to Reduce Downtime

Idle time often leads to phone use out of boredom. Reduce downtime by assigning additional responsibilities during slower moments. Encourage dental assistants to focus on improving sterilization processes, preparing treatment rooms more efficiently, or organizing supplies. Providing continuous learning opportunities, such as reviewing patient cases or completing online CE courses, can also help keep them engaged.

What to Do If Solutions Aren’t Working

If the problem persists despite clear policies and positive reinforcement, it may be time to have a direct one-on-one conversation. Address the issue privately, highlighting how phone use impacts the team and patient care. If necessary, institute progressive disciplinary actions, such as written warnings, and document each step taken to resolve the issue. Clear, consistent follow-up is key to maintaining a professional and productive environment.

By addressing smartphone addiction and reinforcing a focus on patient care, dentists can ensure their team remains attentive, engaged, and ready to provide top-notch service.

Keep Reading: Improving Efficiency in Dental Treatment Room Turnover

Photo Credit

Ronda Holman

Ronda Holman

Ronda Holman found her passion for dental assisting while in the Air Force. She assisted in oral surgery, general dentistry, and ended her four-year service as a prophy tech, the military’s version of a dental hygienist. She married and spent 13 years traveling the country while her husband served in the Air Force. Each time Ronda relocated she got the opportunity to work in a new dental office, where she picked up pearls that have helped her become an expert in educating dental assistants. Her interests are immediate denture/partial fabrication, CEREC technology, patient education, and striving for optimal chairside skills. Ronda believes that every dental assistant has the potential to be a rock star assistant if given the right tools and guidance.