Dear RDH: I'm overbooked and overwhelmed

Dear RDH:  

I’m a new grad working in an assisted office where every patient is scheduled for 40 minutes— regardless of whether it’s for a new patient, SRP, or perio maintenance. I don’t take x-rays, but my schedule still feels overwhelming. On top of that, the front desk keeps adding two to three sidebook patients a day. 

I’ve tried speaking up because these appointments put me behind and stress me out, but they continue to add them. I like my job and don’t want to seem like I’m complaining, especially since the other hygienists just go along with it. 

How do I handle this without feeling like I’m being difficult? 
—Overbooked and overwhelmed 

Dear Overbooked and overwhelmed:

First things first: you are not being difficult!! You are being aware—and that awareness is something so many new grads don’t tap into until they’re already deep in burnout! So kudos to you! 

Let’s call it what it is: a 40-minute appointment for every patient type is already pushing it. Add in two to three sidebooks a day and you’re in survival mode.  

Here’s the truth no one says out loud: just because something is “normal” in an office doesn’t mean it’s sustainable … or acceptable. 

When sidebooks are added, it doesn’t just affect your timing. It impacts: 

• The quality of care you can provide 

• Your ability to stay on schedule 

• Your mental load throughout the day 

And overtime? That’s exactly how burnout starts. 

I hear you when you say, “I don’t want to seem like I’m complaining,” but advocating for yourself and your patients is not complaining; it’s a demonstration of professionalism and standing up for what’s best for you! 

Now, the next step is how you frame it. Instead of focusing only on how it affects you, shift the conversation toward patient care and workflow. For example: 

“When sidebooks are added, I’m finding it difficult to stay on time and give each patient the level of care they deserve. I want to make sure I’m providing the best care possible. Do you think we can come up with a plan that supports that?” 

Saying something like this keeps the conversation collaborative, not confrontational. 

Also let’s talk about the comparison trap. You mentioned the other hygienists “just go along with it”, but here’s the thing—you don’t know what they’re feeling behind the scenes. They may be overwhelmed, burnt out, or not feel comfortable speaking up. 

You are allowed to create a different standard for yourself, and this is the part I want you to really sit with. If you clearly communicate your needs, advocate for safe and effective patient care, but your concerns continue to be dismissed … that’s not a “you” problem. That’s a culture problem. 

Not every office deserves you. 

There are offices out there that respect your time, your clinical judgment, and your boundaries. And you deserve to work in one of them. 

For now, keep advocating. Keep communicating. Stay grounded in your “why.” Your reason is providing great care without sacrificing yourself in the process. 

You’re not complaining; you’re growing into the kind of clinician who knows her worth. 

And that? That’s exactly where your confidence begins to bloom! 

—Kimberly, RDH