As a new graduate, it is easy to feel like you have a lot to prove, which in turn makes it easy to overlook your boundaries and exceed your limits. At the start of your career, you may find yourself wanting to be viewed as the hardworking, dependable, dedicated team player—so you say yes to things you might not feel ready for, push through the day without taking a break for fear of running behind, and pick up extra hours to prove your dedication to your office and patients.

This can eventually leave you feeling stressed and overwhelmed, on the road to wearing burnout like it’s a badge of honor. This is why professional boundaries are important for new graduates, and even experienced hygienists, because in a career that is focused on compassionate patient centered care, it’simportant to remember that as providers we deserve compassion as well.  

What are boundaries and why do we need them? 

Instead of viewing boundaries as barriers, think of them as a tool to reduce stress and help build a strong foundation for a sustainable career. Because it is no secret that stress and burnout rates amongst dental professionals are at an all-time high, with 70% of professionals reporting that they have considered leaving the profession in the next five years.¹ 

How do we set boundaries?

First, you will need to identify what boundaries you need. Start by asking yourself these questions: 

1. What do I need to feel supported and successful in my career? 

2. What do I need to provide quality patient centered care without feeling stressed or compromising? 

Once you determine the boundary or boundaries that you need to set, make sure they are reasonable and do not infringe on others. For example, if your boundary is about your schedule and time as you are learning and adapting, you may ask for extra time and support during more difficult or involved procedures like periodontal maintenance and nonsurgical periodontal therapy appointments. However, it’s not realistic to ask to avoid having those appointments in your schedule.  

After evaluating your boundary, communicate it with those that it impacts. Once it’s in place, honor it, respect it, and re-evaluate as time goes on. Sometimes boundaries change as we learn, grow, and adapt.  

What do I do if my boundary is crossed? 

There are different types of boundaries that can be set—and some may be more rigid than others. A firm boundary is one that is more of an absolute, which means that there may be consequences when the boundary is crossed. Firm boundaries may be set around scope of practice, laws, and legislation.

For example: you are asked to see a patient for a prophy when they really need nonsurgical periodontal therapy, but insurance won’t cover it. When it comes to your values, personal ethics, and licensure, firmer boundaries may be needed to protect you. In these cases, it is okay to have consequences if or when these boundaries are crossed. That may mean having a conversation about what happens if this reoccurs or removing yourself from the situation to protect yourself from future complications. You have the ability to determine what is right for you if these situations arise.  

As a new graduate, don’t be afraid to set boundaries early because this will help you develop the skills to have a sustainable career. This profession needs clinicians that are dedicated and can remain passionate for years, not just months. So, remember that your wellbeing matters too. You can be dedicated and still say no, you can be committed and still take breaks, and you can care for your patients without abandoning yourself. 

Reference 

1. Knutt A, Boyd LD, Adams JL, Vineyard J. Compassion satisfaction, compassion fatigue, and burnout among dental hygienists in the United States. J Dent Hyg. 2022 Feb;96(1):34-42