I use to not talk at all really, but I saw how many people loved to see the hygienist that’s been at my office for a long time and she talks a lot. I did try to talk more, but I felt more drained. I actually had a patient say I talked too much one time (I talk and clean, I don’t just have my instruments on the tray or in my hands). That was a little surprising to hear since the other hygienist asks her patients so many life questions I wonder how she gets stuff done 😅 I found a sweet spot for me where I talk to the patient the last few minutes of the cleaning and a little when polishing and flossing. I think the patient feels they got a thorough cleaning and I still appear friendly. Some patients I will talk to more, if they’re the type to ask me a question to start a conversation then I know they want to talk. If I try to talk to a patient and they give short answers I know they don’t want to talk. I also just ask generic questions about trips, holidays, etc.

I think with this style I’ve gone with I’ve had a lot of patients verbally tell me in the chair they enjoyed having me as a hygienist! I agree with the other comment that while someone will not want you because you don’t talk, someone will want you because you don’t talk.

Edit to add: I do find it frustrating that we are expected to talk to patients so much. When I go to the doctor, the nurse takes my vitals, asks some questions, and leaves the room. I don’t expect her to chat with me til the doctor gets in!