Dental assistants step up in endodontics department

During a challenging period of staffing shortages in the Department of Endodontics, dental assistants Jesse Pokrzywinski, Percy Gordon and Nataly Garcia Quinones stepped up to take on additional responsibilities, support one another and keep the department running smoothly.

Department Chair Dr. Franklin Tay recognized their efforts with a dinner at Taj of India, along with a take-home gift of themed sauces, creating an opportunity to thank them, connect as a team and acknowledge their contributions.

“Our dental assistants are crucial to operations. They help us to keep complex endodontics care safe, efficient and patient-centered,” he said. “This team has been meeting challenges with grace.”

Tay said that appreciation does not have to be elaborate or expensive, and that regularly recognizing the staff members who keep your department, clinic or program moving is a simple way to strengthen relationships and show that their contributions matter.

A Gallup Poll found that effective appreciation can be simple:
• Tell someone exactly what they did well and why it mattered.
• Give a staff member a shout-out during a meeting or team communication.
• Encourage staff to recognize one another.
• Celebrate birthdays, work anniversaries and meaningful moments.
• Coffee, lunch or brief conversation can create an opportunity to say thanks.

Appreciation should not be reserved for exceptional accomplishments or difficult periods. Making recognition part of everyday interactions helps create a culture where staff know their work is noticed and valued.