(3) Others are interested in the technical aspects of their job. Without interest
as a motivating force, a dental specialist can neither perform the required duties
satisfactorily nor improve upon current abilities or job knowledge. Interest is a quality that
supervisory dental specialists must continually strive to stimulate and encourage. In many
respects, interest is a reflection of morale and leadership.
c. Bearing. The dental specialist must have proper military and professional
bearing. The success of a dental service accomplishing its mission is dependent upon the
reputation it has established. In a military community, standards of acceptance are based
upon an impression of both military and professional competence.
d. Personal Hygiene. The dental specialist must pay special attention to personal
hygiene and appearance. Basic requirements are daily bathing and clean, neat, and well-
fitted regulation uniforms. For males, frequent haircuts and daily shaves are the norm.
Well-groomed hair and moderate makeup are expected of females.
(1) Appearance of the hands. Although the dental specialist will routinely be
wearing gloves in the treatment room, hands and fingernails must be kept clean and the
nails cut short. Deep tobacco stains and strong tobacco odors on the hands are offensive
to many patients. Female personnel should not use bright-colored nail polish when on
duty.
(2) Offensive odors. Another important precaution is the prevention of
offensive body and breath odors. Often, the offender is not aware of the offensive odor. It
is best to be on the safe side through personal cleanliness, good oral hygiene, use of
deodorants, and avoidance of odor-producing foods.
(3) Orderliness and cleanliness. The dental specialist's personal habits are
reflected in the appearance of the office in which he works. All efforts resulting in
orderliness and cleanliness of dental personnel and of surroundings contribute to the
patient's comfort, security, and relaxation.
e. Attitude. Attitude is dependent upon and reflects a possession of the foregoing
qualities or attributes. It is a manner of acting, feeling, or thinking that shows the
individual's disposition or opinion. A desirable attitude is one leading to cooperation and
understanding with co-workers and to concern and consideration for the welfare of
patients. It is rewarded by personal accomplishment, gratitude of patients, and job
satisfaction.
MD0510
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