Synergy and its effect on the patient-provider relationship: Strategies that play an important role in the essential relationship between the hygienist and the dentist.

The article discusses strategies to help create a synergistic balance in a dentist and dental hygienist relationship. Topics discussed include the importance of imbibing the goals of the dental team, and the value of the role of the hygienists as an extension of the dentist's diagnostic and treatment concepts. Also mentioned are guides to the role of the dentist and the hygienist in dealing with new patient appointment.