RDH Clinical Recognition Program: Nicole Derby

Many dental hygienists may recognize Nicole Derby's journey through her dental career. She began with an externship in college, moved to dental assisting, and became a certified dental assistant before working her way through dental hygiene school. She's worked in both public health and is currently in a general, two-doctor private practice in Massachusetts.

Nicole caught the eye of the people at Waterpik and RDH magazine for her commitment to excellence in clinical hygiene. She shares one of her favorite stories of helping a patient with some financial constraints. The patient wasn't able to afford dentures, and Nicole worked with Mission of Mercy to get partial dentures for the patient free of charge. 

She chats here with Sue Scherer of Waterpik, and shares advice with her fellow hygienists: show patients how much you care for them. Making even small connections with them can make a big difference. And she reminds her peers to never overlook the importance of patient education.

Nominate a colleague (or yourself?) for the RDH Clinical Recognition Program today!