How often do you take a moment to pause and think about the people in your life who have supported you, consoled you, and who in a quiet way, like a messenger, directed you down a path that altered your life?
I would be remiss if I failed to recognize one of the greatest mentors in the dental hygiene profession and one of the strongest influencers of my professional growth, Beth Thompson. Beth passed away last month, and the messages on social media stuck with me for days. She was a private person who did not enjoy being the center of attention, yet all of those who were shaped by the heart of Beth flooded social media pages with their love for her. She left a legacy.
How often do you take a moment to support a loved one, a friend, or a total stranger?
Dental hygienists make a difference on a daily basis. Sometimes they never know the impact they have made; sometimes they hear it years later; and sometimes they realize it instantaneously. We are provided a unique moment with every patient we treat— a moment that could change an individual’s health and possibly save a life. We often forget the importance of the moments in our day.
February provides us with the opportunity to recognize National Children’s Dental Health Month, when once again we as hygienists can take the time to influence a young life. The articles in this month’s issue will provide you with a review of the guidelines for recognizing and reporting child abuse, solutions for sleep bruxism, and the newest findings for the use of weighted blankets.
For those who do not have pediatric patients, we have included insight into “The Changing Landscape,” written by Anne Guignon. Take a peek into the growing trend of dental hygienists purchasing products that will make their jobs easier while maintaining their physical health. What products would benefit you and what are the recommended processes for getting them?
I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for the difference you make each day and being a reflection of a profession that has the ability to change a life with a unique moment.
Jackie Sanders, MBA, RDH
Chief Editor
