What changes in dental hygiene are you most excited about in the next few years?
The face of hygiene will be forever evolving because hygienists are innovative, motivated, and ready to take action. What I am most excited about are the opportunities that hygienists are creating for themselves and others. Many RDHs are forging their own paths. They aren’t waiting for opportunities to happen to them, but rather creating opportunity for themselves. It has been truly inspiring to see, and it makes such an impact on our community. “Cleaning teeth” is not our only specialty, and we are showing this to the world!
What’s been the most memorable part of your career journey?
The day I was offered my current position is still one of the most outstanding moments in my journey. When the owner of 12 dental practices (plus multiple other companies) calls you the day before leaving for Christmas break, you don’t think that you are being offered a job ... you think you’re getting fired. So when my manager told me that “the big boss” was on the phone for me, I instantly panicked. But that quick conversation changed my life in so many good ways. I know that was a pivotal moment, and it is what started me on this path that I am on now.
What piece of advice do you wish you could have given to yourself five or ten years ago?
Ask for help without fear. On my first day as a practicing dental hygienist, I had never been so excited or more of a mess! I was behind on every patient, stressed, worried, and not wanting to ask anyone for help because I wanted the doctor to know that I was the right hygienist for the job.
Do you know how much easier my first day could have been by just asking some questions? When I finally did, my job got better, and I became a member of a very established team whom I learned so much from. So with each “first” that I am lucky enough to experience, I try to remember that I am not expected to know it all on day one. Only through asking questions and learning do you grow, both personally and professionally. It’s that growth that allows you to create passion in your industry.
