April is more than just the coming of spring. It’s about recognizing how integral we are to the overall health and wellness of our patients.
The signs of spring are easy to recognize. April is known for warmer weather and a slow increase in daily temperatures...that slow thaw and the return of sun-filled days and no need for sweaters, coats, or gloves...the time when flowers start growing, grass becomes green, and tree buds turn into leaves. We have learned to recognize these indicators as the seasons change.
Dental hygienists know April as Oral Cancer Awareness Month and Autism Awareness Month—both reminders that we are an integral component in the overall health of our patients.
Knowing many dental hygienists who have dedicated their time to creating oral cancer awareness programs and spreading the word about treating autistic patients, RDH was committed to bringing you content this month to support the learning curve and remind you of the signs we may see daily and what we should be looking for.
Kyle Isaacs, RDHEP, BHS; Susan Cotten, BS, RDH, OMT; Jill Meyer-Lippert, RDH; and Jeanine J. Stabulas-Savage, MPH, RDH, bring articles focusing on oral pathology. The content in this issue will remind us all to pay attention to more than just our patients’ teeth. The soft tissues of the oral cavity carry many secrets, and we may be the first to recognize a sign.
Anne Guignon, MPH, RDH, CSP, looks at our decision-making processes and the importance of putting science and the signs together. It is necessary to consider all of the factors involved, not just the insurance benefits.
This month’s continuing education course is titled, “The human trafficking crisis: Identifying and reporting in the dental setting,” by Kandice Swarthout, RDH, LPC. Once again, it serves to make us aware of the signs and symptoms we need to be watching for.
As we incorporate new knowledge into our daily lives and enjoy the changing of the seasons, we at RDH continue to look forward to sharing future events with you: RDH Evolution, RDH Under One Roof Live, and RDH Under One Roof Extended. All of these events have the potential to support you in your professional choices.
And a last bit of hidden trivia—April 18th is National Animal Crackers Day, so enjoy the day!
Wishing you all the best,
Jackie Sanders, MBA, RDH
Chief Editor
About the Author
Jackie Sanders, MBA, RDH
Chief Editor, RDH magazine
Jackie Sanders, MBA, RDH, is a respected dental industry leader with more than 40 years of experience in dental hygiene, marketing, and professional relations. As chief editor of RDH, she is dedicated to advancing the dental profession through education, innovation, and collaboration. Prior to this role, she served as manager of professional relations and communications for Sunstar/GUM, building strong connections with industry associations, educational institutions, and dental professionals nationwide. Jackie has also contributed her expertise through committee service with organizations including the American Dental Education Association and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry.