Strengthening collaboration in dentistry
In Abby Rennau’s latest article in RDH (cowritten with Christina Calleros, MS, RDH, and Angela Cook, MS, RDH), “Strengthening collaboration in dentistry through continuing education,” she says, “A disconnect often exists between dentists and dental hygienists regarding adopting and implementing new technologies, which leads to discrepancies in practice philosophies, which can lead to inconsistencies in patient care.”
Abby’s students are using the newest technology and dentists aren’t necessarily embracing it. She talks to Jackie Sanders about the fact that her students are change-makers and why it is important that collaboration and mutual respect exist between hygienists and dentists.
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.
Abby Rennau, MS, RDH
Abby is a clinical dental hygienist and educator with nearly two decades in private practice. She serves as adjunct faculty at Central Community College in Hastings, Nebraska, where she teaches oral pathology, periodontology, and clinical coursework. Abby recently completed her MS in dental hygiene from the University of New Mexico, where her graduate work focused on strengthening collaboration and CE between dental hygienists and dentists. Abby is committed to promoting interprofessional education and supporting evidence-based practice.