Dental hygiene autonomy: Defining the paradigm
Derik Sven's own experiences with sexism in dentistry when he moved to Virginia led him to his current project: promoting dental hygienists' autonomy. He began his research as a student and realized he needs to share what he's learning.
One of his conclusions is that dentists and dental hygienists have a major conflict of interest. He began to look at things differently and begin to understand why there's animosity between the two professions. He discusses some of his experiences in practice, what he's learned through his studies and by talking to his fellow hygienists, and much more.
Derik has receieved a lot of feedback on his series of articles, and he's been very surprised that a lot of the positive input has been from dentists, which he admits he did not expect.
Listen now to learn some of the other shocking things Derik has encountered on his journey, and read the first of his six-part series of articles.
The case for dental hygienists’ autonomy, part I: Defining the paradigm
A century of subordination: The historical barriers to dental hygienists' autonomy
The case for dental hygienists' autonomy: The economics of dentistry
About the Author
Derik J. Sven, MBA, MPH, RDH, CDT, FADHA
Derik J. Sven, MBA, MPH, RDH, CDT, FADHA, has nearly two decades of experience as a board-certified lab tech and restorative hygienist. He holds undergraduate degrees in dental hygiene and health care administration, as well as master’s degrees in public health and business administration. He’s currently pursuing his doctorate in health science at George Washington University School of Medicine in Washington, DC, where his research focuses on advancing the autonomy of dental hygienists and the broad integration of dental therapists into the health-care system. He’s an inaugural fellow of the ADHA and president-elect of Virginia's chapter.
Jackie Sanders, MBA, RDH
Chief Editor, RDH magazine
Jackie Sanders, MBA, RDH, has over four decades of continual career development and experience in dentistry. As the chief editor of RDH magazine, she strives to remain a proactive personality in the continual advancement of the profession. She has been defined as a motivated trendsetter and dependable colleague and is inspired by her true passion of helping others to achieve their personal goals.