A Dental Hygiene Student's Journey
Becoming a RDH in 2022
About Me
A glimpse of who I am...
Mother. Daughter. Sister. Friend. Student... These are just a few titles that I carry. I take each role as seriously as the next. I put forth as much effort in to one as the other. I strive to accomplish all goals that I have set for myself, while being a role model to my children to follow their own dreams and teach them to work hard for what you want and make those dreams a reality. I have been part of the dental community for over a decade and am on the journey of a lifetime- becoming a dental hygienist. Join me on my road to success and the excitement that this adventure brings...
Philosophy of Practice
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It is my goal to provide the best quality care to each patient who sits in my chair.
As your healthcare provider, I am here to serve you!
As you and I work together, we will address individualized goals and treatment options that meet your specific needs and are reachable in relation to your daily routine and lifestyle. It is important to me that my patients know they may discuss any concerns and ask any questions they may have. My goal is to discuss the best treatment that is required to keep you in your utmost, best state of health. I am dedicated to establishing a great relationship with you, the patient, that is built on trust, communication, and understanding.
Career Goal
During my time in the dental hygiene program at the University of Louisiana at Monroe, I have gained the skills needed to effectively produce quality patient care. I also obtain the HIPPA Compliance Certification, Nomad Training, and CPR Certification. I am skilled in Phosphor Plate radiography and the administration of local anesthesia and nitrous oxide.
My previous experience allowed me to gain knowledge of the many roles that are involved in a practice, as well as the importance of being a motivated and friendly team player with excellent communication skills. I am proficient in Eaglesoft Practice Management, Dexis Imaging and familiar with Weave and Dental Intelligence Software programs.
I have been a part of the dental field for over twelve years and maintain motivation in promoting oral health care. I am eager to start my career as an oral health professional and believe that I will prove to be a valuable part of any team by developing strong patient relationships and contributing to their needs.
Journal Entry
How It All Began
In May 2009, I began working as a dental assistant. Within the first week of observing and training, I fell in love with dentistry! As the years went by, I wanted to do more and expand my role in the dental field by pursuing dental hygiene. As a first-generation college student, I had little insight on knowing where to begin. For years, I had pondered the idea of going to dental hygiene school but was hesitant because of the concerns I had regarding how I would manage study times with a full-time job and children to tend to. Once I finally took that first step, I was surprised at how things fell in to place. All the fears that I finally faced head-on were challenges that helped me grow as a dental assistant, a mother, a student, and a person. I had proven to myself that I was capable of more than I had ever given myself credit for. Dental Hygiene has brought about a confidence in me that I had lacked, and it has been a very uplifting experience for me to make the decision to do something that I have dreamed of, something that would change history in my family, that would support my children, be an example for my children, and unknowingly motivate some of my peers to follow their own dreams. It has been one of the best decisions I have ever made. My love for dentistry has not stopped growing. I am working toward a career in a field that I am passionate about. I chose dental hygiene because I feel like this is meant to be part of my story. I know that dentistry is where I belong. I enjoy every aspect of dentistry and I always put forth my best effort because I want the patient to have the best experience. I also feel that my work ethic reflects who I am in the dental field, which is not something I take lightly. I take pride in the role I had for over 12 years as a dental assistant and I will continue to do the same as a dental hygienist by continuing to learn and grow throughout my career.
Provided Services
Medical History - Vitals - Extra-oral & Intra-oral examination - Radiographs - Treatment Options - Nutrition - Professional Cleaning - Patient Education
At each appointment, a review of your medical history will be discussed and updated. Oral conditions can affect your systemic health and vice versa. Vitals will be taken at each visit before beginning treatment to allow appropriate measures to be taken. The extraoral and intraoral examination are done to check for any abnormalities that could be of a concern. Radiographs are taken annually to detect for carious lesions and a full mouth series and/or a panoramic radiograph is taken every few years to monitor bone levels and check for any pathologies that annual radiographs alone may not be able to detect due to their limited area of focus. After assessing the patient and identifying the best treatment, options will be discussed with the patient and agreed upon before treatment begins. Nutrition can play a large role on one's oral health. The patient and provider will discuss any indicating factors that may be contributing to their oral health condition. It is important that patient education is discussed in detail that provides clear understanding on how to maintain good oral health at home. Benefits of treatment, as well as risks and complications that may result without treatment will be explained and discussed with the patient.
Nutritional Counseling
Student at University of Louisiana at Monroe- Pursuing BSDH- Seeking a full-time position as a Registered Dental Hygienist upon licensure (anticipated- May 2022)
Skilled Dental Professional with more than twelve years of experience and training necessary to assist with various dental procedures. Hands-on training in dental radiography, chairside assisting and front office administrative duties. Quick learner and successful in building relationships with coworkers and patients.
OUTSIDE OF THE CLASSROOM
DENTISTRY FROM THE HEART
Dentistry From The Heart is a nonprofit dental organization working to supply the world with free dental services. They team with many dental providers and members to offer dental care to those in need. Participants return year after year because they love what we do. Dentistry From The Heart has donated over $25 million and helped over 500,000 people.
Every year, thousands of individual dentists, hygienists, volunteers, and hundreds of practices across the world donate their time and resources to host their own DFTH events.
In 2016, I participated in Dentistry From the Heart for the first time. I loved the experience! I was surprised to see so many patients and hear their stories on what their own oral health goals were, but I realized that finances were a common concern.. Patients were treated and educated on their oral health and how it can effect them overall. Providing community services can make a huge impact on how one may view their individual needs instead of neglecting them. Many patients may only seek treatment if they have symptoms or if it effects them cosmetically. I believe that a large portion of the community is uninformed and that plays one of the biggest roles in oral diseases being left untreated. The opportunity to reach out to the community can provide the knowledge one needs to improve.
Community Events
Below are some photos of community events that I have participated in over the past couple of years during my time as a ULM Dental Hygiene Student.
The event at St. Albans Church involved nutritional counseling through engaging activities, allowing children to learn good vs. poor food choices to keep their teeth strong and healthy!
Grace Pointe Church held a fall festival that welcomed members of the community to gather for food, drinks, snacks, games, and prizes! I volunteered to help make S'mores goodie bags and cotton candy. While this season is filled with a little more candy and treats, we promoted healthy habits and provided free toothbrushes, paste, and floss to all who attended.
On Martin Luther King Day, students gathered to work together in planting a garden for the community. Thirty wooden planter boxes were built next to an elementary school and within walking distance from senior citizen housing. The founder of this event envisions that the elementary students will learn about gardening from their elders and that the produce being distributed to those in need.
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APPOINTMENTS
ULM Dental Hygiene Clinic
Monroe, La
M, T, W, Th : 1:00-5:00pm
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