Patient education is one of my favorite things about dental hygiene.

Being able to show

a gingivitis patient the infection in their mouth and ways to properly manage and overcome it,

is such a rewarding feeling. When I first started the program, I thought it was simply going to be

“cleaning teeth”. I had no idea there was patient education and involvement in the process of

care we provide. I was happily surprised when I learned patient education is key in properly

treating and preventing disease in patients. I treasure being able to adequately explain the

importance of prevention to patients. Whether it be with quality plaque and calculus removal,

appropriate intervals in hygiene appointments, or sealant placement, I am happy to be able to

instruct patients on how to better their conditions and prevent disease.

I find it so rewarding to be able to link medical histories, patient diets, and oral hygiene

habits to a patient’s oral health conditions. I never saw myself being an educator, but I am

forever indebted to the instructors of Kirkwood’s Dental Hygiene program for teaching me how

to appropriately educate patients so they can maintain a level of health in their oral cavity, and

therefore maintaining systemic health.