What does it mean to you to be a non-traditional dental hygienist?
As a registered dental hygienist, it can feel like the career is a bit limiting, like there is one avenue to follow to fulfill your career. I've looked at this and said it's not all I'm meant to do, be patient facing in an operatory. I love dentistry and being a dental hygienist but I also wanted more from it, I'm also a person who loves a good challenge. I chose to be a non-traditional hygienist, to have a variety of options to fulfill my career, the ability to utilize more of my creativity and curiosity. My current non-traditional options include being a clinical instructor in a college setting, providing mentoring opportunities to RDH new graduates and participating in outreach programs where I provide dental services to communities in need. Being non-traditional has given me an exciting career, the ability to serve my community in a variety of ways and an overall sensation of fulfilment. I get to try and do things in my career that many never attempt or think is possible.
What is one thing you wish more people understood about oral health?
Oral health is implicated in so many aspects of who we are. Our health and confidence can be directly impacted by what is going on in our mouths and vice versa. The confidence to smile and ability to eat are the starting point. Consider that what happens in the mouth can be altered by your gut health, hormones and daily habits.
How do you balance your many professional pursuits with family life and your own well-being?
It's an ever flowing and ever changing pursuit. I would be lying if I said I had it all figured out. A supportive family is key for me, being adaptable to busy weeks and cheering me on. My son is very ready and open to tell everyone that I am a dental hygienist and my daughter, who is almost 2, can point out a dental office and tell you that it's for teeth. My balance includes adapting a strict no business work once the kids are home to give them full attention and to truly enjoy our time together. Once they go to bed I either try to finish some more work or relax with some ice cream and The Office, it's what balance looks like for me.
What does self-care mean to you?
Self care means knowing when to take a break. That means the world to my mental and physical health. A break to get a massage, crush it at a Hyrox or Lagree class, go for an outing with friends, sit and watch a good movie or a walk through my favourite farmers market. These breaks give me the time I need to enjoy life and my family.
Walk us through your personal oral-care routine. Which oral-care products or tools can you not live without?
I absolutely cannot live without my floss, my curaprox toothbrush and a tongue scraper.
What inspired you to launch Mouthboxx?
Mouthboxx was meant to be a digital business card, I used it to allow people to follow me after speaking engagements to see what else I had coming up. It quickly turned into an avenue for me to express more of my creativity, find alternate options within my career of what an RDH can look like and gave me courage to advocate for so many different causes that I hold dear. It also gave me the name of my newly established practice, Mouthboxx Dental Hygiene Studio, where I can focus on whole body health, wellness and functionality. Where I can offer products like Before toothpaste and feel confident about what my patients are using.
What is one small ritual that helps you feel your best?
Starting off the morning right is a massively important ritual for me. It has to start in one of two ways, a great workout or hugs kisses and the biggest good morning greetings from my kids. This ritual means everything to me to start a positive and successful day and attitude.
