Alaina

When I began my career as a dental hygienist over 15 years ago, I had hopes of helping to save the world’s teeth. In school, we were taught to take the systemic health of our patient into consideration. We were graded harshly on how well we could physically remove hardened biofilm that contributes to all sorts of oral and systemic diseases. Upon graduation I quickly learned that none of this mattered if the patient couldn’t afford it. Convincing people to believe periodontal disease is something they should be worried about is difficult when patients think if their insurance doesn’t cover it then it must not matter. I really feel for young adults who are launching their careers without ever having adequate dental care and education. My experience working for a private dentist on a college campus, and in a chain office with a mostly lower-income clientele have shaped my experience in treating my patients ethically. I know from experience how quickly a young person’s gums with neglected dental care can bounce back after a couple visits with a hygienist. I’ve also seen overprescribing of periodontal treatment from corporate dentistry in order to fulfill quotas and goals, which would not be a thing if patients had more options to seek care that is healing rather than exploitative.