Wednesday, March 20, 2013

Q & A with Artistic Dental Hygienist Mary M.



What made you decide to become a dental hygienist?

During my senior year of high school I had the opportunity to take a part-time job with my childhood orthodontist. The office environment was friendly and I was intrigued by the practice. The orthodontist was really the one who encouraged me to go into dentistry. After I received my Bachelors degree I worked as a dental assistant, and eventually became a hygienist.

How long have you been a hygienist?
I have been a hygienist for 34 years.

Where did you go to school?
I attended Phoenix College and received my Bachelors degree from NAU.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?
Helping patients transform their mouths from an unhealthy state to a healthy state is definitely the most rewarding. I also feel very fortunate to work with Dr. Dougherty and Dr. Adhikari. I admire and respect them very much.

What makes your day?
When I feel like I have done my job well and feel like I have helped my patients.

If you were to choose another profession what would you choose?
Before I started working in the dental field I had an interest in law, but am very content with what I do.

What do you like to do in your spare time?
I enjoy exercising, cooking, scrap booking and spending time with my family and friends.  

What advice would you give others?
Having a career in dentistry is extremely rewarding. The best advice I can give to others who are just starting out is to get as much hands-on experience as possible. Work in a dental office to get a feel for the profession and observe each role to determine if it’s the right career for you.


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