About Student

Hi, I’m Tanecia—a proud Native American and a passionate future dental hygienist dedicated to helping others achieve healthier, more confident smiles.

My journey in dentistry began in 2015 when I started working as a dental assistant. From the very beginning, I discovered how much I enjoyed connecting with patients, easing their concerns, and being part of a team that improves overall health through oral care. That experience built a strong foundation and inspired me to continue growing in this field.

I am currently a 2nd year—semester 5—dental hygiene student in the Dental Hygiene Program at PIMA Medical Institute, where I am developing the skills and knowledge needed to provide thorough, patient-centered care. Patients can expect a detailed cleaning along with comprehensive assessments, all carefully reviewed by instructors to ensure the highest quality of care.

I enjoy dental hygiene because it plays an important role in overall wellness. My favorite part of this field is patient education—helping individuals understand their oral health, build better habits, and feel empowered to take control of their overall well-being.

As a Native American pursuing dental hygiene, I am driven to be part of the small percentage—less than 1%—of Native American dental hygienists in the United States. Representation in healthcare matters, and I am committed to creating a welcoming, respectful environment where all patients feel seen, heard, and cared for.

I look forward to giving back to my hometown community both clinically and through community education, making oral health resources more accessible and impactful.

Outside of dentistry, I enjoy spending time outdoors. My hobbies include fishing, camping, hunting, traveling, reading, cooking, baking, swimming, kayaking, and being in the mountains—anything that allows me to connect with nature and stay active.

Above all, I hope to inspire others by showing that anything is possible through hard work, dedication, and consistency. I believe that with the right mindset, you can achieve anything you set your mind to.

I look forward to making a positive impact—one smile at a time.

"Motivation means nothing without dedication — and I bring that dedication to every patient I serve" -Tanecia DeDios