Professional Experience

I began my employment professionally while I was in my senior year of college. St. Clair College had a work-study opportunity to gain valuable experience as a dental receptionist at the College's dental clinic. Through this opportunity, I learned very important lessons on patient experience. The front desk is usually the patient's first impression of the office and their surroundings; if the receptionist is unkind or unattentive, it sets the tone for the rest of the appointment in the clinic. It is pertinent that the patient is greeted warmly, files are updated through active listening, and instructions are provided in an interactive manner. This allows the patients to relax and anticipate a good outcome for their visit. In essence, this experience taught me that patient care begins as soon as the patient sets foot in the office, and ends when they walk out satisfied.

After graduation from St. Clair and awaiting my admission into Detroit Mercy University, I worked at Autism Services Inc. as a behavioural worker for children with autism. This was a very impactful and meaningful position as I gained a wide array of knowledge on the autism spectrum. This training actually came very handy in my current practice as it provided me with foundational skills on how to navigate a dental appointment with children or adults diagnosed with autism. It was also extremely awesome to support these children and see them progress through the camp - very rewarding experience.

More recently, I began my career as a registered dental hygienist during my time at Detroit Mercy University, and it was both exhausting and rewarding to work full time while also going to school full time. My employers were very considerate and supported my endeavours in any way they can; hence why I continued on with my education and professional development! I am currently in the process of establishing a myofunctional therapy program at Tecumseh Dental Centre, and I cannot wait to see it flourish soon!

As a regulated health professional, I must comply with the rules and standards set out by the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991, among others. As a Registered Dental Hygienist, I have a legal obligation to register under the governing body of the College of Dental Hygienists of Ontario (CDHO) which protects the general public. Before registration, candidates must write a jurisprudence exam and attain a perfect score to move through the application process. 

I must also join an association from which I purchase malpractice insurance annually to protect my licensure; for that, I have joined the Ontario Dental Hygiene Association (ODHA).

Please see below for more information on the CDHO and ODHA!