What is your current position?

I serve as a community and clinical dental hygienist with Indian Health Services stationed with the Oglala Sioux Tribe in Pine Ridge, S.D. My position is both challenging and rewarding as I work with special populations such as diabetics and prenatal moms, and in the community with Head Start, Child Care, and WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) to name a few. Much of my time is spent in schools managing school sealant programs and fluoride mouth rinse. I'm involved in other activities, such as serving as a trainer and consultant for tobacco cessation activities in dental offices throughout South Dakota, as well as professional group activities within the Commissioned Corps.

Can you discuss any particularly interesting experiences you have had in your dental public health positions?

The most interesting part of my job is working with collaborative partners in projects with a common goal and the learning that comes from this. For instance, the population I serve experiences a very high rate of early childhood caries. It is imperative to form partnerships with groups that have access to children and families to address the issue from a prevention standpoint as opposed to treatment. Because of this, I've had the opportunity to participate in research projects led by academia from major universities, marketing and communication experts, and those at the grassroots level, that have helped develop culturally appropriate educational resources and served as the driving force in creating change.

What type of advice would you give to a practicing hygienist thinking of doing something different?

Public health affects your community, and it provides ample opportunities that are not always openly discussed. Volunteering for projects or civic group activities leads to networking resources. These can expand into diverse opportunities that may or may not have an oral component, but can still benefit from a dental hygienist's involvement.