Community
The allied dental professional must be prepared to influence others to facilitate access to care and services
CM.2 Provide educational services that allow patients to access the resources of the health care system.
CM.3 Provide community oral health services in a variety of settings.
CM.4 Facilitate patient access to oral health services by influencing individuals or organizations for the provision of oral health care.
In February 2021, I had the privilege to provide grade school students, K-6, fluoride varnishes as well as OHI (oral hygiene instructions). These instructions included frequency of brushing and flossing, how to brush and floss, and lastly explain how some oral health conditions occur. I firmly believe a large portion of my passion for this profession started here. Teaching children the basics of oral health conditions and how to properly manage their oral cavity made me feel a genuine connection between a health professional and a patient. It made me so prideful of what I can provide to the community when the kids were attentively listening and wanting to learn more about their mouths and how to take care of them. This pride will continue to grow as I am able to connect with more people.
