Why I Attend My Local Dental Hygiene Association Day at the Capitol to Advocate for Dental Hygiene
Every year, dental hygienists from across my state gather at our Utah Dental Hygienists’ Association Day at the Capitol. Not for a comfort zone, not for a photo op, and not for a chance to skip work, but because our profession and our patients are counting on us.
This past legislative session in Arizona, lawmakers passed Senate Bill 1124, creating a new category called Oral Preventive Assistants (OPAs). This role that allows dental assistants to perform supragingival scaling and polishing after about 120 hours of training and under strict supervision.
Meanwhile, dental hygienists complete nearly 3,000 hours of accredited education, learning not only how to remove biofilm safely, but how to assess periodontal health, educate patients, manage complex cases, and connect oral health with total health.
This isn’t happening just in Arizona. Other states have been introducing it throughout the year, especially since the American Dental Association has stronger supported this model. It’s definitely been brought up here in Utah, and I have no doubt that it will be tried to push though.
For me, attending Dental Hygiene Day at the Capitol is essentail. Here’s why:
1. Our Education and Expertise Must Be Valued
Dental hygiene isn’t just about scaling teeth. It’s about comprehensive preventive care rooted in scientific education and clinical judgment. When proposals allow less-trained individuals to perform procedures traditionally provided by hygienists, it inadvertently diminishes the value of our specialized training. Patients deserve providers educated to the highest standards.
2. Patient Safety
Professional associations like the American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA) weighed in strongly against an amendment to another bill (AZ Senate Bill 1037) that would have eliminated CODA educational standards for OPAs. We advocate not just for our profession but for the oral health and safety of every patient who we come in contact with.
3. Advocacy is Hard, But Has Impact
When hygienists show up in person, by phone, or through email, legislators take notice. They see that this is not just an abstract profession, but a healthcare discipline with a voice. Sometimes our advocacy shapes legislation; other times, it stops proposals that would weaken standards or compromise care.
4. Our Voice Matters
One voice can start a conversation. Hundreds of voices can shape state policy. Whether we’re discussing scope of practice, supervision rules, reimbursement models, or workforce issues, legislators need to hear directly from hygienists because we bring expertise they don’t have.
5. Connecting with Others Beats Burnout
The Capitol isn’t just about politics. It’s about community. When we stand together we build momentum to strengthen our profession, our services, and our patients’ access to care.
How To Get Involved:
Advocacy doesn’t have to be intimidating! Here’s how to start:
Find out when your dental hygiene association’s advocacy day is scheduled. Most states hold these events each legislative session.
Register and show up. Even one visit to your legislator’s office makes a difference.
Share your story. Legislators remember personal experiences far more than talking points.
Stay informed. Follow updates from your local and national dental hygiene associations. They track bills that matter to us.
Invite a colleague. Advocacy gets stronger when we lift each other up.
If we want expanded scope, fair compensation, recognition as healthcare providers, and safe, high-quality care for patients, we must step into the legislative process. Being a dental hygienist means being a caregiver, educator, and sometimes, an advocate. Showing up at the Capitol is an investment in our profession’s future.
So mark your calendar, clear your schedule, and plan to attend the next lobby day in your area. Your voice matters and our profession needs it now more than ever.
Celebrating & Educating During National Children’s Dental Health Month
We all know that February is National Children’s Dental Health Month (NCDHM), and for dental professionals, it can be one of the most fun and educatioal times of the year. It’s a perfect opportunity to turn routine appointments into memorable learning moments and to empower kids (and their caregivers) with habits that can last a lifetime.
Whether you work chairside, in education, public health, or content creation, here are some easy and engaging ways to celebrate and educate during NCDHM.
1. Make Preventive Education Kid-Friendly (and Bite-Sized)
Children learn best when information is simple, visual, and interactive.
Ideas to try:
Use tell-show-do with oversized toothbrushes or models
Teach brushing with a 2-minute song or timer
Let kids practice brushing on a stuffed animal or tooth model
Use fun comparisons like “sugar bugs” or “tooth superheroes”
Small moments of education during an appointment can leave a big impression.
2. Involve Parents & Caregivers
NCDHM is also a chance to educate adults who influence daily habits.
Share age-appropriate brushing and flossing guidelines
Talk about diet, snacking frequency, and hidden sugars
Discuss fluoride, sealants, and early orthodontic evaluations
Provide take-home tip sheets or QR codes to trusted resources
When caregivers feel confident, kids are more likely to succeed.
3. Bring the Celebration Into the Office
You don’t need a huge budget to make February feel special.
Easy in-office ideas:
Sticker charts or small prizes for good brushing habits
Coloring pages or activity sheets in the waiting room
Dress-up days with fun scrubs or themed décor
4. Take Education Beyond the Dental Chair
NCDHM is the perfect excuse to connect with your community.
Ways to get involved:
Visit local schools, preschools, or daycare centers. Have you seen RDHs dress up as the tooth fairy and visit classrooms? So cute.
Partner with libraries or community centers for story time + dental tips
Volunteer at health fairs or pediatric events
Collaborate with school nurses or educators
Even a short presentation can spark curiosity and confidence in young patients.
5. Use Social Media to Reach Kids and Parents
If you’re already on social media, February is prime time for dental education content. You could make these for your dental offices pages, or your own personal accounts to keep spreading the word.
Content ideas:
Quick brushing or flossing demos
Myth-busting posts for parents
Reels showing kid-friendly appointments
Fun facts about baby teeth
Educational content doesn’t have to be complicated—it just has to be relatable.
6. Focus on Prevention, Not Fear
NCDHM is about building lifelong habits, not scaring kids about cavities. Letting parents know this is so important.
Keep messaging:
Positive and encouraging
Age-appropriate
Focused on what kids can do to keep their smiles healthy
The goal is confidence, not compliance.
Every interaction you have with a child helps shape how they view dentistry for years to come. National Children’s Dental Health Month is a reminder of the powerful role dental professionals play in prevention, education, and advocacy.
How to Talk to Patients about Interdental Brushes by Curaprox
Remember a few years ago when this news article/segment came out? I feel like whenever anything dental comes on the news or goes virtual, the next few months include so many questions from my patients about it. This news piece was no different. I would have a patient pretty much every hour ask if it was true and if they should follow that advice. Or, someone would come in and be very excited to call us out in dentistry “Hey- what you’ve been saying is totally not true” was a line I heard more than once.
After a few days, it definitely got tiring. However, looking back, it was actually nice to bring up the conversation of flossing and if it is actually working for many of my patient population. And the answer was really no. If they cannot do the proper technique, then really is flossing doing much for them? If they have larger embrasure spaces and they’re using a very very fine floss, is using that material actually removing much biofilm? Probably not. So luckily, we were able to turn those conversations into great home care recommendations that were actually tailored to them, like using an interdental brush from Curaprox.
When it comes to introducing interproximal brushes, when is a great time to talk about it? If patients aren’t bringing up flossing, when can we introduce it in their hygiene visit?
Start talking about it from the start. See a larger space while taking radiographs? You could mention it right then and ask if that area traps bacteria or food.
During periodontal assessments, like probing. If they have areas that are bleeding more than others, let them know and ask a follow up question on what they do for home care in that specific area.
When going to get the dentist for the exam. While the patient is waiting for the dental exam, have the patient try out and practice their custom fit Curapraox interdental brush.
To learn more and see the Curaprox IDB System in action and how you can work it into your dental hygiene day, watch this video:
Have you been talking about interproximal brushes, especially ones custom tailored to your patients?
To learn more about Curaprox and to bring it to your office, make sure you visit WEBSITE.
January, But Make It Better for RDHs
Ahhh, January. The month that feels like it’s 74 days long. The holidays are over, the scrubs are tighter than they were in December, patients are coming in hot with “I’ll floss more this year,” and the sun sets before you even leave the op. If you’re a dental hygienist, January can feel like a collective meh.
But here’s the thing: January doesn’t have to be something we just survive. With a few mindset shifts and small habits, it can actually be a reset month that works for you. I know I am working toward making this month better.
Let’s talk about some realistic, positive, and fun ways to get through January without burning out.
1. Lower the Bar (Yes, Really)
January is not the month for perfection. It’s the month for gentle re-entry.
You do not need to:
Reinvent yourself
Say yes to everything
Fix every patient’s periodontal status in one visit
Instead, aim for progress over pressure. Maybe your goal is simply to drink more water at work, stretch between patients, or leave on time once a week. Those wins count.
2. Romanticize the Little Things at Work
Your job already has built-in wins, we just forget to notice them.
Try this:
Light a candle after work and reflect on one patient you helped that day
Switch up your playlist or podcast for commutes
Treat yourself to a “January treat” that’s just for workdays
When the days feel repetitive, small joys matter. Hygienists give so much of themselves clinically. Finding moments that refill your cup is not selfish, it’s necessary.
3. Set a “Hygiene-Only” Goal (Not a Life Goal)
Instead of huge New Year’s resolutions, try one profession-specific goal for January.
Examples:
Learn one new instrumentation tip
Get more confident explaining perio to patients
Watch one CE video you actually enjoy
This is where resources like Hygiene Edge come in. Bite-sized education, practical tips, and reminders that you’re not alone in this profession. Growth doesn’t have to be overwhelming to be meaningful.
4. Laugh With Your Coworkers
January patients are… special.
Missed flossing. Post-holiday sensitivity or broken teeth. “I didn’t have time to brush before my appointment.”
Lean into your team.
Share the funny moments
Vent safely
Laugh when you can
Connection at work is one of the biggest protectors against burnout. Sometimes the most therapeutic thing you can do is laugh about it with someone who gets it.
5. Remember: You Are More Than Production
January often comes with slow schedules, cancellations, or pressure to “make up” numbers. Let me remind you of something important:
Your value is not tied to production.
Your worth is not measured in units.
You are an educator. A healthcare provider. A professional who impacts people daily, even on the quiet days. January is a great time to reconnect with your why, not just your schedule.
6. Plan One Thing to Look Forward To
January feels endless when there’s nothing on the calendar.
Plan something:
A weekend getaway
A CE course or conference- RDH Under One Roof or Chicago Midwinter maybe?
A personal day
A goal you’re excited about in your career
Even having one thing to look forward to can completely change how the month feels.
7. Give Yourself Credit
If no one’s told you lately: Being a dental hygienist is hard. Physically. Mentally. Emotionally.
So if you’re showing up, caring for patients, learning, growing, and doing your best, even when it’s cold, dark, and January-ish, you deserve credit.
January isn’t about being “on.” It’s about easing in, reconnecting with your purpose, and setting the tone for the year ahead.
At Hygiene Edge, we believe education should feel supportive, practical, and empowering, especially during months like this. You’re doing better than you think, and you don’t have to do this alone.
Here’s to getting through January with a little more grace, a little more laughter, and a lot less pressure.
You’ve got this.
xoxo Melia Lewis, MEd, RDH
Podcast Chats
October was the month of podcasts, chatting all things dental hygiene and teeth, and connecting with some amaazing dental professionals through this different medium that I don’t usually do. But, it was such a blast! And definitely has me thinking- should I start my own podcast? Do you listen to podcasts still?
Here are some of the podcasts I’ve been on recently. Take a listen!
Straight up with Steph- Part 1- How to Survive Dental Hygiene School.
Straight up with Steph- Part 2- Thriving in your First Years of Dental Hygiene
The Dental Hand Off- Talking all about Burn Out
Thank you to these amazing shows for highlighting dental hygienists, Hygiene Edge, and looking to the future of dental hygiene.
Introducing the Kilgore 700HPRO Typodont
Can you remember back to your dental hygiene school days and practicing a model or typodont? I definitely remember having a wall of typodonts hanging on a wall, and before clinic during my first semester, we would all run in and grab them off the wall. After a few times, we all learned which ones were the best, which ones were the worst, and definitely would rush in to find the best one to have the most effective clinic experience.
Now, that was 16 years ago at his point. So much of dentistry has changed in those 16 years since and the typodonts we use in dental and dental hygiene school are no exception. This year, Kilgore launched the 700HRPO typodont which has been so great to practice, learn and film on.
What makes this typodont different?
With realistic tooth anatomy and bone levels, you can both learn and practice scaling and probing on one model.
With the 2 in 1 of both scaling and probing/exploring on one typodont, you’ll have more of a “real life” experience before heading to practice skills on a human.
With the combo, you’ll save time without having to switch rooms or clinicians between different models.
Along with the anatomy of the teeth, these teeth are perfect to practice sealants on.
The gingiva is the most realistic we have used. Not too soft, not too tough so you can definitely adapt easier than some other typodonts.
It’s definitely interesting to reflect on the innovation of dental typodonts and models and how both small and large improvements with models can improve the learning process, and in turn support better clinicians.
To learn more about the Kilgore 700HPRO, check out our latest video showing how it works, and how it stands out compared to other dental models.
An Adult Treasure Box: Adding Fun and Value to Your Dental Practice
When we think of a treasure box in the dental office, most of us picture children digging through toys and trinkets after their visit. But what if we took that same idea and applied it to adults? An adult treasure box is exactly what it sounds like. It’s a fun, engaging, and unexpected way to make your practice stand out while giving patients a little extra to look forward to after their appointment.
What Is an Adult Treasure Box?
An adult treasure box is a basket, container, or display of small, thoughtful items that adult patients can choose from at the end of their visit. Think of it as a playful way to show appreciation, bring joy, and create memorable experiences that patients will share with others.
Why Add One to Your Practice?
Enhances patient experience – Dental visits can feel routine or stressful. Offering a small “treat” at the end brings a smile and a positive association with your office.
Differentiates your practice – Few dental offices think about adults in this way. It’s a simple but effective way to stand out.
Encourages word-of-mouth marketing – Patients love to talk about unique touches. A treasure box often gets mentioned in reviews or conversations.
Builds relationships – It’s a small gesture that makes patients feel seen and valued.
How to Incorporate It
Choose your container – A fun chest, decorative basket, or clear acrylic display can make the presentation inviting.
Curate your items – Stock with inexpensive but thoughtful goodies that appeal to a wide range of adults.
Make it part of the routine – Train your team to invite patients to pick something out before they leave.
Refresh often – Rotate items to keep it exciting and seasonal.
What to Put Inside
Here are some ideas that patients of all ages will love:
Lip balm
Mini hand sanitizers
Travel-size lotions or sunscreens
Herbal teas or coffee packets
Gum or mints (sugar-free, of course!)
Stress balls or fidget toys
Pens or sticky notes
Essential oil rollers or towelettes
Candles (small votives or tealights)
Fun seasonal items (holiday socks, sunglasses, keychains)
To see some more ideas, check out this list: Amazon Adult Treasure Box Ideas
A Fun Way to Stand Out
Incorporating an adult treasure box doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated—it’s about thoughtfulness, creativity, and elevating the patient experience. When patients leave your practice not only with a clean smile but also a little extra gift, it’s a small touch that makes a big impression.
So why should kids have all the fun? Start an adult treasure box at your office, and you’ll quickly see how a simple idea can build loyalty, spark joy, and set your practice apart.
Do you have one in your office? What has been your experience?
xoxo Melia Lewis, MEd, RDH
4 Simple Things to Do to Excel in Dental Hygiene School
Dental hygiene school is exciting, challenging, and, at times, overwhelming. With so much to learn, both clinically and academically, it’s easy to feel like you’re constantly trying to keep your head above water. But here’s the good news: success doesn’t always come from big, complicated strategies. Sometimes it’s the simple, consistent habits that make the biggest difference.
Here are four simple things you can do to excel in dental hygiene school:
1. Wear the Dress Code with Pride
Yes, the dress code may feel strict or even a little annoying, but think of it as your professional uniform, not just another school requirement. In the dental world, how you present yourself matters just as much as how you scale. Dressing according to the guidelines helps you get into the mindset of being a professional from day one.
It also prevents unnecessary distractions. Instructors won’t have to correct you on dress code violations, which means their focus (and yours!) stays on your skills, your growth, and your progress as a clinician. When you look the part, you’ll start to feel the part, too.
2. Don’t Cheat—Be Honest in Your Learning
This one may sound obvious, but it’s worth emphasizing. Dental hygiene school is tough, and the temptation to cut corners can sneak in, especially in clinic. Maybe it’s skipping a step on a form, rushing through instrumentation, or pretending you’ve checked something you haven’t.
Here’s the truth: your instructors know. They’ve been in your position, and they can spot when things aren’t done correctly. Cheating doesn’t just hurt your grade; it cheats you out of the skills and confidence you’ll need when treating real patients. Being honest, even when it takes longer, builds trust with your faculty and helps you develop into a clinician who’s prepared and ethical.
3. Be Kind to Your Instructors
Your faculty members aren’t just grading your work—they’re investing in your growth. A little kindness goes a long way. In just a few months, they’ll become your colleagues in the dental world. Many can mentor you, help you expand your skills, and even connect you with job opportunities after graduation. They want to see you succeed, so treat them with the same respect and professionalism you’ll show your future patients.
4. Read the Syllabus
It may not be the most thrilling document, but the syllabus is truly your roadmap for success. Inside, you’ll find due dates, timelines, assignment requirements, policies, and more. Most of the time, the answers to your questions are already there. Before feeling overwhelmed or emailing your professor, take a few minutes to read through it carefully. It can save you stress, time, and unnecessary confusion throughout the semester.
Dental hygiene school will push you, but if you focus on these simple habits, you’ll stand out in the best way possible. They may seem small, but these actions set the foundation for your reputation as a student and, soon, as a professional dental hygienist.
Did you start dental hygiene school this semester?
xoxo Melia Lewis, MEd, RDH @meliardh
Oral Health Group Feature
At Hygiene Edge, we’re proud to share the journey of our founder—an inspiring educator, trailblazer, and true advocate for dental hygiene.
A Legacy Rooted in Passion & Mentorship
Melia Lewis, MEd, RDH, discovered her love for dental hygiene early on—drawing inspiration from her father, a devoted dentist. Growing up in a dental office, she developed a deep fascination with anatomy and oral science. Her passion, paired with familial mentorship, turned what could have been just a career path into a calling.
Bringing Clinical Support & Community to Life
Melia’s vision for Hygiene Edge was born from the challenges faced by solo practitioners and new grads: dentistry can be isolating, and mastering hands-on skills like instrumentation often lacks guidance. Hygiene Edge fills that gap—offering accessible video tutorials, tips, and product insights to support both learners and seasoned hygienists working in the operatory. Over time, the platform has evolved to serve educators, industry partners, and the broader dental network.
Balancing Professional Ambition & Personal Triumph
Behind the scenes, Melia juggles the roles of clinician, educator, and parent with grace. Her proudest personal accomplishment? Raising two daughters. Professionally, she values the meaningful change she helps create in patients—bridging oral health with overall well-being.
A Vision for Expanded Autonomy & Impact
Melia dreams of a future where dental hygienists are empowered to practice with autonomy across diverse healthcare settings—not limited to traditional dental offices. Imagine hygienists in hospitals, outreach clinics, cancer centers, and more, championing prevention and education.The Tech (and Gear!) That Empower the Work
Educating with Empathy: The Mouth That Speaks Health
If she could change public perception, it would be this: “Oral health is overall health.” The mouth isn’t an isolated system—it’s the gateway. Infection and inflammation in the oral cavity can impact the heart, lungs, pregnancy outcomes, diabetes, and beyond. Understanding this empowers better health outcomes.
Thank you to Oral Health Group for spotlighting Melia!
RDH Under One Roof Take Aways
Welp, that’s a wrap for this year’s RDH Magazine Under One Roof Dental Hygiene Conference. This is seriously one of my favorite weekends when it comes to dental hygiene and is an event that isn’t to be missed, especially if you’re looking for ways to connect with other dental hygienists who are doing amazon things both inside and outside of the dental operatory. With lots of networking opportunities and classes both about clinical dental hygiene and other topics, you’ll find something you love during the busy 3 days. After going this year, here are a few of my takeaways that I want to jot down for next year.
Always plan on bringing things home. I’m not going to lie- I had lots of clothes and shoes to bring for the event you for different events, dinners and parties. With that, my suitcase was pretty full and I didn’t bring a spare, because that felt a bit dramatic. I also do regularly attend conferences, so I tend to be pretty picky on the items and products I bring home. Turns out, I was so wrong. There were SO MANY amazing things to bring home. From being gifted a Sonicare at the Hearts to Hands award ceremony, to buying a Flaus electric flosser, so lots of samples of new products that I’ve been wanting to try out, it was definitely a fun and successful experience. Turns out, my suitcase ended up being overweight on the way home. Learn from my mistakes- plan on bringing some things home, no matter how picky you are.
Wear comfortable shoes and bring a sweater. The Gaylord centers where they are held are BIG. There’s lots of walking between the hotel room, classes, and the exhibit hall, so comfy shoes are key. Having a sweater is so helpful in chilly classrooms, even when it is 100 degrees outside.
Don’t be shy! There are so many amazing dental professionals that are excited to connect. If you’re feeling alone during the conference, no doubt someone else is feeling the same. Reach out to the people around you to join in in classes or one of the very fun evening parties.
A conference is definitely an investment, but such a great opportunity to grow, learn, and reconnect on your “Why” when it comes to dental hygiene. Put next year’s event on your calendar now and I’ll see you there!
To see some of my favorite things I like to bring along to a conference, check out this link:
https://www.amazon.com/shop/hygieneedge/list/26GDDJ1J0O9IF?ref_=aipsflist
Thank you for supporting Hygiene Edge!
Xoxo Melia Lewis, MEd, RDH
