Essay On Becoming A Dental Hygienist

Becoming A Dental Hygienist
-Krenare Lajiq

As a kid, I recall my parents and many relatives frequently asking, "What do you want to be when you grow up?", and without hesitation, I would think of the coolest occupations. My answers would usually comprise of being a cop, nurse, astronaut or the President of the Untied States. It was difficult to pick one, as there were numerous jobs that held my interest. For some individuals, dream occupations turn into a reality. Often times, the professions we loved growing up becomes a fun memory in the past. Throughout my childhood, my parents valued the significance and importance of regarding and helping other people. Before attending college, I was uncertain of my career plan, however; was one thing I was sure of was: the longing to help, to teach, and/or to positively affect others.

I've generally watched my mom cook and prepare meals as a young girl. She would forbid me to touch the oven without her supervision; I rebelled against her rules. As I got older, I would invest the majority of my free time in the kitchen; covered in flour and confections sugar, while leaving oil stains on her cookbooks. I was a sous chef for her most nights. At age fourteen, I landed a paying job at the local bake shop in the neighborhood. I was energized and eager to keep consolidating the affection for food into my life.

Not long after, I was surfing the web for another job. One post caught my eye; it was a dental assistant position with no experience needed. Unlike many, I enjoyed going to the dentist and having my teeth cleaned. After the interview and successfully securing the position, I learned that it was far more involved than a clean mouth and a goody bag. It was challenging to learn the names and functions of over 50 instruments the first day. I was overwhelmed and discouraged from the bustling work in which I had no time to acquire correctly. Withal, I assured a love and passion for dentistry. My boss, Dr. Perretta, had inspired and motivated me to become the best dental assistant I can be. Within a month, I was exceeding expectations in taking panoramic x-rays, chair-side assisting for root canals and implant surgeries. I was hands-on with every procedure; I had each instrument prepared for my boss before him requesting it. The feedback from patients, my colleagues, and my boss was satisfying.

In spite of the fact that I enjoyed being a chair-side assistant, I formed a habit of attempting to clean my own teeth during lunch breaks.

Nicole was not only my hygienist, she was also my role model. Her enthusiasm about dental hygiene as a career choice sold me immediately. She educated me on the importance of oral hygiene; the health benefits it has on the whole body. She was compassionate for her patient's needs and detailed oriented; establishing and maintaining work relationships with others. She guided me through the steps of becoming a dental hygienist; I was taught to read x-rays, measure periodontal pockets and allowed me scale models. You never know when your influence will ignite a spark in someone else.

Granted sometimes things enter our path that delay us, but in order to successfully complete our goals, we must never lose sight of them. I wish to follow and pursue my dreams of becoming a dental hygienist. Being able to further my education at New York University, will further provide fulfillment, both personal and professional. I wish to obtain a degree in dental hygiene and furthermore teach others about proper oral

care.