I was 36-years-old and very pregnant with my third baby. I'm a military wife, and I’d been a stay-at-home mom. Our family had been living in Texas for a little over a year, but I had not been to a dentist for a few years, so I made an appointment. I was a little nervous, very guarded, and quite self-conscious about my growing belly. I just wanted to get in and get out of the dentist’s office! I was not excited about going, but I knew it was something that had to be done.
Then it turned out to be an awesome experience! From the time I walked into the office, I felt welcome. The office staff was very friendly and dressed so professionally in matching polo shirts and khaki pants. The office itself was beautiful, and it smelled nice and clean. I was very impressed, and I was able to let down my guard and relax for my appointment.
When the dental assistant came to take me to the operatory, she told me how pretty I looked. Pregnant and emotional me almost started boo-hooing on the spot. When I sat in the chair I felt safe and relaxed. I looked around and immediately noticed how clean the room looked; there was no dust even around the computer!
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I felt like the assistant really knew what she doing. She made good eye contact and did a thorough medical history check. She presented herself very professionally. Her hair was pulled back, she had on small diamond studded earrings, and she had a lovely natural French manicure. She washed her hands in my presence and proceeded to describe what was going to happen during my appointment.
I left thinking how awesome it is was to come in contact with people who really knew how to give good customer service. I felt valued and important. I was energized and in a great mood for the rest of the day.
A couple of months later I was reading the local Army newspaper and came across an article congratulating the Fort Hood/Red Cross 2013 dental assisting class. I was surprised and excited to see the announcement. I had no idea the program existed! Here was my chance to get back into school and start a meaningful career. I hurried over to the Red Cross to find out what I had to do to get into the next program. It was a long and tedious process, but well worth it. I took my time completing all of the paperwork, and I found a way to overcome the many obstacles that tried to stand in my way!
Now anytime my studying or internship get tough, I think about the wonderful dental assistant who took care of me, and that makes me smile and push onward. I love helping people, and empowering them with knowledge. I love being the friendly professional. I’m very grateful for my awesome dental experience because I was really struggling with what to do next in my life. I enjoyed being a stay at home mom, but I was ready to add another meaningful adventure to my life. Now I love DA school and working with patients at the dental clinic.
I’ve learned so much this past year, and it's been a blast studying alongside my 10-year-old daughter. I really feel like I'm in control of my future now, and I love it.
