Each week the RDH PIRA (Patient Impact & Rise Above) recognition program, sponsored by Water Pik, Inc., features a dental hygiene clinician who excels in his or her role and goes the extra mile. The past two and a half years have been a challenge for many clinicians and as we return to the operatory, we want to acknowledge those who provide patient care—clinicians who are changing their patients’ lives, influencing their patients’ health, and making a difference every day. This week we honor Tiffani Dickey, BS, RDH.
Here's what Tiffani wrote in her submission.
“I became interested in the dental field at a very young age. When I had my own need for restorative dental work as a child, I knew I wanted to help educate and prevent/minimize the need for dental treatment in youth and the next generations.
“I began working as a hygiene assistant while I finished high school. I was accepted into a dental hygiene program, where I graduated with my associate degree in applied science in dental hygiene. After graduation, I worked two years at a community health center providing dental care to the underserved.
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“Now, I have my dream job at a private pediatric dental office in St. Louis, Missouri, as a dental hygienist and clinical team lead. I get to impact the lives of children every day by creating a fun and exciting experience at the dental office. I believe creating a strong connection and building trust in a dental home at an early age will set patients up for success throughout all stages of life. The earlier we can evaluate growth and development, eliminate poor oral habits, establish a relationship, educate, and inspect for caries and abnormalities, the better. Also, who else has been asked, 'What’s your third favorite reptile?' Questions like this from the kids make my day.
Tiffani Dickey, BS, RDH, has been a practicing RDH in Missouri since 2013. Since earning her associate degree, she completed a BS in oral health promotion. In addition, she obtained a qualified orofacial myologist (QOM) through Neo-Health Services, became a certified Munchee practitioner with Myo Munchee, completed her certified lactation counselor (CLC) through the Academy of Lactation Policy and Practice, and completed her training through the Healthy Children Project.
Tiffani is a member of the ADHA, MDHA, PDTA, IATP, and IAAH. In her practice she comanages social media content and helps with marketing. She and her husband, Kyle, have four dogs. They enjoy time with their dogs, family, and friends, and they like to travel, watch football, and visit the golf course in their spare time.
Visit the PIRA website to nominate someone today! Good luck, and we look forward to hearing from many outstanding and qualified colleagues!
