June 8th
Description of daily tasks:
I opened the clinic at 7:30 with the dental assistant and new intern. I opened the blinds, turned on the tvs, and checked off tasks from our morning to-do list. The front desk coordinator called the team into group huddle at 7:45 to talk about goals and how we can continue to improve each week. After huddle, I showed the new intern around and helped them settle in. I emptied the autoclave. I assisted the dental assistant with the first hygiene patient. I loaded the patient’s x rays and was on stand by incase the dental assistant needed anything. I walked the patient to the prize station and up to the front after the appointment. After that, I spent about an hour teaching the new intern about our sterilization area. I explained to them the difference between the ultrasonic and autoclave, which instruments get run, and how to bag instruments. The other intern and I watched Dr. Monica’s procedures throughout the day and assisted the dental assistant. During our break, the other intern and I quizzed each other on tooth numbers and tooth surfaces. We did this for about 20 minutes, as it was good to review before observing more procedures. In the afternoon I assisted with hygiene procedures and made hygiene trays for Wednesday’s patients. I taught the new intern how to make patient trays. I showed the intern how to navigate Curve Hero (dental software) and check medical histories, radiographs, patient notes, and behavior notes. After all the patients left, I began to close down the clinic. Dr. Monica noticed that the ultrasonic was clear instead of blue and asked why. Dr. Monica taught me that the ultrasonic requires a blue liquid every Monday morning when opening clinic. For the rest of the time closing up I followed around the dental assistant asking any questions I may have.
June 9th
Description of daily tasks:
I arrived at 7:30 and began setting up the hygiene and operative trays. I greeted the family, and walked both of their patients back to their chairs. From there, I assisted the dental assistant with X rays by holding the nomad machine, loading the films into the x ray machine, and rotating the X ray images digitally. After the hygiene appointment, I observed 6 and 12 year molar sealants. Dr. Monica quizzed the other intern and I on steps of a sealant procedure, and described the purpose of each step. I also assisted charting the note for the sealant patient. After that, I sterilized equipment, flipped the rooms from dirty to clean, and set up later appointments. I continued to assist with hygiene appointments throughout the day. Around lunchtime, the other intern and I moved tv’s and boxes into storage space next door. We were also instructed by Dr. Monica on how to turn on the nitrous gas bottles when we arrive at the office every morning. The last patient was a new patient so I educated the parent on the importance of flossing and brushing twice a day, various dental procedures, airway health, and proper dietary needs for children. The parent was interested in airway health as they were not familiar with it. I showed them diagrams of the face of the difference of mouth breathing vs nasal breathing. I also explained some procedures that Dr. Monica uses for airway dentistry such as frenectomies. After the patient had their teeth cleaned, Dr. Monica came in educated the parent more about airway health, as the patient presented signs of mouth breathing. Dr. Monica explained how proper sleeping and breathing are pivotal to a child’s focus and energy. After the last patient, I cleaned the hygiene room and created new trays for Friday’s patients. Since the office was newly renovated, Dr. Monica wanted the other intern and I to reorganize the cabinets. We reorganized two different shelves and continued to clean equipment and prepare for Friday. During this time I also discussed with the intern how we both want to create educational videos, flyers, and work on the airway brochure. We plan to set time aside next week after clinic to work on these tasks. To end the day, I moved more objects into the storage room and finished the trays for the patients on Friday.
June 10th
I opened the clinic at 7:30 by turning on the lights, rolling up the blinds, restocking the bathrooms, and emptying the autoclave. I helped set up the chairs for each patient, making sure we were ready for the day. For the first patient I assisted with x rays and observed the hygiene procedure. After that the front desk coordinator asked me if I want to learn how to chart and I said yes. She taught me how to chart and I was able to work on charts for Friday’s patients. This took around an hour since I was getting the hang of charting and since Friday had a packed schedule for me to write. While I was charting I was called in to help with a crown procedure for a patient. My main purpose during this procedure was to calm the patient as they were anxious. I held their hand during the procedure to help calm them down, and to ensure that they weren’t moving during the procedure. The procedure took around an hour and a half. I cleaned the room after and brought all the equipment to the sterilization room. From there, I sterilized the equipment and this took around 30-45 minutes. I helped some more with hygiene patients by being on standby for the dental assistants. At the end of the day I put away the instruments, closed the blinds, turned off the tvs, and made sure that everything was set up for Thursday.
June 11th
Description of daily tasks:
I arrived at 7:30 and opened the blinds, cleaned the playroom, and turned on the tv’s. I began labeling the sterilized instruments from the autoclave as we were called in for the morning group huddle. The front desk coordinator reviewed highs and lows of yesterday’s flow, and talked about how we can best succeed today. She highlighted patient cases to be aware of for the day. When the other intern arrived were both told by one of the dental assistant’s to make educational flyers for the Instagram page. I believe this is a great idea because the idea for the flyers displayed information for preventative care. After that, I helped with the first patient by assisting with x rays. Dr. Monica told me and the other intern that we should start learning how to polish each others teeth. One of the dental assistant’s taught me and the other intern how to polish teeth. This took around an hour and a half since we first had to learn the basic of teeth polishing, and then we both took turns on one another. After that, I helped sterilize instruments, assist with x rays, and clean. I also made patient trays for Monday’s patients so we will be ready by then. After that one of the dental assistants taught me how to run the water lines. I proceeded to do this for all of the chairs. As we were closing, we went into a group huddle as Dr. Monica wanted to discuss some highs and lows from over the week. After the huddle, I cleaned the patient lounge by cleaning the windows, doorknobs, and wiping all the toys. After that, the front desk coordinator asked me if I wanted to learn how to help run the front desk and I said yes. She spent about two hours teaching me about patient phone calls, charting, insurance, etc.
June 12th
Description of daily tasks:
I arrived at 7 am and started by ensuring that all the patient trays were made. I ran the autoclave and greeted one of the other interns. Since they weren’t here this week, I filled them in on the schedule for today and any information that they missed while they were out. I set up all of the rooms and began to make more patient trays. Throughout the day, I helped with x rays for hygiene patients. It is interesting being able to load the x rays and watch the image form. One of the dental assistants taught me what makes a “good x ray” as it is vital to have the best x rays pulled up for the doctor when they arrive. I helped the dental assistants in hygiene the majority of the morning. Later on I helped Dr. Monica with an sdf application, which she reminded me that anyone over the age of 12 requires two drops of fluoride. Later in the day I observed a sealants operation and took note on the steps of the procedure. I was helped the assistant by grabbing tools she needed and it was neat being able to learn each step. I had the responsibility of talking to the parent at the end of the procedure so I explained to them post-sealant care and how it is normal if the patient feels that their bite is slightly higher. After that, I walked the patient up to the front and then cleaned the room. I sterilized the equipment and began getting ready for next week’s patients. I finished the day by taking the trash out and we all took a team photo because it was “crazy hat day.” As I was walking out of clinic Dr. Monica asked me to send her 10 things I have learned during my internship, so she can gage what I have learned so far, and how I can make the most out of my internship. I also asked her some dental related questions that I have accumulated and she answered my questions throughly.
Competency 3.2: Deliver health education and promotion interventions.
3.2.1: Create an environment conducive to learning.
3.2.4: Deliver health education and promotion as designed.
Summary: This week, I was able to educate a new patient’s parent about proper oral hygiene and airway dentistry. I led the educational talk in a quiet setting and walked the patient through our new patient binder. The binder has educational images which made the talk more effective, as the parent was able to see the difference between mouth breathing and nasal breathing. The parent was interested in airway dentistry so I educated them about the kinds of airway procedures Dr. Monica offers. It was empowering being able to educate a parent and have the parent excited to learn.
Competency 7.2: Prepare others to provide health education and promotion.
7.2.4: Plan training, including technical assistance and support.
7.2.5: Implement training.
7.3: Manage human resources.
7.3.6: Provide professional development and training for staff and volunteers.
Summary: This week, a new intern joined the team who has had no prior dental experience. I have had the opportunity to teach them about dentistry and how they can educate others about dentistry. For instance, I taught them how the ultrasonic and autoclave works, purposes of dental instruments, and how to take x rays. I also reviewed teeth surfaces and sealants steps with them, making their time in dentistry easier to grasp. I also reviewed the new patient educational talk with them so they can hopefully begin educating parents about airway health and oral hygiene. I also have discussed with the other intern to make airway health flyers together which will be great education and promotion work.
Weekly Reflection:
This week was challenging, however, I have gained valuable information from it. Since schools are out now, the daily schedule is busier which makes it more difficult to balance daily tasks. One challenge I had this week was knowing what to prioritize. For instance, having four patients in at the same time, a backed up sterilization room, front desk questions, and miscellaneous tasks from staff can be hard to balance simultaneously. I had to make quick decisions this week of who and what to prioritize which was challenging, although it will make me a better worker in the future. Additionally, these challenges prepare me how it is always best to prioritize patients, as front desk tasks and dirty instruments can wait. Patients are your number one priority. One strength I had this week was being confident and efficient at my daily tasks. For instance, the front desk coordinator told me that she is going to start teaching me things about health policy and financial information since I seem confident in sterilization and with patients. This was encouraging to hear since it means that staff members can tell I am doing a good job, and that they would sacrifice their time teaching me. I am eager to continue learning more about dentistry and I am grateful that I have the opportunity to learn more each week.
Week 6
June 16th
I arrived at 7:30 and helped the dental assistant set up all the trays. We had group huddle at 7:45 and went over strengths and weaknesses from the day before. After huddle I met with the two other interns and divided our tasks for the morning. I set up the hygiene chairs and assisted the assistant with the patients. This consisted of helping with x rays, fluoride varnish, and relaying any information to the team. At around 9 am the longest-tenured intern lectured me and the other intern on information we should know before this intern leaves for the summer. During this time the intern quizzed us on the purpose and steps of sealants, extractions, fillings. I took notes during this time, as their knowledge and guidance is extremely helpful. Throughout the morning, I spent most of my time rotating between the sterilization room and hygiene room. I needed to make sure that the instruments were being run and that the operative procedures were going smoothly. During a short break, Dr. Monica quizzed us about various dental tasks and facts. This included quizzing us about when you should take a PANO on a child, how to set up an extraction, how to perform monthly maintenance on the autoclave, and the purpose of SDF. For the rest of the day, I helped the hygiene assistants. One thing I learned in the afternoon is the difference between a good and a bad x ray. A good x ray shows open contacts while a bad x ray has closed contacts. One of the assistants kept taking the x rays with closed contacts, so it was interesting being able to watch how the angle of the nomad (x ray machine) impacts the quality of the x ray image. By the end of the day, I cleaned all the rooms, sterilized all the equipment, and made trays for Thursday’s patients.
June 17th
I arrived at 7:30 and opened the blinds, turned on the tv’s, and unloaded the autoclave. After that I went around the office and swept and dusted before any patients arrived. The first patient was a filling procedure using a laser which was very interesting. I observed the procedure and helped calm the patient. The procedure took around 45 minutes. After the procedure, Dr. Monica taught me several tips regarding sterilization. She helped teach me ways to sterilize more efficiently, and showed me new ways to sanitize instruments. After her instructions I proceeded to sterilize and clean the room the way she preferred. While I was cleaning, I would periodically help the assistant with the second procedure, which was also a filling using the laser. When the second patient was done, Dr. Monica gave me several tasks to do. These tasks included reorganizing and cleaning objects in the operative rooms, and packing up objects to bring to the other office. Dr. Monica also spent this time quizzing me on instruments used for fillings. She explained each instrument to me and its purpose if I was not familiar with it. Before I started any other tasks, I went into the break room and typed out everything I was told and learned so far so I can share my knowledge with the other intern who wasn’t there. After that, I sterilized all the equipment and ran the autoclave and ultrasonic. I bagged sterilization instruments and put them away. Later in the day, I set up three different SDF trays. During this time I was jumping around helping anyone who needed it and efficiently ran sterilization. This included helping with a 6 year sealants procedure, watching patient’s siblings, and helping the front desk. Once patients started to dwindle, I began working on patient trays. I went through all of the patient’s for Friday, and looked at their medical histories, charts, and notes. After I completed the trays and set up all the rooms I went outside and got the mail. I came back and continued to shut down the office. Dr. Monica ended the day by giving the team a lecture on x ray tips. Dr. Monica taught the team how to angle the x ray machine to the mouth, depending on which teeth you want to target. She used me as an example of how to angle the machine to a patient’s mouth.
June 18th
I arrived at 7:30 and helped the dental assistant set up the hygiene area. I unloaded the autoclave and put away instruments. I also went through the schedule for the day with the other intern to ensure we understand the work flow. We went into huddle at 7:45 and went over strengths and weaknesses, how to prepare for the day, and any cases to watch out for. After huddle I continued setting up for the day by ensuring all the procedures had the correct instruments and set up. At around 9:30, the front desk coordinator asked me to make tracking sheets for Friday. It took me around 30 minutes to make all the tracking sheets. I had to go through past notes, radiographs, and medical histories to make the tracking sheets. I also had to email and text any missing forms to the guardian of the child. After I finished the tracking sheets, I helped with a hygiene appointment. I put the x ray gown on the patient and helped take x rays by holding the nomad machine and loading the x rays films into the computer. Dr. Monica taught us how good x rays have open contacts, which means that there are black spaces between the teeth. If there are closed contacts in an x ray, the dentist will not be able to see whether there are cavities or not. Dr. Monica also taught us how to look at bite wings and know which side of the face you are looking at. For instance, bite wings on the right side of your face will show your molars on the left side of the image, vice versa. The next patient was an operative filling procedure. I helped the assistant set up the room and grabbed any instruments she may need during the procedure. I stood in the room during the procedure to help with any questions the child or parent may have. After the procedure, I sterilized the room and put all of the instruments in the ultrasonic. We ended the day with a lunch and learn talk from a Pulp Dent representative. It was fascinating learning about bonding and sealant material that is more efficient, durable, and long lasting. I also learned that many of the composites used in dentistry contain plastics, but many companies are switching over to other material such as glass particles that do not release micro plastics. It was also interesting to hear about the purpose of Lime Lite, as I have seen it at other dental offices before my internship, but have never heard anyone teach about it. After the lunch and learn I closed down the clinic. I bagged the instruments and put them in the autoclave to run. I made trays for Monday’s patients and set up all the chairs.
June 19th
I arrived at 7 am and opened the blinds, turned on the tv’s, and unloaded the autoclave. I also checked off various tasks from the morning to-do list. At 7:45 we went into team huddle to go over the schedule for today. After huddle, I assisted with the first hygiene appointment. After the first appointment, I cleaned the room, sterilized the equipment, and prepared for the next two appointments. There were several patients that it was their first time going to the dentist, so it was essential for me to be extra prepared and vigilant today. For the second appointment, I got to observe an educational talk on how to best take care of oral health in infants and toddlers. It was interesting being able to learn different ways parents can brush and floss their children’s teeth and make it enjoyable for them. After those patients were done I continued to organize and clean in the sterilization room. The last patient was a lip tie removal using a laser, which was a very intense procedure. I enjoyed being able to educate the parents on the benefits of a lip tie removal and how it will improve the quality of the patient’s life. After the lip tie removal, I walked the patient out and sterilized the room. Since it was the last patient I turned off the nitrous, closed down all the rooms, and finished sterilizing. I made trays for Tuesday’s patients which took around 30 minutes. After that I helped the front desk coordinator close down the office by completing tasks off of the weekly to do list. I swept and mopped the patient lounge, cleaned the windows, sterilized toys, and locked the front door. My final task for the day was to make tracking sheets for the patients on Monday. This meant I had to write down their medical history, radiographs, past dental procedures, and behavioral information.
Weekly summary:
7.1: Coordinate relationships with partners and stakeholders.
7.1.3: Involve partners and stakeholders throughout the health education and promotion process in meaningful and sustainable ways.
Summary: This week, I was able to coordinate relationships with stakeholders by working with the front desk coordinator. Being in charge of patient tracking sheets meant that I had to understand past radiographs, medical histories. behavioral notes, and engaging with external stakeholders (parents/guardians). Additionally, I was able to involve partners and stakeholders in a meaningful and sustainable way by educating and empowering them during hygiene appointments.
Competency 8.3: Engage in professional development to maintain and/or enhance proficiency.
8.3.1: Participate in professional associations, coalitions, and networks.
Summary: Being able to participate in the Pulp Dent lunch and learn was fascinating. I had the opportunity to expand my dental knowledge by learning about new bonding and sealant materials. I got to learn about the dental industry’s shift towards biocompatible composites. Additionally, I got to engage in professional development through several weekly quizzes and small lectures from Dr. Monica.
Competency 6.3: Develop message(s) using communication theories and or models.
6.3.2: Develop persuasive communications.
6.3.3: Tailor messages for the audience.
Summary: This week, we had a wide range of ages in the clinic. I have had to learn and practice the difference in a health communication to a toddler versus a teenager. I was able to observe an educational infant oral health presentation during a hygiene appointment that was specifically tailored to new parents. I was able to compare this talk to educational talks with teenagers from earlier in the week. During the lip tie removal, I was able to deliver educational messaging to the parents, telling them how this procedure will improve the quality of this patient’s life.
Weekly reflection:
Two weeks ago we reopened our newly renovated office in Cumming. It has been challenging to know where everything is in two different offices, however I noticed that I have been more confident in the Cumming office this week. I have to be quick and efficient when knowing where instruments are, especially since patients may not always cooperate and dental materials dry quickly. I am glad that I have gotten more confident and efficient in the Cumming office so help lead the team to success. One challenge that has been ongoing is how to educate and empower patients regarding dental knowledge. For instance, there is lots of differing information about fluoride, x ray use, and dental procedures on the internet. This sometimes makes it challenging to educate the parent/guardian if they already have their mind made up from information on the internet. It has been interesting observing how to empower parents who may feel skeptical or anxious about fluoride or preventative procedures. Due to this experience, I will be a better health professional in the future learning how ow I can best educate patients while still respecting their wishes and beliefs.
Week 7
June 22nd
I arrived at 7:50 and set up the hygiene area for the first couple of patients. I checked the patient’s charts to ensure that all x ray materials and instruments were properly placed. After that I unloaded the autoclave and wrote down the date on each instrument pack. We went into huddle at 8:05 and discussed the schedule for today and reminders for the week. After huddle I helped with the first two hygiene appointments. I assisted with x rays, communicated with patients, and helped with sterilization. I also made all of the patient trays for Friday. During a short break, one of the dental assistants taught me how to make t-bands. The dental assistant taught me how the purpose of a t-band is to isolate and shape the composite during a procedure. I enjoyed being able to learn how to make them. During the late morning and early afternoon appointments, Dr. Monica made me chart. It was fast-paced and challenging but I enjoyed it. This took over an hour since I was following Dr. Monica around to different patients. She also gave me several tips on how to hold the x ray machine to make hand-off smoother. At one point in the afternoon, I watched the team learn how take x rays on a new machine. It was fascinating getting to learn the various types of machines used to take x rays. This x ray machine was faster and is clearer for open contacts, which means that the x ray films show black gaps between each tooth. Later in the day I set up for a sealants trays, two SDF trays, and an extraction tray. I set up the rooms for these procedures, helped the dental assistants with various tasks, and sterilized equipment. I closed down for the day by setting up the hygiene area for Friday. I put out all of the labeled trays and instruments. I also ran the ultrasonic multiple times to ensure that all instruments were clean before I left.
June 23rd
I arrived at 7:30 and made trays for today’s patients. I set up all of the trays with the correct instruments and patient information. We then went into huddle at 7:45 where we discussed the plan for the day. After huddle, I unloaded the autoclave, started the ultrasonic, and finished daily morning tasks. At one point Dr. Monica taught me how to put in patient notes and charting into the computer. I spent about an hour putting patient information into the computer. When I was finished with that, I cleaned the operative room and all of the instruments in the room. I continued to help the dental assistants with the hygiene appointments. I loaded x rays, communicated with patients and parents, and took patient notes. Towards the middle of the day I helped specifically Dr. Monica with hygiene appointments by tracking notes. I tracked patient notes for several patients which took over an hour. During this time, I learned how to transfer the tracking notes into the computer. When I was finished tracking, I sterilized all the rooms and instruments. We were backed up in the sterilization room so I spent around 45 minutes running the ultrasonic, cleaning dirty instruments, bagging clean instruments, and running the autoclave. At the end of the day, Dr. Monica showed me how to take a PANO. It was fascinating to see how it takes 2D cuts in the mouth, which each image showing a clearer part of the teeth. I made sure that before I left I closed down all the blinds, wrapped all the instruments, and cleaned the rooms.
June 24th
Today the office was closed, however, I decided to come in and help the front desk members. I arrived at 8:40 and began making trays for tomorrow’s patients. This took around an hour since I had to go through each patient’s medical history, chart, and past notes. I also had to set up all the equipment for each procedure. After that, the front desk coordinator taught me how to do monthly maintenance on the autoclave. We had to fill the autoclave with distilled water and run it twice. The purging process also took around an hour. The front desk coordinator also helped me put tracking sheet information into the computer. I did this for about 5 different patients, which took around 30 minutes. After I completed those patient’s charts, the front desk coordinator showed me how to insert information on the digital teeth chart. When she was done with that, I cleaned all the windows and mirrors throughout the office. Additionally, I cleaned all of the computer screens. I finished the day by helping the front desk coordinator with more tracking sheets.
June 25th
I arrived at 7:00 and I unloaded the autoclave, refilled the prize station, and prepared each room. We went into team huddle at 7:15 to talk about the schedule for the day. We discussed being proactive and to ensure that we are always one step ahead. After huddle, the first patients were hygiene appointments. I assisted the dental hygienists with the appointments by helping them with x rays, setting up SDF trays, and filling out tracking sheets. After each patient, I cleaned the room and sterilized the equipment that was used. One of the patients needed an SDF procedure which was interesting to watch and learn about. Towards the late morning, we had a frenectomy procedure. I observed the procedure and had the chance to talk to the parents of the patient about the procedure. I was able to reassure their worries and calm them down about the procedure. Afterwards, I cleaned the operative room and sterilized the equipment. The dental assistant taught me about the laser machine that it is used for the frenectomy. Dr. Monica also showed me how to clean the laser. Thereafter, I helped with the hygiene appointments by walking patients to their rooms, helping with x rays, and assisting with fluoride application. When our last patient left, I began to shut down for the day. The shutdown process took around two hours as I had several end-of-week tasks for the Milton office. I first set up the hygiene area for Monday’s patients. I laid out all of the instruments and went through each patient’s medical information. After that, Dr. Monica went through each patient with me to ensure that I am going through their charts correctly. Additionally, I worked with the front desk coordinator to learn more about the financial side of dentistry. When we were finished at the front desk, I restocked various dental items we were running out of. I finished the day by vacuuming and cleaning before I left for the day.
June 26th
I arrived at 7:40 and set up all of the hygiene chairs. I then unloaded the autoclave, made hygiene trays, and filled the ultrasonic. When loading the autoclave with dirty instruments, a dental assistant taught me about the purpose of daily autoclave testing strips. These testing strips indicate if the autoclave has any bacteria in it, and will turn a certain color if bacteria is present. We went into huddle at 8:05, talking about our plan for the day, with our first patient beginning at 8:10. The first appointment was quick, as it was a 5 day follow-up frenectomy. I enjoyed being able to hear about how this procedure has improved the quality of life in the patient. During this appointment, I took the post-operative photos of the incision area. The second patient required all hands on deck, and my specific part during this appointment was to quickly load the x rays into the machine. I had to be quick setting up the x ray machine for the correct patient since patients may not always be cooperative. This appointment took around 40 minutes, and I cleaned the room after. Before this patient left, I watched Dr. Monica give an airway health speech to the parent of the patient. I enjoy being able to listen, and occasionally participate in empowering a patient about airway health. It was great being able to learn about the long-term impacts of a frenectomy. After that patient, Dr. Monica decided that she wanted to teach me about the four-handed dentistry since it was a slow-paced day. She taught me how to hold instruments and pass them to a dentist. We would practice this for about thirty minutes. She made me practice using the steps for sealants, making sure that I am connecting the motion to steps in a procedure. After that, we continued with hygiene appointments. I would sterilize equipment, help take and load x rays, and observe airway health talks. Anytime I take x rays, I have the dental assistants or Dr. Monica teach me what I am looking at. Dr. Monica taught me how to know the tooth number associated with the x ray. At one the appointments later in the day, she had me practice telling her which tooth numbers had closed contacts based on an x ray. Afterward, I cleaned the room and sterilized the equipment. I even restocked the operative rooms with supplies. I spent around the last hour of my shift in the sterilization room, since it was Friday and you cannot leave dirty instruments. I had to promptly run the autoclave, bag instruments, and unload and put away clean instruments. Additionally, I bleached dry shields in a solution for around 30 minutes. I ended the day by taking out the trash, cleaning toys, tidying up patient areas, and ensuring that everything is set up for the time we are at the Cumming office.
Weekly Summary:
6.3: Develop message(s) using communication theories and/or models.
6.3.3: Tailor message(s) for the audience(s).
I have participated in airway health education talks by observing and talking to parents/guardians. I ensure that the information is easy to understand, while still describing the impact airway health has on child development.
7.4: Manage fiduciary and material resources.
7.4.1: Evaluate internal and external financial needs and funding sources.
7.4.9: Manage current and future facilities and resources.
I have executed opening and shutdown protocols at our two different locations. I manage restocking items, sterilization protocols, and ensuring that all instruments are safe and clean.
8.3: Engage in professional development to maintain and/or enhance proficiency
8.3.4: Build relationships with other professionals within and outside the profession.
As my internship is around halfway over, I can certainly say I have built relationships with my teammates. I have enjoyed being able to deepen my relationships with Dr. Monica, the front desk coordinator, interns, and dental assistants. Every person has taught me something valuable, and I am grateful that they spend time teaching me. One example of building relationships is that one dental assistant told me that they could see me being a dentist and that they would be excited to cross paths again in the future. It meant a lot to me being able to hear that they could see me being a dentist and wanting to reconnect in the future.
Weekly Reflection:
A strength I noticed this week is how is how I have developed deep relationships with my teammates. I am able to multitask and work efficiently with them, as they teach and help me. This internship has certainly strengthened my team work skills, although I’ve always enjoyed teamwork. For instance, the other intern is a high schooler and I have had the opportunity to guide teach them about dentistry and this internship. I enjoy being able to teach others and create a positive impact on them. While this week had it strengths, it also had its weaknesses. One weakness I have faced this week is how to handle fast-paced, stressful situations. I know as a future healthcare worker that I will be put in uncomfortable, stressful situations and I must be able to handle that efficiently and compassionately. As I continue my internship, I will gain more experience in tense situations, and become more confident with my actions.
Week 8
June 29th
I arrived at 7:30 and completed our morning tasks. Since it is Monday, I had to complete specific beginning of the weeks tasks, including filling the ultrasonic, putting water in all of the chairs, and running the autoclave safety strip. Once I was finished, I helped the dental assistants with x rays and tracking sheets. I also took the new dental assistant on a tour of the clinic, giving them tips to make their transition as smooth as possible. I spent time teaching the dental assistant how we do hygiene appointments at Tiny Tooth. At around 10:30, I helped with a filling procedure. I talked to the parents/guardians about paperwork and the purpose of the procedure. I stayed in the room during the procedure to help the dental assistant. Afterwards, I went to sterilization and cleaned all of the dirty instruments. Sterilization took around 45 minutes since it was extremely backed up and the ultrasonic has limited space for instruments, therefore requiring multiple cycles. In the afternoon I assisted with hygiene patients. I helped the new dental assistant take x rays and fill out the tracking sheet. When the hygiene appointment was finished I taught the new assistant how to put patient information into the computer. I ended the day making an orthopedic flosser poster. This poster included different kinds of orthopedic flossers with descriptions of each flosser. This poster is directed at people who are in orthodontic treatment. To complete the day I closed all the windows, turned off the tv’s, and cleaned the sterilization room.
June 30th
I arrived at 7:00 and I taught the new assistant how to open for the clinic. I showed them the morning checked and we completed tasks together. These tasks included unloading the autoclave, setting up patient trays, and restocking the clinic. We went into huddle at 7:15 and went through the schedule for the day. After huddle I continued to set up for the day and show the new assistant around. The first appointments were hygiene patients, where I assisted the new dental assistant with x rays. I showed them the work flow of how we take x rays at Tiny Tooth. Afterwards, the front desk coordinator taught me some charting tips. I spent the rest of the hour updating patient charts and helping the assistants when needed. When I was done updating charts I made an SDF tray for a 9:00 patient and helped the dental assistants. Afterwards, I walked the 10 am patient and family back to their room and chatted with them. I continued to Right before lunch I discussed with Dr. Monica about presenting an educational oral health talk to elementary schoolers tomorrow. I am excited to have the opportunity to educate children about the importance of brushing their teeth and what foods they should and shouldn’t eat. After lunch, I sterilized all of the equipment that was left over from before lunch. Afterwards I made hygiene and sealants trays for the rest week. I continued to clean the sterilization room and prepare for tomorrow. We did not have many patients in the afternoon so I was able to close down early. I deep cleaned the patient lounge and play area by vacuuming and sweeping. I also showed the new dental assistant how we close down for the day. They followed me around as I taught them our end of day tasks.
July 1st
I arrived at 7:30 and completed the morning checklist. We went into huddle at 7:45 and talked about strengths and weaknesses from yesterday. Our first two patients both had scheduling conflicts, so I helped the front desk coordinator while we waited for them to arrive. They taught me several topics regarding charting and phone call verbiage. I made several phone calls to parents and corporations. The first patient arrived and I helped with the frenectomy procedure. I provided all the correct paperwork, took pre and post-op photos, and cleaned the room after. As I began to sterilize the room, I was called to help with another procedure. I helped with this procedure for around an hour by ensuring that the patient was calm and still. After the procedure, I quickly sterilized the room and helped the new dental assistant with their x-rays. Once patients left, I assembled the bags we needed for our educational elementary school talk. I put the bags in my car and drove to an elementary school. I gave an educational presentation to children between 2-6 on how to brush your teeth, the importance of oral hygiene, and good foods to eat. I enjoyed being able to interact with children and educate them about what kinds of foods they should and shouldn’t be eating. The children that older were very surprised that raisins and fruit gummies can cause cavities. After we finished, the team chatted with Dr. Monica about the presentations and what we enjoyed about it.
July 2nd
I arrived at 7:30 . Since this was our first time at the Cumming office this week I showed the new dental assistant around. I gave them a tour and showed them where everything is located throughout the office. For our patients in the morning, I assisted the new dental assistant. I helped them become accustomed to the different layout of this office and make their transition period smoother. I helped the dental assistant with operative, SDF, and hygiene patients. Throughout the morning I would also help the front desk assistant. The main front desk coordinator was not present today so I would help them with any tasks or questions they had. The majority of these tasks included patient referrals and technology questions. Additionally, I would sterilize equipment and clean when needed. During our break, Dr. Monica taught me how to shock the lines. We also talked about creating educational videos for staff. I had several idea on how to improve the learning process for other interns and how I can contribute to their future success. After our break I helped with hygiene appointments by assisting with charting, paperwork and x rays from 1:00 to 3:00pm. After we were done with patients, we had to complete the weekly closing tasks for the Cumming office. I drained the ultrasonic, ran the autoclave, ran the water lines, and made patient trays for next week.
July 3rd
I arrived at 7:10 and set up the hygiene area for our first patients. We went into huddle around 7:25 to talk about the plan for the day and how to close down the office since it is Friday. For the majority of the morning I spent assisting the new dental assistant. I helped them navigate the dental software, assist with x rays, grab paperwork and help them with various tasks. I also spent some time helping the other dental assistant with their patients. At around 8:30 I talked to Dr. Monica about the orthodontic flossers flyers I made. She liked the poster but gave me tips on how to make it even better. I worked on the flyer for around 20 minutes while the dental assistants cleaned their patients’ teeth. After they were done with their patients I took a break from the poster and sterilized the hygiene area and cleaned instruments. At around 9:30 Dr. Monica had a break and taught me about different dental objects and their purposes. One of the things I learned is that there is a difference in t bands made for children than adults. She also taught me the old way fluoride application was completed. Once our break was over, I continued to help the dental assistants with their patients. I mainly assisted with x rays and would help the new dental assistant navigate the dental software. I spent the later part of the day bouncing back and forth between the front desk and clinical area. I would pass along questions and information between the front desk staff and clinical staff. I was also in charge of any paperwork patients may need for future operations or referrals. Towards the end of the day we began to shut down the clinic. I completed the weekly task list with one of the dental assistants. I swept, mopped, ran the autoclave, and set up trays for Monday.
Weekly Summary
3.2: Deliver health education and promotion interventions
3.2.1: Create an environment conducive to learning.
I helped deliver health education in several ways this week. I showed the new assistant around and shared tips to make their transition as smooth as possible.
3.2.4: Deliver health education and promotion as designed.
I traveled to an elementary school and delivered an oral health presentation ages 2-6 on proper oral hygiene techniques and dietary choices.
3.2.5 Employ and appropriate variety of instructional methodologies.
We changed instructional methods based on each age group for the oral hygiene talks. I also created orthopedic flosser flyers for a visual educational learning tool.
6.4: Select methods and technologies used to deliver message(s).
6.4.3: Develop communication aids, materials, or tools using appropriate multimedia.
Designed and created an orthopedic flosser poster for orthodontic patients.
6.4.5: Pilot test message(s) and communication aids, materials, or tools.
I presented the orthodontic flosser flyer to Dr. Monica for professional feedback.
6.4.6: Revise communication aids, materials, or tools based on pilot results.
Dr. Monica gave me several tips on how to improve the flosser flyer which included adding QR codes for easy access to dental websites and editing flosser descriptions.
Weekly Reflection
One of my strengths this week was being able to teach children about oral hygiene and healthy eating in a way that kept them engaged and interested. I enjoyed helping them understand the importance of brushing, flossing, and maintaining healthy habits. It was rewarding to see how interested they were in the educational talk. One area I identified as a weakness was realizing how specific and intentional must be when communicating with pediatric patients. We talked to children from around two to six, which meant we had to change our phrases and wording for each age group. As children interpret information very literally, I had to be careful with my wording to ensure that they recognize the importance of brushing and eating healthy foods. This experience helped me recognize how vital it is to have a communication style appropriate for your audience.
Kate Brown 