Kate Pectol, RDH
Salem
Summary
Compassionate dental hygienist focused on educating patients about oral hygiene and preventive care. Proven expertise in developing individualized treatment plans and fostering a comfortable environment for patients.
Overview
3
3
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Dental Hygienist
Hunsaker Dental
Salem
03.2026 - 04.2026
- Performed routine dental cleanings tailored to individual patient needs.
- Educated patients on effective oral health practices and preventive care measures.
- Conducted comprehensive assessments for new patients.
- Performed cleanings using ultrasonic and hand instruments to achieve optimal results.
- Communicated with patients to ensure comfort during all procedures.
- Collaborated with dentists to develop treatment plans based on diagnoses.
- Customized prophylactic treatments according to specific patient requirements.
- Obtained dental images and x-rays, presenting findings to dentists for evaluation.
Sterilization Technician
Hunsaker Dental
Salem
09.2025 - 03.2026
- Cleaned and sterilized dental instruments following strict safety protocols.
- Operated autoclave and sterilization equipment to ensure optimal functionality.
- Monitored sterilization cycles to verify compliance with health standards.
- Collaborated with dental staff to maintain a sterile environment.
- Documented sterilization processes for regulatory compliance records.
- Handled hazardous waste according to established procedures.
- Assisted new hires in learning proper sterilization techniques and floated to support other staff members.
- Reported equipment malfunctions immediately to supervisors.
Student Dental Hygienist
Oregon Institute of Technology
Salem
09.2023 - 03.2026
- Conducted patient assessments and dental cleanings under supervision.
- Educated patients on oral hygiene practices and preventive care techniques.
- Maintained accurate patient records in compliance with HIPAA regulations.
- Collaborated with faculty to improve clinical skills through practical training opportunities.
- Participated in community outreach by delivering dental care to low-income individuals and promoting oral health awareness.
- Utilized dental software for appointment scheduling and patient information management.
- Addressed patient concerns empathetically, fostering loyalty and trust.
- Performed root planing as part of periodontal therapy treatment plans.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Dental Hygiene
Oregon Institute of Technology
Salem, OR03-2026
Bachelor of Science - Communication And Journalism
Brigham Young University-Idaho
Rexburg, ID07-2018
Skills
- Team Collaboration
- Professionalism
- Communication Skills
- Oral Cancer Screening
- Dental Imaging
- Treatment Planning
- Patient Education
- Infection Control
- Periodontal Charting
- Ultrasonic Instrumentation
- Dental Scaling
- Prophylaxis
- Periodontal Therapy
- Fluoride Application
- Nutritional Counseling
Certification
- Registered Dental Hygienist, Oregon Board of Dentistry, 2026
- Local Anesthesia, Oregon Board of Dentistry, 2025
- BLS/CPR, American Heart Association, 2025
- Nitrous Oxide Permit [pending]
- Restorative Functions Endorsement [pending]
- Expanded Practice Permit [pending]
Timeline
Dental Hygienist
Hunsaker Dental
03.2026 - 04.2026
Sterilization Technician
Hunsaker Dental
09.2025 - 03.2026
Student Dental Hygienist
Oregon Institute of Technology
09.2023 - 03.2026
Bachelor of Science - Dental Hygiene
Oregon Institute of Technology
Bachelor of Science - Communication And Journalism
Brigham Young University-Idaho