Stacy Distefano
Sutton,MA
Summary
At Dental Place Hopkinton, I excelled as a Pediatric Dental Hygienist, enhancing patient retention through effective behavior guidance and advanced patient management techniques. Leveraging skills in sealant application and compassionate communication, I significantly improved pediatric oral health outcomes, fostering a safe and trusting environment for both children and their families. Patient-oriented Dental Hygienist offering 20+ years of experience in high-volume dental offices. Expertise in screening patients for cancer and oral diseases, performing prophylaxis and providing education on oral hygiene and health. Talented at working with diverse personality types to provide an upbeat work environment.
Overview
21
21
years of professional experience
Work History
Pediatric Dental Hygienist
Dental Place Hopkinton
10.2003 - Current
- Reduced patient anxiety with the use of calming techniques and age-appropriate explanations during dental procedures.
- Collaborated with dentists to develop comprehensive treatment plans for pediatric patients, ensuring optimal oral health.
- Implemented effective infection control measures within the practice to ensure the safety of all patients and staff members.
- Maintained a clean and organized workspace, ensuring all tools and equipment were properly sterilized and ready for use.
- Improved patient comfort by providing gentle and thorough dental cleanings in a pediatric setting.
- Conducted thorough assessments of pediatric patients'' oral health status, identifying potential issues early for timely intervention.
- Enhanced patient education by offering customized oral hygiene instruction tailored to each child''s needs.
- Adapted clinical techniques based on individual patient needs, accommodating sensory sensitivities or behavioral challenges as necessary for successful appointments.
- Developed strong rapport with patients and families, resulting in increased patient retention and positive word-of-mouth referrals.
- Evaluated the effectiveness of current oral hygiene routines for pediatric patients, making recommendations for improvements as needed to promote optimal dental health.
- Stayed current on industry best practices through continuing education courses and professional development opportunities.
- Maintained accurate and up-to-date patient records by diligently documenting treatment plans, progress notes, and medical histories.
- Increased parent involvement in their child''s dental care by communicating effectively about treatment plans and goals at every visit.
- Contributed to a positive office environment by fostering strong relationships with both team members and patients'' families.
- Provided preventative care through sealants, fluoride treatments, and routine dental examinations to promote long-term oral health in children.
- Captured patients' dental radiographs and provided to dentist for interpretation and diagnosis.
- Sterilized equipment to keep dental tools clean and safe for use, reducing risk of infection.
- Cleaned patient's teeth to remove plaque and tartar buildup and prevent tooth decay and gum disease.
- Applied fluoride and dental sealants to protect patients' teeth from decay.
- Correctly administered local anesthetic and adjunctive therapies such as fluoride treatments and irrigation.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Dental Hygiene
University of Rhode Island
Kingston, RI05.1994
Skills
- Medical History Review
- Sealant Application
- Restorative Assistance
- Behavior Guidance Techniques
- Child Behavior Management
- Local anesthesia administration
- Anesthetic Administration
- Fluoride Treatments
- Infection Control
- Patient Management
- Caring and Compassionate
- Patient Communication
Timeline
Pediatric Dental Hygienist
Dental Place Hopkinton
10.2003 - Current
Bachelor of Science - Dental Hygiene
University of Rhode Island
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