Teri Herdon
Grand Rapids,Michigan
Summary
I consider myself a dental hygienist with extensive experience at Life Centered Dentistry, American Board of Dental Examiners, Grand Rapids Community College and Biolase Laser Certified Educator. Skilled in local anesthesia, nitrous sedation administration, laser treatment, scaling /root planing and patient education. Proven track record in enhancing clinical competencies and fostering teamwork. Recognized for developing tailored treatment plans and mentoring future professionals, ensuring high standards of care and exceptional patient outcomes.
Overview
2026
2026
years of professional experience
Work History
Dental Hygienist
Life Centered Dentistry
03.2021 - Current
- Conducted comprehensive oral assessments to identify patient needs and inform treatment plans.
- Educated patients on oral hygiene practices, enhancing their understanding of dental health importance.
- Performed prophylactic treatments, ensuring high standards of care in alignment with industry practices.
- Collaborated with the dentist to develop tailored treatment strategies for diverse patient populations.
Dental Hygiene Board Examiner
American Board of Dental Examiners
08.2019 - Current
- Evaluated clinical competencies of dental hygiene candidates to ensure adherence to professional standards.
- Implemented examination protocols to enhance assessment accuracy and reliability.
- Analyzed examination data to identify trends and recommend improvements in testing procedures.
Dental Hygiene Instructor
Grand Rapids Community College
08.2002 - 02.2026
- Developed and implemented dental hygiene curriculum aligned with industry standards.
- Instructed students in clinical procedures and best practices for patient care.
- Evaluated student performance through assessments, practical exams, and feedback sessions.
- Mentored aspiring dental hygienists to enhance skills and professional development.
Diode Laser Educator
Biolase
04.2022 - 2024
- Evaluated student /hygienist performance using data-driven assessments to inform instructional strategies and certification.
- Facilitated professional development workshops, enhancing staff skills and teaching methodologies.
- Assessed student performance and provided feedback to facilitate student success.
- Improved student comprehension by incorporating visual aids and real-life examples.
Educator Local Anesthesia/Nitrous Oxide Sedation
Grand Rapids Community College ATC
2002 - 2020
- Implemented clinical lesson plans to enhance student learning experiences.
- Facilitated discussions that encouraged critical thinking and active participation among students.
- Served on GRCC committee to focus on improving policies.
Periodontal Hygienist/Assistant
Great Lakes Periodontics
2006 - 2018
- Implemented inventory management system for dental supplies, reducing waste.
- Developed patient education materials to improve understanding of periodontal health.
- Collaborated with dental team members to provide exceptional service and promote a positive atmosphere within the office.
- Trained and mentored junior hygienists, improving team performance and service delivery standards.
- Tailored individualized periodontal maintenance programs for patients suffering from gum disease or other related concerns.
Developer
GRCC/ATC
2005 - 2012
- Led cross-functional teams to design and implement a personal training program which has been offered.
- " LA boutique" training for dental practices. This is a refresher for hygienist struggling with Local Anesthesia. Program designed to educated with clinical guidance of how to anesthetize their patients.
Education
High School Diploma -
Kenowa Hills
Grand Rapids, MIAssociate of Applied Science - Dental Hygiene
Grand Rapids Community College
Grand Rapids, MIBachelor of Science -
Siena Heights University
Adrian, MISkills
- Local anesthesia administration
- Chronic disease management
- Tooth whitening
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Instrument sterilization
- HIPAA awareness training certification
- Multitasking Abilities
- Excellent communication
- Nitrous Oxide Sedation
- Laser Certified
- American Board of Dental Examiner
- Clinical Educator
- Digital radiographs
- Root planning and scaling expertise
Accomplishments
- Educated patients about treatments to reduce anxiety and reluctance to treatment.
- Trained and mentored many students, hygienists and assistants.
- Headed "Mission of Mercy" when they were in Grand Rapids, Mi
- Volunteered for Team Smile, Senior Dental Day, Mel Trotter Ministry.
- Award from Waterpik making an impact on others lives.
- Wonderful evaluations from Grand Rapids Community students since 2002.
Timeline
Diode Laser Educator
Biolase
04.2022 - 2024
Dental Hygienist
Life Centered Dentistry
03.2021 - Current
Dental Hygiene Board Examiner
American Board of Dental Examiners
08.2019 - Current
Dental Hygiene Instructor
Grand Rapids Community College
08.2002 - 02.2026
Educator Local Anesthesia/Nitrous Oxide Sedation
Grand Rapids Community College ATC
2002 - 2020
Periodontal Hygienist/Assistant
Great Lakes Periodontics
2006 - 2018
Developer
GRCC/ATC
2005 - 2012
High School Diploma -
Kenowa Hills
Associate of Applied Science - Dental Hygiene
Grand Rapids Community College
Bachelor of Science -
Siena Heights University
PIRA Excellence in making a difference within the dental community
While volunteering for Mission of Mercy, a patient pulled me aside (she was crying) to let me know that if it was not for all of us volunteering she would not be able to be put on the kidney transplant list. She had to have a healthy oral cavity in order to be put on this list. We cried together as her treatment was taking place. She hugged me and whisper in my ear. "You saved my life" We have kept in touch. She is doing great!