In 1980, Bev Woods, RDH, became a dental assistant, a position that exposed her to a variety of oral health care settings. For the next 5 years, she worked in a general dental practice, a correctional institution, and in public health, eventually returning to college to pursue a degree in dental hygiene.
Based in Codrington, Ontario, Canada, and a past president of the Ontario Dental Hygienists’ Association, Woods is now co-owner of Independent Dental Hygiene Associates. She is also the president and founder of Gift from the Heart, an organization dedicated to improving access to care across Canada.
Woods, who is currently completing a Bachelor of Science degree, has many irons in the fire. But she kindly took the time to provide some of her hard-won insights.
Q: What have been some of the most significant changes you’ve seen in your 30+ years in the dental hygiene field?
A: Evolution of infection control is one of the most significant changes. When I began my career, personal protection equipment was nonexistent. Although it was imperative that our hair did not touch our collars, and it was mandatory to wear crisp, white uniforms and white shoes, we handled mercury, cleaned our instruments, and polished teeth without gloves or masks.
We’ve also made significant strides in preventive care. Research continues to link oral health and systemic diseases. Dental hygienists—now recognized as primary health care professionals—strive to provide research-based preventive care for their patients. We’ve also made strides in areas such as education, ergonomics, and self-care aids.
Q: In Canada, you founded Gift from the Heart as a way to help meet the needs of the underserved. What led you to initiate this program and how does it work?
A: In 2007, Bill 171 passed in Ontario allowing dental hygienists to become business owners and practice independent of a dentist. This was a monumental turning point. Once I opened my own practice, I was able to offer care to the underserved in my community.
In 2008, I formed Gift from the Heart, (GFTH), now a registered charity, and invited other dental hygiene business owners to provide free dental hygiene care one day every year. With help from Sinclair Dental Co, Purolator Canada, and a host of volunteers, participating Canadian dental hygienists have gifted more than $1.4 million of free preventive care in 11 years.
GFTH will be expanding its events in 2020, giving dental hygienists the opportunity to give back 365 days of the year. This will help to expand access to preventative oral health care.
Q: How were you able to gain widespread support from the dental profession for the program?
A: It was tough to get support from industry leaders and colleagues. I’m thankful for volunteers, social media, and a few key people who have never given up on me. I’ve put lots of miles on my car to share my vision and ask for support.
Q: Expanded scope of practice for dental hygienists remains a contentious issue in some parts of the United States. How is it viewed in Canada?
A: It was initially very challenging, especially within the dental profession. Eleven years later, more dental hygienists have opened their own offices, increasing access to dental hygiene care. There is still work to be done, but I’m encouraged by the number of dental hygienists choosing this business model.
Q: In your view, what will be the hot topics in dental hygiene for this decade?
A: Social responsibility as professionals will be key. Under one umbrella, like the GFTH organization, we will have a stronger voice, and together make change and eliminate inequalities in preventive oral health care.
Dental hygienists also need to work collaboratively within the health care system, and strive to become more diversified. Interdisciplinary collaborative care is critical for progress.
