Elevating Dental Hygiene Through Education and Advocacy

Shavonne R. Healy, MSDH, RDH, has spent her career transforming how the dental hygiene profession is perceived and how dental hygienists view themselves. What began as an introduction to dentistry in high school grew into a lifelong mission to advance the profession through education, advocacy, and leadership.

“I was drawn to dental hygiene because it offered a balance of science, service, and social impact. From the beginning of my career, I understood that oral health is inseparable from overall health and that disparities in access to care continue to affect too many communities,” Healy shares.

Early in her career, she saw that many dental hygienists viewed themselves only as employees in private practice. Healy challenged that mindset, encouraging her peers to recognize their role as critical public health professionals who prevent disease and save lives.

Recognizing a gap in advanced training opportunities for practicing dental hygienists, Healy founded A Higher Learning LLC in 2020. The continuing education organization is designed to give dental hygienists the tools to expand their skills, pursue greater autonomy, and practice at the top of their license.

“Education has always been the cornerstone of progress in our profession. Throughout my journey, I have seen how continued learning transforms clinicians — it builds confidence, reinforces ethical decision-making, and enhances patient outcomes,” she explains. “My passion for education is rooted in the belief that every dental hygienist deserves opportunities to grow, lead, and practice at the top of their licensure. Through A Higher Learning LLC, I aim to cultivate professional excellence by offering high-quality, evidence-based education that equips dental hygienists to advance oral health justice and deliver the best possible care.”

Education, however, is only one part of her vision. Healy is also a vocal advocate for diversity within the field. She believes representation matters, not only for those entering the profession but also for the patients receiving care. When patients see providers who reflect their own communities, outcomes often improve.

“Becoming a dental hygienist allowed me to be both a clinician and an advocate, helping patients understand the value of prevention while promoting health equity on a larger scale. It’s more than a career for me; it’s a calling to bridge gaps in care and empower others through education,” Healy notes.

Healy is also a leader in the newly formed Oral Health Awareness Project (OHAP), a 501(c)(4) organization dedicated to protecting public health through education and advocacy. Its mission is to promote access to preventive dental hygiene care provided by licensed, degree-holding professionals and to support legislation that upholds the integrity of dental hygiene education and practice.

“OHAP also organizes public events, like our upcoming Dental Hygienists in Action Rally in Washington, DC, on October 25, that bring attention to the vital role of dental hygienists in prevention and population health. It’s about amplifying our collective voice and reminding policymakers that prevention is power, and that oral health is public health,” Healy says.

Whether speaking on a global stage, mentoring colleagues, or leading continuing education workshops, Healy is committed to ensuring dental hygienists have a stronger voice in shaping healthcare. By combining clinical expertise with advocacy and innovative learning, she is paving the way for a future where dental hygienists are recognized as indispensable leaders in oral and overall health.