One Dental Hygienist’s Journey Takes Him Across the Globe

Lt. Cmdr. Demario Walls, MDH, RDH, embodies the limitless potential of a career in dental hygiene. A graduate of the University of Tennessee (UT) Health Science Center College of Dentistry’s former Master of Dental Hygiene program, Walls has leveraged his education to excel in clinical, academic, and public health arenas. Currently serving as a pharmaceutical investigator for the United States Food and Drug Administration, Walls inspects drug manufacturers worldwide, traveling to countries such as Brazil, India, and Thailand, to ensure the safety and effectiveness of medications coming into the US.

While his career has taken him far from traditional dental settings, Walls remains deeply connected to the dental hygiene community. Residing in Memphis with his wife and daughter, he dedicates time to teaching senior dental hygiene students at UT Health Science Center, where he emphasizes the diverse roles of dental hygienists.

In 2016, Walls was commissioned into the United States Public Health Service, where he worked as a dental hygienist at the Federal Correctional Institute in Memphis. Despite the challenging environment, Walls provided much-needed care with compassion and professionalism.

For his national and international contributions to underserved communities, Walls received the UT College of Dentistry’s Distinguished Service Award in 2021. Now treasurer of the Memphis Dental Hygienists’ Association, he encourages others to join professional organizations to expand their networks and grow in their careers.

At just 35, Walls continues to push boundaries, inspiring the next generation of dental hygienists. Walls’ story is a testament to the transformative power of education, ambition, and dedication within the dental hygiene profession. Click here to read more.