I have been in dentistry since 1999, initially as a CDA, trained for the front desk during hygiene school, and eventually working as a hygienist. Over the years, I stepped in wherever needed, playing a significant role in the front office in addition to my full-time hygiene duties. I love clinical dentistry—seeing patients every six months felt like catching up with friends while helping them maintain their oral health. Aware of the physical demands of dentistry, I pursued a master’s degree in Career and Technical Education as a backup plan, aiming to teach.

Upon completion of my master’s program, I took an adjunct role one day a week at Phoenix College as an Externship Evaluator for the DA program, later adding classroom instruction with a focus on front office duties. Although I enjoyed various aspects of the dental office and sharing my knowledge, I realized I didn’t have the same passion for teaching as I did for patient care.

Unfortunately, I developed Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI) in my back, which progressed from minor discomfort to unbearable pain. The only true remedy for RSI was to stop practicing hygiene.

Since teaching wasn’t the right path for me, I needed a plan C. I noticed inefficiencies in front office operations, particularly with insurance claims and accounts receivables, in private dental practices. Often, the person in charge at the front desk either lacked formal training or was overwhelmed with too many duties and not enough help; as a result, critical details were missed. Seeing this as a business opportunity, I started my Remote Dental Billing business, Lighter Ledgers, LLC, while reducing my hygiene schedule. I retired from hygiene in April 2024 and took a leap of faith to really get my business going.

During this time, I connected with David, the CEO of Prosperident, and accepted a position as a dental fraud examiner. I love the challenge of investigating embezzlement—it’s like solving a puzzle. Transitioning away from clinical dentistry has been daunting. Hygiene was my identity, and I grappled with the question: if I’m not a hygienist, who am I? It has been challenging to lose my safety net and start something new. However, I have faith that everything will work out for the best, and I am excited to see where this journey of being a business owner and a fraud examiner leads me. By learning all the functions in the dental office and gaining formal education, I set myself up for success and can transfer those skills and knowledge to many areas. There is life after hygiene after all; who knew?

Education

• Advanced Certificate, Dental Assisting ‘99

• AGS,AAS, Dental Hygiene ‘06

• BSDH ‘09

• M.Ed., CTE ‘12