December is a wonderfully busy month for our family. We have two birthdays, an anniversary, and of course, Christmas. It’s our family’s favorite time of year. As 2019 draws to a close, I’d like to take a moment to talk about what we’ve been up to and publicly thank the members of the community, the patients, and my staff that have welcomed us so warmly.
It’s been a very busy 6 months! We have been learning and growing at Today’s Dentistry. In May I began the process of achieving Fellowship in the International Congress of Oral Implantologists and have already taken over 68 hours of continuing education regarding dental implants this year alone! The hygiene staff and I have attended laser training utilizing our new Gemini diode laser. Procedures that have previously required a scalpel are now accomplished with minimally invasive laser surgical techniques. From managing cold sores and tooth sensitivity to hygiene laser pocket disinfection, our team is excited about being able to help more patients receive care.
The most wonderful gift I was given was each individual team member in this office. Many of you are familiar with Jill and Tracy that have both been around even longer than my predecessor. Rachelle and Mark are the other hygienists that provide excellent instruction, comprehensive cleanings, and inspire patients every day to maintain, or improve their oral care. Terri and Brittany are the assistants that keep the clinical side running far and above the minimum standard of care. They often know what I’m going to say or do before I do it! They are the warm faces that help treat patients and make everyone feel comfortable in the office.
Teri is our wonderful office manager and she truly keeps the entire office moving. She genuinely treats all of the patient’s as if they were her own family. She guides them through the tricky insurance mazes and always seeks to help patients receive the care they need. She’s joined by the extremely helpful and friendly Kara, who is the newest member of our team. Kara has a warm smile and is usually the first to greet you when you come in or call the office.
Each of us plays a role, and each of us is important. I think it’s vital that we let the people in our lives know how special they are to us. One of my favorite hymns in church has a line, “In the quiet heart is hidden, sorrow that the eye can’t see.” We may never know what someone else is going through, but we can always express our love and convey that they are indeed important. Recently I heard a speech that alluded to each of us being a separate, individual part of a large orchestra, and this part really stuck out to me:
“Sometimes we might feel that we are… good enough only to play a minor part in the performance. But let me tell you that your sound is making all the difference. We need all instruments. Some of us learn easily and do very well in school, while others have artistic talents. Some design and build things or nurse, protect, or teach others. We are all needed to bring color and meaning to this world.”
– Hans T Boom
May we all enjoy the special spirit of the holidays this year and reach out to those around us. May we bring peace, and good will to all. Happy Holidays Ashland!
