October marks National Dental Hygiene Month, a time to honor the essential role nearly 6,000 supported dental hygienists play across Heartland Dental supported practices. Hygienists are not only vital to oral health, but they are also leaders, educators, innovators, and caregivers who drive meaningful change in their teams and communities. At Heartland Dental, hygienists are empowered to grow clinically, explore leadership, and build careers they love through industry-leading education, mentorship, and continuous development.
We sat down with four supported hygiene leaders to learn how Heartland Dental has shaped their careers and helped them grow as clinicians, leaders, and mentors. The group included Amber Mendoza, RDH, Director of Hygiene Operations, Kieran O’Brien, RDH, Senior Hygiene Mentor of Operations, and Kim Dempsey, RDH and Kathryn Timson, RDH, Regional Hygiene Mentors of Operations.
Why did you choose a Heartland supported practice, and how have you expanded your skills since joining?
Kathryn: I joined Heartland Dental 10 years ago, fresh out of hygiene school. It was my first job offer, and although I initially saw it as a temporary opportunity, I quickly realized it was the right place for me. I stayed because of the incredible support from my hygiene mentor, exciting educational opportunities, and the strong sense of community that Heartland Dental fosters. I’ve seen firsthand how Heartland invests in development- not just in technology and innovation, but in the people that elevate patient care every day.
Kim: Before I chose Heartland Dental, I was seeking a change. I wanted to be part of a culture that valued its team, offered access to advanced technology, and aligned with my philosophy of patient care. Fortunately, Heartland Dental supported offices turned out to be everything I was looking for and more! From study clubs and The Probe to programs like IMPACT, Power of One, and Bell Achievers, I’ve developed both as a clinician and as a leader.
What inspired your journey from clinical hygiene into leadership and how did Heartland Dental support that transition?
Kieran: At the start of my journey, I knew I wanted to build myself. I was passionate about leadership and education, but I really had to “step out of my own head” and be brave enough to embrace those new opportunities! Heartland Dental supported that transition by providing training on topics that we weren’t taught in school, mentorship, and a strong network through regional connections. This support allowed me to grow, learn new procedures, and create environments where hygienists can feel trusted, respected, and secure while keeping patient experiences first.
Amber: My journey into leadership was inspired by a deep desire to make a broader impact not just on patients, but on the professionals delivering care. Early in my career, I found joy in mentoring peers, which evolved into a leadership mindset. Through mentorship from Heartland Dental leaders like Lori Hall, Nancee Shinn and Dr. Timothy Quirt, I was given opportunities to contribute to strategic initiatives and ultimately found my voice in leadership. Heartland didn’t just support my transition, they championed it.
What advice would you give to other hygienists who want to grow their careers?
Kim: Look for opportunities to thrive. What sets Heartland Dental apart is its culture. We’re given access to exceptional educational resources and are encouraged to pursue continuous growth and excellence in our craft. Here, hygienists are respected as essential providers and are empowered to practice at the top of our licensure. Seek out new experiences, and you’ll never feel stagnant in your career.
Kieran: Find your fit! As you continue your career, embrace new processes. When I first started, I never dreamed of the technology we have today, like our scanners, VideaAI, and Curodont. We as a profession carry the torch for comprehensive care, and we can’t let ourselves become outdated- if we don’t educate ourselves on using these new technologies to their fullest, then we’re standing in the way of patient care. Find training opportunities, speak up if you want personal progress, and be incredibly clear about what direction you want to grow!
Amber: Say yes to “stretching.” Whether it’s mentoring a new hire, joining a pilot program, or speaking up in a meeting- those small moments matter. They build confidence, visibility, and momentum. Lean into the resources Heartland Dental offers and don’t be afraid to ask for more. Most importantly, be always eager to learn. Growth isn’t a straight line; it’s a series of bold steps, thoughtful pivots, and meaningful connections. If you’re ready to grow, Heartland is ready to grow with you.
At Heartland Dental, hygienists are essential care providers, leaders, and changemakers. Whether you're just starting out or looking to redefine your path, you'll find support, education, and empowerment every step of the way.