by Jerelyn Smith, RDH, MSDH, CDA, FADHA
March 8, 2025
Think back about why you chose to become a dental hygienist. Every one of us had an inspiration or motivation to pursue this career – a family member, job flexibility, or maybe you were recruited chairside by another hygienist. Whatever your reason, you did it and you’re doing it!
Now, what if your career as a dental hygienist had no limits? Imagine working across multiple states without additional licensure exams, administering nitrous oxide or local anesthesia with confidence, or providing essential care in nursing homes—without dentist supervision.
These advancements in our profession are a reality today, but they didn’t happen on their own. They are the result of dedicated dental hygienists who recognized the power of leadership and advocacy and tirelessly fought for our scope of practice, the future of the dental hygiene profession, and the care of our patients.
On my own leadership journey, I have learned how essential it is to be actively involved in shaping the policies and direction of our profession. Every advancement in our profession is the result of relentless efforts to push boundaries, expand our scope, and create a future where dental hygienists thrive.
Seven key strategies to develop your leadership potential
1. Know Yourself
• Identify your strengths and weaknesses to leverage your natural talents.
• Understand your values and what drives you to align with meaningful opportunities.
• Seek feedback from others to gain new perspectives.
2. Develop a Growth Mindset
• Embrace challenges and view your failures as learning opportunities.
• Stay curious and committed to lifelong learning in practice and leadership.
• Be open to change and adaptability as our profession and lives continuously evolve.
3. Take Initiative
• Determine where you are on your journey so you can identify what’s next.
• Step in during situations where leadership is needed.
• Be proactive in solving problems rather than waiting for direction from others.
4. Build Strong Relationships
• Communicate effectively and listen actively to strengthen professional connections.
• Show empathy and understand different perspectives to build trust and rapport.
• Foster collaboration and teamwork to create supportive networks that enhance collective impact.
5. Develop Decision-Making Skills
• Learn to analyze situations critically to identify all available options and outcomes.
• Weigh risks and make informed choices to navigate complex challenges with confidence.
• Trust your instincts while remaining open to input from diverse stakeholders.
6. Stay Resilient and Confident
• Stay focused and determined even in the face of adversity or setbacks.
• Maintain a positive attitude and motivate others by demonstrating optimism.
• Believe in your abilities while continuously improving your leadership competencies.
7. Inspire and Serve Others
• Empower those around you to grow and succeed by identifying and nurturing their potential.
• Lead with purpose, putting the collective goal above personal gain or recognition.
• Make a meaningful impact through service and mentorship that creates lasting change.
Leadership is a journey, not a destination. You can unlock your full leadership potential and make an impact on the dental hygiene profession. If you need guidance or encouragement, contact [email protected].
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Attend a Free Leadership Webinar!
March 12 | 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm CT
What’s Next on Your Leadership Journey: A Call to Serve on the ADHA Board
Presented by A Panel of ADHA Leadership
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Jerelyn Smith, RDH, MSDH, CDA, FADHA, is a District Director on the ADHA Board of Directors and has been an ADHA member for 26 years. Her clinical experience spans multiple specialties, having worked in periodontal, pediatric and general dentistry practices. She is an Assistant Professor in the Dental Hygiene Department at Ferris State University in Michigan. Jerelyn is a past president of the Michigan Dental Hygienists’ Association. She has served as Delegate, Parliamentarian, Speaker of the House and has held several leadership positions at her local component level, including President.