Sade, RDHAP

Meet Sade, a RDHAP with a passion for making dental care accessible to underserved communities.

quip: Can you share a bit about your journey into dental hygiene and what inspired you to become a Registered Dental Hygienist in Alternative Practice (RDHAP)?

Sade: I've been in the dental field for over 15 years. I’ve always had a passion for dentistry, ever since I got my braces on as a teenager. I was very fascinated by the movement of my teeth. I became an orthodontic dental assistant which I really enjoyed for many years, but eventually wanted to move forward in my career. Becoming a dental hygienist allowed me to take my profession to the next level. After working in corporate dentistry for 10 years, I really wanted to do more in my community. I wanted autonomy over my schedule, patient treatments, and finances. In the state of California, there is an opportunity to expand your license by becoming an RDHAP, which allows you to open your own dental hygiene practice and work in nontraditional settings such as schools, nursing homes, and living facilities. It does require you to go back to school after completing your bachelor’s (or equivalent) for an additional six month program, plus 6,000+ hours as a RDH. It took time, but I knew it was the next step for me!

quip: For those who don’t know, what is a RDHAP?

Sade: RDHAPs are licensed dental hygienists who have undergone additional training and certification to provide dental hygiene services in settings outside of traditional dental offices.

This alternative practice allows RDHAPs to offer their services to underserved populations, such as homebound individuals, nursing home residents, or those who face barriers to accessing dental care altogether.

A dear patient of mine that I’d seen for many years suffered brain damage as a result of a very bad car accident, and could no longer be seen in a regular setting. My extended license allowed me to provide oral care for him and inspired me to make the real leap. I feel that I am able to make a difference in the lives of those who do not have access to dental care. It has provided me the opportunity to bring oral health services directly to those who need it most, improving their overall health and quality of life.

quip: What motivated you to start your company, All Things Toothy™️?

Sade: Working as a dental hygienist can sometimes become monotonous and repetitive. The seriousness of our work can take a toll, as dental health is a crucial aspect of overall well-being.

To bring a sense of fun and nostalgia to the dental field, I created a dental apparel brand that aims to lighten the atmosphere and bring some fun into the profession. By incorporating playful dental related elements into my designs, I aim to bring smiles to the faces of dental colleagues. By wearing fun dental apparel, dental professionals can express their passion for their work while also embracing a playful side.

quip: As an RDHAP, what unique challenges and opportunities have you encountered compared to traditional dental hygienists?

Sade: First and foremost would be the challenges and perks of being your own boss. I have a lot more responsibilities as an AP, which include all aspects of my business, finances, overhead, marketing, and customer service, just to name a few. However, I have the freedom to determine my own priorities and allocate my time and resources accordingly, which is priceless to me.

quip: Could you share some of the most rewarding aspects of running your own dental practice?

Sade: One of the most rewarding aspects of running my own dental hygiene practice is the sense of autonomy I have over my schedule and career. I have the opportunity to be more present with my family and attend more school functions by having the freedom to make my own decisions, which include: appointment times and days, treatment options, and overall patient care. This level of control has allowed me to shape the practice according to my vision and values.

quip: What advice would you give to dental hygienists who are considering pursuing an RDHAP license?

Sade: Some advice I’d give is to start researching and understanding the clinical and educational requirements to obtain your RDHAP, reach out to RDHAPs who are already in the field, and see about setting up time to shadow them so you can see what a day in a life looks like. Get a mentor to help guide and set you up for success. Remember teamwork makes the dream work and we are stronger together. Lastly, network and collaborate with other hygienists! It helps create community and will strengthen your success through referrals and partnerships.

quip: Can you share a memorable experience or story from your time as a RDHAP?

Sade: A recent memorable experience was teaching a group of Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) how to properly brush and care for the oral health of the patients at a living facility.

quip: What trends or advancements in dental hygiene are you most excited about, and how do you incorporate them into your practice?

Sade: So many exciting advancements coming to the dental world! One that I’ve been able to utilize and incorporate in my practice is teledentistry. This has allowed me to help patients from afar by answering questions when they’re not able to come into the office, and connecting them to dentists nearby.

quip: Do you have any upcoming projects or goals you can share with us?

Sade: My goals include getting involved in legislation, opening additional dental hygiene practices, and hiring and mentoring more RDHAPs. I’d also love to travel the world to learn how professionals in other countries practice oral hygiene.

quip: How does it feel to be part of the quip Dental Profreshionals Club, and what excites you most about this new role?

Sade: it’s a wonderful feeling to be part of a dental professional community with like-minded individuals! I’m excited to educate our communities about the importance of dental hygiene and to share innovative products with them.

quip: What do you hope to achieve as a brand ambassador for quip, and how do you see this role benefiting your practice and your patients?

Sade: I hope to reach and educate more patients by sharing these great products in schools and living centers, where they may not always have access to them.

quip: When you're not working, what hobbies or interests do you enjoy pursuing?

Sade: Usually, I’m coming up with new, fun dental merch or traveling with my family. And you can always find me behind a camera!

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Follow Sade on Instagram: @smilesbysade_rdhap