Patients allowing themselves to be vulnerable in the dental chair and sharing stories with their clinicians.

Attending conferences where colleagues offer much motivation.

Building relationships with patients and knowing that it’s possible to change their lives.

Dental hygienists Ryan Rutar, Miranda Peralta and LeeAnn Winkler cite these as their daily career inspirations.

Earlier this year, a video contest —  #WhatInspiresYou — was launched with the idea of gathering inspiration from America’s dental hygienists.

The contest began in a colorful video booth in Columbus, Ohio this past June at Premier Dental’s exhibition space. There, about 200 American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA) Annual Conference attendees shared their personal stories and insights around what has deeply inspired them over the course of their dental hygiene careers. Successive rounds of voting took place to determine the three winners as Premier and ADHA drove awareness of the contest through their respective social and digital channels.

The Grand Prize winner, Ryan Rutar of Lincoln, Nebraska and two Runners-Up, Miranda Peralta of Meriden, Connecticut and LeeAnn Winkler of Plano, Texas were disclosed following five weeks of spirited crowdsourced voting among thousands of dental professionals and other visitors to ADHA’s Facebook page.

“Premier is proud to partner with the ADHA in recognizing these three outstanding dental hygienists, along with the ongoing contributions of all participants of the #WhatInspiresYou video contest,” said Chris Helle, Chief Marketing Officer for the global developer and manufacturer of dental and medical products.

“Every day, these hygienists make a meaningful difference in the oral health—and indeed overall health–of their patients. From literally saving lives to serving as role models for their children, we are truly inspired by their authentic stories and personal journeys. We congratulate and thank them!”

Read the full story: Link

How does ADHA celebrate National Dental Hygiene Month?

In an effort to celebrate the work dental hygienists do and to help raise awareness on the importance of good oral health, the ADHA invites interaction via social media.

Throughout October, #NationalDentalHygieneMonth, the ADHA invites hygienists to submit a photo and caption telling what makes them #DHProud.

Enter today at @yourADHA and you’ll have a chance to be featured on ADHA’s social media channels throughout October!