Sara Hamilton, CRDH

Beyond the Chair: A Hygienist's Heart for Her Patients

2027 Heart to Hands Award Submission

For over 18 years, I have had the privilege of serving patients as a Registered Dental Hygienist in Florida. Throughout my career, I've always believed that being a great dental hygienist means so much more than providing excellent clinical care. It's about compassion, kindness, building relationships, and making people feel genuinely cared for.

One patient in particular has reminded me just how meaningful those relationships can become.

The patient I am referring to is 90 years old, a Navy veteran, and someone I've had the privilege of caring for over the past several years. During our appointments, we've bonded over something simple: our mutual love of cats. He has a tuxedo cat, and as a fellow cat lover, I've always enjoyed hearing about his furry companion.

But over the years, our conversations have gone much deeper.

I remember the heartbreak in his voice when he shared that he had lost his daughter who was only in her 50s, to a brain tumor. I was extremely saddened by this news, as he was a patient of mine, as well. Later, he told me that his caregiver had also passed away unexpectedly. Hearing about the tremendous losses this man has endured touched my heart. I couldn't take away his grief, but I could offer something that doesn't require a dental instrument or a clinical skill: a listening ear, a compassionate heart, and the reassurance that someone genuinely cares.

Getting around has also become increasingly difficult for him. His daughter always brought him to his appointments before she passed away. He relies on a walker, and on several occasions, I've helped him safely make his way out to his car after his appointments. It may seem like a small gesture, but to me, those moments are just as meaningful as the care I provide in the dental chair.

After more than 18 years in this profession, I've learned that our patients don't always remember every procedure we perform or every recommendation we make. But I believe they remember how we made them feel.

They remember when we listened. When we showed patience. When we treated them with dignity. When we took a few extra minutes out of our busy day simply because they needed us.

Dental hygienists have the incredible opportunity to develop relationships that span years, sometimes decades. We become familiar faces, trusted confidants, and sometimes a small source of comfort during life's most difficult chapters.

I strive to give every patient not only the best oral healthcare I can provide, but also a little piece of my heart.

Because sometimes the greatest difference we make in someone's life has nothing to do with their teeth, and everything to do with reminding them that they matter.

Sara Hamilton, CRDH