Sierra Pasternak, RDH

RDH Heart to Hands Submission:One of the most inspiring and meaningful moments in my dental hygiene career was volunteering with my local Ontario Dental Hygienists’ Society (ODHS) chapter to visit an elementary school and teach children about healthy eating and the importance of good oral health. The initiative was part of a community outreach effort designed to promote oral health awareness in a fun and engaging way, and it reminded me just how powerful education can be in shaping lifelong habits.

We created interactive learning stations where students explored how sugary foods affect their teeth, practiced proper brushing and flossing techniques, and learned how nutrition connects to oral and overall health. Using oversized toothbrushes, tooth models, and hands-on activities, we turned oral health education into an experience filled with laughter, curiosity, and discovery. The students’ excitement was contagious — they eagerly shared stories about their favorite snacks and proudly demonstrated how they brushed at home.

What touched me most was seeing how quickly they understood and embraced the information. Many were eager to go home and teach their families what they had learned, and that simple spark of enthusiasm reminded me that prevention truly begins with awareness. Education, especially when introduced early, has the power to transform not only oral health but also confidence and self-care habits for life.

Volunteering through the ODHS deepened my connection to my profession and my community. It reaffirmed why I chose dental hygiene — to help people take ownership of their health and to use compassion, knowledge, and education to empower others.

What keeps me inspired and excited in my career is that every day offers an opportunity to make a difference. Whether it’s easing a patient’s fears, guiding a student through a new skill, or sparking curiosity in a classroom, I’m reminded that small actions can create lasting impact. Dental hygiene allows me to blend science, education, and empathy in a way that uplifts others — one smile, one conversation, and one act of care at a time.