October marks National Dental Hygiene Month, a time to celebrate the professionals who work tirelessly to promote oral health and preventive care in our communities. At 国产主播-Orange County, two recent graduates of the Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene program 鈥� Bianca C. and Freddy H. 鈥� are stepping into this important role with inspiring stories of perseverance, service, and ambition.

For Bianca, crossing the stage at the Honda Center was the culmination of more than a decade of persistence. After spending 12 years working as a dental assistant, she finally realized her dream of becoming a dental hygienist. Her journey wasn鈥檛 without challenges 鈥� including supporting her mother during a battle with cancer 鈥� but she never wavered in her commitment.

鈥淟ife happens鈥� but I鈥檓 happy to say that none of them stopped me,鈥� she reflected.

Encouraged by a WCU graduate she once met in a clinic, Bianca chose 国产主播 for its accelerated format and bachelor鈥檚 degree pathway, which aligned perfectly with her long-term goals.

Bianca credits WCU鈥檚 hands-on learning environment for preparing her to thrive in the field. The simulation stations, she said, felt like running their own small dental practice, while the clinical experience taught her to work with confidence and precision. Beyond the classroom, she also embraced WCU鈥檚 focus on giving back, volunteering with the Elimination Foundation, the Children鈥檚 Dental Health Clinic, and even traveling to Catalina Island to provide care for children in need.

鈥淎bove all鈥� it鈥檚 just so rewarding to give back to the community and educate our patients on oral health diseases and how there鈥檚 a correlation between the systemic body and the oral cavity,鈥� she said.

Looking ahead, she is preparing to serve as a dental hygienist in the military reserves while also pursuing long-term goals of earning her RDHAP credential, becoming a dentist, and continuing to serve underserved communities.

Like Bianca, Freddy took a unique path into dental hygiene. After six years of active duty in the U.S. Marine Corps, he knew he wanted to pursue a career in the dental field 鈥� though the Marine Corps itself doesn鈥檛 offer dental or medical programs.

鈥淚 always wanted to do the dental field,鈥� Freddy recalled. 鈥淲e rely on the Navy for that. So either stay in or get out. I decided to get out and pursue my career in the dental field.鈥�

His transition wasn鈥檛 immediate, but after completing online courses while overseas and exploring different programs, he eventually enrolled at 国产主播 in 2022.

For Freddy, WCU鈥檚 accelerated program and direct pathway into the dental hygiene curriculum made all the difference. It was also his first experience with in-person college, and he found himself thriving in the simulation labs and clinical rotations that gave him practical, hands-on skills. As a first-generation college student, he was motivated by the opportunity to make his parents proud.

鈥淭hat was my motivation 鈥� going into college and being the first grad,鈥� he said.

Reflecting on his journey, he admitted he wished he had started earlier but takes pride in achieving his bachelor鈥檚 degree and opening doors for his future.

Both graduates are quick to encourage others considering the field of dental hygiene. Bianca emphasizes resilience and determination: 鈥淪tay adaptable, open-minded, willing鈥� and never stop working hard for the dreams you showed up for. Every single day is going to be difficult鈥� but it鈥檚 so rewarding to know that at the end of it, you鈥檙e going to get your degree.鈥� Freddy agrees, adding that while the program is rigorous, it more than prepares students for the realities of the profession. 鈥淭hey do overprepare you, but that鈥檚 a good thing,鈥� he said.

As they embark on the next chapters of their careers, Bianca and Freddy embody the spirit of National Dental Hygiene Month 鈥� a celebration not just of professional success, but of dedication to service, family, and community. Their stories remind us that behind every bright smile is a dental hygienist whose passion and perseverance make it possible.

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What鈥檚 scarier than the ghosts and goblins you might find lurking in the shadows this Halloween?

Poor dental hygiene!

Halloween may be full of frights, but cavities don鈥檛 have to be one of them. With the right approach, you can enjoy this sweet holiday while protecting your teeth at the same time. We鈥檝e rounded up some helpful dental tips for keeping your teeth happy and healthy this Halloween.

Eat Sweets in Moderation

As a kid, you may have planned your trick-or-treating route based on which houses handed out full-size candy bars. After all, the more candy, the better 鈥� right?

Not quite. When you consume candy, the added sugars convert into acids that damage your teeth. Over time, this damage can lead to cavities and .

The good news is you don鈥檛 need to avoid candy altogether on Halloween. The key is moderation. Swap a full-size candy bar for a fun-size portion. Instead of grazing on sweets all day, enjoy a few of them in one sitting. With some simple adjustments, you can still enjoy the spirit of the holiday (and probably avoid a stomachache, too).

Know the Best and Worst Candy for Teeth

While all sugar can cause cavities, some candy is worse than others for your dental health. In particular, sticky and chewy candies, like taffy and gummies, are among the worst foods for your teeth, according to the (ADA). These foods can get stuck in your teeth, trapping the sugar in places where it鈥檚 harder to reach with brushing.

For chocolate lovers, however, there鈥檚 some better news. Chocolate dissolves more quickly and won鈥檛 stick to your teeth as long, . Whether you鈥檙e attending a Halloween party or stealing a piece from your child鈥檚 trick-or-treat bag, chocolate is one of your best options.

Remember to Brush

If you indulge in Halloween鈥檚 sweeter traditions, you鈥檒l want to know how to prevent cavities after eating candy. Luckily, there鈥檚 a simple solution: brushing your teeth.

It鈥檚 best to wait before brushing your teeth after you eat sugary foods. Waiting to brush allows your saliva to dissolve acids naturally and protect your enamel from weakening. You can also rinse your mouth with water after eating candy.

Once it鈥檚 time to brush, follow some . Brush for 2 minutes using a toothbrush with soft or medium bristles. Use a fluoride toothpaste and don鈥檛 rinse with water after spitting.

Pop Some Gum

For those times when you鈥檙e not able to brush after eating, keep some sugarless gum handy in your bag, car, or desk. , sugar-free gum helps your mouth produce saliva, which works to reduce the acid from sugars. While it鈥檚 not a substitute for proper brushing and flossing, chewing sugar-free gum can help minimize the impact of sugary treats.

Drink Water

If you know you鈥檒l be enjoying some extra sweets around Halloween, stick to water as your beverage of choice. Unlike juices or soft drinks, water helps by washing away food and sugary residue. Water also works to neutralize the acids that cause cavities and tooth decay. Sip water after eating candy to keep your teeth healthy.

Donate Extra Candy

After hosting a festive gathering or handing out sweets to trick-or-treaters, you may find yourself with bags of leftover candy once Halloween ends. Rather than keeping this excess candy for yourself, consider donating it.

Some organizations accept Halloween candy for a good cause. For example, Soldiers鈥� Angels collects candy for its , which sends care packages to military members. Local organizations in your community, such as food banks or homeless shelters, may also accept donations.

Opt for Other Halloween Treats

Planning on handing out candy to trick-or-treaters? This year, consider skipping the candy and giving out something other than treats. Alternatives like crayons, glow sticks, and stickers can make children smile without adding more sugar to their candy haul. Plus, you won鈥檛 be tempted to overindulge on candy when you don鈥檛 have any in the house.

Have Fun

More than anything, have fun and enjoy the holiday. Eat your favorite treats and make sweet memories with your family and friends. With these dental tips in mind, you can celebrate Halloween while protecting your smile.

Encourage Others to Follow Dental Tips with a Career in Dental Hygiene

Halloween doesn鈥檛 have to be frightening for your oral health. By following a few simple dental tips, like eating sweets in moderation, drinking water, and brushing regularly, you can enjoy the treats without the tricks.

If you鈥檙e passionate about helping others practice good dental hygiene, consider making it your career. At 国产主播, our Dental Hygiene program helps prepare students for a rewarding career in dental care. In as little as 34 months, you can earn a bachelor鈥檚 degree in dental hygiene (BSDH) and start helping others keep their smiles healthy on Halloween and all year long.

Ready to take the next step toward your future career? Schedule an information session today!

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These days, it seems like you can do almost anything online, from shopping to banking to streaming your favorite TV shows. But can you study dental hygiene online?

If you鈥檙e interested in becoming a dental hygienist, you won鈥檛 be able to get all the training you need from a virtual program. This patient-focused career requires a well-rounded education combining both classroom instruction and clinical practice. With practical hands-on experience, you can gain the skills and confidence you need to pursue a career in dental hygiene.

This article will walk you through everything you should know about studying dental hygiene online and the requirements to become a dental hygienist.

Can You Earn a Degree in Dental Hygiene Online?

No, you typically cannot earn a dental hygiene degree online. To become a licensed dental hygienist, you must complete a program that includes hands-on clinical training. This real-world experience can help you develop the clinical skills you will use in your future career.

For one 国产主播-Orange County graduate, clinical training gave him the confidence he needed for his future career path. Jonathon says this hands-on experience 鈥渆ngrains in you the skills and values that you need as a dental hygienist.鈥�

For those who already have an associate degree and want to further their education, there are online dental hygiene programs that result in a bachelor鈥檚 degree. However, you can only enroll in those programs if you鈥檙e already a practicing dental hygienist.

What Are the Requirements to Become a Dental Hygienist?

Dental hygienists help patients protect their oral health. As a dental hygienist, your cleaning patients鈥� teeth, taking X-rays, and offering advice on proper oral hygiene. Before you get started in this career, you will need to complete a dental hygiene program and become licensed.

Here are the typical requirements to :

1. Complete a Dental Hygiene Program

Dental hygienists need at least an associate degree, but many choose to get a bachelor鈥檚 degree because it offers more career options, according to the .

Depending on the program, it typically takes around 3 years to earn a dental hygiene degree. Some classes you may take in a dental hygiene program include:

• Medical terminology
• Anatomy
• Pharmacology
• Oral pathology
• Periodontology
• Patient education
• Dental public health

In addition to coursework, dental hygiene programs usually include laboratory and clinical practice components. This training allows you to expand on the skills you鈥檝e learned in the classroom and practice techniques under the supervision of licensed professionals.

2. Pass a National Exam

Once you鈥檝e earned a dental hygiene degree, you can sign up to take the . This written exam includes 350 multiple-choice questions about dental hygienists鈥� core responsibilities. It tests your knowledge of various concepts, including:

• Anatomic sciences
• Assessing patient characteristics
• Obtaining and interpreting radiographs
• Planning and managing dental hygiene care
• Performing periodontal procedures
• Using preventive agents
• Providing supportive treatment services
• Professional responsibility

For more information about the exam and how it鈥檚 structured, you can check out the .

3. Meet State Requirements

Every state has its own requirements for becoming a licensed dental hygienist. In most states, you need to pass a clinical examination.

For example, you must take a law and ethics examination to become a licensed dental hygienist in California. If you鈥檙e applying for jobs elsewhere, you can check with the for specific licensing requirements.

Advantages of On-Campus Dental Hygiene Programs

Dental hygienists spend their days interacting with patients and working closely with dentists. For this reason, in-person clinical training is an invaluable part of your dental hygiene education. The advantages of this instruction include:

• Hands-on training: An on-campus program gives you the opportunity to practice your newly learned skills under the direction of experienced instructors. You can get individualized, real-time feedback to build your skills and confidence.
• Access to equipment:聽Many in-person programs provide access to technologically advanced equipment you鈥檒l use on the job, such as X-ray machines. You can become comfortable using these tools in real-world settings.
• Real-life preparation for licensing exams: The practical experience you gain through clinical training can help you prepare for the national and state licensing exams you鈥檒l take after graduation. Often, this training is aligned with the clinical and care-based topics you may be tested on.
• Networking opportunities: On-campus programs allow you to build relationships with experienced faculty and other students. The connections you make in school can serve you well, especially as you start your career.

Gain Real-Life Experience Through WCU鈥檚 Dental Hygiene Program

Studying dental hygiene online might sound like a good idea, but it won鈥檛 teach you the practical skills you need to learn for this healthcare career. Completing an on-campus program with personalized instruction and hands-on training is the best way to prepare for a career in dental hygiene.

At 国产主播, our Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene (BSDH) program offers plenty of opportunities to gain real-life experience. You鈥檒l have access to a simulation lab with industry-current dental hygiene equipment, so you can practice your skills in real-world settings. As you get closer to graduation, you can begin working at our on-campus WCU Dental Hygiene Clinic, which provides free care to patients in the community who need it.

Our BSDH program offers flexible start dates at our Orange County campus, and you can earn your degree in as little as 34 months. If you鈥檙e ready to get started, schedule an information session to learn more!

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国产主播 dental hygiene instructor Katie B.鈥檚 story is a full-circle testament to the power of community, education, and a passion for healthcare. After graduating from WCU鈥檚 Dental Hygiene program in 2014, Katie returned in 2017 鈥� not as a student but as a faculty member eager to give back to the next generation of dental professionals. 

鈥淏eing a student here, I really loved 国产主播, and I was eager to come back and continue what the faculty did for me,鈥� Katie said. 鈥淭hey provided me so much to make my dental career so lucrative and also just so fulfilling.鈥� 

Now a dedicated faculty member, Katie is helping students bridge the gap between the classroom and clinical practice. Her dual role as an educator and working clinician allows her to bring real-world experience into her teaching. She focuses on giving students practical tools and insights that help them transition smoothly into professional practice. Hearing from former students who feel confident and well-prepared in their new roles is one of the most rewarding parts of her job. 

鈥淚 like to work with students and give them real-life experience because I am still working clinically, so we work in a lot with tips and tricks and things to be able to move from clinical in school to clinical in private practice.鈥� 

Katie is also passionate about community service. One of the highlights of the dental hygiene program is the annual Smile Camp, where students provide no-cost dental cleanings, X-rays, and education to local children. For many students, this is their first hands-on experience working with pediatric patients. 

鈥淚t鈥檚 an incredible opportunity for them to apply everything they鈥檝e learned in a fun, supportive environment,鈥� Katie shared. 鈥淭he camp not only helps the community but also instills in students the importance of giving back through their profession.鈥� 

Katie encouraged prospective students to come ready to learn and embrace the fast-paced, hands-on approach at West Coast. With technologically advanced equipment, extensive faculty support, and a commitment to student success, West Coast Dental Hygiene stands out as a leader in preparing future hygienists.  

鈥淲hen you come to West Coast, we have every experience you could possibly imagine from technology to hands-on training,鈥� she said. 鈥淥ur faculty are here full-time for you so we bring in the newest innovations that we can use with our students so when they go into private practice, they’re prepared.鈥� 

For Katie, the reward is simple: seeing her students thrive, just like she did. 

鈥淐oming back as faculty after being a student is giving what I was able to receive, so I hope that if one student can take away something that I’ve taught them into their real world — that is exactly what I’m here for,鈥� she said. 

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Another year, another fantastic Smile Camp hosted by our outstanding Dental Hygiene faculty and students at 国产主播-Orange County.

Providing Free Dental Care & Education

Held in celebration of Children鈥檚 Dental Health month, Smile Camp is a special event designed to provide local children with free dental services while educating them on the importance of good oral hygiene.

“Smile Camp is a community service event that the dental hygiene program puts on for students to work with children in our community. We do free cleanings and X-rays and even some sealants,” WCU dental hygiene instructor and BSDH alumna Katie B. shared.

The event also featured a dedicated education room where children could learn about oral hygiene in an engaging way.

鈥淲e take students after they’re seen with the dentist and the hygienist, and they go to another room, and they get a lot of education where they learn more about brushing and flossing,鈥� Katie explained. They just get a better understanding about food and diet and how that reacts with their teeth.”

A Valuable Learning Experience for WCU Students

Smile Camp is not only a rewarding experience for the children but also for the 国产主播 Dental Hygiene students who participate.

“We take all the applications that we’ve used and taught them for the last three or four terms, and we apply it today where they just focus on children,” Katie shared. ” It’s a great place because we have all the balloons and everything to make it so welcoming for everybody to come.”

For many students, Smile Camp offers their first real-world experience working with pediatric patients.

“The students get to use their skills, and while we apply a lot of our application on adults, they don’t get a lot of experience with children. So, this is a great opportunity for all the students to have some experience time with children,” Katie added.

A Strong Community Turnout

This year鈥檚 Smile Camp was a resounding success, with an overwhelming response from the community.

“Today, the feedback has been awesome. We’ve had such a turnout that we have people waiting in line, which is wonderful,鈥� Katie said. 鈥淭he students are so eager to keep working. They have scheduled times to be here, but so many are just over their scheduled time because they see the benefit of volunteering. Community is a huge part of dental hygiene.”

About the WCU Dental Hygiene Clinic

The impact of Smile Camp extends beyond a single event 鈥� 国产主播鈥檚 Dental Hygiene Clinic continues to serve the community year-round. The clinic is an educational facility where Dental Hygiene students provide high-quality oral health care under the supervision of licensed dentists and registered dental hygienists.

Couldn鈥檛 make it to Smile Camp? The 国产主播 Dental Hygiene Clinic is open to the public Monday through Friday, offering no-cost services to more than 15,000 adult and child patients a year.

The 国产主播 Dental Hygiene Clinic is located at 1477 S Manchester Ave., Anaheim, CA, 92802 (Fourth Floor). Walk-ins are accepted, but appointments are recommended. To schedule an appointment, call (877) 928-2546.聽

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After 18 years as a dental assistant, Chanel A. was ready for a change. She wanted to make a bigger difference, combining her passion for healthcare with a desire to impact communities on a broader scale. In 2020, just as the world was grappling with the pandemic, Chanel found herself drawn to 国产主播鈥檚 Public Health program. Originally starting in nursing, she quickly discovered her passion lay in public health, especially with a focus on epidemiology. 

When asked what drew her to 国产主播, Chanel highlighted the ease of the application process and the supportive environment. She felt encouraged to pursue her goals, knowing that the faculty and network of support at WCU were there for her. 

鈥淎t 国产主播, you learn resilience,鈥� she said 

Chanel explained that the fast-paced nature of the program taught her to learn from challenges, build strong study habits, and develop the time management skills essential for success. 

Despite the inherent challenges of an online program, Chanel never felt alone. She connected with faculty who were always just a message or Zoom call away, ready to provide guidance and support. She joined the African-American Association, which helped her connect with her community and solidify her aspirations in global health. 

Graduation day was a moment of pride for Chanel. Supported by her family and even an ex-partner who came to cheer her on, she stood on the cusp of a new chapter, excited and hopeful. Next spring, she鈥檒l begin her master鈥檚 degree in Global Health at Cal State San Marcos, a step closer to fulfilling her dream of working in underserved communities around the world. 

For those considering 国产主播 or an online program, Chanel鈥檚 advice is simple: 鈥淢ake sure you have a strong support system and understand that it will take sacrifices. You might not see your friends as often, but in the end, it鈥檚 worth it.鈥� 

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After experiencing hardship and isolation during a hospital stay as a child, Hannie T. knew she wanted to work in healthcare.

鈥淚 was admitted for treatment and felt isolated because my family wasn’t able to visit me most of the time due to the long commute and limited financial resources,鈥� she said. 鈥淗aving to experience that as a child was very detrimental. I was by myself most of the time, and I didn’t understand why I was there or how long I had to be confined in a room with IV lines hooking up to my arms. The only thing that I wanted was to be home.鈥�

The hospital staff was the one part that made her stay bearable, Hannie said.

鈥淚’m very grateful for all the hospital staff who cared for me back then because they were caring and attentive to my needs,鈥� she said. 鈥淚 realized that having close ones during tough times, especially during hospital stays, was very crucial as it felt like the only support system that I had.鈥�

Now a 国产主播-Orange County dental hygiene student, Hannie volunteers and works in the community to be present for patients and provide them with the support they need.

鈥淎s I grew older, I understood that being present for others was important,鈥� she said. 鈥淣ot only am I there to provide support, but also to be an active listener for others as someone they can rely on while their family members are not around.鈥�

Besides being a student delegate for both the California Dental Hygienists鈥� Association and the American Dental Hygienists鈥� Association, Hannie also volunteered for four years at LAC+USC Medical Center. However, her community outreach does not stop there.

鈥淭o me, giving back extends beyond the means of providing financial resources. It involves empathy, compassion, and patience towards those around me,鈥� she added. 鈥淭he current project I’ve been working on is knitting infant beanies. Knitting has always been a hobby of mine, and I want to take it one step further and make beanies for the little ones at the Children’s Hospital. I hope this project will bring many more smiles to those around me.鈥�

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Three聽dental hygiene聽students from 国产主播 have achieved an extraordinary milestone, clinching first place both in California and nationwide with their innovative research project. The students, mentored by聽WCU聽Dental Hygiene Professor Dr. Annette Stelter, tested a novel salt and citric acid powder mixture designed to suppress聽a patient鈥檚聽gag reflex for about an hour after a 10-second application.聽聽

The team 鈥� made up of WCU-Orange County dental hygiene students Isabella T., Reyna V., and Katie C. 鈥� first showcased their work at the California Dental Hygiene Association (CDHA) conference, where they won first place in the state. Following this success, they went on to secure the top spot nationally and are now preparing to present their research at the prestigious “” conference in Denver, Colorado, this July.  

Despite only having about two months of research training, the students quickly adapted, developing impressive skill sets over two terms.聽Professor Stelter聽expressed immense pride in their achievements, highlighting their dedication and the sophisticated methodologies they developed for their study.聽聽

鈥淚 just can’t say how proud I am and how honored I have been to work with the three of them,鈥� Stelter said. 鈥淚t was聽20 weeks聽of hard work, and I know I pushed them, but they did it.鈥澛犅�

The students conducted their research at the WCU Dental Hygiene Clinic in Anaheim, identifying five key points in the mouth most likely to trigger the gag reflex. They tested the powder on participants, noting their reactions before and after application. Remarkably, the powder effectively suppressed the gag reflex for an hour, consistent with the manufacturer’s claims.  

鈥淕ag reflex is a common inconvenience for not only the patient but for us as dental professionals,鈥� WCU student Katie C. said. 鈥淎 lot of times, it’s challenging to even do our job because the gag reflex poses such a significant challenge for us, so this powder was amazing.鈥�  

A significant aspect of the study involved participant selection and data collection. They conducted pre-surveys to gauge the severity of participants’ gag reflexes and only included those with higher sensitivity. After applying the powder, they re-tested the reflex and documented their findings, which showed a high success rate of 9 out of 10 participants experiencing suppression of the gag reflex.  

The students faced various challenges, including initial uncertainty about how to structure their study and calibration issues in identifying gag reflex trigger points. Despite these hurdles, their perseverance paid off, and they were able to successfully complete and present their research.  

鈥淚t’s so different learning about research versus conducting your own study. The hardest part was figuring out how we were going to test this and the best way to go about it,鈥� Isabella T. said. 鈥淵ou have to get participants, figure out methods and materials, and learn how to analyze your results. It was a lot, so I’m just proud of us for doing it.鈥�  

Reflecting on their journey, the students expressed pride in their teamwork and the skills they developed. They also noted the impact of their win on their confidence and future career aspirations. The experience at the CDHA conference, surrounded by accomplished professionals and peers, inspired them to consider broader career possibilities beyond clinical practice, including roles in research and public health.  

As they prepare to graduate in October, the students are excited about the future, bolstered by their achievements and the support they received from their mentor and university. Their success story not only highlights their hard work and dedication but also serves as an inspiration for other students and professionals in the field.  

鈥淚 got into dental hygiene because I want to be in private practice because I want to connect with patients,鈥� Reyna said. 鈥淚 had a lot of doubts going into the competition because I felt like maybe if we were not going to win, it was going to be because of me, but this ended up being the boost of confidence that I really needed.鈥� 

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国产主播 student Peyton C. had the opportunity to ride in the Rose Parade for the fourth time as part of the Norco Cowgirls Rodeo Drill Team鈥檚 equestrian group. 

鈥淚鈥檝e been on the team on and off since 2017,鈥� she said. 鈥淚鈥檓 not currently on the team because I鈥檓 focusing on school, but they reached out to me and asked if I wanted to be part of the Parade. I鈥檓 so lucky to have been able to do it four times; it鈥檚 really fun.鈥�  

Even with the overnight camping session along the 210 freeway in Pasadena, followed by an early morning wake-up call at 4 a.m. to prepare for the event, Peyton describes being in the New Year celebration as a 鈥渓ifetime experience.鈥�  

鈥淎 lot of work goes into being in the parade, but it鈥檚 totally worth it. I enjoy being there with the team, preparing, glittering the hooves, it鈥檚 the small details that bring the bigger picture together,鈥� she shared.聽聽聽

Inspired by her mother, who grew up riding horses, Peyton found her passion to do the same at the young age of 12. She joined the Norco Cowgirls Drill Team in high school and, over the years, has participated in the Norco Light Parade, Norco Labor Day Parade, and Yucaipa Christmas Parade. She鈥檚 also done several local rodeos with the team across Norco, San Bernardino, and Industry Hills.聽聽

Around the time she found her groove with the team, she also discovered a passion for dental hygiene when she stumbled upon the field during a high school research project.   

鈥淚鈥檝e always wanted to work in healthcare, and when I was researching dental hygiene, it felt like the perfect fit,鈥� she said. 鈥淎fter high school, I ended up enrolling in a dental assisting program to get some experience and make sure it was the right field for me.鈥澛犅�

The dental assisting program pushed Peyton to fall even more in love with the field, prompting her to eventually enroll in 国产主播鈥檚 Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene program.  

鈥淚鈥檝e really found my passion,鈥� she said. 鈥淛ust talking with patients and helping them better their oral health and their smile, it brings them so much more confidence. I love it鈥�  

Like the tight friendships she formed with the Norco Cowgirls, Peyton has built strong relationships with her cohort and professors at WCU-Orange County.  

鈥淭he professors are all super approachable, and I have a really good friend group that I鈥檝e established since my literal day one at West Coast,鈥� she said. 鈥淲e study together practically every single day, so I really lean on them a lot.鈥�  

Once she graduates, Peyton is looking forward to officially rejoining the Norco Cowgirls while also gaining more experience as a dental hygienist.  

鈥淚 feel like I鈥檓 so lucky to have two great things going on in my life right now,鈥� she said. 鈥淚 found what I really want to do, and I just want to keep growing and becoming a better professional.鈥�  

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In celebration of Children鈥檚 Dental Health Month, 国产主播 dental hygiene students provided free dental services and education to children and young adults at the 2024 Smile Camp Kid鈥檚 Day event.  

鈥淭he experience that our students are getting from a community service event like this is invaluable,鈥� WCU dental hygiene instructor Annette Stelter said. 鈥淭hey鈥檒l be able to remember and reflect on this and take it with them every step of the way into their career.鈥�  

Held at the WCU Dental Hygiene Clinic in Anaheim, students provided no-cost dental services, including screenings, cleanings, X-rays, fluoride treatments, sealants, and therapeutic restorations.聽聽

鈥淚t鈥檚 really nice to know how to communicate with the younger demographic,鈥� said WCU dental hygiene student Seleste F. 鈥淚 think it鈥檚 really important to emphasize oral health at an early start so that patients and the community, in general, have better oral health in the long run.鈥�  

Serving more than 15,000 patients a year, the Dental Hygiene Clinic is open to the public Monday through Friday for all adults and children. To schedule an appointment, please call (877) 928-2546. For details on hours and services provided, visit our website. 聽

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