Hygiene Spotlight features an exceptional dental hygienist every month. This month, we are showcasing Liisa Moore, RDH, a practicing dental hygienist turned educator. Liisa is a core presenter and Quality Assurance coach with RDHU. She also considers herself a fitness enthusiast. When not at the office, she is a Certified Personal Trainer, Pilates instructor, and healthy eating and weight loss coach.
What do you think is the most important topic for hygienists to be furthering their education on right now?
This is a tough one, but I must say, staying current with new products. Researching oral probiotics, GBT, and salivary testing to name a few are all important to keep you up to date and provide the best care possible for your patients/clients.
Do you have a mentor in the industry? How did you find them and any advice for finding a mentor?
YES! I have several mentors in the industry. Having a mentor is the best way to grow in your career. I feel some hygienists are intimidated to reach out to others as they think a mentorship has to be a formal relationship. It can if that’s what you are looking for, but it can also be a casual connection. I suggest reaching out either by email or social media to someone in the field who inspires you and who is doing things in the profession that you would like to do yourself someday. Introduce yourself and start by letting them know why you follow them and explain why you are reaching out to them for advice and suggestions.
What accomplishment are you most proud of and why?
My orthodontic programs at RDHU are the accomplishments of which I am most proud. I never considered course creation and speaking as an option for myself in the dental hygiene profession. However, with the encouragement of my wonderful mentors, I gained the confidence to create not one but three programs and share my knowledge of orthodontics and clear aligners with other hygienists who want to grow in their profession.
What is the #1 thing you would share with other hygienists when it comes to taking care of their health outside of work?
The number one piece of advice I would share regarding health is that self-care is not selfish! I know hygienists are so focused on others that it is hard to find the time for ourselves, but you need to make the time to enjoy self-care. It does not have to be a lot; something as simple as going for a walk outside, taking a yoga class, or following a short stretching video on YouTube is an inexpensive way to make movement part of your daily routine. Take time to meal-prep healthy lunches for the week, and buy a nice refillable water bottle to ensure you stay hydrated. Our profession does take a toll on our bodies. Find a registered massage therapist in your area and go regularly to reduce muscle fatigue and injury.
Advice for other dental hygienists who own their own clinic or hope to one day?
Go all in. I owned a single-chair operatory in a wellness centre from 2014 to 2018. When I tell my story, I say it was the right place, but the wrong time. I was still working 2 days a week in orthodontics and had two small children. My husband is also self-employed, and I just couldn’t make my business my priority with my two very young kids. If you are going to own your own business, you need to realize that entrepreneurship is quitting your 9-to-5 to work 24/7. It can be the most rewarding thing, being your own boss and maybe even being someone else’s boss one day but go all in and hang in there—your hard work will pay off.
What do you like to do for fun?
I am a big reader I love curling up by my fireplace in the winter or beside my pool in the summer with a good book.
Favorite dental people/accounts to follow?
@jerry_rdh @kathbok @ergofitlife_katrina @that.deaf.rdh @toothlife.irene
Just to name a few but so many more!
What is the one piece of technology or a product you could not work without?
My loupes and light! I even invested in a second pair last year and kept my original ones as backup. I encourage all hygienists to invest in a pair of custom loupes and an attached light, not only to enhance your vision but to reduce strain on your body.
What is your favorite tv show or movie and why?
Friends. Probably because I grew up watching it when it first aired, it just brings back memories for me. Also, watching it over and over again as I got older, I get something different out of it every time.
Here’s where you can find Liisa:
Instagram @liisamoore.rdh | Email: liisamoore@rdhu.ca
