The Future of the Dental Hygiene Profession Starts Now

The future of dental hygiene is changing rapidly, creating both urgent challenges and significant opportunities for dental hygienists, dental teams, and the patients they serve. With shifting healthcare trends, expanding oral-systemic science, and increasing public demand for accessible care, dental hygienists have a unique opportunity to redefine their profession.  This dynamic one hour session explores the current state of the dental hygiene profession, from workforce challenges and practice innovations, and empowers participants to stand up for prevention. Viewers will examine key opportunities to reduce burnout, learn strategies to expand care delivery in their communities, explore innovative products and discover how advocacy and leadership can create a new era and enhance both provider and patient satisfaction.

Course Objectives: 

• Describe the key healthcare, societal and legislative trends shaping the future of healthcare
• Identify innovative ways to expand dental hygiene care
• Explain the importance of advocacy and leadership in advancing the profession.
  

Original date: 6/24/2026, Expiry date:  6/23/2029

Speaker: Lancette VanGuilder, BS, RDH, PHEDH, CEAS, FADHA
For nearly three decades, Lancette VanGuilder has been shaping the future of dental hygiene—leading, educating, and advocating on local, national, and international stages. A proud graduate of the University of South Dakota, Lancette calls Reno, Nevada, home, but her impact knows no borders.
From past president of the Nevada Dental Hygienists’ Association to serving on the American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA) Board of Directors, Lancette’s leadership has left a lasting mark.  As the 2025-2026 President of the ADHA, Lancette will continue to push boundaries, inspire professionals, and drive the global conversations on interprofessional practice.
Disclosures: The Speaker has no conflicts to disclose for this presentation.