Success is loving life and daring to live it! – Maya Angelou
What motivates me to do that? People—their smiles and stories, two of my favorite things!
Fortunately, my role as a dental hygienist puts me at the forefront of these connections. The smile is central to human expression—a portal for nutrition, communication, and emotion. A confident smile reflects health, vitality, and connection. As hygienists, we play a key role in not only maintaining smiles but also fostering relationships.
Dentistry is an inherently social career. Patients often share their stories, forming bonds with their dental team over time. We double as educators and confidants, delivering tailored oral health advice while creating a safe space for patients to share their medical and personal histories. This role is both humbling and rewarding.
My passion for dentistry began in childhood, inspired by my warm and friendly dentist. I loved the lighthearted banter, pop-culture music, and the excitement of choosing a treasure chest prize. That nurturing environment left a lasting impression, planting the seed for my future career.
Since graduating with honors from Oregon Health & Science University in 1999, I’ve had a fulfilling 25-year journey in dentistry. My career began in a rural Oregon practice, where I honed my skills performing scaling and root planing. Later, I moved to La Grande to raise my children, working part-time in private practice while volunteering in leadership roles at their school, church, and in our family business.
After moving to Portland, I worked as a clinical instructor at a local dental hygiene program. I guided students in clinical precision, emphasizing meticulous calculus removal, instrument sharpening, and radiology techniques. This role deepened my love for mentorship and collaboration, enriching my own professional growth.
I later joined a private practice for nine years, serving two historic Portland neighborhoods. The relationships built there were deeply fulfilling, but when the dentist retired, I felt ready for a new challenge.
Returning to OHSU—my alma mater—has been a full-circle moment. I now work across three unique clinics: the Faculty Dental Practice, the Periodontology Department, and a community HIV clinic. These roles allow me to serve diverse populations, from faculty professionals to underserved patients, while staying at the forefront of dental education and technology.
Alongside my professional work, I’ve also volunteered on a dental mission trip to Tanzania, contributing to global oral health efforts.
Every day, I feel honored to contribute to my patients’ well-being—one life, one smile, one story at a time. The camaraderie, the stories, and the opportunity to make a difference inspire me to continue giving my all to this meaningful career.
By Dana Moody, RDH, BS