VetNerd
Dentistry Training
602-598-0606
About Me
I have over 18 years of experience in the veterinary field. My first job out of high school in the south suburbs of Chicago was reception and assistant duties in the office of a board-certified feline specialist. I moved to the valley with my husband in 2006 where I began work at a general practice in Scottsdale, AZ, eventually becoming the practice manager. I obtained my license as a Certified Veterinary Technician in 2010 and completed my Associate's Degree in Small Business Management in 2017. Seven years ago, I accepted a position at Midwestern University College of Veterinary Medicine where I continue to teach and assist students in veterinary dentistry and anesthesia. I completed a mentorship and passed board exams with the Academy of Veterinary Dental Technicians in 2019 which granted me the distinction of Veterinary Technician Specialist in veterinary dentistry (class of 2020). Since then, I have gone on to be a co-instructor at Western Veterinary Conference, lectured and taught a wet lab at the Veterinary Dental Forum, and lectured virtually and in-person on various dentistry topics.
I am the Website Committee Chair of the Academy of Veterinary Dental Technicians and the liasion for the NAVTA Committee on Veterinary Technician Specialties. I'm also the co-founder and President of the Arizona Veterinary Technician Association.
Fifteen years ago, I was like many veterinary professionals in general practice. I was performing the duties of a technician in the dental suite but lacked the training to be efficient and was frequently frustrated. Every day was a rush to finish multiple veterinary dental procedures, but it never seemed to get any easier. I'm here to help veterinary practices avoid that frustration and raise their game in dentistry.
When I am not with my patients, I am spending time with my husband of 18 years, my 14 year old son, and our two dogs.
Consulting
How can I help your practice?
Online Sessions
I teach the basics of the Comprehensive Oral Health Assessment and Treatment (COHAT). But more importantly, I can share all my tips and tricks to make this process faster, more efficient, and less painful for your staff. This begins with the front office and patient check-in and extends all the way to discharge instructions and handouts. We can tailor this training to the topics that benefit you the most. The goal is superior patient care in your practice and no topic is too small.
Monthly Agreements
You can have me on speed dial for questions and solutions any time you need me! I am happy to be available for your practice when the need arises, and we can set a monthly online session to evaluate your progress to help you meet your goals.
Forms and Resources
I have compiled sample forms and charts for use during your dental procedures that can easily be customized with your hospital's information and used in your medical records. Just another way to make everything easier!
Skills Training
Hone your hands on skills!
Radiology Training
The most common pitfall for clinics that perform dental procedures is the stress that comes from obtaining dental x-rays. It's frustrating when the process prolongs your procedure and you still end up with non-diagnostic radiographs. It does not have to be so painful! I can provide charts and a guide for quick reference that will change everything!
Oral Exam and Instrumentation Skills
I can help improve your overall oral exam by helping you streamline the process. Approach and perspective play a huge role in the oral exam and I can teach you the most efficient and thorough methods. After your exam, you need to utilize your machines and instruments to their full potential. We can take your procedures to the next level!
Equipment Maintenance and
Instrument Sharpening
Keep your equipment in top-notch working order by performing maintenance and sharpening on a regular basis. You've made the financial investment, so we need to preserve them so they can work harder for you! I can show you how!
Dentistry Resources
American Veterinary Dental College
Many useful resources including standard abbreviations and nomenclature for professionals.
Veterinary Oral Health Council
Provides a list of approved products that are effective and safe for your patients. Send this home with every patient!
Foundation for Veterinary Dentistry
Support the veterinary dentistry specialty and receive the Journal of Veterinary Dentistry. Keep yourself up to date and at the highest level of care!
Academy of Veterinary Dental Technicians
Explore advanced training and pursue your goals as a dental technician by obtaining your VTS (Dentistry)
