THE IMPORTANT ROLE OF WOMEN IN DENTISTRY AT SUMMERLAND DENTAL CENTRE
Kristie Weashaver and Kim O’Blenis, two CDAs at Summerland Dental Clinic, recently attended the 2018 Women in Dentistry Symposium in Victoria, BC. The Symposium hosted presentations on several topics including dental practices, marketing, climbing the corporate ladder, building connections in the workplace, and more.
“Moving through my career, I have established a network of strong, smart and successful women,” said Kim. “I’m humbled to stand in a room of women passionate about dentistry and patients as a whole.”
It’s important for events like this to exist because, like many professions, dentistry was dominated by men for years. The good news is that we have come a long way since Canadian women first began practicing dentistry in the late 1800’s. Not only have females become increasingly prevalent in the field of dentistry over time, but increasingly valued, as well.
The reasons why aren’t surprising — generally speaking, women are inherently empathetic, which is a very useful quality in a field where many patients experience anxiety. Women are also patient, and are excellent communicators and leaders.
“Our compassion and ability to multitask throughout the intricate day in the dental world is a key factor. Sometimes discussing their smiles with another female over a male dentist brings a patient’s true issues to light,” said Kim. “Women are amazing leaders and are able to connect with teams and build specific cultures that are sought out by many. Men are great as well, but even in asking multiple male dentists, they say they prefer a woman in leadership roles.”
At Summerland Dental Centre, we understand the importance of the role of women in dentistry, and of supporting these women in their professions. We also understand that there is still work to be done.
“My greatest challenge as a woman in this field has been breaking through the stigma that only the dentist builds the treatment success of the patients,” said Kim. “As a CDA, it is my duty to ensure the doctors are fully aware of their patients’ needs, wants and desires for their overall systemic health.”
“I have been fortunate to work with mentors, men and women alike, whom saw me as their partner in dentistry… not just a CDA. This allowed me to building the confidence and strength to move my career to where it is today.”
At Summerland Dental, we are proud to have a strong female presence on our team. The amazing women in our clinic show their passion for dentistry every day, and are eager to offer only the highest level of service and care to our patients.
We are accepting new patients from across the Okanagan at our clinic in Summerland, BC. Please contact us for more information or to book an appointment. We look forward to taking care of your oral health!