JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. –
Dental Assistant Week is celebrated every year during the month of March. Highlighted this year is Airman 1st Class Michelle Arthur, a hardworking 779th Medical Group dental assistant and a key member of the dental team. She is new to the Air Force and has served in the dental clinic for one year.
Dental assistants are crucial members of the dental team. Arthur’s typical day begins at 6:30 a.m. when she prepares for the first of two or three surgeries by setting up equipment and then assisting the dentist during those surgeries. In the afternoon she helps with evaluations and follow-ups. This includes reviewing the patient’s medical history, taking x-rays and recording vital signs.
“Working in Oral Surgery can be very challenging because we have a high volume of patients and it requires strict attention to detail when preparing patients for surgery,” said Arthur. “We have a great support system in our clinic, though, and all I have to do is ask for help and someone is there to assist.”
Arthur enjoys meeting and interacting with new people every day and having the chance to help them improve their oral health.
“I try to listen to patients and make them feel welcome and comfortable. Since many people aren’t big fans of the dentist, your tone and demeanor can do a lot to put them at ease,” said Arthur. “I’m frequently told that I smile a lot and am cheerful, so I guess I would describe myself as friendly.”
Arthur was born in Germany and raised in Augusta, Georgia. She was very familiar with the military because her father was in the Army and her husband serves in the Air Force Reserve. She joined the Air Force to help pay for college and to take advantage of the benefits provided for her family.
Being a good example for her children is what motivates her each day. Her attention to detail and efforts to promote good dental hygiene with sensitivity and understanding epitomize what trusted care is all about.