Influential Woman · Dental Hygiene
Linda Rhoades
Adjunct Instructor Dental Hygiene, Study Club Director, Fortis College and Village Periodontics
Griffin, GA
Her Story
About Linda
Linda Rhoades has devoted 43 years to the profession of dental hygiene, specializing in periodontics. She is a Professional Fellow and Mentor in the American Dental Hygienist’s Association. Linda has enriched the profession through teaching both dental hygiene and dental assisting, founding two study clubs, and pursuing professional writing. She has published articles in RDH Magazine, Dental IQ, RDH E-Village, Dente Magazine, ADHA’s Hygiene Hub and the AGD magazine, Florida Focus. In July 2024, she released a book chronicling the life and achievements of Irene Newman, the world's first dental hygienist. She was inspired to write this after receiving the Irene Newman Award for Clinical Excellence from the American Dental Hygienists' Association in 2021. Linda is committed to mentoring hygienists, helping them rekindle their passion for the profession amidst the challenges of burnout. She achieves this by spreading knowledge with humor and professionalism. Linda resides in the Atlanta area, with her husband, a retired dentist. They are both U.S. Air Force veterans. Although recently retired from full time clinical work, she remains dedicated to promoting excellence in dental hygiene. She currently is an adjunct instructor at Fortis College Smyrna.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Linda
01What do you attribute your success to?
I have been lucky to work for such outstanding professionals who believed in me, trusted me, and taught me how to be the best I could be as a clinical hygienist. I am also grateful to the publications that accepted my articles and inspired me to continue writing. I was grateful to those who encouraged me to write my book as the only resource available on the history of the dental hygiene profession and Irene Newman's contributions.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Jump, and the net will appear!
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Never stop learning more about the profession. Dentistry, like medicine, is quickly evolving as more scientific evidence appears. Be on top of those changes and be willing to change along with them. Stay humble and empathetic towards your patients. It is a priviledge to be able to treat people in their most vulnerable state.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Current legislative changes in all states to change the terms of our licensure and scope of practice. Most states have the board of dentistry making decisions for dental hygienists. We should have our own board. These changes are threatening to undermine the integrity of our licenses.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
A good balance between work and family. Try a four-day workweek to rest your body and your mind.
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