Celebrating Our Dental Hygienists
Honoring Karen and Chelsea During RDH Appreciation Week 2025
Drs. Tanya Brown & Dr. Matthew Cawley
at The Center for Cosmetic & Restorative Dentistry
Chesapeake, VA
At The Center for Cosmetic and Restorative Dentistry, Dr. Tanya Brown and Dr. Matthew Cawley believe oral health is about more than just a beautiful smile—it plays a crucial role in overall well-being. This Registered Dental Hygienist Appreciation Week, we want to take a moment to recognize and celebrate two essential members of our team: Karen and Chelsea. With over 50 years of combined experience in general dentistry and periodontics, they are dedicated professionals who positively impact our patients' health every day.
The Essential Role of a Dental Hygienist
Dental hygienists like Karen and Chelsea do far more than “clean teeth”. They are the cornerstone of preventive dental care, providing thorough professional cleanings, digital X-rays, professional fluoride treatments, customized home care plans and essential patient education. They help identify and address early signs of gum disease, cavities, and other oral health concerns before they become serious problems.
Regular Preventive visits with a Dental Hygienist can make all the difference in maintaining your dental health. Many dental issues develop slowly and show no symptoms until they become severe. Professional Preventive appointments and exams help prevent more extensive and more expensive treatments down the road, ensuring your smile stays strong and healthy.
Extensive Training and Continuous Learning
Becoming a Registered Dental Hygienist requires years of education and training. After completing an accredited dental hygiene program and earning an associate degree or higher, hygienists must pass rigorous written and clinical board exams to obtain state licensure. In addition, they complete ongoing continuing education to stay up to date with the latest advancements in dentistry.
Karen and Chelsea are not only highly experienced with over 50 years of combined experience in Dentistry, but they have also committed to continuous learning. Their dedication ensures that you receive the most effective and up-to-date preventive care available.
The Connection Between Oral and Overall Health
Good oral hygiene does more than keep your teeth clean—it also affects your overall health. Studies have shown links between oral health and conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections. Bacteria from gum disease can enter the bloodstream, increasing the risk of systemic health problems.
By prioritizing preventive dental care, you are also taking steps to protect your entire body. Regular professional cleanings remove harmful bacteria and plaque buildup that could contribute to these health concerns.
At The Center for Cosmetic and Restorative Dentistry, we use state-of-the-art technology, including digital X-rays and digital scanning technology, to detect potential issues early and provide personalized treatment plans for our patients.
A Heartfelt Thank You to Karen and Chelsea
We are incredibly grateful to Karen and Chelsea for their unwavering commitment to patient care. Their expertise, attention to detail, and compassionate approach make a difference in the lives of our patients every day.
This Registered Dental Hygienist Appreciation Week, we invite you to join us in celebrating their hard work and dedication. If you’ve experienced their exceptional care firsthand, take a moment to say thank you next time you visit!
Let’s keep your smile and overall health in top shape—schedule your preventive appointment today!