07/14/2026
Happy Dental Therapist appreciation week!
Dental Therapist Appreciation Week - July 13-17
Dental Therapist Appreciation Week is the second week of July. A special thank you to our amazing dental therapists for their dedication, expertise, and compassionate care. Their commitment to patient well-being and oral health makes a big difference at Swinomish.
As we recognize their important role in keeping our community's smiles healthy, we asked two dental therapists about their own motivations in the matter!
Sarah Chagnon, LDT
When do you feel most fulfilled in your role?
I feel most fulfilled knowing that dental therapists are making a difference in our community that will be felt for generations to come. Many of our elders share stories about their own experiences with dental trauma, and it means so much to hear how grateful they are that their grandchildren are growing up with access to care and positive experiences in the dental clinic. I also love getting out in the community, and visiting the daycare and preschool each week holds a special place in my heart. Seeing children grow up without fear of coming to the dental clinic is something I take great pride in. I also really love mentoring future dental therapists and knowing they will return home to serve their own communities, Tribal or not, and continue making a positive impact.
Asiah Gonzalez, LDT
What accomplishments are you most proud of as a dental therapist?
One of the accomplishments I'm most proud of is collaborating with our early learning center to support our preschool and daycare kids who are fearful about coming into the clinic or an appointment. They are now so excited to see us! We can see the joy and confidence they are building within themselves, and they even cheer on their friends for caring for their oral health.
Our weekly Wednesday visits bring us such joy as we build trust with our kids. We teach them the dexterity of brushing and flossing, which is a skill they can bring home.
Our goal with seeing these kids from such a young age is to prevent early childhood caries (cavities) (ECC) and promote good oral health. And by seeing these children for quarterly exams, and providing preventative care and treatment as needed, we are improving access to care. Being able to follow these kids’ oral health journey from such a young age provides us with the knowledge and history to help them care for their teeth, keeping them strong and healthy.
Keana Cruse, LDT
Can you share a moment that reminded you why your work matters?
I have reminders every day – small moments that fill me with joy and reinforce the value of the care I provide to my patients. One experience, however, stands out above the rest.
A teenage patient came in with several cavities. As we talked about her oral hygiene routine at home, she shared that she brushed every day but did not floss regularly. I listened to her and asked questions to better understand her habits. What followed was an open, engaging, and fun conversation about oral health and the importance of flossing.
When she returned a month later, she proudly told me that she had started flossing daily. To some, it may seem like a small change, but seeing the pride on her face as she shared that accomplishment brought so much joy to my heart.
Moments like this remind me that our work is about more than treating teeth – it’s about educating, encouraging, and empowering patients to make positive changes that can improve their health for years to come.
