University of Alabama School of Dentistry - Dentala Yearbook (Birmingham, AL)

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ELIZABETH ANN ATWOOD Augusta, Georgia LOLLIE ELIZABETH BAGGETT Birmingham, Alabama

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The hygienist is the dentist's diplomat. Her position in the office allows for the time necessary to develop cooperative patient relationships. She is better able than any other personnel in a practice to stress the importance and qualities of the dentist. She can raise the status of the dental and dental hygiene professions through her thorough knowledge of them. Her role as a diplomat extends be- yond her employment, however, as a diplomat she enters the community. As a professional person, the hygienist is expected to assist in community proiects. Through her efforts, great dental contributions can be made in formal activities directed toward the improve- ment of health education. Further, the hygienist is often called upon by certain civic organizations to assist in promoting dental health. Through an accurate presentation of dental problems existing in a community, she may aid in the establishment of corrective measures. This diplomatic role de- mands that the hygienist be fully familiar with all new findings in dentistry. She must be respected professionally, -as well as personally. What is a Dental Hygienist? She is an important member of the dental team by being primarily a dental health educator and by rendering the oral prophylactic and other related services. She is the dentist's diplomat. It is easily understood, then, that the graduate hygienist radiates with pride and dignity when she announces, l am a Dental Hygienist. I9 8 HYGIENE CLASS

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SYLVIA MARIE CASTRO Tampa, Florida ETHEL LAURE DE FRAITES New Orleans, Louisiana