Turning Chairside Chats into Fulfilling Careers
Created by ADHA in partnership with the Foundations of Delta Dental, Hygienist Inspired is an innovative chairside recruitment program that leverages the strength of the relationships between dental hygienists and their patients to make a difference for the profession. It was created to:
Address Workforce Shortages
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects dental hygiene employment to grow by 8% between 2025-2035—twice the average rate of other professions. We need more hygienists!
Improve Access to Care
Underserved communities, especially in rural areas and communities of color, often lack access to dental care. Hygienist Inspired seeks to bridge this gap by cultivating professionals from within these communities, offering care that reflects their needs and experiences.
Increase Diversity in the Profession
In 2022, 96% of dental hygienists were female, and 82% were white (U.S. Census Bureau). Striving for a more diverse workforce that is reflective of the population we serve is good for everyone.
Learn More & Get Involved
Gaining Momentum Nationwide
Hygienist Inspired volunteer Allies and paid Ambassadors are the backbone of the program,
which connects future hygienists to pathways for entering the profession, while offering invaluable support every step of the way.
Since launching in early 2025, the program has hit some impressive milestones (and it’s growing every day).
1,175 Allies
in all 50 States
12
Program States
33 Ambassadors
Connected with 15,550 Consumers
Ambassadors in Action
Kelly Farran, RDH, has practiced dental hygiene for over 25 years, spending two decades in private practice before transitioning to the Nottawaseppi Huron Band of Potawatomi Indian Health Clinic in Michigan. She is deeply committed to community outreach and works to ensure the tribal community is well-informed about dental care and preventive health. Her focus on patient trust and culturally responsive care defines her approach to the profession.
Hali Householder, RDH, has practiced dental hygiene since 2012 and expanded her scope by becoming a certified Orofacial Myofunctional Therapist. In 2023, she launched Indy Myo, a virtual orofacial myofunctional therapy practice based in Greenwood, IN. She serves as Indiana State Liaison and Liaison Committee Representative for the ADHA Foundation, and is committed to advancing the profession for the next generation of hygienists.
Beth Monnin, MSEd, RDH, is an Associate Professor at the University of Cincinnati Blue Ash College with over 25 years of experience in dental hygiene education and clinical practice. A past President of the Ohio Dental Hygienists’ Association, she has published and presented at the national, state, and local levels. Her research focuses on equity and inclusion, global health, and mindfulness in dental hygiene education.
Organizations are Hygienist Inspired, Too
In addition to individual dental hygienists – oral health companies and dental practices play an essential role in the Hygienist Inspired Program. It takes the entire oral health team to build a stronger workforce! To learn more about how your organization can amplify this industry-shaping program, please reach out to our Hygienist Inspired team at [email protected].