By Tamara Baca, MPH, BSDH, APDH
September 22, 2025
With over four decades of experience in dentistry, I currently serve as a public health dental hygiene professional at a Federally Qualified Health Center. My diverse background, including my Hispanic ethnicity and LGBTQ+ identity, has been a significant source of strength and connection for my patients.
Looking back, I was one of only two Hispanic students in my hygiene school program. I was also LGBTQ+, which created a unique dynamic with my classmates. During that period, I was not open about my sexuality and believed that keeping it private would be necessary to protect myself and my family if I were to pursue a career in dentistry.
Over time, I have learned to navigate the challenges of being a homosexual married individual. This personal journey of self-acceptance and authenticity has led me to become a Hygienist Inspired Ambassador for the American Dental Hygienists’ Association.
As a Hygienist Inspired Ambassador, my primary objective is to promote the field of dental hygiene within the Hispanic, LGBTQ+ and special needs communities. I am also fortunate to be a member of the Arizona Oral Health Coalition, an advocacy organization that champions healthcare access. In my capacity as the public awareness and communications lead, I engage with partners to highlight the benefits of dental hygiene careers for young adults. My work focuses particularly on those who are the first in their families to graduate high school, those who are homeless, LGBTQ+ individuals seeking career guidance, and those who are neurodiverse and would make excellent hygienists.
What I’ve learned is that having hygienists who reflect their community promotes trust and compliance when interacting with patients, because we can better comprehend and address their concerns and requirements.
Understanding a patient’s background helps establish trust and rapport, thereby addressing the unique challenges faced by diverse communities.
Tamara (left) at a special needs provider training, NYU Dentistry Oral Health Center for People with Disabilities.
Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) play a pivotal role in the health disparities within the communities I serve. By understanding SDOH, we can craft treatment plans that are tailored to meet the specific needs of each community.
The work we do as Hygienist Inspired Ambassadors matters deeply to me. I look forward to seeing how our impact will change the diversity of our field and create more inclusive spaces where everyone can thrive.
Learn more about the ADHA Hygienist Inspired Program sponsored by Delta Dental Foundation adha.org/HygienistInspired.
____________________________________
Tamara Baca, MPH, BSDH, APDH, is a dedicated Affiliated Practice Dental Hygienist working within a public health practice, where she has accumulated several years of experience. Currently, she serves as the public awareness and communications lead for the Arizona Oral Health Coalition, having previously held the position of chair. Additionally, Tamara is the chair of the Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (JEDI) Council at her Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC). Her training includes specialized education from NYU School of Dentistry, focusing on treatment for individuals with special needs. She holds a Master of Public Health and has completed a mini-MBA program with Dignity Health. Tamara is an active member of ADHA, and a Hygienist Inspired Ambassador.
