Hygiene Spotlight features an exceptional dental hygienist every month. This month, we are showcasing Jennifer Turner, the CEO of Hygiene Headquarters Inc., and an active member in the dental hygiene community. Jennifer is an award-winning Dental Hygiene Professor and inspiring speaker.
What advice do you have for the dental hygienists out there who are not feeling satisfied with their career?
For dental hygienists feeling unsatisfied with their career, my advice is to start by connecting with others in the field who inspire you. Network, find mentors, and immerse yourself in communities where you can learn and grow. Don’t stay stuck in a rut; seek out opportunities that align with your passions and goals. Stepping outside your comfort zone is key to finding new excitement and purpose in your career. And above all, believe in yourself, your skills, your potential, and the impact you can make. You have the power to reshape your career and create the fulfillment you’re looking for.
Why did you decide to pursue dental hygiene as a career?
Dental hygiene wasn’t my initial plan; it found me. After being in a head-on collision caused by a drunk driver, I experienced the incredible care of a compassionate healthcare team during my recovery. It reminded me of my mom, an RN, who was a natural nurturer and always found joy in helping others.
Inspired by their empathy and expertise, I knew I wanted to make a similar impact in healthcare. Dental hygiene turned out to be the perfect path, allowing me to combine my passion for caring for others with a fulfilling and meaningful career.
You recently started your own company, Hygiene Headquarters Inc. Can you tell us a little about Hygiene Headquarters and why you wanted to start this business?
Hygiene Headquarters Inc. is my vision brought to life, a place where expertise and innovation empower dental practices to thrive. We focus on consulting, training, and mentoring, helping practices elevate dental hygiene.
This year, we are launching the “Hygiene Headquarters” podcast, a mentorship program for new grads, and unveiling Inside Dental Solutions, a transformational consulting approach designed to unlock untapped potential in practices.
I started this business to give back to an industry I’m passionate about, helping teams achieve their full potential and set a new standard for dental hygiene success.
What do you like to do for fun?
I love the thrill of exploring new places; travel makes me so happy and keeps my sense of adventure alive. As a dedicated Toronto Maple Leaf’s fan, game days are always a highlight. I’m also hooked on Audible, where I dive into inspiring books and podcasts that keep me learning every day. To unwind, I enjoy a relaxing massage and the excitement of trying new restaurants, or even spicing things up with a HelloFresh delivery. But what matters most to me are the moments shared with family and friends, whether it’s a big adventure or a simple get-together.
You are an experienced and inspiring dental educator. Do you have advice for anyone else hoping to get into speaking/educating?
I would be honored to have a conversation with anyone interested in stepping into a speaking or an educational role. For me, the most rewarding part of teaching is witnessing those light bulb moments, when someone truly grasps a concept and their perspective shifts. It’s incredibly fulfilling to be a part of that transformation. Speaking, though, isn’t for everyone, but it is a skill that improves with time, practice, and dedication. I personally invested in a speaking coach, and it was a game-changer, having that expert guidance really helped me refine my delivery and confidence. If you’re passionate about sharing knowledge and helping others grow, start small and build your confidence. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and remember that every great speaker started as a beginner. Keep refining your skills, stay authentic, and your voice will make an impact.
