Dental Success

Dental Success Newsletter
Hygiene Spotlight: Melissa Ware, RDH

With each issue of the DentalSuccess Newsletter we will spotlight an exceptional team member. Whether that is a hygienist, assistant, administrative professional we would like to showcase her/him and their practice so that all subscribers to DentalSuccess will become Master Dental Practices. Our goal is to help you become the best and then give back, and with access to others’ successes you will be able to reach the highest of the highs and be able to give back to others in many ways. If you would like to be spotlighted or know someone who would, please contact us.

This issue’s spotlight is on Melissa Ware, RDH. Melissa is a hygienist is the office of Dr. Shannon Lawson in Tooele, Utah. Tooele is about 30 miles west of Salt Lake City where patients will travel miles to visit Dr. Lawson. Melissa has been working with Dr. Lawson for approximately a year after a move to the area, although she has practiced dental hygiene for 13 years. She is a graduate of Weber State University’s Dental Hygiene program and is married with five children who keep her and her husband, Curtis, very busy. Although she lives in a state renowned for its ski slopes, Melissa’s work out agenda is focused on water sports, boating, snorkeling, scuba diving.

Dr. Lawson employs 3 administrative professionals, 4 assistants and a part time hygienist in addition to Melissa. The office has morning huddles daily and staff meetings weekly. Melissa has contributed significantly to the practice since she arrived due to the fact that she has implemented an amazing periodontal program for all patients.

Melissa’s hygiene mission statement is to provide each patient with individualized attention. She takes the time to educate a patient about her/his unique needs and provides patient-centered solutions and therapies for their oral health. Melissa is upfront and truthful with her patients about their health. She presents dental hygiene treatment with an eye on perio and its relationship to overall health. She feels it is her job to inform and educate patients about their dental needs. Melissa allows patients to make the decision to proceed with treatment, but offers scenarios and options to prevent future problems.

Dr. Lawson’s office accepts insurance and Melissa often hears “do only what the insurance covers.” She listens and sympathizes with the patient while offering examples of patient treatment stories. She imparts her belief that any out of pocket expense is worth the investment of keeping teeth and increasing overall health. She relates her treatment to the patient’s wants, needs and values and thus her compliance and acceptance rates are very high.