Dental assistants are the heart that keeps the operation moving.
Break out the smiles as we shine a spotlight on dental assistants.
The first week of March — Dental Assistant’s Recognition Week — serves as an opportunity to appreciate the important contributions of dental assistants. Their commitment to professional growth and excellence in dental care makes them an essential part of our dental team at Community Health Northwest Florida.
The theme for 2026 is “Superheroes behind the Smiles,” highlighting the vital role dental assistants play in ensuring exceptional patient care and enhancing the overall dental experience.
Dental assistants are an integral part of the dental practice year-round and strengthen the entire practice while enhancing patient satisfaction.
A special thanks to our dental assistants who are committed to professional development and quality dental care:
- Elizabeth Bowen
- Gina Dunn
- Rebecca French
- Chakaila Lett
- Rebecca Lyons
- Jamie Moore
- Angel Ross
- Melissa Schmitz
- Shantoria Smith
- Tina Wiggins
- Kelsie Wyer
Dental assistants go back to 1885, when Dr. Edmund Kells in New Orleans pioneered the dental assistant profession by having his wife assist him. He later expanded his practice by hiring another woman, Lalvina Cueria, as a full-time assistant. By 1917, the first dental assistant society was founded in Nebraska, and another started in New York in 1921. The American Dental Assistants Associations was founded in 1925.
Eventually the ADAA created Dental Assistants Recognition Week, proudly recognizing the contributions of dental assistants to dentistry and the health of people’s smiles.
Dentistry is a profession unlike many others because it covers two entities: healthcare and professional aesthetics. Dentists and their teams are responsible not only for improving oral health but also for helping patients feel more confident in their smiles.
Among these professionals, the dental assistant plays one of the most essential roles. Quite simply, a dental office cannot run smoothly without them. Dental assistants ensure efficiency in the office through excellent communication, patient care and organizational skills – while also keeping patients comfortable during their visits.
This week and beyond, thank our dental assistants for their diligent help and advice on how to keep our patients smile healthy. We are thankful for the vital role they play in supporting our dental team and help us improve patient satisfaction.
Our dental locations
Our dental assistants
