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In this episode of Dentalish, we dive into an engaging conversation with Afor Carter, a registered dental hygienist with over 12 years of experience. Our episode kicks off with a light-hearted moment as I admit to mispronouncing Afor's name for years, calling her "Afro Carter" instead of the correct "Afor." This humorous mix-up sets the tone for a friendly and insightful discussion.

Afor shares her journey into dental hygiene, revealing that her motivation stemmed from wanting a fulfilling career that allowed her to spend quality time with her son. She discusses her transition from clinical practice to part-time hygiene while also venturing into clinical research, where she faces challenges in recruiting dentists for clinical trials. Afor explains the importance of these trials and how they can benefit both patients and dental professionals.

We delve into Afor's recent accomplishment of publishing a dental hygiene guide aimed at newly graduated hygienists. After years of starting and stopping, she was inspired to complete the guide, partly due to my own journey and achievements. Afor's dedication to providing resources for aspiring and current dental professionals shines through as she recounts presenting her guide to her alma mater's graduating class.

As we explore Afor's personal life, she opens up about her two children and her passion for solo travel, which she uses as a means to reset and refocus on her goals. Our conversation takes a deeper turn as we discuss the importance of mentorship in the dental field, with Afor expressing her desire for a mentor while also taking on the role of a mentor for others.

Throughout the episode, we touch on the significance of community and support within the dental profession, particularly for minorities. Afor shares her experience with Brown Girl RDH, a community that has provided her with a sense of belonging and encouragement during challenging times. We reflect on the importance of staying true to one's mission, especially in light of the changing landscape of diversity initiatives in the industry.

As we wrap up, Afor shares her mantra, "Every day the sun will shine," emphasizing the importance of resilience and hope. We also discuss her upcoming participation in our November conference, where she will be showcasing her work and connecting with fellow dental professionals.

This episode is a celebration of perseverance, community, and the power of sharing knowledge. Afor's journey is a testament to the impact of mentorship and the importance of uplifting one another in our professional lives. Tune in to hear her inspiring story and learn more about the resources available for dental hygienists.

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