Our dental hygienist, Tammie, will be retiring soon. Her last day with us is September 11th, and while we’re happy for her and wish her the best, we’ll also miss seeing her around the office!
To celebrate Tammie and all that she’s done for us for the past 22 years, we asked her to answer some questions about her career and future plans. Here’s how the “interview” went:
“What originally inspired you to become a dental hygienist, and how did you get started in the field?”
“I was a stay-home mom for 12 years and I felt I needed more adult time. I began working as a Dental Assistant, but I felt the need for more personable chairside and opportunities with the patients. I took my Prerequisites at Lee College then went to Hygiene school at UT Dental Branch. I graduated in 2002. I was a temp for the first year prior to working at Pasadena Family Dentistry for Dr Holmes. I have enjoyed the last 22 years.”
“What’s one of your favorite memories or funniest moments from your time working in dentistry?”
“My favorite memories were the trips that we took to Vegas, the appreciation shown after our hard work was done, our yearly Dentistry of the Heart – seeing the smiles on their faces was so rewarding – seeing the office staff come together to help the community, and staff appreciation Dinners.”
“How has the dental field changed since you first started your career?”
“In the beginning as a temp, I used paper charts and had to process the x-rays in a dark room. When I first started at Pasadena Family Dentistry, they were still using paper charts but had started putting patient data into the computers. This was the first time that I used digital x-rays.”
“What will you miss most about working with patients and your dental team?”
“The satisfaction I get when I see the improvements I have had a hand in providing challenging patients with better oral health. The many many friendships that I have made with patients over the years and now seeing their grown children come into the office. I was privileged to be a part of a professional high-performing team. My friendships with coworkers are many. I know these friendships will continue after retirement.”
“What are you most looking forward to in retirement (travel, hobbies, relaxation, grandkids, etc.)?”
“My retirement plan is to spend more time with my husband (Michael) at our home on the 10 acres in Lufkin. Our plan is to travel, garden, and spend more time with our children and grandchildren.”
“If you had to sum up your career in just a few words or a favorite motto, what would it be?”
“Years ago, Bryan (Dr Holmes’ husband) stated that if we wanted to be a part of this amazing team we would have to get on and ride the yellow bus. If we felt that we could not be a part of the team, we would have to get off. As I look back on my 22 amazing years, I’ve enjoyed my time on that yellow bus, but now is my time to leave. I hope that the next Tammie (my replacement) will be as fulfilled as I. This is not goodbye, but see you later.”
Thank you, Tammie, for all of your hard work! If you want to wish Tammie a happy retirement, be sure to reach out before September 11th. We know she’ll appreciate hearing from her favorite patients!
