The University of Iowa Orthodontics Department would like to officially congratulate Holly Ehlts on her promotion to Senior Dental Assistant after almost 2 years in the Orthodontic Department at the University of Iowa.  

Holly’s previous roles were vital to the office running smoothly, as she assisted with placing braces and orthodontic appliances, adjusting and removing braces, taking x-rays and intra-oral 3-D scans. She also assisted the residents in their clinic, where they are learning how to be orthodontists. Holly saw consultations with patients of all ages- young children, teens, and adults, with a goal to ensure that they have a “good experience on their journey to a beautiful smile that they can be confident in. I find it rewarding to watch patients go from being embarrassed by their teeth and smile to confident and happy when everything is finished.” Holly feels like the way to succeed in her previous and current role at the College of Dentistry is wanting everyone to have healthy teeth. 

The position of Senior Dental Assistant helps guide the newer dental assistants and residents. When asked how she plans to approach mentorship of the newer dental assistants/in training, Holly said, “Patience and being encouraging is important. Gaining skills in working with braces takes time. Everything we work with is tiny, between the brackets and bands, wires and ligatures, so it's easy to get frustrated when first starting out.” Some advice she would give to other dental assistants aspiring to work within orthodontics is: “Orthodontics is very hands on. It is good to be self-directed. It is also good to be able to work as a team and know when to ask for help. Everyone has their own pace, it's normal to be slow in the beginning. Patience and a calm, understanding demeanor with patients is also important. At the College of Dentistry, we see many young patients with clefts and craniofacial anomalies, and children with special needs.” 

When asked about her most memorable experience, she said “Watching the orthodontic residents start as little baby ducks and grow into Orthodontists ready to spread their wings when they graduate.” Her most enjoyable task in her old role was “Teaching the residents my tips and tricks that I have learned over the years being an orthodontic assistant. I also find it rewarding to watch patients go from being embarrassed by their teeth and smile to confident and happy when everything is finished”. Holly has enjoyed her time at the clinic. 

She says that “Everyone here at the College of Dentistry is so nice and welcoming and step up to help one another. It's refreshing and enjoyable to work in a place like this.” 

In her free time, Holly likes to do Jigsaw puzzles (the more pieces the better!) and reading a good book.