Dear Fellow Dental Assistants,
As we step into a new year, many of us are wondering how the holidays flew by so quickly. Before we fully charge ahead, I want to pause and say one very important thing: thank you.
Thank you for the early mornings, the long days, the never-ending infection control protocols, and the patients who say, “I hate the dentist,” while holding your hand like it’s a lifeline. Thank you for being the calm presence, the educator, the advocate, and sometimes the therapist in scrubs.
Dental assistants are the heartbeat of oral healthcare We are the ones who keep care moving, patients comfortable, teams connected, and practices functioning. What we do matters—every single day—even when it feels unseen or taken for granted.
This new year is also about connection, and I truly believe that the connections we are making—with each other, across states, roles, and experiences—are what will move the dental assisting profession forward. When assistants come together, share their voices, and support one another, real change happens. And yes… sometimes that change starts in a group chat, at a CE course, or over coffee complaining about suction tips 😄.
As we head into the new year, I’m excited—not just for what’s coming, but for who is coming with us. More collaboration. More advocacy. More recognition of the essential role dental assistants play in delivering quality oral healthcare. More reminders that you produce, you matter, and your voice counts.
Throughout this year I hope you find moments of rest, laughter, and joy—whether that’s with family, chosen family, coworkers, or a rare quiet moment to yourself. You’ve earned it.
Here’s to a new year full of growth, connection, and forward momentum—for you and for our profession.
With gratitude,
Erin Hendricks, RDA, DPA, CCHW
President, American Dental Assistants Association (2025–2026)