From left: Brianda Ramos Lopez, Grecia Lara Becerril and Alejandra Iniguez recently completed training and other requirements to become Expanded Function Dental Assistants. A ‘kind of renaissance’ in dentistry: Dental assistants expand what’s possible
A passion for learning, fueled by immense hustle, set three OneWorld dental assistants on a path of advanced training and an expanded career trajectory. Alejandra Iniguez, Grecia Lara Becerril and Brianda Ramos Lopez saw an opportunity when new courses opened in Nebraska that would allow them to pursue the requirements needed to practice as Expanded Function Dental Assistants. The journey included multiple classes, exams and becoming Licensed Dental Assistants – all necessary steps before adding expanded functions. “Being able to do extra duties, like taking final impressions, adjusting dentures, cementing stainless steel crowns on primary teeth and turning on nitrous oxide – that’s the course that we took [between steps],” Iniguez said. “So we’re
just collecting all the achievements. Anything I can grab to make it happen.” Professional growth is a core principle at OneWorld. In the dental department, for example, assistants can follow a progression as their skills and experience develop. Dental Director Brian Penly, DDS, said implementing this ability to level up marks a “kind of renaissance” in dentistry, bringing it into alignment with other medical fields. “We’ve also made inroads into providing this career path for other people too,” said Dental Director Brian Penly, DDS. “And part of a good business, I think, is looking out for your employees and letting them lead a better life. That’s a goal, you know: being more challenged.” For Iniguez, OneWorld offers not just an opportunity to challenge herself, but also to work
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EXCHANGE | ISSUE 1 2025
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