Women Making Waves

Inspired by Women Who Lead: Reflections from Scrubs & Scalpels in San Diego

This past week, I had the privilege of attending the Scrubs & Scalpels seminar in beautiful San Diego, and I left feeling inspired, empowered, and incredibly grateful.

As someone who has spent nearly three decades in dental hygiene, I have attended many conferences and educational events. Yet there was something truly special about being surrounded by so many accomplished women who are shaping the future of periodontics, dentistry, healthcare, education, and leadership.

What stood out most wasn’t just the advanced clinical knowledge shared from the stage. It was the people. (Mainly women...even a few men joined the event! :))

Women from different cultures, backgrounds, generations, and experiences came together with a common purpose: to learn, grow, support one another, and make a difference. The room was filled with intelligence, passion, resilience, and generosity. It fueled me to continue my own journey of speaking and helping build a bridge between dental, medical, and mental health communities for a fear free patient experience.

As I listened to speakers and connected with attendees, I was reminded that leadership doesn’t always look the same. Sometimes it’s found in groundbreaking research. Sometimes it’s mentoring the next generation. Sometimes it’s simply showing up authentically and creating space for others to succeed.

One of my favorite parts of the experience was seeing the power of community. In healthcare, we often spend so much time caring for others that we forget the importance of pouring into ourselves. This event provided exactly that...it was a chance to recharge, reflect, and return home with fresh ideas and renewed purpose.

As the host of Gums & Gossip™, I often talk about how every smile has a story. This week reminded me that every successful woman has a story too. Stories of perseverance, sacrifice, courage, and determination. Those stories deserve to be celebrated.

To the organizers, speakers, sponsors, and every woman who shared her expertise and encouragement...thank you. Your impact extends far beyond the conference walls.

I returned home with new knowledge, meaningful connections, and a heart full of gratitude.

Here’s to continuing to learn, lead, and lift each other up.

With gratitude,

Hope Loyd, RDH, BSDH
The Gum Goddess™
Gums & Gossip™ Podcast