Ambur Alfaro, RDH, BSDH- Vice President, Professional Relations at Delta Dental of Kansas.
Describe your educational journey.
I began my professional journey at Wichita State University in 1999. I received my first degree, a Bachelor’s in Biology with a minor in Spanish, followed by a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene. I graduated from the WSU Dental Hygiene Program in 2006.
I have always had a passion for dentistry and helping people. Being a dental hygienist is such an important role. Working in this industry offers the opportunity to build connections and relationships, educate and positively influence patients’ lives through enhancing their overall health and self-image. Dental health is vital to so many other aspects of a person’s life: eating, speaking, confidence and more. Many people may not realize that poor dental health can have such profound negative affect throughout the entire body. Being able to correct and/or prevent health issues and see positive changes over time gives everyone something to smile about. It is such a rewarding profession. Prior to transitioning to corporate business, I worked on the clinical side of dentistry for over 13 years. The clinical knowledge has assisted me in my transition to the dental insurance side of the business and allows me to provide valuable input and perspective.
Describe your current employment.
- Where do you work? Delta Dental of Kansas (DDKS)
- When did you start working with current employer? I’ve been with DDKS since 2013
- What do you do at your current employment? I currently oversee the Professional Relations Department. Our team assists with all aspects of DDKS’ relationship with our dentist partners including contracting, assisting with questions and providing education to dentists and their staff to help navigate and understand dental insurance. We resolve complex matters and build a strong rapport with the dental community. Through my role, I am able to make meaningful connections, build relationships, and share my knowledge about the dental insurance side of the profession. I am able to meet amazing dentists, dental hygienists, dental assistants, and dental office administrative management teams all across the state. I appreciate working for a corporation that recognizes the importance of strong partnerships.
Who had the greatest influence on your education and/or career path?
My family - They have always advocated and encouraged me to be the best version of myself that I can possibly be. My mother and grandmother are both amazing, intelligent, strong women that always inspired me to continue my education and career path. My mother and father taught me that education, relationships, being kind and a hard worker are all important. My husband is my rock and always inspires me to go big. My childhood dentist was also very supportive, he knew of my interest in the dental field and hired me right out of high school to learn the ropes. Leadership within my organization has been extremely supportive, provides mentorship and encourages growth. There are countless others that have guided me throughout my professional career and I thank each and every one of them for offering support and believing in me.
What advice would you give to other RDHs seeking to advance their careers?
Know what you want. Set your goal(s). Be persistent. Work hard and you will achieve. Use all experiences (good or bad) to learn from, all life lessons allow you to grow both personally and professionally. As you make your journey through life, find mentors – take the small pearls of wisdom you find most important and put them into action! And don’t forget to give back to your community.
To learn more about the RDH to BSDH program at Wichita State University click here[BROKEN LINK].