Carol Woodhouse-Hart

Most people either loved going to the dentist as a kid—or absolutely hated it. Where did you fall? How come?

I loved going to the dentist as a child...we had the best pediatric dentist ever. Outside the windows you could watch a field of horses running and playing. The office had a No Cavity Wall, which you were always happy to be a part of.

What (or who) inspired you to get into dentistry? How so?

I was inspired to go into dentistry after watching my sister go through orthodontic treatment. The transformation was amazing. I completed a program in dental assisting and starting working for an orthodontist. I really enjoyed the pace and autonomy in the office. It was that sense of freedom that inspired me to become a dental hygienist.

What’s the most rewarding part of your job?

The patients are the most rewarding part of my day. I build relationships and get to know them personally. One of my former co-workers jokingly said, "your patients come in for happy hour!"

What’s something your patients might be surprised to learn about you?

At a whopping 5 foot 2 inches, I was high jumper in high school. My kids still can't believe that.

How do you recharge after a long week? What’s your go-to activity for hitting the restart button?

I love to read, crochet, and work in the garden.

In another life, if you weren’t working in dentistry, what would you be doing?

I'd be a psychologist because I've always been intrigued with the behavior of people. I strive to understand why people do what they do, what motivates them, what drives them, and what influences them. The human mind is an amazing thing.