Editor’s Note: In the midst of my own transformation, I sought inspiration from people who follow their dreams and make an impact in this world. In theory, it should be easy to profile people – don’t we all love to talk about ourselves?
While heartwarming stories abound, it’s taken a lot of energy to make connections with numerous follow ups. I can’t continue on that path at present. What does this mean for the column going forward? This certainly isn’t the end – perhaps it’s a refocus or less rigid schedule. I’m still working that out.
Today, I’m pleased to share my conversation with my sweet niece, Jennifer Doyle. Her business Service for Your Smile offers independant dental care to older adults in her community. This is Jennifer’s story in her own words.
When I was first introduced to the concept of independent dental hygiene practice, I found it immediately compelling. At the time, I was a student in dental hygiene school, and dental hygienists were not yet permitted to practice without a dentist on site in New Brunswick. However, there was growing discussion about regulatory changes on the horizon. These changes were ultimately implemented to help increase access to care for underserved populations, including residents of long-term care facilities.
The prospect of having the professional autonomy to provide appointments that emphasize prevention and education—rather than focusing solely on routine treatment—greatly appealed to me. Independent practice enables me to devote more time to each patient, tailor their care more effectively, and develop meaningful, long-term relationships. It also affords me greater control over my schedule, which is particularly valuable as I balance my career with the demands of raising children who are involved in a wide range of activities.
Currently, my clientele consists entirely of residents at the Loch Lomond Villa and Village nursing home in Saint John. When I first began my practice, I traveled to multiple nursing homes throughout Saint John and Charlotte County. I also rented space in the wellness center in St. Andrews, where I provided care to community members at a time when there was no dentist available locally.
Jennifer, on the left, is shown here with her late grandmother Betty Eidt. On the right, Jennifer’s foldable chair used for treatment.
Over time, managing this workload independently became increasingly difficult. Rather than hiring staff and expanding further, I made the decision to scale back. I chose to sell the service contracts I held to three other dental hygienists who were interested in offering similar care within the region. As a result, there are now four of us providing independent dental hygiene services in the Saint John and Charlotte county area.
There are many advantages to operating a practice like mine. It is deeply rewarding to provide care to clients who might otherwise have limited access to the oral health services they need. Both clients and their families are consistently appreciative, which reinforces the value of this work.
In addition to the professional autonomy, treatment, and scheduling flexibility I mentioned earlier, there is also the meaningful opportunity to serve as a role model—particularly for young women. Two of my children have expressed that they are proud of the work I do, and my daughter has even said she hopes to pursue a similar career one day. That level of personal impact is rewarding in an entirely different and very special way.
I purchased my business from a pioneer independent dental hygienist, who had already established a well-organized practice and assembled all the necessary equipment. Even with that strong foundation, there were challenges. The most significant hurdle—after my family and I made the decision to invest upfront—was learning how to operate a dental practice just as the world, including all dental offices, shut down due to COVID-19. I had already signed the contract and paid a deposit before the full impact of the pandemic became clear.
Dental offices were closed for three months, which meant I could not see clients during that time. In hindsight, however, this turned out to be a blessing. Those three months allowed me to make connections, familiarize myself with the administrative side of running an independent practice, and prepare thoroughly. Once dental offices reopened, the ability to bring oral care directly to residents in their homes proved invaluable. For medically vulnerable individuals, receiving care without having to travel was a much safer option.
My advice for anyone considering starting their own business is to begin with a detailed business plan. This was essential for me. I conducted market research to identify the need for my services and made use of local small-business resources. NBCC’s mentorship program, ‘Oasis,’ was especially helpful—they pair new entrepreneurs with mentors who can help navigate specific challenges.
I often tell my children that I truly love what I do, and being an entrepreneur enhances that even further. I can honestly say I have my dream job.
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