Meet Liz Laney - An Oral Systemic RDH and Educator

For many dental hygienists, clinical practice is both rewarding and challenging. But what if your career could expand beyond the chair—into education, interdisciplinary collaboration, entrepreneurship, and even shaping the future of airway dentistry?

That’s exactly what Liz Laney, BSDH, RDH, CH-OSE discovered after enrolling in myofunctional and airway education and the Oral Systemic Educator Certificate Program, a unique career development opportunity designed for dental professionals who want to bridge oral and systemic health.

From Clinical Care to Interdisciplinary Collaboration

Currently working full-time as a clinical dental hygienist in a periodontics office, Liz also educates online through blogs, articles, and webinars. While she sees complex periodontal and systemic cases daily, she’s also passionate about helping patients understand the bigger picture of how oral health connects to the body, particularly through airway and sleep disordered breathing.

Her capstone project reflects that passion: a presentation for a local chiropractor about airway health and myofunctional therapy. She explains:

“The longer I am in the field, the more I see a gap in understanding of what myofunctional therapy is and why it’s important. Working with interdisciplinary providers is essential for best outcomes, so helping educate others increases referral options and builds a stronger airway community.”

This type of interprofessional approach is at the heart of the Oral Systemic Educator Certificate Program.

Why She Chose the Oral Systemic Educator Certificate Program

Like many hygienists, she was already committed to continuing education. But she was looking for something deeper than just CE credits.

“I’m a dental nerd always looking for more information that will help me treat my patients as a whole being, not just a mouth. I wanted the most current research and the ability to connect the dots between diseases and oral health.”

The program provided a structured framework to explore every body system in relation to oral health, helping her communicate more effectively with patients and collaborate with other healthcare providers.

Implementing What She Learned

In her periodontal office, the certificate program’s impact was immediate.

She began integrating airway assessments, educating patients on how oral health and airway dysfunction impact systemic health, and providing actionable steps for improvement. The result? Patients felt seen, understood, and empowered.

“Often, my patients tell me they wish they would have known this sooner. They’re engaged, taking notes and photos, and even referring their friends and family. It’s incredibly rewarding.”

Colleagues noticed too—appreciating her ability to connect oral health with systemic outcomes and enhance the team’s patient care approach.

The Main Benefits: Confidence, Communication, and Fulfillment

For Liz, the biggest benefits of the program were:

• A comprehensive education covering all body systems and their relationship to oral health

• Increased confidence in interdisciplinary communication and presentations

• Fulfillment in knowing she’s helping patients and providers improve lifestyle habits and long-term health outcomes

Looking Ahead: Dreaming Beyond the Chair

Her career vision now extends beyond clinical practice.

“Airway dentistry isn’t a fad—it’s the new standard of care. My dream role is to educate dental offices on implementing airway protocols and consulting on how to start in-office myofunctional therapy programs.”

This type of innovative thinking represents exactly why programs like the Oral Systemic Educator Certificate exist: to prepare hygienists for roles as educators, consultants, and leaders in oral-systemic health.

Advice for Hygienists Considering the Program

Her advice to peers is simple but powerful:

“I am proud to be a member of National Network of Healthcare Hygienists and a big supporter of every hygienist elevating their oral systemic knowledge. Even if you don’t plan to speak publicly, the information in this course should be viewed as the current standard of care. The Oral Systemic Educator Certificate Program deepens your understanding of how the mouth connects to every body system, elevating your ability to care for patients and collaborate with providers.”

 

Connect with Liz and learn more about her services at https://www.rootcauseresolutionsllc.com/ 

Ready to Expand Your Career Path?

If you’re a dental hygienist exploring opportunities beyond the chair, the Oral Systemic Educator Certificate Program can help you:

• Gain confidence in oral-systemic health education

• Collaborate with interdisciplinary providers

• Explore career pathways in consulting, education, and beyond

• Deliver better care for patients with complex needs

Your career in dental hygiene doesn’t have to be limited to the operatory. With the right training, you can expand your impact, open new doors, and help shape the future of oral-systemic care.

👉 Get Started with a FREE TRIAL to the Oral Systemic Educator Certificate Program today.