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Celebrating Our Dental Hygienists

Dental Hygienist Appreciation Week, oral health care, celebrate dental hygienists, Carolinas Dentists, patient education, dental visit, dental care review, North Carolina

Dental Hygienist Appreciation Week (April 8-12) shines a spotlight on the extraordinary role dental hygienists play in our oral health care. It’s a perfect time to acknowledge their dedication and the positive impact they have on our smiles. Here’s how you can join in the celebration and show gratitude for their tireless work.

Elevating Oral Health Education

Dental Hygienist Appreciation Week is not just about saying thanks; it’s also a prime time to elevate our understanding and commitment to better oral hygiene practices. This could be an excellent period for you and your family to reinforce oral care techniques. Engage in educational activities that make learning fun – think dental-themed crossword puzzles, creating mouth models, or even drawing your version of the tooth fairy. These activities not only entertain but also instill the importance of good oral hygiene from a young age.

Schedule a Visit

Expressing your appreciation can be as simple as booking a dental check-up. Regular visits not only affirm the value of your dental hygienist’s work but also ensure your smile remains in top condition. They’re always ready to welcome you, regardless of how long it’s been since your last appointment.

Spread the Word with a Review

Online reviews play a crucial role in helping new patients find quality dental care. Share your positive experiences to support your dental hygienist. Your feedback can highlight the exceptional care they provide, assisting others in making informed decisions about their oral health.

North Carolina Celebrates Exceptional Oral Care

Engaging in Dental Hygienist Appreciation Week can take many forms, from enhancing your oral health knowledge to supporting hygienists through reviews. Each action contributes to recognizing the invaluable service dental hygienists provide.

Curious about how CarolinasDentist honors this special week? Want to book an appointment to show your support? Reach out to us today!

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Andrew Callender

Andrew Callender

Regional Director of Operations

Andrew Callender was born and raised in Denver, Colorado, and serves as one of our Regional Directors of Operations at CarolinasDentist, focusing on our Western NC and Charlotte regions. He joined the leadership team in 2025 and earned his degree from Western Colorado University. Andrew brings over 12 years of experience in dentistry, including more than 10 years of progressive leadership in healthcare operations and three years serving as a Regional Director of Operations. He relocated to North Carolina in 2023 and has quickly made an impact across the region.

Andrew is passionate about delivering outstanding patient care through operational excellence. He is committed to fostering an environment that aligns with CarolinasDentist’s values and culture while leveraging diverse perspectives and experiences to support team success and growth. His leadership style is rooted in collaboration, consistency, and continuous improvement.

Outside of work, Andrew enjoys spending time with his wife and their four children. He’s an avid golfer and also enjoys walking his lab, Harper—making the most of his time outdoors with family and fresh air.

Nate Bunyak

Nate Bunyak

Regional Director of Operations

Nate Bunyak brings a little bit of Pittsburgh grit and a whole lot of energy to everything he does. He is one of the Regional Director of Operations at CarolinasDentist focusing on our Triangle region, joining the team in 2026. Originally from Pittsburgh, PA, Nate graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) with a degree in Marketing and Management—and has been putting both to work ever since. Three years ago, he traded in steel city winters for North Carolina sunshine—and hasn’t looked back.

When he’s not working, Nate is all about family life with his wife, Melissa, and their three kids—Bryce, Molly, and Connor. Whether cheering on their activities, exploring the outdoors, or simply embracing the joyful chaos of a busy household, he makes the most of every moment with his family.

An avid hiker and nature enthusiast, Nate loves adventures that combine fresh air, beautiful views, and lasting memories. That same adventurous, positive spirit carries into his work—he’s driven, all-in, and always ready to take on what’s next.

Jenna Holland

Jenna Holland

Regional Hygiene Director

Jenna Holland is a Fayetteville native and serves as Regional Hygiene Director, joining the leadership team in 2026. She began her career with CarolinasDentist in June 2016 as a dental hygienist in the Fayetteville office after graduating from Fayetteville Technical Community College. Over the years, she has grown within the organization, building strong relationships with both patients and team members while staying rooted in her passion for patient care.

Jenna is deeply committed to promoting overall well-being through oral health and believes in the powerful connection between a healthy smile and a healthy body. In her leadership role, she especially loves mentoring and coaching hygienists, helping them grow in confidence, strengthen their clinical skills, and develop into exceptional providers. She takes pride in supporting her team and fostering an environment of continuous learning and encouragement.

Her best advice for patients is simple: stay consistent with routine check-ups and cleanings to maintain optimal health. Outside of the office, Jenna enjoys traveling—especially to warm, tropical destinations—and is engaged to her high school sweetheart, adding a personal touch to her passion for caring for others.