Hi there! I’m Le Van La, a dental hygiene student at New York City College of Technology (City Tech) and I’m so excited you’re here!
This e-portfolio is a peek into my journey as I work toward becoming a Registered Dental Hygienist. You’ll find my resume, certifications, clinical experiences, and some of the cool things I’ve learned along the way.
I’m passionate about healthy smiles, patient care, and educating people on how to keep their teeth and gums happy. Whether you’re here to learn more about me or just exploring thanks for stopping by!
Group Research Project Spring 2024: conducted a research poster “The Relationship between Oral Health & Hospital Acquired Pneumonia” with Le Van La, Cynthia Seo, Thinley Wangmo.
Last physical exam in 02/2024; blood work normal per physician. History of gastric reflux and hypertension; takes 4 medications (noted in chart). Side effects include dry mouth and orthostatic hypotension (dizziness with position changes).
No allergies or recent hospitalizations.
Current Medication:
Patient is taking 4 prescription medications (recorded in chart)
Omeprazole 40 mg 1 capsule 1x daily for stomach – gastric reflux (take 30 min before lunch)
Amlodipine/Valsartan 1 capsule 5mg/160mg 1x daily for blood pressure/kidney
Rosuvastatin 10mg 1 capsule 1x daily for cholesterol (avoid grapefruit)
Vitamin D3 2,000IU 1 capsule 1x daily (taken with food)
Dental side effects include dry mouth and orthostatic hypotension
Social History: Non-smoker, non-drinker.
Dental History & Oral Hygiene Habits:
Last dental exam, cleaning, and FMS completed in June 2022.
Has temporary restorations for over 30 years on maxillary anterior teeth.
Brushes 2x daily with a soft manual toothbrush and Colgate anti-cavity toothpaste; uses circular brushing technique.
Flosses nightly, uses metal tongue scraper 2x daily, and no oral rinses.
Patient reports occasional lightheadedness during dental procedures and dry mouth at night only.
Visit 1 Summary:
During the first visit, I completed a thorough review of the patient’s medical and dental history and obtained informed consent for treatment. An extraoral and intraoral examination (EO/IO) revealed an asymptomatic right TMJ click upon jaw opening and mild redness around the uvula and soft palate. A full-mouth series (FMS) of radiographs was recommended, as the patient’s last dental X-rays were taken over two years ago. All assessments were completed during this visit, including dental charting, periodontal charting, calculus detection, and treatment planning. I discussed all clinical findings with both the patient and supervising faculty. Referrals were provided for a comprehensive periodontal evaluation and continued monitoring of her hypertension.
NYCCT Dental Hygiene Care clinic Blood pressure chart:
Visit 2 Summary:
At the start of the second visit, I recorded the patient’s blood pressure, which remained within Hypertension Stage I according to the clinic’s guidelines. I also repeated the extraoral and intraoral (EO/IO) examination to check for any new findings. A key reason for performing the EO/IO exam at each visit is to screen for herpetic lesions (cold sores), which are common but pose a potential risk of vision loss if spread to the eyes, as noted by King (2017) in an article published on PubMed. These lesions can also spread easily during dental procedures. No new findings or changes were noted during this exam.
A full-mouth series (FMS) was exposed during this visit to support updated dental charting. The radiographs revealed several root canal treatments and confirmed the presence of a temporary restoration on the maxillary anterior teeth, which has been in place for over 30 years. The patient reported she was unaware the restoration was temporary, as this was never communicated to her. She explained the procedure was completed many years ago at a dental clinic in Vietnam. Based on clinical consultation, hygiene treatment was to avoid maxillary canine to canine due to the condition of the bridge temporary restoration. A treatment note was documented to guide the next visit.
FMS radiograph:
Pt was exposed to FMS at City Tech with 7mA and 70kV. Findings are no caries radiographically, generalized 40-60% horizontal bone loss, localized subgingival calculus presents on proximal surfaces of posterior teeth. Pt was informed of findings.
Dental charting:
Perio charting:
Dental Findings:
Case Value: Heavy
Perio status: Stage III Grade B, generalized
Caries risk: Medium
Other Dx findings: Mobility (+1) of tooth #24, attrition #21-27, abfraction #20,21
Based on full-mouth series (FMS) radiographs and comprehensive periodontal charting, the patient was diagnosed with Stage III, Grade B periodontitis in accordance with the 2017 American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) classification guidelines. A 3-month recare interval was recommended to closely monitor periodontal stability, manage inflammation, and prevent further progression of the disease.
Treatment Plan and Pain management:
The patient required two re-visits to complete dental hygiene treatment. As there were no reported allergies, Oraqix (2.5% lidocaine and prilocaine gel) was selected for localized pain management and was administered to the quadrant being treated. A combination of ultrasonic Cavitron and hand scaling was used for effective debridement. Treatment began on the right side (quadrants 1 and 4 – UR and LR) during Visit 2, and the left side (quadrants 2 and 3 – UL and LL) was completed during Visit 3. Last visit concluded with engine polishing to remove extrinsic stains, followed by the application of 5% sodium fluoride (NaF) varnish to help strengthen enamel and protect against caries.
Throughout treatment, I tried my best to ensure the patient’s comfort and safety. I communicated clearly before adjusting the dental chair or changing positions, and I regularly checked in to ask if she felt any dizziness, especially given her history of orthostatic hypotension. I also confirmed that she had eaten prior to the appointments, as this can help prevent lightheadedness. The patient openly communicated any sensitivity or discomfort during scaling. I reassured her that she was in full control of the procedure and encouraged her to raise her left hand at any time—whether to pause, ask a question, or express a concern. This approach helped build trust and ensured a more positive and supportive clinical experience.
Patient Oral Hygiene education:
During each revisit, I applied plaque disclosing gel and reviewed the patient’s Plaque Index (PI) to assess plaque control. Her PI score improved from 1.8 to 1.0, reflecting reduced plaque accumulation. I explained that a higher PI score indicates more plaque, while a lower score reflects improvement. I used a mirror to show the patient where the disclosing gel revealed plaque, helping her visually understand her progress and areas needing more attention.
When reviewing flossing techniques. I asked the patient to demonstrate how she uses string floss, and I reinforced the correct method—wrapping the floss around each tooth to effectively clean the proximal surfaces. Because she has a temporary anterior bridge on the maxillary arch, I introduced the Waterpik as an adjunct tool to help clean under and around the bridge. I clarified that while the Waterpik is helpful, it should not replace flossing, but rather be used alongside it to support gum health.
Reinforcing the technique and regularly reassessing her PI score allowed for adjustments and helped the patient stay motivated. As her technique improved, her PI score decreased. During the final visit, I also reviewed the Modified Bass brushing method and recommended that she begin brushing on the lingual surfaces. I explained that these areas are often more difficult to clean and easy to miss, so starting with them encourages a more effective and consistent two-minute brushing routine.
The patient also expressed concern about brown staining on her teeth from daily coffee consumption. I acknowledged her concern and suggested sipping water between sips of coffee to reduce the contact time of the coffee on tooth surfaces and help minimize staining. She appreciated this advice and asked what foods are beneficial for her teeth. I recommended yogurt as a good source of calcium and phosphate, which help strengthen tooth enamel.
References
King M. Prophylaxis and treatment of herpetic infections. The Journal of clinical and aesthetic dermatology. January 2017. Accessed April 19, 2025. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5300736/.
During the medical history review, Mr. A reported involvement in a car accident in March 2025. He received a medical evaluation, including a CT scan, at NYC Health + Hospitals (212-562-5555), with all results reported as normal.
Motrin 500 mg PRN – pain management (not currently taken)
Tylenol PRN – pain management (not currently taken)
The patient only takes Meloxicam occasionally and reports no current pain or discomfort at either visit.
Dental History & Oral Hygiene Habits
Had orthodontic treatment (braces) from ages 12–14; no current retainer use
Last dental extraction: 2022 (two upper left molars)
Could not recall last dental cleaning or radiographs
Oral hygiene routine:
Brushes 1–2x/day with a medium manual toothbrush and Colgate anticavity toothpaste
No flossing, and uses Listerine antiseptic mouthwash.
Dental Findings:
Case Value: Heavy
Perio status: Perio Stage III Grade C
Caries risk: High
Other Dx findings: attrition on anterior teeth, multiples retained roots tips
Visit 1 Summary:
During the first visit, I completed a full health history review and obtained informed consent from the patient. An extraoral and intraoral examination (EO/IO) revealed a leukoplakia-like lesion on the lateral border of the tongue that did not wipe off with gauze. Faculty assessed the lesion and suggested it may be due to inadequate tongue cleaning. An intraoral photo was taken for documentation and future monitoring. A full mouth series (FMS) of radiographs was exposed due to multiple retained root tips and missing teeth, and the patient’s dental charting was updated. I discussed all findings with the patient and supervising faculty, and referrals were provided for a comprehensive periodontal evaluation, caries risk assessment, hypertension monitoring, and public health dental clinics.
Based on clinical consultation, hygiene treatment and periodontal charting were limited to the maxillary canines to canines (#6–11) and mandibular first premolars (#21–28), and a treatment note was documented to guide the next visit.
Full Mouth Series radiograph:
Findings are: multiple suspicious caries presents on proximal surfaces of posterior teeth, generalized heavy subgingival calculus presents, generalized 30-40% horizontal bone loss, furcation involvement #31 and #19. Patient informed of findings.
Dental charting:
Perio charting:
Based on clinical consultation, hygiene treatment and periodontal charting were limited to the maxillary canines to canines (#6–11) and mandibular first premolars (#21–28), and a treatment note was documented to guide the next visit.
Visit 2 summary:
At the second visit, I completed the remaining assessments, including periodontal charting, calculus detection, and formulation of a treatment plan in alignment with the treatment limitations previously discussed. During this visit, I utilized an intraoral camera to capture before-and-after images of the treated areas. I reviewed these images with the patient to visually demonstrate the effectiveness of the dental cleaning and to enhance his awareness of his current oral health condition.
I disclosed the patient’s teeth using plaque index gel, which revealed a Plaque Index (PI) score of 1.2, considered Fair. I explained that this score reflects moderate plaque accumulation, especially along the gumline and interproximal surfaces. I used this opportunity to educate the patient on the connection between plaque buildup and oral health issues, emphasizing the importance of improving his daily hygiene routine.
To support this, I introduced the Modified Bass brushing technique for more effective plaque removal at the gumline and recommended the use of a floss holder to make daily interdental cleaning more manageable. I provided personalized oral hygiene instruction, emphasized the importance of brushing twice daily, and demonstrated proper flossing technique. I then asked the patient to perform a “teach-back” to confirm his understanding and encourage proper daily use. When he expressed concern about gum bleeding during flossing, I reassured him with a relatable analogy—comparing it to muscle soreness when starting a new workout (an analogy I learned from my classmate, Jissel). I explained that consistent, proper flossing would lead to healthier gums and less bleeding over time.
Due to the presence of heavy plaque and generalized brown staining, I completed thorough debridement using both the ultrasonic Cavitron and hand scaling, utilizing two inserts during the procedure. Although topical anesthesia was initially planned, the patient opted to proceed without it and tolerated the treatment well. I then performed engine polishing to remove extrinsic stains and smooth the tooth surfaces. To conclude the treatment, I applied 5% sodium fluoride varnish (NaF) to help protect the teeth against caries.
Throughout the visit, I observed that the patient appeared more comfortable and receptive to care. I concluded the appointment by encouraging him to follow up with the recommended referrals for treatment of retained root tips, active carious lesions, and hypertension I.
Before and after hygiene treatment images:
Supporting the Patient’s Journey to Better Oral Health:
Before beginning treatment, the patient expressed concern about the condition of his teeth and shared that he felt insecure, stating, “My teeth are messed up a lot, right?” I reassured him that while there are dental issues, his oral health can still be improved with consistent care and proper hygiene. I took the time to explain, demonstrate, and educate him on effective brushing and flossing techniques, stressing the importance of daily habits to protect his teeth. As the visit progressed, the patient became more comfortable and expressed greater interest in taking better care of his oral health. He also inquired about other public dental facilities. He mentioned that his mother receives dental care at City Tech and plans to recommend the school clinic to others to help them improve their dental care. To further support him, I provided a comprehensive list of public health dental clinics that offer additional treatments such as extractions, periodontal evaluations, and other necessary care, as discussed during his first visit. This will help guide him in accessing the care he needs moving forward. His re-care interval was set to 3 months to monitor progress and maintain improvements in his oral health.
