The Why Behind The Boss
I have found an incredible balance between a career I genuinely love, the ability to care for myself and my family, and a level of financial growth I never experienced within the traditional model of dental hygiene. At the same time, my heart breaks for the many dental professionals I encounter who feel burned out, undervalued, disconnected, or stagnant in their professional growth. Too many hygienists and dental assistants are carrying the weight of exhaustion while feeling unseen in a profession that demands so much of them every day. That is one of the reasons The Dental Hygiene Boss was created. Beyond connecting professionals with modern opportunities, our mission is to create a supportive community where dental professionals can encourage one another, share resources, celebrate growth, and build meaningful connections both inside and beyond the operatory. Whether it is discovering a healthier work environment, pursuing entrepreneurship, exploring creative passions, or simply finding renewed inspiration in the profession, we believe no one should have to navigate that journey alone. Because becoming our strongest selves happens faster when we support each other along the way.
Moreover, many hygienist have asked me about how I work, this lead me to share what I have learned in my book The Dental Hygiene Boss, which chronicles my journey to becoming my own boss.
“If you are searching for the one person that will change your life, look in the mirror."
About The Founder
Leah C. Francis, BSDH, the author of "The Dental Hygiene Boss," is the owner of SmileKeeper Dental Hygiene LLC, based out of Richmond, Virginia. She started her dental journey in New York City as a dental assistant while in high school at the age of 15. A graduate of VCU/MCV with Bachelor of Science in Dental hygiene with Minor in Biology with honors, she has worked as a clinical dental hygienist in Richmond, Virginia, for over 25 years. She is licensed to practice in North Carolina as well.
Leah Francis has successfully transitioned from being an employee to owning and running Smilekeeper Dental Hygiene LLC, a dental temping company, and SK Consulting, teaching other hygienists how to become a dental hygiene boss.
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Working side by side with many dental hygienists, Leah Francis understands the challenges and frustrations dental hygienists face in their professions. Leah Francis is very enthusiastic about empowering dental hygienists to explore their entrepreneurial potential and create their own path to success and happiness.
Leah Francis is also very passionate about caring for the entire person, not just the oral cavity. Furthermore, understanding the connection between a healthy work life, a healthy body, and a healthy mind led her to create Frantastic Voyage Wellness LLC and start her own aquatic wellness program.