21: Megan Papich

Dental Hygienest

Megan Papich, a dental hygienist, knew many personal friends and many patients who experienced covid. As a dental hygienist, she feels the protocols in the office were very close to the regular day-to-day processes involved in dental care. 

Both she and her husband, also an essential worker, found managing child care was challenging. Fortunately, grandparents were very helpful, but she felt concerned about the possibility of exposing grandparents to the disease. 

In order to get through the crisis, she feels a positive view, and respect for one another is critical. This was sometimes difficult with some patients who were uncooperative.

One experience that Megan described as very helpful was a mothers’ virtual support group. Her wish for the future is that we have a deeper respect for one another’s well-being.