Celebrating the 2025 Heart to Hands Award by Philips and RDH
Discover how compassion and consistency shape excellence—learn more about building habits of care and purpose in The Habit Method.
Honoring Compassion and Innovation in Dental Hygiene
Every year, the dental community comes together to honor individuals who redefine what it means to care—from the heart to the hands. The 2025 Heart to Hands Award, presented by Philips and RDH Magazine, continues this cherished tradition. This award recognizes dental hygienists whose compassion, dedication, and innovation transcend routine practice, shaping healthier communities and advancing the future of oral care.
About the Heart to Hands Award
The Heart to Hands Award was established to spotlight dental hygienists who embody the perfect blend of empathy and professional excellence. In partnership with RDH Magazine, a leader in dental hygiene education and inspiration, and Philips, one of the most trusted names in oral care technology, the award bridges clinical skill with human connection.
At its core, the award celebrates how small gestures of care can ripple outward—turning clinical practice into a compassionate mission that transforms smiles, lives, and communities. From advocating for patient education to leading outreach initiatives, recipients of this recognition represent the heartbeat of modern dentistry.
The 2025 Award Theme: Empathy Meets Innovation
The 2025 edition of the Heart to Hands Award places renewed focus on the intersection of empathy and innovation. As dentistry evolves with cutting-edge technology, the essence of human care remains irreplaceable. Philips and RDH Magazine believe that true innovation stems from understanding patient needs at a personal level and using advanced tools to meet them effectively.
For this reason, the theme “Empathy Meets Innovation” underscores how compassion fuels creativity in clinical practices. From integrating digital tools that make preventive care easier to adopting trauma-informed approaches in patient interaction, hygienists are redefining what innovation in oral health truly looks like.
Why This Theme Matters
- Empathy improves outcomes: Patients respond positively when they feel seen and heard. Empathetic practice builds trust and compliance.
- Innovation enhances precision: Modern hygienists use data-driven tools and research-supported methods to improve patient care.
- Combined, they build resilience: When care and technology work together, communities grow stronger and healthier.
Spotlight on the 2025 Honorees
This year’s award highlights outstanding dental hygienists who truly live by the “heart to hands” philosophy. They not only deliver outstanding clinical outcomes but also extend their influence beyond the dental chair through education, mentorship, and service.
Each honoree demonstrates that compassionate care isn’t limited to the operatory—it extends to public health education, underserved populations, and advocacy for systemic improvements. Their leadership reminds us that dedication to oral health care can shape a brighter, healthier future for all.
“It’s not only about how we treat, but how we care. Every smile deserves both precision and kindness.”
— RDH Magazine editorial team
Philips and RDH Magazine: Partners in Advancing Oral Health
Both Philips and RDH Magazine share a long-standing commitment to elevating the dental hygiene profession. Philips supports clinicians and patients through innovative technologies that simplify at-home and professional care alike. RDH Magazine, in turn, amplifies the voices of hygienists who bring passion and purpose to their daily work.
Together, they foster learning, encourage peer recognition, and offer platforms where compassionate professionals can inspire one another. Their partnership reflects the belief that recognition fuels motivation—and motivation transforms communities.
Aligned Missions, Shared Values
- Philips: Creating sustainable oral health innovations like smart sonic technology and connected care devices.
- RDH Magazine: Empowering professionals through continuing education, community-building, and recognition programs.
- Shared Vision: Building a future where every dental hygienist has the tools, voice, and courage to lead through compassion.
How the Heart to Hands Award Inspires the Dental Hygiene Profession
Beyond accolades, the Heart to Hands Award fosters a movement within the dental hygiene profession. By elevating compassion as a cornerstone of care, the award inspires students, educators, and practicing professionals to embrace emotional intelligence and lifelong learning.
Recipients often become mentors, advocates, and educators who lift others while continuing to innovate in their practice. Their stories serve as powerful reminders of how empathy not only humanizes healthcare but also drives better outcomes and community trust.
Practical Ways the Award Inspires Change
- Encouraging peers to engage in volunteerism and community outreach.
- Highlighting continuing education opportunities for professional growth.
- Promoting workplace cultures centered on respect and collaboration.
- Driving awareness for preventive oral health initiatives globally.
How to Nominate or Participate in Future Awards
Dental hygienists and colleagues are encouraged to participate in future Heart to Hands Award nominations. The process typically invites stories of individuals whose actions embody compassion, leadership, and innovation in oral care. Applicants or nominators can share insights into how a candidate makes a tangible difference through their work and advocacy.
Philips and RDH Magazine publish nomination details annually on their respective platforms. Those interested can follow these channels or subscribe to RDH Magazine updates to stay informed about upcoming award cycles. It’s a unique opportunity to celebrate peers who mirror the same values that keep our profession thriving.
The Lasting Impact of Heart and Hands in Dentistry
The Heart to Hands Award continues to remind us that dentistry, at its core, is about people. Tools and technologies may change, but human compassion remains timeless. Each year, this recognition echoes the idea that when our hearts guide our hands, we not only improve smiles—we build stronger communities.
Through their ongoing partnership, Philips and RDH Magazine lead the way in showing that excellence in oral health care is not just about clinical performance but about commitment, empathy, and genuine human connection.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the Heart to Hands Award?
The Heart to Hands Award, presented annually by Philips and RDH Magazine, honors dental hygienists who demonstrate exceptional compassion, innovation, and dedication to patient-centered care.
2. Who is eligible for the award?
Practicing dental hygienists who exemplify leadership, empathy, and community impact are eligible for nomination. Individuals can be nominated by peers, educators, or employers within the dental field.
3. How are recipients selected?
A professional panel reviews nominations and selects recipients based on measurable impact, innovative practice, and the demonstration of care that bridges heart and hands.
4. How can I nominate someone for the next cycle?
Nominations can be made through official Philips or RDH Magazine online portals once the nomination period opens. Keep an eye on RDH Magazine’s website and newsletters for detailed submission guidelines.
5. Why is this award important to the dental community?
The award celebrates the unsung heroes of dentistry who merge science and compassion. It helps build morale, fosters community engagement, and encourages professionals to uphold empathy as a core value of patient care.
When compassion meets consistent action, extraordinary results follow. Explore the mindset behind lasting change in The Habit Method and see how the power of human care begins within each of us.
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