b'YOUR MEMBERSHIPNew periodontistcornerGet to know AAP member and newbe is very rewarding. However, the most rewarding moment of periodontist, Anna Claire Compton,all is walking into my house at the end of the day and getting DDS, MSD. Dr. Compton completedhugs from my kids and husband!her periodontal residency at the University of Tennessee in 2022. What/who inspires you?What made you choose theMy inspiration comes from many sources- my husband and field of periodontology? kids, my parents, strong females of history. Professionally, the senior doctor I work with has been a wonderful mentor and I became fascinated with varioussource of inspiration. He gives me advice when I need some branches of dentistry while in school, includingextra help and reminds me what is truly important in life- faith, facial prosthetics and forensic dentistry. I approachedfamily, and integrity. Many times, patients inspire me with their a faculty member about forensics, but he had morestories. I have had the privilege of working with some incredible information about periodontology. After assisting theindividuals who have overcome astounding obstacles in life.residents with many surgeries and examinations, I realized perio had everything I desired in a career:How do you stay up to date on periodontics?relationship building with patients, a primarily adult/ I enjoy receiving publications from Perio 2000, Clinical geriatric patient base, and surgical opportunities. Advances in Periodontics, and Journal of Periodontology. I also What is something you experienced that you didtake in-person and online CE courses as much as possible. not expect in the field of periodontology? I try to regularly attend perio conventions and national meetings. I co-direct a local study club, so staying up to date is Since many patients are elderly, memory and cognitionparamount.issues can present and complicate diagnosis and patient expectations. Learning how to communicate with theOutside of work, what is the one thing you do every day patient and their caregiver has become an importantthat brings you joy?consideration which was not a typical part of residencyMy husband and I have two sons three and under- we are very curriculum. busy! Going home to be mommy is more strenuous than a full What is the most challenging part of your day? day at the office, but spending time with the boys and watching them play and grow is more valuable and rewarding than Delivering difficult news to patients is the worst partanything I could do at work. My three-year-old finally somewhat of my job. Whether its a malignancy diagnosis from aunderstands what I do at work- Mommy help people teeth!biopsy or telling a young adult they need a full denture, I dread telling patients news that will negatively impactAny advice you would give to a periodontist that has their quality of life. recently graduated?What is the most rewarding part of your day? Build strong relationships with general dentists and other specialists in the area! Remember you are one part of the At work, its saving teeth for patients who werepatients treatment team. I actively try to keep the general previously given a poor prognosis or who have a strongdentist involved in patient treatment planning, especially for fear of the dentist. Being the provider who positivelyrestorative considerations. Dentistry is not one size fits all- you changes their outlook on what a dental experience canmust modify and personalize treatment for each patient! AAP Periospectives| 35'