Dr. Denise Laronde, MSc Dental Science 2005, is a dental hygienist, researcher, Professor at UBC Dentistry and Director of the BC Oral Cancer Prevention Program. We connected with Dr. Laronde to learn how her passion for oral health, research and teaching led her down a unique career pathway.
You first received a degree in Psychology at UBC. Why did you pivot to dental hygiene?
I started university young and didn’t fully know what I wanted to do. During an appointment, my dental hygienist suggested hygiene, and even though I had never considered it before, something about it piqued my interest. I finished my psychology degree and went to Vancouver Community College for hygiene.
You worked as a hygienist for 10 years. What inspired you to pursue a Master’s in Dental Science at UBC?
After a decade of practicing as a hygienist, I needed more of a challenge. I’d always been interested in graduate school, and I wanted to do something science-based that could make a difference clinically, which is how I became interested in oral cancer. I loved my Master’s experience at UBC Dentistry so much that I immediately carried on with a PhD at Simon Fraser University. My research looked at the risk of oral cancer, with a focus on screening, early detection and assessing risk. The goal was to assess if dental professionals were screening and referring appropriately.
What do you love about research, and what’s one thing people might be surprised to learn about oral cancer?
I love how there’s so much variety [with research] and how you can work at your own pace. By doing clinical research, I still interact with patients, and I’m always learning and pushing myself to think outside the box.
People are often surprised to learn that alcohol is a risk factor for oral cancer. People typically think about tobacco as a risk factor but often forget about alcohol.
Is there one accomplishment from your lab that you’re especially proud of?
I don’t think there is just one thing! I’m proud of the duration of our longitudinal study following patients with dysplasia, which is a globally unique study. I’m also proud of the work we have done with biomarkers and extremely proud of my students’ successes.
Another highlight for me has been establishing the UBC Oral Cancer Prevention Fund. This fund supports the work in my lab along with graduate students and other scientists to establish an effective and efficient test to predict oral cancer diagnosis, so we can reduce the number of Canadians who are diagnosed with oral cancer.
What do you enjoy most about teaching?
Working with graduate students is one of my favourite parts of my job. Seeing them get excited about the work they’re doing and knowing I’m helping shape the scientists of tomorrow is what I enjoy most.
What advice would you give to current students?
A hygiene degree opens many doors, so don’t be afraid to explore. And you’re never too old for graduate studies—I didn’t start until I was in my 30s! Sometimes people think they’re too old to start something new, but I don’t think it’s ever too late to explore something you’re passionate about.
In the spirit of April being National Oral Health Month, what would you say about the critical role dental hygienists play in oral health?
Hygienists are primary care providers who spend a lot of time with patients and see them regularly. They’re in the perfect position to screen for not just oral cancer, but other systemic diseases that might be noticeable through the oral cavity. Hygienists really get to know their patients and can educate them on the importance of oral health. I remember when I was practicing in the community and moved practices, several patients followed me, which felt like a true testament to how important a hygienist can be in peoples’ lives.