We’re looking forward to introducing you to Leah Hargrove RDH. Check out our conversation below.
Leah, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Spending time with my family, for sure. My daughter Briella is six years old, and watching her grow and come into her own has been the sweetest thing. She just started first grade, and every little milestone feels like magic. Whether we’re baking something that may or may not be edible, or just having dance parties in the living room, she keeps life fun and full of joy.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I worked as a dental hygienist for a little over 10 years in both DSO and private practice settings. I loved the relationships I built and the difference I was making, but deep down I always felt like I was meant to do more.
Now I’m a Preventive Care Consultant with Elevate Oral Care, a company that’s all about putting patients first and focusing on prevention. I get to travel across Tennessee, educating dental teams on how to shift from reactive treatment to true prevention. It’s about helping offices feel confident in their care while improving outcomes for patients across the state.
For me, it’s more than just a job. It’s a way to help change the narrative of dentistry and make a real impact, one office at a time.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
My husband, Joshua. We met when I was going into my second year of dental hygiene school almost thirteen years ago. From the beginning, he believed in me in a way I hadn’t yet learned to believe in myself. He saw my heart, my drive, and the purpose I was meant to live out.
He’s always been more than just my husband. He’s my best friend, my safe place, and the person who pushes me to grow while also keeping me grounded. When I’ve felt overwhelmed or unsure, he’s reminded me of who I am and why I started.
I wouldn’t be where I am today without his support. He has always seen the bigger picture for me, even when I couldn’t. I’m forever grateful for the way he’s loved me through every season and helped me become who I was meant to be.
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
You don’t have to have it all figured out. Give yourself grace and stop being so hard on yourself. You are enough just as you are, and you don’t have to chase love. It will find you when the time is right. Keep going. You’re going to make a difference, and one day you’ll look back and be so proud of how far you’ve come.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
That fixing problems is enough. We’ve convinced ourselves that if a patient leaves with a filling, a crown, or a cleaning, we’ve done our part. But the real power lies in preventing those problems from happening in the first place. Prevention isn’t just something we check off the list. It should be the heart of what we do.
Another lie is believing that one-size-fits-all care actually works. Every patient walks in with different needs, different challenges, and different goals. If we don’t take the time to understand the person in the chair, we’re not truly helping them.
And maybe the hardest truth? We don’t talk enough about the emotional side of care. Dentistry isn’t just clinical. It’s personal. Fear, trust, and confidence matter just as much as what shows up on an x-ray. When we start leading with empathy and focusing on people, not just procedures, that’s when everything starts to shift.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. Are you tap dancing to work? Have you been that level of excited at any point in your career? If so, please tell us about those days.
Yes, I’ve definitely had those days. And honestly, I still do. When I started with Elevate Oral Care, it felt like everything aligned. I finally had the chance to step outside the operatory and support other dental teams in a meaningful way.
Some of my favorite moments are when I walk into an office and the team is excited to learn. When they realize how prevention can truly change the way they care for patients, it lights something up. It’s not just about selling a product. It’s about helping people feel confident and supported. Those are the days I leave knowing I’m doing exactly what I was meant to do.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @ldhtherdh
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ldhtherdh
