• Provides classroom, laboratory, and clinical instruction to dental hygiene students
• Evaluates academic and clinical performance
• Develops curriculum
• Ensures compliance with accreditation and safety standards
• Mentors students
• Participates in program planning, assessment, and professional development activities.

My name is Joanie Houser, and I am excited to be a part of the Dental Hygiene Program at Dakota College at Bottineau. My journey in dentistry began as a dental assistant. When my youngest son started kindergarten, I decided to pursue my goal of becoming a dental hygienist and enrolled in the Dental Hygiene Program in Williamsville, New York. Throughout my career, I have remained committed to learning and professional growth. After becoming a dental hygienist, I completed coursework in Restorative Expanded Functions and returned to college to earn my Bachelor's degree. These experiences strengthened my passion for the dental profession and for helping others achieve their goals. I grew up in Max, North Dakota, and family remains an important part of my life. I am the proud mother of two grown sons and a grandmother to four grandchildren. Today, I live on a small farm where I enjoy spending time with my two horses and all of my fur babies. As a Dental Hygiene Instructor, I look forward to sharing my knowledge, experience, and enthusiasm with students. My goal is to have a positive impact on their education and professional development, just as my own dental hygiene instructors inspired and influenced me throughout my journey. I am honored to help prepare the next generation of dental hygiene professionals and contribute to their success.