River City Six: Sara Bruce

Located at 4702 Lafayette Avenue in Omaha, Anding Family Dental (www.andingfamilydental.com) is dedicated to providing exceptional dentistry services for the entire family. Sara Bruce is a Dental Hygienist at Anding Family Dental.

Tell us a little about your role in the practice.

I have been a licensed hygienist for 8 years and have been working alongside Dr. Michelle Chang at Anding Family Dental for over 5 years.

How did you get started in the business?

I knew I wanted to get into the dental field at a very early age. I remember being young and having a bad dental experience. Our family changed dentists and I couldn’t believe how easy and fun appointments were; it was really about the staff making me feel comfortable. I knew that’s how I wanted other kids (and adults) to feel and I wanted to be a part of changing their mindset about the dental field.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally?

Helping patients overcome their dental anxiety. It is still prevalent and trying to calm nerves is always tough, but if I can help one person ease their anxiety, it is all worth it.

What has been your most important achievement professionally?

While in hygiene school I won the ‘Silver Scaler’ award. Nominated by the faculty, it was an award for showing compassion and kindness towards patients. This was important to me because it was the whole reason why I wanted to get into dentistry in the first place.

Tell us a little about your family.

I came from a modest upbringing, born and raised in Omaha. I am the second oldest of four children. My mom is a retired OPS teacher and my dad is a retired Omaha firefighter. I don’t have kids of my own but I love being an aunt to my 4 nieces/nephews. We are a very close-knit family and everyone still lives in the Omaha area.

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life?

I started having strokes at the age of 29. It was a scary time in my life not knowing why this was happening. Within a year doctors found a hole in my heart where clots were slipping through causing the strokes. I had heart surgery at the age of 30 and have been happy and healthy ever since. I think it makes you appreciate each day a little more when you go through an experience like that.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off?

I enjoy working out and on nice days you may find me on the trails around town. I also have an affinity for sporting events, either watching on television or going to cheer on any local Nebraska team (Go Huskers, Jays, and Mavericks!).

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

“Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in awhile, you could miss it.” Ferris Bueller

What local non-profit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why?

My family has ties to the March of Dimes. Two of my nephews were born premature so it holds a special place in our hearts, and we enjoy going to the walks and charity events. I also like to donate to Red Basket, a fundraising site that helps fund medical procedures, and Victory Boxing Club, which provides a supportive community to the youth in South Omaha.

What is your favorite local restaurant?

Anything Mexican! Fernando’s is always a great “go-to” option.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?

Phone: (402) 933-4632; Website: www.andingfamilydental.com.