Pat Brinkman-Falter | Myofunctional Therapist
Pat Brinkman-Falter is a distinguished figure in the field of oral health, recognized for her exceptional contributions and trailblazing efforts. With a notable career marked by leadership roles and an impressive array of awards, Pat has not only excelled within her profession but has also played a pivotal role in advancing dental hygiene practices.
Having served in several leadership positions within the NDHA, including president and delegate, Pat’s commitment to her field is evident. Her leadership has left an indelible mark on the dental community, contributing to the growth and development of dental hygiene standards and practices.
Pat’s accolades include the 2013 Young Dental’s Hygienists Who Make a Difference award, a testament to her impact and influence in the industry. In the same year, and again in 2024, she was honored with the title of Nebraska’s Dental Hygienist of the Year, recognizing her outstanding contributions to the profession within the state.
The Irene Newman Award for the Advancement of Dental Hygiene, bestowed upon Pat in 2015, underscores her dedication to pushing the boundaries of her field. This award highlights her role as a pioneer in orofacial myology, a journey that began with her becoming Nebraska’s first orofacial myologist.
In 2020, Pat was awarded the prestigious Rosemarie Van Norman Prevention Award, further cementing her legacy as a trailblazer. She was an instrumental player in adding the resolution of orofacial myology to the ADHA national policies. This recognition reflects her commitment to preventative care and her innovative contributions to the field of oral health.
Pat’s impact extends beyond her individual achievements. As an educator, she has shared her insights and expertise at renowned dental learning centers, national forums, and various dental meetings. She has published article on recognizing orofacial myofunctional disorders in both the American Dental Hygienists Association publications and in the Academy of General Dentistry. Her teachings emphasize the crucial link between oral health, airway development, temporomandibular disorders, tethered oral tissues, and holistic patient care from infancy to adulthood.
Known for her personal and passionate speaking style, Pat captivates audiences, transcending traditional concepts in dental hygiene. Her role as a self-proclaimed science nerd is evident in her commitment to not only stepping outside the box but expanding it for the benefit of fellow professionals and patients alike.
At the forefront of developing a groundbreaking myofunctional learning approach, Pat integrates airway dentistry and body work, advancing collaborative care in dentistry. Her dedication to advancing total patient care is further highlighted by her role as an examiner for certification boards through the IOAM.
Pat Brinkman-Falter’s journey is characterized by a commitment to lifelong learning, underscoring the belief that continuous education is integral to professional growth and excellence. Her privileged role in educating future professionals reflects her dedication to shaping the next generation of dental hygienists. Pat’s legacy is one of innovation, leadership, and a tireless pursuit of excellence in the field of oral health.