We were lucky to catch up with LaTonya Butler recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi LaTonya, thanks for joining us today. Let’s kick things off with your mission – what is it and what’s the story behind why it’s your mission?

I am a mother, nanna, and dental professional. I understand the challenges parents face when it comes to daily oral hygiene care and empathizes with patients diagnosed with multiple cavities and requiring several dental treatments. As a dental and youth advocate, I look forward to representing and promoting early childhood dental hygiene care in dental offices and schools.

I am passionate about assisting parents and caregivers in discovering dental health in a fun and exciting way while helping children build self-confidence through their bright smiles. In 2008, I began fulfilling my dental mission by visiting educational facilities and presenting dental hygiene workshops. In 2019, I published my first story, “Fuzzy Tooth Critters,” implementing the importance of teeth brushing and flossing and maintaining a healthy smile.

As for today, I continue to exemplify unique ways to support many smiles through my dental hygiene projects and community service outreach.

LaTonya, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

As mentioned, I’m a pediatric registered dental hygienist. I have been an asset to the dental community for thirteen years. In 2008, I adopted the name “The Brown Tooth Fairy” after earning my credentials as a certified dental assistant. In 2017, I attained my degree as a registered dental hygienist. I had no idea that my love for dentistry would have led me to become an Amazon bestselling children’s book author and an acclaimed dental professional from South Carolina.

Initially, I used the tooth fairy strategy to gain the attention of the little ones and promote children’s dental hygiene awareness in a fun way. During dental education seminars, I provided every child with oral hygiene goody bags and dental appointment reminders— the children loved it! Yet, educators shared with me that many students hadn’t had their first dental experience, and they were certain many had dental caries. The educators’ updates touched my heart because I caught a glimpse of the language and financial barriers that needed attention. I was motivated to educate as many families with children as possible on the significance of dental health. How do I collaborate my passion for pediatric dentistry and children’s dental literacy?

Pursuing a career that symbolizes happiness is perfect for me to express my passion for children.

Inspiring anyone to smile is my mission, and my love for dentistry and children is evident as I strive to fulfill children’s hearts with happiness with one smile and one book at a time.

When I noticed the need for children’s educational stories representing diversity in dentistry, I took advantage of the opportunity to learn something new— creating children’s books and “Positive Vibes” apparel that showcases ways to support healthy smiles for children of color to see themselves in.

In 2019 and 2020, I published children’s dental educational books, “Fuzzy Tooth Critters” in English and Spanish and “Mila’s Big Day: First Dental Visit,” to help stop dental issues before they start, help children become comfortable with their dental surroundings, and inspire little brown girls who someday desire to become dental professionals.

I’m all for brightening smiles and consoling patients when they are frightened; whether through literature or routine dental cleanings, there’s nothing more important than seeing parents and children happy. Furthermore, I’m honored to contribute to advocating for those who need dental care guidance.

Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?

I realize that making mistakes does not justify who I am—worrying about errors and what others think are lessons I had to unlearn. I had to become comfortable with accepting unexpected changes and realize success originates from losses. I had to put much more faith in myself rather than debating if I was good at executing ideas.

Becoming a children’s book author takes time, patience, and much preparation. As a wife, mother, nanna, and a full-time dental hygienist, I struggled to fulfill my dreams. To complicate my journey, I was passionate about a business I needed to learn more about managing. I had to learn to become the best version of myself without letting fear or doubt interfere with my goals.

When I discovered my niche and what I wanted my brand to stand for, my vision became clear to execute.

Publishing my stories was the best experience yet a lesson to remember because this topic is one of the challenges I endured. I’m learning the pros and cons of writing and becoming well-informed about the book publishing industry. I had to become knowledgeable about my writing style and grow comfortable disagreeing with anything contrary to my mission, including my doubt. For example, I must speak with confidence when I speak of my products and my endeavors. I’m no longer afraid to take charge and advocate for my business and mission.

The things I had to unlearn gave me the courage to follow my dreams as an author. I learned to acknowledge my purpose in life and allow my vision to become transparent and rewarding for others. I am honored to serve my purpose through children’s stories and look forward to what the universe has to offer.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

Absolutely! Our destiny leads by faith, and our life choices involve events that will force us to make challenging decisions that are misunderstood by some. In 2015, I had to make a commitment that benefited my family, and the timing couldn’t have been better. I acquired the opportunity to further my career as a dental professional. The moment had come to shift generational curses and challenged my core values and the goals I set for myself. My family was my motivation and reason for all.

The pivotal decision was a debate my husband and I conversed over. I had to make a personal and financial sacrifice that affected my job and household. My husband and children had to adjust to a new schedule. Yet, it was a moment I’d been waiting anxiously to begin. I earned my seat to prove I could implement my skills as a dental hygiene student and an aspiring dental professional. The choice to follow my dreams was a discussion I wasn’t passing up and do not regret making.

With supporting family and instructors, financial blessings, and extensive dedication, 2017 was one of the best life-changing events I endured. I was a first-generation college graduate and attained my degree and license as a registered dental hygienist. I am incredibly proud that I followed my heart to pursue a career in an industry that plays an essential role in my personality and brand today. My family and I can happily say we got through the obstacles together. Mostly, I appreciate my husband for being an integral part of my team and helping me thrive to serve my purpose.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.thebrowntoothfairy.com
• Instagram: @Brown_ToothFairy
• Facebook: @thebrowntoothfairy