Carmen Lanoway is a Dental Hygienist Abroad who has practiced in Munich, Germany since 1995. In this interview, she shares what it was really like to build a life and career outside her home country — from navigating a new healthcare system to the personal and professional shifts that come with practicing internationally.
This story is part of the International Dental Hygienist Interviews series, created to give dental hygienists a realistic look at what working abroad actually involves — beyond the highlight reel.
Hygienist Snapshot
Name: Carmen Lanoway, BSDH, RDH
Origin: Canada
Education:
- Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene (BSDH)
- RDH license
Location Abroad: Munich, Germany
Years Abroad: 1995–1998, 2001–present
Background & Early Career
Where are you originally from?
Canada
Have you always worked in the dental field?
If not, what came first?
Not explicitly stated, but she started working as a hygienist and has been a traveling dental hygienist since 1995.
Working Abroad in Germany
What country do you work abroad in, and when did you move?
Germany — Munich, Bavaria — 1995–1998, 2001–present
Why Carmen Moved Abroad
What inspired you to move abroad?
A fellow graduate from my class of hygiene (1988) went to Switzerland, and I was envious. I thought, “How cool is that?”, but I had a good job at the time. In 1992, the IFDH/ISDH was held in Den Hague and there were ads all over the place (this was way before the Internet) for jobs in Switzerland and Germany. So, I answered one.
What did your family say?
Not mentioned.
Were you afraid or nervous?
Not explicitly mentioned.
Life in Bavaria — Culture & Environment
What is this region known for?
- Lederhosen
- Alps
- Beer
- Oompah bands
Practice, Team & Clinical Setting
What type of practice do you work for, and what is the team like?
My office is known for Periodontology and Implantology, with some of the best in the world. We also have a specialist in Endo and two General Dentists. Our Hygiene Department has five RDHs/Dipl. DH, all bringing a unique perspective.
I love that we have the chance to be totally evidence-based, with some of the best equipment around. The doctors totally support us and our extra endeavors.
I do freelance lecturing/workshops, and my coworker from Italy teaches part-time in Italy. But it can be hard working in another language all day long and we do have some long days.
Social Life & Daily Living Abroad
What is your social life like?
Not explicitly detailed.
What do you most enjoy?
I am very happy at my office, I have so many chances to do new things and be part of making a unique situation and leading in the industry.
What’s been the hardest adjustment?
It can be hard working in another language all day long and we do have some long days.
Patients & Clinical Experience
What are the patients like?
Any standout experiences?
Our patients are very compliant, it’s a nice change; most come to us knowing that they have to comply to maintain a healthy mouth and smile. Dealing with German insurance systems can be hard.
I have built a good rapport with many of the patients. I recently lost my dad and the patients have been supportive of me; also listening to me and supporting me emotionally. I prefer to think only of the good!
We all have bad experiences with patients, and I like to think of them as learning experiences.
Professional Growth & Personal Reflection
How has this experience changed you — professionally and personally?
I feel I have become stronger as a woman, and an independent woman. I have accomplished everything myself! Learned a language to work in another country and fully integrated in my country of choice.
I have grown professionally. I am the current delegate for the Germany Dental Hygiene Association for the International Federation and the European Dental Hygiene Federation.
I am not afraid to be alone, I enjoy travelling on my own, people watching, and immersing myself in the culture.
The DDHV (our professional association) is working hard to get an Internationally recognized/European standard of care University program. It will be a 3-year, full-time Bachelor’s program.
Career Path & Future Plans
Do you still practice hygiene?
Yes
Any plans to leave the field?
Not mentioned.
Do you have any side projects, teaching roles, or global health work?
Freelance lecturing/workshops; coworker teaches part-time in Italy.
Image caption: Hygiene department and clinical setup in Munich
Looking Ahead
What’s next for you?
Continuing professional development and involvement with international dental hygiene associations.
Do you have any regrets?
Not mentioned.
How would you like to be remembered?
Not explicitly mentioned.
Advice for International Dental Hygienists
Any wisdom for hygienists considering working abroad?
Learn the language, be independent, and integrate fully into your chosen country.
Thinking about working abroad as a dental hygienist?
Interviews like this one offer a glimpse into what’s possible — but everyone’s path looks different.
If you’re exploring international work and want a clearer starting point, these resources may help:
- Start here: Start Your Career As a Dental Hygienist Abroad A reality-first overview of what working abroad actually involves, including credentials, timelines, and common pitfalls.
- Next: Explore the Practice Without Borders for in-depth and step by step guidance on how to prepare for a move abroad
