Cindy Canada-Flores is a dental hygienist abroad who has been living and working in Germany since 2019. In this interview, she shares what it was really like to move from California to Germany — from navigating the move and residence permit process to settling into a slower pace of life and continuing her career overseas.
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: Cindy M. Canada-Flores, RDH, RDA
Origin: Brawley, California, United States
Education:
- Certificate in Dental Assisting (1997)
- Registered Dental Hygienist (Graduated 2005) Location Abroad: Germany Years Abroad: 2019–Present
Background & Early Career
Where are you originally from?
Brawley, California
Salton Sea, Southern California — Photo by DesignClass on Unsplash
Have you always worked in the dental field? If not, what other fields?
I began my career in Dentistry as a DA in 1991. I later attended a Dental Assisting Program at Chaffey College and graduated in 1997, sitting for the RDA exam. After working for several years I applied and was accepted to the Oxnard College Dental Hygiene Program, graduating in 2005.
Any other degrees acquired before turning to hygiene?
I completed a Certificate in Dental Assisting in 1997.
Working Abroad in Germany
What country do you work abroad in?
I work in Germany.
From which years?
From 2019–Present.
Why She Moved Abroad
What inspired you to move abroad?
It was a combination of a love of travel as well as a desire for change.
Did you make the move alone or did you bring family or pets?
My husband and our 2 rescue kitties made the move with me.
What did your family say?
They were incredibly supportive and excited for us, and to come and visit us.
Were you afraid?
I was almost as afraid as I was excited! I have never regretted it!
Finding Work & Moving Logistics
How did you find the practice you worked abroad for?
I reached out to the IFDH online and they gave me the names of a few people in Germany to contact. It was through those contacts that I found the office where I am currently practicing.
Briefly describe your experience moving, obtaining a visa or permit, and housing
I was extremely fortunate to have a great group of future co-workers who were incredibly supportive and gave me tons of invaluable advice both before and after I arrived.
I was especially fortunate to have a contact at the office where I practice who had made the move several years before me. She was instrumental in helping us find and rent an apartment before we even arrived. She also helped guide me through the steps to getting our residence permit.
Life in Germany — Region & Lifestyle
What is this region known for?
It is known for agriculture and wineries. There are countless hiking trails and beautiful forests, as well as castles and rivers.
Würzburg, Germany — Photo by Mateo Krössler on Unsplash
What did you most enjoy? Least enjoy? Why?
I love the relaxed pace of life. It is such a welcome change from the fast pace of life in Southern California. I love being surrounded by nature and the clean, fresh air.
There really isn’t anything in particular that I don’t enjoy. I do miss my family — and Mexican food!
Professional Growth & Personal Reflection
How did the experience change you as a person? Professionally? Personally?
Personally, I feel that this experience has made me a more confident person. It forced me to step out of my comfort zone and trust my instincts.
Professionally, I think I have gained knowledge from every practice I have worked at over the years, and that ultimately these experiences have shaped me into the clinician I am today.
Do you still practice hygiene? Any plans to leave hygiene?
I am still currently practicing hygiene and have no plans to change careers. After 15 years, I can still say that I truly enjoy what I do.
Do you have any regrets about being a dental hygienist in Germany?
Only that I wish I had done it sooner!
Advice for International Dental Hygienists
Any wisdom you would like to pass on to future internationally practicing hygienists?
If at all possible, I highly recommend learning the language before making the move.
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
