A Tale of Two Hygienists Podcast

We often discuss the need for saliva on the microscopic level as it relates to oral and systemic connections. Let's pull back just a bit to see a more basic issue - digestion. Salivary flow is essential in so many ways and its our role to provide practical solutions. Dr. Gatta joins the show today to discuss what solutions he recommends to patients.  **In Partnership with Risewell Resources: risewellpro.com IG @risewellco FB @risewellco Risewell will be at RDH Under One Roof Booth #330 Take Our Course on HA & Earn CE Credit!

Growing up, braces were always wires and brackets and sometimes, for those lucky ones, headgear. Today the landscape looks much different and dental hygienists are often leading the discussions with patients, advocating for ortho treatment. On this episode, Dr. Ilan Abramowitz gives us insight to the raging battle of which is better: Clear Aligners or Traditional Ortho! Resources: Perfectfitortho.com Free ortho education for GPs https://perfectfitortho.com/learn

Periodontal re-evaluation timing is essential for all therapeutic hygiene procedures... but when should this be done? We have heard a range of recommendations but listen in as Katrina breaks it down based on the case type! Resources: More Fast Facts: https://www.ataleoftwohygienists.com/fast-facts/ Katrina Sanders Website: https://www.katrinasanders.com  Katrina Sanders Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedentalwinegenist/ 

In this roundtable episode we are joined by Peggy, Monica, and Lindsey to talk about a new option for the everyday RDH, PerioDT. This product is multi-faceted and a potential game changer for every single patient we have sitting in our chair. Give this episode a listen if you are ready to take your practice to the next level! Resources: Booth number 406 at RDH Under One Roof youngspecialties.com @younginnovations and @youngspecialties on insta LIVE WEBINAR ALERT: July 15th, 2025 - https://younginnovations.com/education/live-ce-webinars If you missed it, you can check out all of their on demand courses with the same link!  

The public simply has no real understanding of what a dental hygienist does.... for that matter, neither do many in the dental industry as we are continued to be looked at as tooth scrapers. Lisandra Maisonet joins the show to talk about a new awareness campaign aimed at helping to fight this movement called the Oral Health Awareness Project. Whether you contribute or not, there are valuable lessons shared through their facebook group!

I am over it. I am so incredibly over hearing how the hygiene department in any dental office is a loss leader. In this episode, I, in typical Andrew fashion, rail against the notion that hygienists have little value for a dental practice. If you are a hygienist listening to this episode you will get some useful tips on scheduling practices. If you are dental practice owner, you will get some useful tips on how to leverage your highly qualified clinicians to the fullest to make you some $$!  Resources: If you have specific questions about how to make your hygiene department more valuable, shoot me an email andrew@ataleoftwohygienists.com 

In this amazing crossover episode, guests Katrina Sanders and Dr. Mia Geisinger dive deep into recently passed legislation concerning dental assistants scaling. Is this good for our industry? Is it good for our patients? Is it good for, well.... anyone? Hear these experts discuss these points and also deliver an important message directed at dental hygienists! Hear the full episode here on Dentistry Unmasked! Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dentistry-unmasked-a-roundtable-podcast/id1692417504?i=1000706594320 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/episode/61pLxY7lHNBP9RflxQDx3G?si=998114ef2cf14050  

Everyone is experiencing dry mouth symptoms these days. The elderly might have systemic reasons, the youth are seemingly being prescribed drugs at earlier ages than ever, and people of all ages have behaviors or habits that are contributory. So what can we do? Give this episode a listen for a simple solution that works for all ages! **In partnership with Dr. Jen Oral Care DrJenOralcare.com for your free sample!  

Artificial Intelligence continues to evolve. As clinicians we are starting to wrap our heads around how it might help us with chart notes, perio charting, and even interpretation of radiographs... but while we are stuck in this mentality, it continues to evolve and progress. Imagine a time when AI impacts hiring preferences, predicts expected pay based on experiences, or helps a patient decide if your office is the right one for them! Rita Zamora joins our show for this episode and dives deep into the reputation management and potential future applications of AI in dentistry! Resources: @ritazamora on all socials Ritazamora.com Connect90.com for social media services

Meth... Should we still be concerned about methamphetamine or is this a thing of the past? What issues should we be concerned about with our patients presenting who are meth users? Listen to Tom Viola's short episode on the most recent updates on this crazy drug.  Resources: Be sure to reach out to him if you have any questions by emailing TomViola@tomviola.com, visit his website TomViola.com or check out his social media - @pharmacologydeclassified

Once you lose bone, you never get it back, right? Have you heard this before? I have too. Recently we met with a group of hygienists (Jodi, Sam, Sara, and Amanda) who work in a practice that offers LANAP for their patients as well as being a very laser-centric practice for perio therapy. If you are looking to be inspired by what is possible out there in the world of dental hygiene, give this episode a listen!   If you have any questions, you can shoot Jodi a message at this email - jodi@caringfamilydentistry.com  

70 percent of our immune health originates in the guy and the term 'gut health' has been quite the buzz word the past few years as we look at linking the oral with the systemic. Often, however, the issue that clinicians have is about implementation of the knowledge. In this episode Machell Hudson-Hoover gives some quick tips to help you jumpstart these conversations with your patients! Resources: Machell@rdhhealth integrativedentalcoaching.com

What does it take to be a great leader in your practice and who should that point person be? In this episode with Carrie Webber from The Jameson Group, we look at the make up of the dental teams and their practice and try to isolate the necessary components for success.  cwebber@jmsm.com https://ww1.jmsn.com/  

Saliva affects almost every part of our working day. The patient might have too much, too little, or a consistency of saliva that is abnormal. In this episode we listen to Katrina talk about the many aspects we need to consider to ensure our patients have the best shot at fighting oral diseases.   Resources: More Fast Facts: https://www.ataleoftwohygienists.com/fast-facts/ Katrina Sanders Website: https://www.katrinasanders.com  Katrina Sanders Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedentalwinegenist/ 

What is your referral protocol for perio speciality? What kinds of procedures are you referring and do you feel like you refer often enough? Give a listen to this short episode as Laura Bettencourt and Danielle Avila give their experiences! Resources:@diamondgirlscoaching on insta ldiamantecoaching.com

long time AToTH listener/supporter Beth Parkes. We focused the episode on pathology and adjunctive therapy as Beth has some sure fire ways to help promote patient health outcomes in whatever situation you find yourself in. Not every patient is the same, so not all treatment options will have the same outcome. Give this episode a listen to see how you stack up! Resources: The RDH View - https://www.rdhu.ca/the-rdh-view @bethparkesrdh on insta

Not every mushroom is a mushroom and in this episode Tom Viola helps us dive deep into the topic of "magic mushrooms". There is a great chance you will not encounter this with your patients.. but just in case, we bring you some quick facts for the every day clinician!  Resources: Be sure to reach out to him if you have any questions by emailing TomViola@tomviola.com, visit his website TomViola.com or check out his social media - @pharmacologydeclassified

David Torres, CRDH joins the podcast to talk about a little bit of everything. We talk career advancement, ergonomics, the educated patient, the power of positivity, the generational shift in attitude and where that is taking us and so much more! David exudes positivity... do you have someone in your life like that? Someone who gets you excited about things rather than bring you down? If not, find yourself a David! https://linktr.ee/davidtorres9163 David.t3469@gmail.com    

There is a growing body of work that suggests microplastics are harmful. The scary part is that they are everywhere and incredibly hard to avoid but should we be concerned that it can be found in our floss? Give this episode a listen as we discuss a healthier alternative! **In partnership with Dr. Jen Oral Care DrJenOralcare.com for your free sample!

The best clinicians are those who can relate to their patients, who have a deeper understanding of the relationship between disease and treatment options. In this episode Dr. Gordon Frasier explains how his brief brush with gingivitis, coupled with his periodontal protocols, changed how he speaks with his patients and how he uses his own experiences to motivate and change behavior. ** In Partnership with Perio Protect Resources: www.Perioprotect.com/foryou

Sedation is a common need for a segment of our patient base, even more so for children. In this episode, Dr. Marn gives us a quick rundown of what the appointments look like, what gear anesthesiologist need, the handoff from dental office to the anesthesiologist, post-op recovery, and more.  Resources: The online Medical Emergency Readiness Index/ Scorecard:  https://emergency.scoreapp.com/ * note: it was initially designed for pediatric dental practices, but the questions and actionable steps still apply to anyone concerned about their preparedness for a medical or sedation emergency in their dental practice.    New York Medical Anesthesia https://nymedicalanesthesia.com/ * mobile sedation service serving NY and NJ   Blue Pacific Medical Simulation https://bpmedsim.com/ * risk reduction company that improves team alignment for medical and sedation emergencies   LinkedIn to DM https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardmarn/   Direct email RMarn@BPMedSim.com

Mental health has a strong correlation with our systemic and oral health. As our world continues to struggle with finding our healthy pathways, looking at how fixing one area can positively impact others is crucial. Give this short episode with Machell Hudson-Hoover a listen to see what small steps you can do and share with you patients! Resources: Machell@rdhhealth integrativedentalcoaching.com

Social media was heated up with the news of a newly announced partnership between the ADHA and GoTu and in this episode we get into it. Many felt like the ADHA made a poor decision... but is there a bigger opportunity here than maybe even the association realizes? Gotta listen through to the end!

This week's part 2 focuses on a systemic focus for oral care, opportunities for RDHs and what that change looks like, and the dental assistant scaling concerns.  Resources: Dentistry Unmasked episode with Katrina Sanders and Dr. Mia Geisinger - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dentistry-unmasked-a-roundtable-podcast/id1692417504?i=1000706594320 Liz- lnies@perio-protect.com Rafael- 781-606-2130 mrdh1993@gmail.com Mr RDH on Facebook

Katrina Sanders is back to tackle the question of how to use our ultrasonics properly when working with implants. As with most things, there are layers to unpack and concepts to remember to keep your patients safe. Do not miss this episode! Resources: More Fast Facts: https://www.ataleoftwohygienists.com/fast-facts/ Katrina Sanders Website: https://www.katrinasanders.com  Katrina Sanders Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedentalwinegenist/   

Dental nerds love talking about dentistry and solving all of the problems and this week's episode is no different as we welcome in Liz Nies and Rafael Rondon to join Andrew and Jackie in this roundtable discussion.  Resources: Liz- lnies@perio-protect.com Rafael- 781-606-2130 mrdh1993@gmail.com Mr RDH on Facebook

It seems like we all have patients taking Semaglutide or Tirzepatide and in this episode Tom Viola breaks down the things we need to know. How does it act? What should we be on the look our for? What oral/systemic manifestations might there be? Be sure to give this short episode a listen! Resources: Be sure to reach out to him if you have any questions by emailing TomViola@tomviola.com, visit his website TomViola.com or check out his social media - @pharmacologydeclassified

How consistent is your perio protocol? Do you use the same tools and procedures for everyone or do you tailor your care? In this takover episode, Tanya Dunlap catches up with Dr. Sam Shamardi, a periodontist, to discuss how he cares for his patients in the various stages of disease. No matter where the patient is in the process, there is one tool that applies to them all to improve their health but youll have to listen to this episode to hear what it is and how he implements it! ** In Partnership with Perio Protect Resources: @drsamshamardi on insta Drsamshamardi.com Masterclinicalsurgery.com www.Perioprotect.com/foryou    

The ADA put out a position paper in February 2024 regarding recommendations for use of lead aprons (and similar barriers) during dental xray exposure. The result has been some confusion on what type of enforcement the ADA has for the practitioner and if a recommendation carries the same weight as regulation. Join us as Sue Scherer sets things straight!   Resources: The effects of device position on the operator's radiation dose when using a handheld portable X-ray device: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26764582/ The ADA Press Release on Radiation Safety https://www.ada.org/about/press-releases/ada-releases-updated-recommendations-to-enhance-radiography-safety-in-dentistry   Sue Scherer BS, RDH sueschererRDH@gmail.com

Hydroxyapatite has been buzzing in the dental world lately, but it is not one size fits all! Listen to this episode to hear what it takes to be a high quality product, and how you can get your free sample! DrJenOralcare.com for your free sample!

In this episode, Andrew Johnston discusses the common dilemma happening in offices everywhere - the patient presents with periodontal disease, but just a little bit. How do we handle that? Is it the patients' fault our ours? Where do we go from here? How much perio is an acceptable amount of perio? We discuss in this short episode!   ** In partnership with Perio Protect. Perioprotect.com/RDH  

Join host Andrew Johnston for this rambling episode all about chart prep! Exciting right? The truth is, preparing for your patient's appointments is extremely important to delivering comprehensive care. Additionally, those who do deliver top level care are on the front lines protecting our profession - give this episode a listen to learn how!

Xylitol has been a wonderful disruptor in the dental profession but are there really any benefits to our favorite name brand gum with added xylitol or is this a marketing ploy? Listen to this short episode as Katrina Sanders discusses the impact of xylitol gum on plaque accumulation, saliva production, and caries risk... and if they are getting the targeted 5 grams of xylitol through chewing gum. Resources: More Fast Facts: https://www.ataleoftwohygienists.com/fast-facts/ Katrina Sanders Website: https://www.katrinasanders.com  Katrina Sanders Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedentalwinegenist/   

This episode is all about teeth whitening with the delightful Rachel Hicks. We cover so many subtopics in this show including if lights are gimmicky or necessary, what the different percentages mean on the packages, post op care, and so so much more! If whitening is your thing, be sure to check out her show - link in the shownotes! Resources: Follow Rach @mentorrach on all platforms    Elevate your clinics whitening system www.fernwhiteningsupplies.ca   Listen to the podcast exclusively on Teeth Whitening- Whitening Wednesday Podcast   Read the studies Tooth Whitening Textbook Book Recommendation: Tooth Whitening by George Pettigrew

Ready to be out of your comfort zone? Listen to this short episode with Machell Hudson-Hoover on home care routines and strategies for health outside of the often overused 'brush and floss' advice. Resources: Machell@rdhhealth integrativedentalcoaching.com

On this episode we meet up with Cathy Cabanzon and we talk about the role of the board of dentistry, what power they have to make and enforce rules, and how people can be involved in making changes to improve the dental health of those living within their state's borders. Cathy is doing an amazing thing in helping establish this alliance. Not only are they doing advocacy work but I just saw on their website that they are offering a free course on my functional therapy and have all sorts of resources for that. If you want to know more about that head over to https://fldha.com/  Florida Dental Hygiene Alliance on Facebook, X, Instagram and LinkedIn

Do we have a huge rift amongst the hygiene profession? Are dental hygienists divided? In this episode we talk about the perception of division and how we should evaluate our role as part of the greater RDH profession. 

In this episode we have Danielle Avila and Laura Bettencourt on the show to talk about the things that matter most to us… clinical dental hygiene. We talk about the bloody prophy, difficult patients, and the frustrations that come with being a dental hygienist. It's incredibly insightful and it's great to hear the real life experiences of fellow hygienists as they struggle with burnout, difficult dentists, under diagnosing and so much more! @diamondgirlscoaching on insta https://ldiamantecoaching.com/

Evidence-based dentistry or outcomes-based dentistry is essential for our industry. Patients need to know the tools that will actually help them succeed, but these need to be based on analytics and research and that is what Slate does with their electric flosser. Give this episode a listen as she explains how patients their patients have achieved an 85% reduction in bleeding points with this easy-to-use tool. www.SlateFlosser.com and use RDH10 for $10 off any order. If you are a professional, use the professionals tab for 30% off your first flosser! ** In partnership with Slate Electric Flosser

In this rebroadcasted episode, we get a chance to talk with Brandon Evert who was, at the time, a D4 student, and Host of Extracting Wisdom Podcast. Brandon talks about his journey, his choice to join the dental field, and what lead him to pursue a career in the military once he graduates. This is a pathway we all should know more about to help the next generation of dental professionals! Episode Highlights Brandon's Journey Medicine vs. Dentistry  Being a Dentist in the Military  Internship with Dr. Moody  Digital Protocol  Equipment Military Placement  Quotes “I'm very lucky to have this scholarship and to know I have a 4 year job after school.”    “Me being the dental nerd that I am, I searched for dental podcasts.”    “This digital stuff is not new, but at a dental school it is often unheard of.”    “Squeaky wheel gets the grease.”    “This is the best scholarship you will find, you will not find another that will cover 100% of your school and give you a stipend.”    “My husband is a dentist and that student loan debt is huge.”   “I like doing SRPs, IF I have the right equipment.”    “The only reason you are ‘soft' is because your instruments are so dull you are not doing anything.”    “The newer generation of dentistry is more inclusive.”    “I wish we had more of a team approach, because that is real life.”    “It is the blind leading the blind sometimes.”    Links  https://www.instagram.com/brandonevertdmdstudent/  https://extractingwisdom.libsyn.com/website  A Tale of Two Hygienists Podcast A Tale of Two Hygienists homepage  AToTH on Facebook  AToTH on Instagram AToTH on LinkedIn

There are so many chemicals and drugs being added to beverages and THC is one of them. In this episode, Tom Viola brings us the facts about how these drinks might be impacting our patients! Be sure to reach out to him if you have any questions by emailing TomViola@tomviola.com, visit his website TomViola.com or check out his social media - @pharmacologydeclassified

Continuing our conversation about power flossing, Brynn Snyder and I share a quick conversation about the 3 reasons (plus a bonus 4th reason!) people should make the switch from manual flossing to power flossing! www.SlateFlosser.com and use RDH10 for $10 off any order. If you are a professional, use the professionals tab for 30% off your first flosser! ** In partnership with Slate Electric Flosser

In this (rebroadcasted) episode, we talk about the importance of sleep, and how Teresa and Drew are helping our patients achieve their best rest! If you are interested in learning more, please check out their website, social, or email them through the links below.  Teresa@sleepbetter.nyc Drew@sleepbetter.nyc https://sleepbetter.nyc/ https://www.instagram.com/sleepbetternyc/

This episode with Machell Hudson-Hoover demonstrates the exact reason we need to be educated on all things oral and systemic, and our patients need us to be a source of knowledge. Listen to this short episode, a compliment to last months episode on probiotics, to learn how Lactobacillus reuteri works to promote our oral and gut health.  Resources: Machell@rdhhealth integrativedentalcoaching.com

Being a temp is increasingly becoming a thing. It's not for everyone but if you want to be at the top of your temping game, consider these few tips from Andrew. 

For today's (rebroadcast but can't miss) episode we welcome back Dr. Kim Kutsch to the show. Misty and I had a chance to catch up with him at ADA SmileCon 2023 and it was just the best conversation about helping the professional organizations grow and how to deliver a successful practice through growth in the dental hygiene appointment. Be sure to check out Dr. Kutsch's podcast, "Contrary to Ordinary" on your podcast app. And shoot him a message if you're so inclined -  Kimkutsch@aol.com

How often should our patients present for their perio maintenance recall? Is it okay to graduate them from 3 mos to 4 mos recalls? How do we evaluate this? Check out this 5 minute episode with Katrina Sanders to learn more! References: American Academy of Periodontology. Acquired from: https://www.ada.org/~/media/JCNDE/pdfs/Perio_Disease_Classification_FAQ.pdf?la=en.  Accessed on: September 21, 2021. Magnusson, I., Lindhe, J., Yoneyama, T., & Liljenberg, B. (1984). Recolonization of a subgingival microbiota following scaling in deep pockets. Journal of clinical periodontology, 11(3), 193-207. Greenstein, G., Periodontal response to mechanical non-surgical therapy: a review. J Periodontol, 1992. 63(2): p. 118-30.

Just about everyone in dentistry has adopted the power toothbrush.. but what about an electric flosser? Take it from me, this is something we need to be talking about! www.SlateFlosser.com and use RDH10 for $10 off any order. If you are a professional, use the professionals tab for 30% off your first flosser! ** In partnership with Slate Electric Flosser

Are you looking to get out of the office but still see patients? Would you be interested in being your own boss? Give this episode a listen as Heidi Desmarais explains what a hygiene practitioner is, what they can do, and what resources are available through the Alliance of Dental Hygiene Practitioners!   Rdhalliance.org Hdesmaraisrdh@gmail.com

In this episode, recorded live from Chicago Midwinter, Andrew revisits some top tips to consider when attending a large conference. If you have never had the chance to travel to one of the big shows, you really need to make it a priority... but don't forget about these tips when you do!

People always ask how they can get in involved... and sometimes the time requirement seems daunting. In this episode, I visit with Kelli Bingham to learn what they do at Harmony Health to help create dental health equity in communities that need it. She explains what they do and how we all could be a part of it at a level we feel comfortable with.  Resources: https://harmonyhealthfoundation.org/ kelli@harmonyhealthfoundation.org