Podcasts about dental hygiene

What if true rigor in education isn't about making learning harder—but making it more meaningful?   In this episode of A Tale of Two Hygienists, Jessica and Dave sit down with Marion Manski, MS, RDH, to reflect on a distinguished career in dental hygiene education. As she prepares for retirement, Marion shares how her philosophy of teaching has evolved, why high standards and compassion can coexist, and what today's educators can do to help students succeed without losing sight of their humanity.   This conversation is a thoughtful look at leadership, mentorship, and the lasting impact educators have on the future of the profession.   In This Episode:   How Marion's teaching philosophy has evolved over the years.   What academic rigor really means in today's educational environment.   Balancing high expectations with student support and empathy.   Advice for new dental hygiene educators entering academia.   Reflections on a career of teaching, mentorship, and the legacy she hopes to leave behind.   Connect with Our Guest:   Marion Manski, MS, RDH Email: manskimc@vcu.edu LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marion-manski-ms-rdh-839b0571/   Contact the Hosts:   Jessica Atkinson Email: jatkinson@endeavorb2b.com   Dave Torres Email: dtorres@endeavorb2b.com

What if the biggest challenge facing dental hygiene education isn't recruitment or curriculum—but burnout?   In this episode of A Tale of Two Hygienists, Jessica and Dave welcome Jasmin Haley for a conversation about the emotional and professional demands of teaching. Together, they explore why educating future clinicians is a form of clinical work in itself, how burnout quietly develops, and what educators and institutions can do to build more sustainable careers.   Whether you're a seasoned faculty member or just beginning your journey in academia, this episode offers practical strategies for protecting your well-being while continuing to make a lasting impact.   In This Episode   The unique causes of burnout among dental hygiene educators.   Why teaching is both clinical and emotional labor.   Balancing teaching, service, scholarship, and personal well-being.   Setting boundaries and creating sustainable workloads.   Recognizing the early warning signs of burnout.   Practical strategies for maintaining passion and purpose in education.   How academic institutions can better support faculty wellness and retention.   Advice for new educators entering academia.   Redefining success and productivity in an academic career.   Connect with Our Guest   Jasmin Haley Email: info@beyondtheprophy.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasminhaley/   Contact the Hosts   Jessica Atkinson Email: jatkinson@endeavorb2b.com   Dave Torres Email: dtorres@endeavorb2b.com

Michelle ist ihre aufwendige Morgenroutine wichtig – sie gibt ihr das Gefühl, etwas geschafft zu haben, und stimmt sie positiv auf den Tag ein. Eine Mental-Trainerin empfiehlt, sich Mini-Morgenroutinen anzueignen, die nicht zu anstrengend sind.**********Ihr hört: Gesprächspartnerin: Michelle, legt viel Wert auf ihre Morgenroutine Gesprächspartner: Stefan Diestel, Psychologe, forscht und lehrt zu Arbeits- und Organisationspsychologie mit Fokus auf Selbstregulation Gesprächspartnerin: Melanie Pignitter, Mental-und Kommunikationstrainerin, Psychosoziale Coach Autor und Host: Przemek Żuk, Deutschlandfunk Nova Redaktion: Yevgeniya Shcherbakova, Friederike Seeger, Anton Stanislawski, Celine Wegert Produktion: Philipp Adelmann**********Quellen:Hohnemann, C., Rivkin, W., & Diestel, S. (2024). An energizing microintervention: How mindfulness fosters subjective vitality through regulatory processes and flow experience at work. Journal of Occupational Health Psychology, 29(1), 45–56.Ngwu, J.N. (2026). Role of Oil Pulling on Oral Health: An Overview. An Overview of Disease and Health Research Vol. 8, BP International, S. 64-74.Sezgin Y., Memis Ozgul B., Maraş M.E. et al. (2023). Comparison of the plaque regrowth inhibition effects of oil pulling therapy with sesame oil or coconut oil using 4-day plaque regrowth study model: A randomized crossover clinical trial. International Journal of Dental Hygiene. 21, S. 188–194.**********Mehr zum Thema bei Deutschlandfunk Nova:Rituale und Routinen: Woran wir uns im Alltag festhalten Meditation, Journaling, Lesen: Positive Routinen helfen Alex im Alltag5am Club: Was frühes Aufstehen bringt**********HörtippHörtipp "Über Schlafen": Schlafstörung - Ständig wie im Jetlag**********Den Artikel zum Stück findet ihr hier.**********Ihr könnt uns auch auf diesen Kanälen folgen: TikTok und Instagram .**********Meldet euch!Ihr könnt das Team von Facts & Feelings über Whatsapp erreichen.Uns interessiert: Was beschäftigt euch? Habt ihr ein Thema, über das wir unbedingt in der Sendung und im Podcast sprechen sollen?Schickt uns eine Sprachnachricht oder schreibt uns per 0160-91360852 oder an factsundfeelings@deutschlandradio.de.Wichtig: Wenn ihr diese Nummer speichert und uns eine Nachricht schickt, akzeptiert ihr unsere Regeln zum Datenschutz und bei Whatsapp die Datenschutzrichtlinien von Whatsapp.

In this episode, we explore how basic statistics help dental hygienists understand community health trends, evaluate public health programs, and make evidence‑based decisions. You'll learn simple, memorable ways to understand mean, median, mode, and how sample size affects the reliability of data.Statistics help us look beyond individual patients and understand patterns across populations. They allow us to answer questions like:How common is caries in a specific communityWhether prevention programs (sealants, fluoride varnish) are effectiveWhich groups have the highest unmet dental needsHow to allocate resources and fundingThink of statistics as the “diagnostic tools” for populations.Check out my Website ⁠⁠⁠Here⁠⁠⁠Want even more support? Listen to my Starting Strong limited‑series podcast. This podcast was created specifically for new dental hygiene students. Each episode walks you through the mindset, habits, and strategies that help you thrive in your first semester.TikTok: @happyflosserPodcast: The Happy Flosser Etsy Shop: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://thehappyflosserrdh.etsy.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram: @happyflosser

Does your dental practice clearly communicate what makes it different, or does it look and sound like every other office in your market? In this episode, Kirk Behrendt talks with Carlie Einarson, dental practice coach, about a four-step process for creating a practice that reflects what you value and attracts the patients you want to serve. You will learn how to differentiate your practice, define your core customer, identify your core competencies, recognize weaknesses, and align your team and patient experience around a clear strategy. To build a practice around what you do best and the patients you want to serve, listen to Episode 1083 of The Best Practices Show!Main Takeaways:Differentiation starts with clearly defining what your practice stands for rather than relying on convenience, insurance participation, technology, or other features competitors can replicate.Practices should identify their core customers by examining the patients who value treatment, respect the team, keep appointments, pay their bills, and refer others.Involving the team in defining the ideal patient creates alignment and can reveal patient characteristics the dentist may overlook.Core competencies should be meaningful strengths that patients value and competitors cannot easily imitate, rather than equipment, general labels, or expected levels of service.Consistently communicating what the dentist and practice care about helps attract patients who share those values.Practices should identify weaknesses such as poor systems, limited team development, weak treatment presentation skills, or gaps in the patient experience and address them strategically.Staying focused on your own strategy, values, patients, and strengths is more useful than trying to compete with another practice's size, technology, hours, or services.Episode Chapters:00:00 Intro02:51 Why branding matters05:35 Differentiation as a strategy for standing out.07:06 Trust as the real product12:00 Identifying the core customer you want to serve.17:19 Defining your ideal patient with your team.23:00 Identifying and communicating your core competencies.28:50 Consistently talking about what your practice cares about.31:00 Identifying weaknesses with self-awareness and team feedback.33:51Clinical development, systems, and treatment presentation weaknesses.38:11Staying true to your core purpose and values.40:00 Staying focused instead of competing with other practices.41:00 The Differentiation Tool and Strategic Marketing Guide.Guest Bio/Guest Resources:Carlie Einarson is a lead practice coach who has a passion for helping others succeed in the dental field. She loves helping to create a stable foundation for practices so both professionals and patients have a great experience every time they walk in the door!Carlie graduated from Utah College of Dental Hygiene. She has ten years of experience in the dental field, including clinical dental hygiene, front office, and leading teams.In her free time, she enjoys spending quality time with loved ones, traveling, skiing, playing volleyball, and golfing.Episode Resources:The Differentiation Tool: https://join.actdental.com/c/resources/differentiation-toolThe Strategic Marketing Guide: https://join.actdental.com/c/resources/strategic-marketingMore Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:Contact Gina to learn more about ACT: gina@actdental.comThe Best Practices Show: https://www.actdental.com/podcast/Smile Source Community Hub: https://www.actdental.com/community-hubUpcoming Events & Workshops: https://www.actdental.com/events/Smile Source: https://www.smilesource.com/Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.comSubscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com

Dysphagia: Dental Hygiene Treatment and Home Care Modifications for Patient SafetyBy Spring Hatfield, RDH, BSPHOriginal article published on Today's RDH: https://www.todaysrdh.com/dysphagia-dental-hygiene-treatment-and-home-care-modifications-for-patient-safety/Need CE? Start earning CE credits today at ⁠⁠⁠https://rdh.tv/ce⁠⁠⁠ Get daily dental hygiene articles at ⁠⁠⁠https://www.todaysrdh.com⁠⁠⁠ Follow Today's RDH on Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/TodaysRDH/⁠⁠⁠Follow Kara RDH on Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/DentalHygieneKaraRDH/⁠⁠⁠Follow Kara RDH on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/kara_rdh/⁠

What does it look like to enter a profession where you don't see many people who look like you? In this episode, Dana sits down with the DHY Boys—Madhi, Javi, and Michael, three first-year dental hygiene students navigating the challenges, opportunities, and realities of hygiene school as men in a female-dominated profession. They share their experiences with managing the workload of dental hygiene school, finding their purpose, building confidence in clinic, and staying connected to the reasons they chose dental hygiene. This conversation is a great listen for anyone considering a career in dental hygiene- where there is room for everyone!

A dental practice can produce millions of dollars and still leave the owner wondering where the profit went. In this episode, Kirk Behrendt speaks with dental practice coach Courtney Dalton about the four financial gaps that determine how production becomes usable cash.You will learn how to identify losses within adjustments, collections, overhead, and cash flow, along with the metrics and systems needed to improve profitability. Understand where your practice's money is going and how to make informed financial decisions—listen to Episode 1082 of The Best Practices Show!Main Takeaways:The effort gap is the difference between a practice's full master fees and its net production after insurance and elective adjustments.Practices must enter full fees for every procedure so their production and adjustment data accurately reflect the dentistry performed.The collections gap measures the difference between net production and the money that reaches the practice's bank account.Financial policies, accounts receivable systems, insurance follow-up, and payment options directly affect collection performance.The overhead gap represents the percentage of collections used for operating expenses across seven expense categories.The cash flow gap explains the difference between profitability shown on a profit-and-loss statement and the cash available after loans, taxes, owner compensation, and other outflows.Measuring and monitoring each gap gives practice owners the information needed to make targeted financial improvements.Episode Chapters:00:00 Why high-producing dental practices can still lack profit.03:00 How production becomes profit within a dental practice.04:24 The effort gap and the impact of adjustments.05:44 Why practices must bill their full master fees.09:26 How the effort gap affects APV, PPD, and PPV.12:09 Why gross production does not determine practice value.14:08 The collections gap and the 99% collection target.16:04 Systems that improve collections and accounts receivable.21:08 The overhead gap and seven expense categories.23:04 Team compensation, staffing, and practice systems.26:22 The cash flow gap between reported profit and available cash.28:43 How loans and taxes affect cash flow.32:49 Why earnings and profitability determine practice value.33:20 The process of measuring, monitoring, and improving financial performance.34:39 How the four financial gaps affect one another.Guest Bio:With an A.S. in Dental Hygiene from Manor College and a B.S. in Exercise Physiology from West Virginia University, Courtney blends her expertise in both healthcare and wellness to drive success.As a member of the Business Development team, she is dedicated to helping doctors and practice owners realize their full potential by understanding the link between ownership, culture, and the health of the business. Courtney is all about building strong, thriving communities at home or in the office!Courtney has been a part of the dental community since 2004 and is as passionate about patient care as she is about those who are providing it. Outside of ACT, Courtney enjoys exercising and spending time with her family.Episode Resources:GAPS Calculator within the Community Hub: https://join.actdental.com/c/announcements-9fc6ae/financial-gaps-calculatorhttps://www.actdental.com/free-resources/Smile Source Transform Membership: https://info.smilesource.com/smile-source-act-dental-transform-membership-1More Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:Contact Gina to learn more about ACT: gina@actdental.comThe Best Practices Show: https://www.actdental.com/podcast/Smile Source Community Hub: https://www.actdental.com/community-hubUpcoming Events & Workshops: https://www.actdental.com/events/Smile Source: https://www.smilesource.com/Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.comSubscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com

Top-performing dental hygiene students don't often get there by relying on natural intelligence- it has more to do with how they approach learning. In this episode, Dana breaks down the habits and mindset shifts commonly seen in successful dental hygiene students- from previewing material before class and using active recall to seeking feedback, setting clinical goals, and reflecting on mistakes without letting them define their progress. Whether you're struggling to keep up, questioning your abilities, or simply looking for more effective study strategies, this conversation offers practical guidance rooted in real-world experience. You'll walk away with actionable ways to improve your study habits, strengthen your clinical performance, and build the resilience needed to navigate dental hygiene school and beyond.

When every question, decision, and critical process depends on the practice owner, growth slows and the team becomes increasingly dependent on one person. In this episode, Kirk Behrendt speaks with Heather Crockett, dental practice coach, about the three leadership bottlenecks that restrict practice performance: information, approval, and knowledge. You will learn how consistent communication rhythms, clearly defined decision-making authority, documented systems, and cross-training can help your team operate with greater ownership and consistency. To identify and remove the leadership bottlenecks holding your practice back, listen to Episode 1080 of The Best Practices Show!Main Takeaways:An information bottleneck occurs when important knowledge and communication flow only through the doctor or practice owner.Daily huddles, weekly team meetings, and leadership meetings create consistent communication rhythms throughout the practice.Leadership teams must align on decisions and quickly cascade the information to the rest of the team.An approval bottleneck develops when the doctor becomes responsible for routine operational decisions that other team members could own.A function and accountability chart clarifies responsibilities and gives team members defined decision-making authority.A knowledge bottleneck exists when a critical system or process is known by only one person.Documented systems, cross-training, delegation, and repeatable onboarding reduce dependence on individual team members.Episode Chapters:00:00 Intro 01:54 The three leadership bottlenecks holding practices back.03:14 Signs of an information bottleneck.04:31 Communication rhythms that improve information flow.11:32 Signs of an approval bottleneck.13:49 Developing leaders and reducing decision fatigue.21:39 Signs of a knowledge bottleneck.22:47 Documenting systems, cross-training, and delegating responsibilities.25:58 Final leadership takeaways and the Leadership Bottlenecks guide.27:28 Leadership training at the To The Top Study Club.29:00 Episode wrap upGuest Bio/Guest Resources:Heather Crockett is a Lead Practice Coach who finds joy in not only improving practices but improving the lives of those she coaches as well. With over 20 years of combined experience in assisting, office management, and clinical dental hygiene, her awareness supports many aspects of the practice setting.Heather received her dental hygiene degree from the Utah College of Dental Hygiene in 2008. Networking in the dental community comes easy to her, and she loves to connect with like-minded colleagues on social media. Heather enjoys both attending and presenting continuing education to expand her knowledge and learn from her friends and colleagues.She enjoys hanging out with her husband, three sons, and their dog, Moki, scrolling through social media, watching football, and traveling.Episode Resources:Leadership Bottlenecks Guide: https://join.actdental.com/c/resources/leadership-bottlenecks Traction by Gino Wickman: https://www.amazon.com/Traction-Get-Grip-Your-Business/dp/1936661837To The Top Study Club: https://www.actdental.com/ttt/More Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:Contact Gina to learn more about ACT: gina@actdental.comThe Best Practices Show: https://www.actdental.com/podcast/Smile Source Community Hub: https://www.actdental.com/community-hubUpcoming Events & Workshops: https://www.actdental.com/events/Smile Source: https://www.smilesource.com/Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.comSubscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com

Career growth in dental hygiene rarely follows a straight line. In this episode, Dana Schmitt, RDH, shares how a sociology degree, nonprofit work in Ecuador, and a later start in dental hygiene helped shape a fulfilling career where she supports dental hygiene students and educators nationwide with Cloud Dentistry. If you're a dental hygiene student or new grad wondering whether you're behind or unsure of your next step, this conversation offers a practical reminder that meaningful careers are often built one decision at a time.

Taking out student loans is a reality for many dental hygiene students, but understanding how they work before you borrow can make a significant difference in your future financial situation. Dana is breaking down the basics of federal and private student loans, interest, repayment options, scholarships, and budgeting during dental hygiene school. You'll learn how to evaluate borrowing decisions with your future career goals in mind and why tracking your debt, building an emergency fund, and planning ahead can create more financial flexibility after graduation. If you're preparing for dental hygiene school or looking for practical student loan advice for dental hygiene students, this episode offers a grounded framework for making informed financial decisions. Also, check out my episode with Florie HERE for her wild student debt repayment story!

Dental hygiene school is expensive. Financially, mentally, and emotionally. In this episode, we break down how to stretch every dollar and protect your peace at the same time. You'll learn simple, realistic strategies to manage money, reduce overwhelm, and create clarity in your daily routines so you can focus on what matters most: becoming the clinician you're meant to be.Financial Workbook: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1w_gk73AxbjfZTxy4ildsQgQyKYatEs-9/view?usp=drive_linkCheck out my Website ⁠⁠Here⁠⁠Want even more support? Listen to my Starting Strong limited‑series podcast. This podcast was created specifically for new dental hygiene students. Each episode walks you through the mindset, habits, and strategies that help you thrive in your first semester.TikTok: @happyflosserPodcast: The Happy Flosser Etsy Shop: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://thehappyflosserrdh.etsy.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram: @happyflosser

Guest Melanie Boyd, BS, RDH, and founder of New Wave Perio, discusses her journey from dental school rejection to building a successful dental hygiene business centered around periodontal endoscopy. She faced challenges in dental hygiene school, navigated self-doubt, learned to accept constructive feedback, pushed herself to explore different career opportunities with her RDH degree, and used all this experience to build her business model. This is a story that showcases how crucial it is to be comfortable being uncomfortable- because that's how greatness is achieved.

Host Matt Crespin brings you voices from Milan, where dental hygienists from 47 countries gathered for the International Symposium on Dental Hygiene. Outgoing IFDH President Jill Rethman describes what it was like to sit on a World Health Organization panel as the only dental hygienist in the room, alongside dentists and health ministers from around the world, and what she learned about how many countries have never heard of our profession. That first appearance led to an invitation for IFDH to join the WHO's new Global Coalition on Oral Health. U.S. delegates Kelli Swanson Jaecks and Tammy L. Filipiak share what happens in the two years between symposiums, from committee calls scheduled across a dozen time zones to a new IFDH fellowship program and the decision to open the federation to dental therapists and oral health therapists. They also celebrate ADHA's first ever IFDH Impact Award, First Place in the Large Association category, for the Hygienist Inspired Ambassador Program. Plus, meet newly elected IFDH Secretary Loes Velthoven-Verlinden of the Netherlands and Vice President Cole Gilbert of South Africa, who explain what scope of practice looks like in their countries.Guests: Jill Rethman, RDH, BA, FADHA; Kelli Swanson Jaecks, MA, RDH, FADHA; Tammy L. Filipiak, RDH, MS, FADHA; Loes Velthoven-Verlinden; Cole GilbertHost: Matt Crespin, MPH, RDH, FADHAwww.ifdh.orgwww.ifdh.org/isdhwww.ifdh.org/podcastwww.adha2026.org

Preparing to start dental hygiene school can look different for everyone. Dana is sharing how you can be ready to embark on this two year jourey by managing your finances, strengthening your study habits, building a support system, and protecting your mental and physical health. She also discusses the most common challenges students face when starting a rigorous dental hygiene program and offers realistic strategies to help you start with a stronger foundation. If you're preparing for dental hygiene school, this episode provides actionable guidance to help you enter the program with greater clarity, confidence, and support. If you're looking for more resources on preparing for dental hygiene school, sign up for the Dental Hygiene Basic Training program here: https://dentalhygienebasics.thinkific.com/courses/dental-hygiene-basic-training

Periodontal disease is common, but many dental practices still underdiagnose it, undertreat it, and perform difficult prophies that do not address the patient's condition. In this episode, Kirk Behrendt speaks with Carlie Einarson, ACT Dental coach and former dental hygienist, about the hidden clinical and financial costs of low periodontal diagnosis, visit, and treatment acceptance percentages. You will learn how to evaluate these metrics, identify gaps in your periodontal process, improve patient communication, and create a consistent protocol across your team. To uncover missed treatment opportunities and help more patients achieve better health, listen to Episode 1075 of The Best Practices Show!Main Takeaways:Perio visit percentage measures how many hygiene patients receive treatment associated with periodontal codes.A low perio diagnostic percentage may indicate that periodontal disease is being missed or inconsistently documented.A low perio visit percentage may indicate that diagnosed treatment opportunities are being left untreated.A low perio acceptance percentage may reflect unclear communication about the condition, recommended therapy, and value of treatment.Every adult patient should receive a consistent periodontal evaluation that includes appropriate radiographs, probing measurements, bleeding documentation, and clinical findings.Hygienists and dentists should help patients co-discover periodontal disease instead of only telling them what treatment they need.Chart audits and a shared periodontal protocol can help providers diagnose, document, and recommend treatment consistently.Episode Chapters:00:00 The hidden cost of underdiagnosed periodontal disease.01:37 The purpose of Metric Mondays.02:30 The three periodontal metrics practices should monitor.04:18 How improving periodontal treatment affects the rest of the practice.06:08 What an underperforming periodontal program looks like.07:37 What low diagnostic, visit, and acceptance percentages reveal.09:00 Why periodontal metrics are leading indicators of practice health.10:11 What practices do differently when they get periodontal care right.11:01 Helping patients understand periodontal disease through co-discovery.12:00 Why “gum infection therapy” communicates more value than “deep cleaning.”13:15 The importance of a consistent periodontal protocol.14:08 How to review periodontal metrics and conduct chart audits.15:44 ACT Dental's periodontal protocol resources and coaching support.Guest Bio/Guest Resources:Carlie Einarson is a lead practice coach who has a passion for helping others succeed in the dental field. She loves helping to create a stable foundation for practices so both professionals and patients have a great experience every time they walk in the door!Carlie graduated from Utah College of Dental Hygiene. She has ten years of experience in the dental field, including clinical dental hygiene, front office, and leading teams.In her free time, she enjoys spending quality time with loved ones, traveling, skiing, playing volleyball, and golfing.More Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:The Best Practices Show: https://www.actdental.com/podcast/Best Practices Association: https://www.actdental.com/bpaUpcoming Events & Workshops: https://www.actdental.com/events/Smile Source: https://www.smilesource.com/Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.comSubscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com

How up-to-date are you with your dentist visits? Oral diseases are among the most common and costly health issues affecting Australians and the healthcare system. 

Starting Dental Hygiene School? You're in the Right Place. I know exactly how you're feeling because I was once sitting where you are now...excited, nervous, overwhelmed, and wondering if I was really capable of making it through dental hygiene school.In this episode, I'm sharing the 10 biggest lessons I learned throughout my own journey and the advice I wish someone had given me before I started. We'll talk about everything from finding patients and dealing with difficult professors to overcoming failure, protecting your mental health, and learning to believe in yourself even when things feel impossible.My hope is that this episode reminds you that you don't have to be perfect, you just have to keep showing up. Dental hygiene school will challenge you, but it will also shape you into the incredible clinician you're meant to become.If you're looking for even more support, be sure to check out these resources:✨ BrushWithBritt Podcast – Episode 58: Dental Hygiene School Advice✨ BrushWithBritt Podcast: Six Tips for Starting Dental Hygiene School✨ BrushWithBritt YouTube: Tips for Dental Hygiene School✨ BrushWithBritt Student & New Grad Resources: Visit the Students & New Grads tab on BrushWithBritt.com for free resources, tools, and guidance to help you succeed throughout dental hygiene school and beyond. BetterMouth.TVReady to make patient education easier? Try your first month FREE at bettermouth.tv/brushwithbritt

Felicity DeLemos, aka Tooth Fairy RDH, joins the podcast to share her path from dental assisting to dental hygiene school, career burnout as a newly graduate, and eventually expanding into entrepreneurship. Felicity shares tips on setting boundaries in school with practical study strategies, time management habits, and the importance of checking in with yourself before burnout takes over. If you've been searching for realistic advice on dental hygiene school, RDH burnout, student loans, or career flexibility in dentistry, this episode delivers grounded insight without the pressure to have everything figured out.

When insurance drives patient conversations, treatment decisions can shift away from health needs and toward coverage limits. In this episode, Kirk Behrendt speaks with Carlie Einarson, dental practice coach, about changing the way teams discuss insurance, treatment, and patient value. You will learn how insurance-first language affects trust and profitability, which metrics reveal the financial impact of PPO participation, and how to lead with relationships and clinical recommendations instead of benefits. To help patients choose your practice for the care you provide rather than your participation on an insurance list, listen to Episode 1072 of The Best Practices Show!Main Takeaways:Insurance-centered conversations can cause patients to base treatment decisions on coverage rather than their health needs.Repeatedly mentioning insurance trains patients to view it as the primary decision-maker.PPO adjustments create an effort gap between a practice's full fee and the amount it ultimately collects.Teams should explain the patient's condition, recommended treatment, and value of care before discussing benefits.Insurance should be positioned as a benefit that may contribute toward treatment rather than determine treatment.Practices need to track their adjustment and write-off percentages before making informed decisions about PPO participation.Relationship-based conversations help patients choose a practice because they trust the team and the care it provides.Snippets:00:00 When insurance drives the conversation, value gets lost.01:19 Introduction to Metric Mondays and Carlie Einarson.02:32 Why insurance-centered conversations affect treatment decisions.03:37 How practices unintentionally create insurance-focused patients.04:15 Signs that insurance is driving conversations in the practice.05:43 How PPO write-offs create an effort gap.07:25 A relationship-based response to insurance questions.09:07 What insurance conversations look like when a practice gets them right.10:44 Track adjustments, write-offs, and the practice's effort gap.11:16 Why trust and value should guide patient decisions.13:33 Questions teams can ask to evaluate insurance-focused language.15:09 Create value before discussing price or benefits.15:47 Share the episode with the team and discuss a different approach.Guest Bio/Guest Resources:Carlie Einarson is a lead practice coach who has a passion for helping others succeed in the dental field. She loves helping to create a stable foundation for practices so both professionals and patients have a great experience every time they walk in the door!Carlie graduated from Utah College of Dental Hygiene. She has ten years of experience in the dental field, including clinical dental hygiene, front office, and leading teams.In her free time, she enjoys spending quality time with loved ones, traveling, skiing, playing volleyball, and golfing.More Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:The Best Practices Show: https://www.actdental.com/podcast/Best Practices Association: https://www.actdental.com/bpaUpcoming Events & Workshops: https://www.actdental.com/events/Smile Source: https://www.smilesource.com/Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.comSubscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com

In this episode, we dive into one of the most overlooked parts of dental hygiene school: taking care of your body. From posture traps to micro-habits, this conversation helps students understand ergonomics in a way that brings it to the forefront.If you've ever left clinic feeling stiff, sore, or overwhelmed, this episode will help you feel seen. I will give you practical tools to protect your body and your future career.Why ergonomics matters more than you think in dental hygiene schoolThe 5 most common posture traps students fall into, and how to fix themMicro-habits you can use throughout the clinic session to reduce pain and tensionSimple strengthening and stretching ideas to support your bodyHow mindset and self-compassion play a role in staying healthyWhy taking care of your body is part of your professional identityYou're not “doing it wrong” if clinic feels physically hard you're learning a demanding profession.Small adjustments (like lowering the patient or resetting your shoulders) make a huge difference over time.Your body is your most important clinical instrument, protecting it is an act of self-respect.Building ergonomic awareness now sets you up for a long, healthy career.You deserve to feel good in your body while you learn.A reminder that your body deserves care, and that small changes add up.Shoulder + wrist stretch ideasCore and upper-back strengthening suggestions“Move the patient, not your spine” positioning remindersCompanion workbook + Starting Strong series

Guest Stephanie Botts, RDH and certified ergonomic assessment specialist, discusses the realities of chronic pain and career longevity in dental hygiene. Stephanie shares her journey from struggling with instrumentation in dental hygiene school to becoming certified in ergonomics and helping dental professionals prevent musculoskeletal injuries before they become career-limiting. The conversation also gets into her challenges in dental hygiene school, perfectionism in clinical care, and why many hygienists normalize pain when they should be paying attention to it.

Alan welcomes Beth Parkes, a clinical dental hygienist and educator from Canada, to break down the evolving world of hygiene instrumentation. Beth challenges the common "ultrasonics-to-completion" mindset, advocating instead for a balanced marriage of 80% power scaling and 20% intricate hand instrumentation for optimal tactile feedback. The duo dives into the resurgence of guided biofilm visualization, the absolute game-changer that is the "Vision Butler" (hilariously rebranded as Spandex Advanced in the US) lip and cheek retractor, and the critical metallurgical differences between "sharpen-less" and truly "sharpen-free" hand instruments. Finally, Beth shares her strategic "making every tray count" system designed to streamline sterilization workflows, keep kits lean, and foster respect between practice owners and hygiene teams. Some links from the show: Garrison Dental  Sharp Diamond instruments by LM (distributed by Garrison) Spandex Advanced Lip & Cheek Retractor from Hager Worldwide Vision Butler from Curion Dental (in Canada) Join the Very Dental Facebook Group using one of these passwords: Timmerman, Paul, Bioclear, Hornbrook, Gary, McWethy, Papa Randy, Frank or Lipscomb!  The Very Dental Podcast network is and will remain free to download. If you'd like to support the shows you love at Very Dental then show a little love to the people that support us! We're proud to be supported by the folks at Net32! I'm a big fan of the Bioclear Method! I think you should give it a try and I've got a great offer to help you get on board! Use the exclusive Very Dental Podcast code VERYDENTAL8TON for 15% OFF your total Bioclear purchase, including Core Anterior and Posterior Four day courses, Black Triangle Certification, and all Bioclear products. Crazy Dental has everything you need from cotton rolls to equipment and everything in between and the best prices you'll find anywhere! If you head over to verydentalpodcast.com/crazy and use coupon code "VERYSHIP" you'll get free shipping on your order! Go save yourself some money and support the show all at the same time! The Wonderist Agency is basically a one stop shop for marketing your practice and your brand. From logo redesign to a full service marketing plan, the folks at Wonderist have you covered! Go check them out at verydentalpodcast.com/wonderist! Enova Illumination makes the very best in loupes and headlights, including their new ergonomic angled prism loupes! They also distribute loupe mounted cameras and even the amazing line of Zumax microscopes! If you want to help out the podcast while upping your magnification and headlight game, you need to head over to verydentalpodcast.com/enova to see their whole line of products! CAD-Ray offers the best service on a wide variety of digital scanners, printers, mills and even  their very own browser based design software, Clinux! CAD-Ray has been a huge supporter of the Very Dental Podcast Network and I can tell you that you'll get no better service on everything digital dentistry than the folks from CAD-Ray. Go check them out at verydentalpodcast.com/CADRay!

Episode Summary Dental hygiene school is one of the most intense, identity‑shaping experiences in healthcare education. For many students, feedback can feel deeply personal. In this episode, we unpack why corrections hit so hard, what's happening emotionally on both sides of the chair, and how students and faculty can work together with more empathy, clarity, and confidence.What You'll LearnWhy clinical feedback often feels like a judgment on your worthThe hidden emotional load students carry in fast‑paced clinical environmentsWhat faculty are balancing behind the scenes (and why it matters)How “identity collision” shows up during skill developmentSimple reframes that make feedback feel less overwhelmingStrategies for students to stay grounded and confidentApproaches faculty can use to build trust and reduce shutdown momentsKey TakeawaysFeedback is information, not identity.Students aren't supposed to be perfect, they're supposed to be learning Faculty corrections come from a place of safety, responsibility, and care.Both groups want the same thing: competent, confident future clinicians.Small shifts in communication can transform the learning environment.Who This Episode Is ForDental hygiene students navigating clinic stress, self‑doubt, or feedback fatigueFaculty who want to support students more effectively without burning outPrograms looking to strengthen communication, culture, and student success

Burnout is not always caused by the amount of work someone is doing. It can also result from spending too much time performing work that creates frustration and drains energy. In this episode, Kirk Behrendt speaks with Heather Crockett, ACT Dental coach, about applying the Working Genius model to burnout, leadership, team responsibilities, and patient care. You will learn how to recognize frustration-based burnout, delegate work according to energy and natural strengths, and use all six working geniuses to improve the patient experience. To create a healthier team and find more joy at work, listen to Episode 1068 of The Best Practices Show!Main Takeaways:Burnout can result from the type of work someone performs, not only the amount of work assigned.High performers may burn out faster because they try to complete all six types of work at a consistently high level.Promotions can place capable team members into roles that rely heavily on their areas of frustration.Leaders should consider a team member's energy and working geniuses instead of delegating solely according to available capacity.Each of the six working geniuses contributes differently to treatment planning, communication, follow-through, and patient trust.Team members become more effective in their geniuses when they receive regular opportunities to use and develop them.A fulfilled and energized dental team communicates more effectively and creates a stronger patient experience.Snippets:00:00 Applying Working Genius to burnout, leadership, and patient care.02:43 A review of the six working geniuses.03:43 How working frustrations drain energy.05:18 Why the type of work can cause burnout.06:35 How promotions can move high performers into frustrating work.08:26 What burnout looks like on dental teams.09:40 Why high performers may burn out faster.11:22 Leadership mistakes related to Working Genius.13:31 Delegating according to energy instead of capacity.16:12 How each working genius supports patient care.18:27 Why fulfilled teams create better patient experiences.20:20 Final lessons about burnout, team roles, and contribution.21:42 Taking the assessment and starting a team conversation.22:48 Working Genius education at the Exchange.Guest Bio/Guest Resources:Heather Crockett is a Lead Practice Coach who finds joy in not only improving practices but improving the lives of those she coaches as well. With over 20 years of combined experience in assisting, office management, and clinical dental hygiene, her awareness supports many aspects of the practice setting.Heather received her dental hygiene degree from the Utah College of Dental Hygiene in 2008. Networking in the dental community comes easy to her, and she loves to connect with like-minded colleagues on social media. Heather enjoys both attending and presenting continuing education to expand her knowledge and learn from her friends and colleagues.She enjoys hanging out with her husband, three sons, and their dog, Moki, scrolling through social media, watching football, and traveling.Resources mentioned on the episode:Working Genius Assessment: https://www.workinggenius.com/The 6 Types of Working Genius by Patrick Lencioni: https://www.amazon.com/Types-Working-Genius-Understand-Frustrations/dp/1637743297Smile Source Exchange: https://smilesource.com/exchangeMore Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:The Best Practices Show: https://www.actdental.com/podcast/Best Practices Association: https://www.actdental.com/bpaUpcoming Events & Workshops: https://www.actdental.com/events/Smile Source: https://www.smilesource.com/Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.comSubscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com

Send us Fan MailKatrina Sanders, RDH, BSDH, M.Ed, RF—known throughout the profession as the “Dental WINEgenist™”—is a clinical dental hygienist, international speaker, author, educator, sommelier, and entrepreneur dedicated to elevating the dental profession through education, innovation, and empowerment.She serves as Clinical Liaison for Hygiene Excellence and Innovation at AZPerio, the country's largest periodontal practice, where she works alongside Diplomates of the American Board of Periodontology. She is also the founder and CEO of Sanders Board Preparatory and has been published in numerous industry publications, including RDH Magazine and Today's RDH.Through her clinical work, writing, and education, Katrina is passionate about empowering dental professionals to better understand the evolving role of dentistry and patient care. She has been recognized with honors including the University of Minnesota Distinguished Alumni Award and the 2024 Sunstar Award of Distinction.In this episode, we discuss the perio-systemic link, dental hygiene workforce issues, and the changing responsibilities within dental hygiene and assisting roles. Katrina shares insights from her clinical and educational experience to help dental professionals better understand the challenges and opportunities shaping modern dentistry.✨Connect with Katrina Sanders: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedentalwinegenist/ Website: https://www.katrinasanders.com/

Karen Gordon discusses her career path and how dental hygiene and chiropractic medicine fit together with cross referencing symptoms.   Resources: @thechirohygienist on all socials

One of the most challenging aspects of dental hygiene education is recognizing that your instructors are still learning, too. Dana reflects on the biggest mistakes she made as a dental hygiene educator, from navigating perfectionism and rigid, militant-like academic culture to learning how to support students without losing accountability. This conversation sheds light on the pressure faculty face behind the scenes and how stronger student-faculty relationships can improve the learning environment for everyone. If you're preparing for dental hygiene school or already in the middle of it, this episode is a reminder to pay attention not just to your study habits, but also to how you advocate for yourself, communicate with faculty, and build support systems that will carry you through the program and into practice.

Patients may seem uninterested in their oral health, but the real issue may be that they have not been given a clear reason to participate in their care. In this episode, Kirk Behrendt speaks with Melissa Obrotka, a dental hygienist and oral-systemic health educator, about helping patients understand what is happening in their mouths and why it matters to their overall health. You will learn how to create patient buy-in, use visual evidence and open-ended questions, calibrate your team, and transition from task-based hygiene to a healthcare-focused approach. To improve communication and help patients take action, listen to Episode 1065 of The Best Practices Show!Main Takeaways:Dental professionals must help patients understand how oral inflammation and bacteria can affect systemic health.Team calibration requires dedicated non-patient time to establish shared clinical standards, protocols, and expectations.Disclosing biofilm gives patients visual evidence that helps them understand disease, inflammation, and areas of risk.Open-ended questions and motivational interviewing can uncover the fear or previous experiences behind patient resistance.Providers can challenge patients directly while acknowledging their choices and asking permission to explain clinical concerns.Hygienists earn healthcare-level compensation by consistently delivering comprehensive healthcare rather than limited task-based services.Dentists and hygienists should learn and implement an oral-systemic approach together so patients receive consistent care.Snippets:00:00 Intro01:00 Why patients may appear not to care about their oral health.02:20 Melissa's background in dental hygiene and oral-systemic education.03:45 The relationship between oral inflammation, bacteria, and systemic health.06:05 How hygienists inherit task-based systems and schedules.09:05 Why dental hygienists may be the most important healthcare providers patients see all year.10:55 The need to schedule non-patient time for team calibration.12:00 How disclosing biofilm creates patient buy-in.13:45 Connecting periodontal charting, radiographs, bleeding, and visible bacteria.16:00 The expanding research on oral and systemic health.18:35 Using questions and motivational interviewing with resistant patients.22:00 How to care deeply while challenging patients directly.24:20 Melissa's perspective on dental hygiene as a career.28:45 Melissa's courses at The Exchange.31:10 Final thoughts on helping patients care and take action.32:00 Why dentists and hygienists should attend training together.Guest Bio/Guest Resources:Melissa A Obrotka, BA, RDH, holds over 25 years of experience in the dental field and concentrated clinical experience with the dental implant patient population. Melissa's core objectives for her patients in specialty perio/prosthodontics are focused on a “whole-listic” approach to dental prevention, disease remission, and therapies that encompass total body health and wellness. Her approach to patient care is focused on biofilm disruption strategies for periodontal and peri-implant health and longevity while providing healthcare advocacy to patients. In addition, Obrotka is a dental hygiene motivator, educator, podcast host, change agent, influencer, and industry thought leader. Obrotka serves as a clinical adjunct professor at her alma mater, Bergen Community College in Paramus, New Jersey, where she elevated clinical education by instructing students on the oral microbiome, biofilm disruption and introduced the Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT) methodology. Obrotka was nationally recognized in 2016 as a Master Clinician for her outstanding clinical expertise. In 2017, Obrotka was named one of the “Six Dental Hygienists You Want to Know'' in the clinincal practice category by Dimensions of Dental Hygiene.Resources mentioned in the episode:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itsthebadasshygienist/Website: https://itsthebadasshygienist.comMentioned Programs:No More Ignored Advice &The Biology Led Hygiene Appointment: https://www.itsthebadasshygienist.com/speaking-the-badass-hygienist-melissa-obrotka-rdhOPSM Framework: Oral Prevention is Systemic Medicine: https://www.itsthebadasshygienist.com/opsm-framework-courseMore Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:The Best Practices Show: https://www.actdental.com/podcast/Best Practices Association: https://www.actdental.com/bpaUpcoming Events & Workshops: https://www.actdental.com/events/Smile Source: https://www.smilesource.com/Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.comSubscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com

Sarah Payne's journey to getting into dental hygiene school is truly motivating! Guest hosts Julio and current dental hygiene student Sarah offer a more accurate picture of how dental hygiene admissions actually work. From changing majors and failing prerequisites to being waitlisted, Sarah ultimately succeeded in gaining admission to a community college dental hygiene program on the first try. Her experience highlights what often gets overlooked in dental hygiene school requirements and how to get into dental hygiene school: programs consider more than grades alone. Prior dental assisting experience, persistence through setbacks, and thoughtful preparation all carry weight in your application.

Why do some team members leave work energized while others feel drained, frustrated, or misunderstood? In this episode, Kirk Behrendt speaks with coach Heather Crockett about the Working Genius model and how dental teams can use it to better understand their strengths, frustrations, communication patterns, and roles. You will learn the six types of Working Genius, why every stage of work matters, and how shared language can improve meetings, teamwork, productivity, and joy at work. To understand how your team can work more effectively together, listen to Episode 1064 of The Best Practices Show!Main TakeawaysWorking Genius helps team members understand which types of work give them energy and which types drain them.The six Working Geniuses are wonder, invention, discernment, galvanizing, enablement, and tenacity.Each person has two geniuses, two competencies, and two frustrations.Teams need all six geniuses to move work from identifying a need through implementation and completion.Meetings become less effective when teams move directly from generating ideas to assigning tasks without discernment and galvanizing.A shared understanding of Working Genius can reduce judgment, improve communication, and help leaders assign work more intentionally.A Working Genius indicates the type of work a person enjoys, but it does not automatically mean that person has mastered it.Snippets00:00 Welcome03:17 What Is Working Genius06:55 An introduction to the six types of Working Genius.07:45 How invention generates solutions and new ideas.09:50 How discernment evaluates ideas and galvanizing creates momentum.11:12 How enablement supports implementation and tenacity completes the work.12:09 The difference between geniuses, competencies, and frustrations.13:01 How complementary geniuses helped ACT Dental grow.22:05 How Working Genius can reduce judgment and attribution errors.24:59 How Working Genius affects meetings and workplace culture.29:51 Why leaders should avoid pigeonholing people by their assessment results.32:12 A practical treatment plan for applying Working Genius.34:38 Wrap Up And Part Two Tease35:13 Final Outro And ResourcesGuest Bio/Guest Resources:Heather Crockett is a Lead Practice Coach who finds joy in not only improving practices but improving the lives of those she coaches as well. With over 20 years of combined experience in assisting, office management, and clinical dental hygiene, her awareness supports many aspects of the practice setting.Heather received her dental hygiene degree from the Utah College of Dental Hygiene in 2008. Networking in the dental community comes easy to her, and she loves to connect with like-minded colleagues on social media. Heather enjoys both attending and presenting continuing education to expand her knowledge and learn from her friends and colleagues.She enjoys hanging out with her husband, three sons, and their dog, Moki, scrolling through social media, watching football, and traveling.Working Genius Assessment: https://www.workinggenius.com/The 6 Types of Working Genius by Patrick Lencioni: https://www.amazon.com/Types-Working-Genius-Understand-Frustrations/dp/1637743297Smile Source Exchange: https://smilesource.com/exchangeMore Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:The Best Practices Show: https://www.actdental.com/podcast/Best Practices Association: https://www.actdental.com/bpaUpcoming Events & Workshops: https://www.actdental.com/events/Smile Source: https://www.smilesource.com/Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.comSubscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3436: Dr. Neal Malik explains that while brushing and flossing remain the foundation of good oral health, the right therapeutic mouthwash can provide additional benefits. He breaks down which ingredients help fight bad breath, plaque, and gingivitis, the potential drawbacks of alcohol-based rinses, and why choosing an ADA-approved product is a smart decision. Quotes to ponder: “When it comes to maintaining oral health, nothing beats regular brushing and flossing.” “Therapeutic mouthwashes are those that have specific ingredients that help improve oral health over the longer term.” “Mouthwashes that contain fluoride can help restore the integrity of our teeth.” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3436: Dr. Neal Malik explains that while brushing and flossing remain the foundation of good oral health, the right therapeutic mouthwash can provide additional benefits. He breaks down which ingredients help fight bad breath, plaque, and gingivitis, the potential drawbacks of alcohol-based rinses, and why choosing an ADA-approved product is a smart decision. Quotes to ponder: “When it comes to maintaining oral health, nothing beats regular brushing and flossing.” “Therapeutic mouthwashes are those that have specific ingredients that help improve oral health over the longer term.” “Mouthwashes that contain fluoride can help restore the integrity of our teeth.” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

AI isn't replacing dental hygienists—but it is changing how you work day to day for the better. In this episode, Dana talks with Maria Jackson, RDH and owner of Dental AI Solutions, about how tools like voice charting and automated notes are already reducing time pressure in clinical practice. Her path wasn't straightforward, and her experience highlights a common gap: strong clinicians still need to intentionally position themselves for new opportunities. The core of dental hygiene—patient trust, education, and clinical judgment—remains unchanged. Check out Dental AI Solutions here: https://www.mariadentalai.com/

There are easier ways to remember all the pharmacology terms without using just memorization. Melissa Calhoun brings her enthusiasm to making pharmacology easier.   Resources: @missyrdh on Instagram mcalhounrdh@icloud.com

In this episode of A Tale of Two Hygienists, Jessica and Dave welcome back Dr. Emily Boge to explore the evolving balance between ultrasonic technology and hand instrumentation in modern dental hygiene.   We dive into why ultrasonics are powerful tools — but not magic wands — and why mastering hand instrumentation remains essential for effective patient care. We look into a humbling calibration story that changed the clinical approach and the importance of diagnostic instruments, assessment skills, and clinician awareness in achieving better outcomes.   This conversation is a reminder that great hygiene care is not about choosing between technology and technique — it's about mastering both.   Guest: Dr. Emily Boge Ereinert@hotmail.com   What We Discuss:   Why ultrasonics require balance, technique, and intention   Why hand instrumentation still matters in modern hygiene care   A practice-changing calibration experience   The importance of diagnostic instruments and assessment tools   How clinician awareness impacts patient outcomes   Resources & Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emily-boge-edd-rdh-cda-faadh-fadha-cdipc-8a648916/   Call to Action: If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to A Tale of Two Hygienists, leave a review, and share this episode with fellow clinicians and educators.

Richard Robinson's RDH journey is a reminder that the path into dental hygiene doesn't always start with a plan—it can start with exposure and a willingness to pivot. In this episode, Richard shares how he entered the dental hygiene profession later in life and built a 3.8 GPA despite undiagnosed dyslexia and test anxiety. His strong study habits, along with a great support system, and managing his dyslexia and test anxiety have led him to success. He has found ways to give back to his community by starting the Richard Robinson Scholarship, providing mentorship to students, and starting a nonprofit organization, MyWhy, that you can check out here: https://www.thatsmywhy.org/about-us

Alan discusses the unexpected clinical and relational insights discovered after a part-time hygienist's departure forced him to step back into the hygiene column. Challenging traditional dental consultant dogma that screams "dentists shouldn't do hygiene," Alan shares his four-month journey of slowing down to find the hidden, high-value ROI of performing his own preventive recalls. From capturing an unfiltered look at a patient's raw baseline before a single tooth is polished, to uncovering the ultimate comprehensive exam under the lens of a dental microscope, he reveals how a low-anxiety, "no-shot" environment drastically deepens patient connection and naturally drives case acceptance. Alan also breaks down how he pairs high magnification with modern technology—specifically using the Heidi Health AI scribing app to seamlessly handle hands-free charting—to deliver an unmatched preventive experience rooted in genuine TLC. Whether you're navigating the turbulent modern hygiene labor market or just looking to reconnect with the foundational health of your practice, this episode offers a mindful, paradigm-shifting look at finding peace, presence, and production in the second column. Some links from the show: Heidi Health Al's email: simplebutnoteasy at gmail dot com Join the Very Dental Facebook Group using one of these passwords: Timmerman, Paul, Bioclear, Hornbrook, Gary, McWethy, Papa Randy, Frank or Lipscomb!  The Very Dental Podcast network is and will remain free to download. If you'd like to support the shows you love at Very Dental then show a little love to the people that support us! We're proud to be supported by the folks at Net32! I'm a big fan of the Bioclear Method! I think you should give it a try and I've got a great offer to help you get on board! Use the exclusive Very Dental Podcast code VERYDENTAL8TON for 15% OFF your total Bioclear purchase, including Core Anterior and Posterior Four day courses, Black Triangle Certification, and all Bioclear products. Crazy Dental has everything you need from cotton rolls to equipment and everything in between and the best prices you'll find anywhere! If you head over to verydentalpodcast.com/crazy and use coupon code "VERYSHIP" you'll get free shipping on your order! Go save yourself some money and support the show all at the same time! The Wonderist Agency is basically a one stop shop for marketing your practice and your brand. From logo redesign to a full service marketing plan, the folks at Wonderist have you covered! Go check them out at verydentalpodcast.com/wonderist! Enova Illumination makes the very best in loupes and headlights, including their new ergonomic angled prism loupes! They also distribute loupe mounted cameras and even the amazing line of Zumax microscopes! If you want to help out the podcast while upping your magnification and headlight game, you need to head over to verydentalpodcast.com/enova to see their whole line of products! CAD-Ray offers the best service on a wide variety of digital scanners, printers, mills and even  their very own browser based design software, Clinux! CAD-Ray has been a huge supporter of the Very Dental Podcast Network and I can tell you that you'll get no better service on everything digital dentistry than the folks from CAD-Ray. Go check them out at verydentalpodcast.com/CADRay!

Trying to decide if you should work during dental hygiene school isn't about the job—it's about whether your current capacity can support it. In this episode, Dana walks through a common question for dental hygiene students: should you take on a job while in dental hygiene school? The answer isn't one-size-fits-all. Some students can balance work and school; others find that adding responsibilities compromises their ability to stay afloat academically and mentally. The more useful question is practical: do you need the job, and can your current schedule realistically support it without putting your progress at risk? Learn about a simple decision-making approach grounded in self-awareness—stepping away from outside opinions long enough to assess your own bandwidth, stress level, and priorities.

We all hear and feel that dental hygiene school is exceptionally challenging. But what we don't always hear is WHY? In this episode, Billie talks about how there is a hidden curriculum built into the schooling of becoming a dental hygienist that can explain what most of us feel when we are in school.Once you see it, you can't unsee it - it is real! So let's talk about it and make it easier to understand.

Dental hygienist, educator, and author Dr. Tonya Jeffries shares her multifaceted journey of establishing a fulfilling career in dental hygiene, including leadership, mentorship, and innovative tools that empower both students and educators. Her years of experience in education inspired her to write The Dental Hygiene Hack- a guide for students to be successful in dental hygiene school. Find her book here: https://www.amazon.com/Dental-Hygiene-Hack-Must-Have-Strategies/dp/B0FKJCC3XD

Have you heard of Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs? It's often taught in dental hygiene school in the context of patient care, but in this episode, Dana uses it to demonstrate how you can use it to find out if your foundational needs are being met. Stress, sleep deprivation, financial pressure, chronic pain, burnout, and self-doubt can affect learning, clinical performance, confidence, and even patient communication in dental hygiene school and early practice. This conversation is a reminder that struggling does not always mean you are incapable—it may mean your brain and body are trying to manage too many unmet needs at once. You'll also hear practical ways to check in with yourself, support overwhelmed dental hygiene patients with more empathy, and create realistic routines that protect your well-being while pursuing long-term growth in dental hygiene school and clinical practice.

In this foundational episode of The Happy Flosser, Billie breaks down the essential building blocks every dental hygiene student needs: core dental terminology, tooth designation systems, and a grounding introduction to the profession of dental hygiene. Whether you're preparing for clinic, studying for exams, or building confidence in your professional language, this episode gives you the clarity and structure you need to feel more at home in dentistry.

Allison Freimuth, a current dental hygiene student, is on this episode with guest host Julio and shares what her path actually looked like when applying—strong grades, limited program options, and a schedule that left little room for downtime. She walks through how her program evaluated applicants using a point-based system, what it meant to apply to only one school, and how timing and preparation influenced her acceptance. Just as important, she speaks honestly about what happens after you get in. The workload is manageable, but the adjustment is not always easy. The shift in routine, relationships, and expectations can take a toll if you're not prepared for it. Her perspective on mental health, finding your people, and staying teachable offers an accurate picture of what future DH students can expect!

You've been accepted into dental hygiene school. Congratulations! In this episode, we're talking about the exact steps you can take right now to start your first semester feeling grounded, organized, and confident. Whether you're excited, overwhelmed, or somewhere in between, this episode will help you build a strong foundation before you even walk into orientation.You'll learn the 10 most important things to focus on before classes begin — from mindset and organization to boundaries, community, and life logistics. Think of this as your pre‑semester roadmap, created by an educator who has guided hundreds of students through this transition.You belong here. And you're more ready than you think.Want even more support?Listen to my Starting Strong limited‑series podcast. This podcast was created specifically for new dental hygiene students. Each episode walks you through the mindset, habits, and strategies that help you thrive in your first semester.TikTok: @happyflosserPodcast: The Happy Flosser Etsy Shop: https://thehappyflosserrdh.etsy.comInstagram: @happyflosser

Core values sound simple until you try to use them to lead a team consistently, especially when things get busy or uncomfortable. In this episode, Kirk Behrendt explains how to turn core values into daily decision-making tools with Heather Crockett, coach at ACT Dental. You'll learn how to make values behavioral and observable, build them into your communication rhythms, and use them as a practical filter for hiring, accountability, and tough leadership calls. Listen to Episode 1049 of The Best Practices Show!Main Takeaways:Core values only work when they drive daily behavior, not when they're just words on a wall.Values must be actionable and observable so the team can interpret and apply them consistently.“Core values without function” shows up as subjective interpretations, inconsistent culture, and leaders hesitating to hold people accountable.Make each value behavioral by defining what it means, documenting examples of how it shows up, and listing the results when it's alive and well.Operationalize values by embedding them into hiring, onboarding, daily huddles, weekly team meetings, monthly check-ins, and quarterly planning.Use values as the decision-making filter for real-time issues like scheduling, finances, patient care, and team dynamics to reduce decision fatigue.Hire and evaluate people on two criteria: they get results and they fit your core values, using tools like a Right Person, Right Seat scorecard.Snippets:00:00 How to turn core values into daily decision-making tools.02:10 Why core values matter only if they drive behavior.03:10 Why vague values (like “excellence” or “integrity”) don't work as daily tools.04:30 What “core values without function” looks like inside a practice.06:10 How to make values behavioral with definitions, examples, and outcomes.08:00 Using “anti-values” and standout team behaviors to clarify what you want.10:10 Putting core values into systems and communication rhythms.12:10 Using huddles and team meetings for value shout-outs and accountability.18:00 Using core values as a daily decision filter to reduce decision fatigue.22:10 Heather's final takeaways on visibility, systems, and reflection.23:50 BPA tools mentioned: Identifying Core Values, bringing values alive, Right Person Right Seat scorecard.Guest Bio/Guest Resources:Heather Crockett is a Lead Practice Coach who finds joy in not only improving practices but improving the lives of those she coaches as well. With over 20 years of combined experience in assisting, office management, and clinical dental hygiene, her awareness supports many aspects of the practice setting.Heather received her dental hygiene degree from the Utah College of Dental Hygiene in 2008. Networking in the dental community comes easy to her, and she loves to connect with like-minded colleagues on social media. Heather enjoys both attending and presenting continuing education to expand her knowledge and learn from her friends and colleagues.She enjoys hanging out with her husband, three sons, and their dog, Moki, scrolling through social media, watching football, and traveling.Resources mentioned in this episode:Identifying Your Core Values (exercise outline): https://www.actdental.com/hubfs/Identify%20Your%20Practices%20Core%20Values.pdfBPA tool on how to bring core values alive:https://www.actdental.com/free-resources/how-to-bring-your-core-values-aliveRight Person, Right Seat scorecard:https://www.actdental.com/blog/2-key-tools-for-accountability-successMore Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:The Best Practices Show: https://www.actdental.com/podcast/Best Practices Association: https://www.actdental.com/bpaUpcoming Events & Workshops: https://www.actdental.com/events/Smile Source: https://www.smilesource.com/Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.comSubscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com

Brittany Wragg's dental hygiene journey reflects what it looks like to build a career while also managing real-life responsibilities. From entering dentistry with no experience to completing hygiene school as a working mom, she outlines what it takes to stay consistent and achieve long-term goals. If you're questioning your timeline or capacity to move forward in this profession, this conversation offers a grounded look at where steady progress can get you!

Is it simply a dental hygiene "staffing shortage" or does the data reveal a more complex retention issue? Host Matt Crespin sits down with Thalía Diedrick and Amaya Johnson to unpack the findings of GoTu's recently released 2026 State of Work Report, the largest survey of the U.S. dental workforce, developed in partnership with ADHA. The numbers are striking: 60% of hygienists report burnout, 53.8% received no raise in the last two years, and 41.4% receive zero benefits — and yet nearly 78% intend to stay in the profession long term. These issues lead to a retention crisis driven by resolvable issues, not a lack of committed professionals. Thalía and Amaya break down the three to five year cliff, why physical demand tops the burnout driver list, and why better benefits ranked above better pay as hygienists' number one desired change. They also dig into the rise of flexible and temporary work as a deliberate career strategy, the case for license portability, and what expanding scope could mean for underserved communities.Guests: Thalía Diedrick, Vice President of Marketing, GoTu; Amaya Johnson, Senior Manager of Provider Marketing, GoTuHost: Matt Crespin, MPH, RDH, FADHAEpisode sponsored by GoTu.

The dental hygienist shortage is REAL — and it's hitting practices across the country hard. If you're a dentist struggling with hygienist turnover, rising hygiene pay rates, or difficulty hiring dental hygienists, this episode is for you. In this episode of The Lifestyle Practice Podcast, Dr. Matt Vogt breaks down exactly what's driving the dental hygienist shortage, why hygienist pay rates keep climbing, and — most importantly — four practical strategies to combat the hygiene shortage in your dental practice. Whether you're dealing with a hygienist leaving to temp, struggling with dental hygiene staffing, or just trying to figure out how to retain your hygiene team, Matt shares real-world insights from his own practice ownership journey. If you've ever searched "dental hygienist shortage," "hygienist near me," "hygienist dental hiring," or "hygienist visit revenue," this episode answers the questions you've been asking. Connect with us: Take our FREE lifestyle and practice assessment: https://thelifestylepractice.com/practice-assesment/ Learn more about 1-on-1 coaching: https://thelifestylepractice.com/coaching-services/ Get access to TLP Academy: https://thelifestylepractice.com/coaching-services/ Get the TLP Student Academy for $20 (lifetime access): https://the-lifestyle-practice.teachable.com/p/studentacademy Subscribe to The Lifestyle Practice Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tlp-podcast-for-dentists/id1476544801 Email Derek at derek@thelifestylepractice.com Email Matt at matt@thelifestylepractice.com Email Steve at steve@thelifestylepractice.com