A Tale of Two Hygienists Podcast

We could all do better. In this episode we talk about sustainability which. for some, is just a buzz word but for many its a conscious action to help our planet. We have so much waste in dentistry and there are several little things we can do to contribute to sustainability and Brittany Cox is our expert in this. Many thanks to Tim and Trisha at O'Hehir University for the connection. They are doing amazing things to meaningfully contribute to oral health behavior change and our next two episodes are a testament of that. Be sure to reach out to Brittany on instagram - @brittanycoxrdh or shoot her an email [email protected]

Being a parent is hard, there is a LOT to learn. How heavy does the child have to be for a car seat and is it rear facing or forward facing? When do they transition to booster seats? What is their vaccination schedule, how do they get enrolled in preschool? These and about a thousand more questions that come up every day including... When should kids first see the dentist? Katrina Sanders is here to answer that question. Be sure to check the shownotes for her episodes to see the references! 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/ Padung N, Singh S, Awasthi N. First Dental Visit: Age Reasons Oral Health Status and Dental Treatment Needs among Children Aged 1 Month to 14 Years. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent. 2022 Jul-Aug;15(4):394-397. doi: 10.5005/jp-journals-10005-2406. PMID: 36875978; PMCID: PMC9983582.

If you are a practice struggling to find help, a DSO who is looking for more talent, or a clinician looking to get a change of scenery... portability of license is essential! There have been many cooks getting in the kitchen and making a mess of the situation and the solution is just not hard to come up with. Join us this week as we Andrew and Annie discuss common sense, rational thinking ways on how to improve the portability discussion. Press release mentioned: https://www.crdts.org/assets/PDFs/CRDTS%20SRTA%20Press%20Release.pdf

In this part 2 discussion with Teresa Power DeNike, we take the next level and talk about things patients can do to improve their sleep. Sometimes patients come up with their own ideas (and diagnosis!) and sometimes its provider recommended. Join us this week as we talk about several of them! Reach out to Teresa on Instragram - @sleepbetternyc or check out the website - Sleepbetter.nyc

There are lots of great things that happen each Under One Roof - bags full of goodies, networking till you drop, and opportunities to advance galore! This week we discuss a different lesson learned that isnt in the listacles... tune in as Andrew gives his opinion from 2024!

People are... creative. They file their own teeth, create their own whitening pastes, pull their own teeth, and super glue their teeth back together. In this episode Heather, Lizz, and Anna share some great stories of DIY Dentistry. RDH Rant: https://www.facebook.com/groups/599722366843869

In this episode Teresa Power DeNike joins the podcast to chat about nasal breathing, obstructive sleep apnea, and how the dental hygienist plays a role in assessment and treatment for patients. This should be a key part of everyone's practice because not only does it save lives, but can be a profit center not yet realized. Don't miss this episode and be sure to come back for part 2 next week! If you want to reach out to Teresa you can find her on instagram - @sleepbetternyc or check out the website that has so many resources - Sleepbetter.nyc

Nutrition plays a huge role in our overall health but over the next several months, Machell will help connect how nutritional components impact oral health and wellness. Join us this week as we start the conversation and stay tuned to the end for an interesting fact! Machell@rdhhealth integrativedentalcoaching.com

Tabetha joins the podcast this week on an episode live from the exhibit hall floor at RDH Under One Roof in Denver, CO. Join us as we talk about her interesting career path, products designed and tested for dental hygienists, and what the research and development process looks like. They also unveiled the new Vivadent Aerosol Reduction Gel for the ultrasonic units. Give this episode a listen to learn more! Reach out to Tabetha here - [email protected] or find her on instagram @Tabber314. Visit the sponsor of this episode here - ivoclar.com https://www.ivoclar.com/en_us/products/prevention-and-care/vivadent-aerosol-reduction-gel

I have often thought about what it must be like working in a perio practice. From start to finish, patient to clinician to insurance and more... it all must be so different. And what kinds of products do they recommend and what is on their tray? Also, how does the hygienist fit within the team? This week we caught up with Dr. Sam Low to discuss some of these topics while also chatting about what the outlook is for the RDH in dentistry, the RDH shortage and more. Buckle up, its a great episode! Reach out to him - [email protected] or check out his website Drsamlow.com

Why are hygienists leaving private practices to go work at a DSO? Join Val Dangler this week as she explains the value RDH's see working for a larger organization. In Partnership with Cranberry USA, check out their new Bio Nitrile Gloves that reduces the waste in our landfills - www.cranberryusa.com Message Val for all of your DSO questions! [email protected]

RDH's wear so many different hats and we can do so much with our degree and license! This week Melissa Calhoun joins the show to share her journey and how each role helps to keep her engaged and in love with the profession. Thank you to our partner in this episode Arm and Hammer! Check out what they have for the professional here - https://www.oralcarepro.com/ If you want a lunch and learn for your office - https://www.oralcarepro.com/lunchlearn/

Have you ever thought about who is on the other side of the claims we submit? Sure we know there is a mysterious person who approves (but mostly denies) our SRP submissions, but what about the person who is in charge of investigating suspicious claims? Kate Murphy joins the episode to tell us what kind of things that person does and what kind of character traits one needs if they want to pivot into that kind of role. If you have more questions for Kate that we didnt get to on this episode be sure to reach out to her - [email protected]

With the handful of local anesthetics at our fingertips, we seem to reach for Lidocaine and Articaine the most. Is one of these better than the other? Tom Viola answers this fast fact! Be sure to check out what Tom Viola is up to by visiting Tomviola.com or email him - [email protected]

Imagine I gave you the option to take $6 million now, or or $1.2 million each year from 2036 until 2060 - which would you take? Join me in this TIPisode as we discuss this very real scenario that happened to one, Bobby Bonilla back in the year 2000.

Lynn Pencek joins the program this week to help us get back on track with dental implant basics and dental implant maintenance. We talk about what dentists are taught, what hygienists are taught and so much more. Join us this week! Resources: Her website www.practiceatyourbest.com or email her at [email protected]

I remember the first mouthwash I tried, it was sweet and minty and set my mouth on fire. We then added water to lessen some of the burn but was told that if "it isn't burning, it isn't working." Katrina Sanders joins the show today to give us expert discussion on why alcohols were added in the first place, and what types of rinses we should be using today! In partnership with Therabreath, get a free sample at www.trytherabreath.com 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/ Pereira EM, da Silva JL, Silva FF, De Luca MP, Ferreira EF, Lorentz TC, Santos VR. Clinical Evidence of the Efficacy of a Mouthwash Containing Propolis for the Control of Plaque and Gingivitis: A Phase II Study. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2011;2011:750249. doi: 10.1155/2011/750249. Epub 2011 Mar 31. PMID: 21584253; PMCID: PMC3092688.

Imagine a scenario where your loved one goes off to war. They disappear amidst the chaos but their whereabouts are unknown. There is no closure. This is a horrible reality for some, but for so many others there are forensic experts working diligently to identify and honor those who sacrificed for us, and their families. And while some might think dental professionals do not have a hand in this, they are sadly mistaken. Join Kimberly Erdman on today's episode to learn about the pivotal role of the dental professional in forensics! Kimberly will be speaking at ADHA Annual Conference - be sure to see her there or email her and find out where she will be next! [email protected]

Weight loss drugs seemingly come and go just as often as fad diets but we might have a change to that. GLP-1 (and now GLP-2 and 3) drugs are currently mainstream and we are seeing drastic changes in our patients health and appearance. But is it all good news or do we have some things to watch out for? Join Machell Hudson-Hoover on this week's Fast Fact episode. Machell@rdhhealth integrativedentalcoaching.com

Joined today by Andrew Nobilini from Proedge Dental Water Labs to talk about how we keep our patients safe from waterline based infections. We talk about so much but this is a company I truly believe in so please check them out at https://proedgedental.com/ and see what they can do for you! References: Cal them at 888-843-3343 or email them at [email protected]

Hazing NEVER happens... right? Maybe more than we think and Heather, Lizz, and Anna have some stories for you! If you want to read more examples, be sure to join their group! RDH Rant: https://www.facebook.com/groups/599722366843869

Let's talk infertility. The WHO just updated their statistics that 1 in 6 are impacted by infertility. If you are seeing 8 patients a day, good chances that one of them will experience infertility issues. Jessica Woods joins us on the show this week to talk about what it is, who is affected, what medications we should be on the look out for and so much more! Resources: Resolve.org @executiverdh on insta [email protected]

Dentistry, with our unit doses and infection prevention materials, creates a lot of waste. Many of us are working to limit the amount of waste our offices produce but some practices aren't there yet. In this Fast Fact, we talk about a few ways to know if an office is doing the right things, and how to find them. In Partnership with Cranberry USA, check out their new Bio Nitrile Gloves that reduces the waste in our landfills - www.cranberryusa.com

In this short episode we shoot our shot to convince hygienists to start disclosing all patients. We talk about 3 key reasons and hopefully open up the door a little bit for change. Dentistry has been preaching that disclosing is for children, we aim to change that narrative. [email protected] Sign up for the newsletter - www.ataleoftwohygienists.com

I (Andrew) am so happy to introduce you to our new co-host, Annie Walters. In this episode, I take the opportunity interview her and get to know her a bit better. I learn about her experience but more importantly, how she sees the profession. I am excited to start this next chapter with her and am looking forward to what she brings and hopefully... she will bring lots of opinions! [email protected] She can be found on LinkedIn and is @anniewaltersrdh on insta

There are lots of considerations for which anesthetic you should use and 3% plain is commonly used in dentistry. Mostly we think it should be used in cases of short acting, but then we have to consider that multiple cartridges could lead to toxicity... so when should we use it? Tom Viola explains in today's episode! Be sure to check out what Tom Viola is up to by visiting Tomviola.com or email him - [email protected]

Fighting is inevitable. We fight with people we don't like, we fight with our coworkers, we fight with our friends and loved ones etc. But this is an art to fighting the right way and in this TIPisode we lean on a recent article that teaches us some key points and takeaways. https://www.vox.com/even-better/24153561/fight-argue-without-ruining-relationships-conflict-disagreement-compromise

Antibiotics were once doled out like candy to anyone who had an ouchy tooth or metal in their body. Now, we know better... sorta. Sue Scherer joins the podcast this week to talk about what our responsibility is as dental professionals for understanding and knowing proper use and administration of antibiotics, and how one commonly used antibiotic has really gone on to seriously hurt and kill people. Resources: https://www.rdhmag.com/pathology/article/14214197/to-premedicate-or-not-to-premedicate-untangling-current-recommendations-on-antibiotic-premedication Talking With Docs Video: https://youtu.be/KBaGbcj2PdU?si=CNElveER8iiDMCA9 Email Sue: [email protected]

About 20% of high schoolers and up to 5% of middle schoolers are vaping in the United States. In this episode Katrina Sanders dives into oral health, systemic, and safety effects to better prepare us for these conversation with our patients! In partnership with Therabreath, get a free sample at www.trytherabreath.com 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/ Resource #1: Sahni, V. (2023). Vaping questions. British Dental Journal, 234(10), 713-713. Resource #2: Irusa, K. F., Vence, B., & Donovan, T. (2020). Potential oral health effects of e‐cigarettes and vaping: A review and case reports. Journal of Esthetic and Restorative Dentistry, 32(3), 260-264. Resource #3: Wadia, R., Booth, V., Yap, H. F., & Moyes, D. L. (2016). A pilot study of the gingival response when smokers switch from smoking to vaping. British dental journal, 221(11), 722-726.

Join Anna, Lizz, and Heather as they question why many hygienists simply are not progressing! Old habits do die hard, but we need to get our heads out of the sand. Listen to this week's episode for the frequently asked questions that just need to end! RDH Rant: https://www.facebook.com/groups/599722366843869

What is the responsibility of the dental hygienist in this very changed world? Just 15 years ago the landscape looked very different and the role and scope of the hygienist was leveraged to the fullest. What has changed and how can research be the key to advancement? JoAnn Gurenlian talks about this and so much more in this episode! Resources: [email protected]

Our patients are so silly. Many of them think that just because the are on blood pressure meds, they no longer have "high blood pressure"... meaning they think they have no more risk. Machell joins the show to talk to us about what we can be doing and saying to our patients to position the topic of BP to be more importantly. Book Reference: The Blood Pressure Blueprint - https://www.amazon.com/Blood-Pressure-BluePrint-Defeating-Hypertension/dp/B0CKGWZQDZ Machell@rdhhealth integrativedentalcoaching.com

Lacy Walker has had some experiences in life and each point she had to make a choice... choices that shaped who she became today. And we have choices, choices that impact ourselves and others, choices that shape how others think and act. Join us on this TIPisode as Lacy tells us about her new book, "Choices" that dropped last week on Amazon. Resources: www.sharedhygiene.com [email protected] @lacyrdh or @shygienist on insta Her Book - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D5779Z83?ref_=pe_93986420_774957520

Have you ever wondered what else you can do with your license? When the comment comes up in the forums its always sales or education related... but how about you create your own pathway? That is exactly what Katharine Martinez did and she wants to share with you her journey into the hospital setting! Be sure to reach out to her! [email protected] mdihygieneconsulting.com

DSOs have a reputation for using more fluoride therapy on patients than private practice, why is this the case? In Partnership with Cranberry USA, check out their new Bio Nitrile Gloves that reduces the waste in our landfills - www.cranberryusa.com Message Val for all of your DSO questions! [email protected]

Sebastian Green-Duncan joins the podcast to talk about what it means for the dental professional with the new FTC ruling to ban non-compete clauses. While not very common among dental hygienists, this definitely could impact the offices you all work in. Give this episode a listen! [email protected]

You did it! You've finished your pre-reqs, you got into school, you finished school, you got the job, you got the house, you got the personal life stuff you wanted.... now what? Unfortunately many of us think on the small scale. Dave Henrichsen comes on the show today to show us how having a big picture perspective can lead to achieving meaningful growth and satisfaction in life. www.myodave.com

Our patients present with different symptoms. Sometimes we catch them during a particularly acute episode of dry mouth and sometimes we don't... but what about all the times in between? Should we tailor our care based on the severity of xerostomia? Tom Viola chimes in with his opinion! Be sure to check out what Tom Viola is up to by visiting Tomviola.com or email him - [email protected] Our partners on this episode Aquoral - Www.aquoralspray.com

What is happening with everyone working through their lunches... and not by choice? Things have got to change! Join Erika Flateau on today's TIPisode to learn about ways to create more time for our breaks. Resources: [email protected] renewconsultingservices.com

We talk ourselves out of amazing opportunities in life... for lots of different reasons but we really don't have to. Whether its overcoming a fear, working through uncertainty, having thoughts and notions that block your ability to concentrate, or whatever it might be... working with an NLP coach can change your life. Listen in as Heather McGuire tells us more about our self limiting and what we can do about it! Resources: Heather McGuire RDH on FB and Linkedin mcgcoaching.com [email protected]

The age old question asked by patients far and wide... Should we floss first then brush or brush first then floss? Does it even matter? Katrina Sanders has the answer! In partnership with Therabreath, get a free sample at www.trytherabreath.com 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/ Torkzaban, P., Arabi, S. R., Sabounchi, S. S., & Roshanaei, G. (2015). The Efficacy of Brushing and Flossing Sequence on Control of Plaque and Gingival Infl ammation. Oral Health & Preventive Dentistry, 13(3). Mazhari, F., Boskabady, M., Moeintaghavi, A., & Habibi, A. (2018). The effect of toothbrushing and flossing sequence on interdental plaque reduction and fluoride retention: A randomized controlled clinical trial. Journal of periodontology, 89(7), 824-832.

This week's TIPisode features a conversation with Kathy Forbes in which we discuss codes, how we get new codes for services, and how the definitions of codes get changed. If you want to be a part of the code group, be sure to join the Facebook group called, DentalCodeology Consortium! If you want to reach out to Kathy, or want to see her speaking schedule, be sure to check out her website: www.kathysforbes.com

Have you ever thought about owning your own practice? Calling your own shots, being your own boss, working the hours you want? Colorado may have what you are looking for! In this conversation with Dr. Adam Altdorfer we explore a pathway they have created to help you help more patients... and in turn help the private practices. It's a win-win-win! Resources: Email: [email protected] Website: https://edhp1boulder.com/experience-independence/ Article mentioned in episode: https://www.rdhmag.com/career-profession/alternative-practice/article/14310527/colorado-dentists-find-success-developing-independent-dental-hygiene-practices

Why are so many patients not wearing glasses for their dental appointments? Is it our fault or theirs? In this episode we give you the definitive answer to the question, "Do our patients need to be wearing eye protection?" This is a great episode to get an office conversation going! https://www.ada.org/en/resources/practice/practice-management/eye-safety-in-the-dental-office

It seems like everyone is looking for a new job or taking on an extra part-time gig so Anna, Lizz, and Heather focused this episode on the red flags that come along with that search. What are some red flags you see in interviews or job postings? RDH Rant: https://www.facebook.com/groups/599722366843869

Have you ever been around two fellow hygienists and the conversations just flow? That's what it felt like in this weeks discussion with Trish and Heather. Both are experts in their field, both highly capable, both leaders, and both are down to earth great conversationalists. We cover an array of topics but one key message is the importance of the words and how fortified our minds are. Resources: Heather McGuire RDH on FB and LinkedIn Mcgcoaching.com Trish Keena on LinkedIn

We know the effects of Xerostomia on the oral environment but what about beyond the mouth? How does that change the risk for systemic diseases? Machell Hudson-Hoover is here to answer this! Machell@rdhhealth integrativedentalcoaching.com

Andrew Nobilini joins the podcast today to talk about what an office should do if they fail a water test… and it's pretty simple. Sometimes we get so caught up in the failure that we are paralyzed into inaction, that does not need to be the case and Proedge Dental Water Labs has the answers for you so be sure to listen in! proedgedental.com Call proedge team directly at 888-843-3343

RDHs cannot diagnose… such a dumb statement. RDHs are completely underutilized in the analysis and objective measurement of decay, so while diagnosing if off the table, we should be utilized as key players in the detection of caries. Sometimes, we need someone in our field to demonstrate, to walk the walk and that is where Jessica Woods comes in. With her vast experience we discuss the assessment and diagnosis of tooth decay - its a fascinating episode you won't want to miss! Contact Info: Jessica Woods on Linked In @executiverdh on Instagram [email protected]

Are there big differences in expectations in private practice vs DSO when it comes to oral cancer screenings? Listen in as Valerie Dangler explains what she has seen in her experience working in DSOs. In Partnership with Cranberry USA, check out their new Bio Nitrile Gloves that reduces the waste in our landfills - www.cranberryusa.com Message Val for all of your DSO questions! [email protected]