BrushwithBritt

In this episode, Jessica Woods, MPH, RDH, RDA and I discuss how dental hygienists are stepping into innovative roles beyond traditional clinical practice. Particularly focusing on taking on the role of Clinical Advisor. We'll discuss the transition from patient care to shaping the dental industry through training sales teams, contributing to product development, and ensuring clinical accuracy in marketing materials. Hear from Jessica who has expanded her impact by managing training programs, participating in regulatory strategies, and supporting quality assurance and product claims with her expertise. This episode is created to inspire dental hygienists to consider ALL the opportunities available in the dental field, encouraging them to apply their skills to a variety of new settings. Tune in to discover how dental hygienists are taking on non-traditional roles and what steps you can take to take on a similar journey. Jessica L. Woods, MPH, RDH, Founder, seeks to empower the dental industry to a bright future by inspiring clinicians to reignite their careers. A 20-year veteran in the industry, she is a clinical product expert, thought leader, non-profit practice owner and sought-after mentor. Woods has spoken to thousands of dental professions across the country offering her unique experiences implementing dental implant programs and had lead product go-to-market strategies from start-ups to Fortune 500 companies. Affectionally known as the #ExecutiveRDH, she has scaled her way to the boardroom since graduation from West Coast University with Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene and master’s degree in public health from A.T. Still University. She has been recognized as one of the 50 Top Teledentistry Leaders and Hygienist of the Year. She has a strong passion for introducing others to alternative careers paths in dentistry and supporting them as they grow in the profession. She established the Dental Public Health Collaborative which offers post-graduate training and a mentorship network to her colleagues as they venture out of the traditional four-walls of dentistry. Contact Jessica: jessicawoodsrdhap@gmail.com

In this episode,' we dive into the crucial role dental hygienists play in airway evaluation and the management of sleep-disordered breathing. Hygienists are in a unique position to identify signs and symptoms of sleep-related issues that often go unnoticed. We'll explore what to look for, the questions to ask, and how to initiate conversations with patients about sleep disordered breathing. Bethany highlights the importance of continuing education in dental sleep medicine for hygienists, offering practical advice on where to start and how to integrate this knowledge into daily practice. This episode emphasizes the importance of dental-medical integration, advocating for a more collaborative approach between dental professionals and medical providers to enhance patient care. We encourage our listeners to embrace the opportunities in dental sleep medicine, not only to expand their professional skill set but also to play a pivotal role in improving their patients' overall health and quality of life. Whether you're new to the concept of dental sleep medicine or looking to deepen your knowledge, this episode is a call to action for hygienists to start to implement airway evaluations and become knowledgeable about dental sleep medicine. Tune in to discover how you can make a difference in the lives of your patients by educating on sleep disordered breathing. Bethany Montoya, BAS, RDH, is a practicing dental hygienist, editorial director of DentistryIQ's Clinical Insights newsletter and a key opinion leader. She has advanced knowledge and training in complex cosmetic dentistry, dental sleep medicine, and implant dentistry. Recently, she has devoted her time to dentistry’s personal and interpersonal aspects through her social media brand, @humanrdh. Contact Bethany at humanrdh@outlook.com

In this episode, we review the importance of performing oral cancer screenings by dental professionals. Early detection can be the difference between life and death, and dental teams play a crucial role in identifying signs of oral cancer during routine examinations. Join us as we learn about how to effectively communicate with patients and discuss techniques in screening. We'll also cover the potential risk factors and symptoms to watch for, empowering dental professionals to be at the forefront of oral health and cancer prevention. This episode is a must-listen for anyone in the dental field committed to enhancing patient care and making a significant impact on public health. Susan Cotten, BSDH, RDH, OMT, is CEO of Oral Cancer Consulting and developed the “Cotten Method”, an oral cancer screening method and dental office system. She is an international speaker on oral cancer and holds hands-on oral cancer screening workshops for dental professionals who want to have more confidence in screening, reduce the risk of liability, and increase early detection. In her career, Susan has performed over 60 thousand oral cancer screenings. She is the Dental Lead for the Alliance for HPV Free Colorado, an RDH Advisory Board member at The Oral Cancer Foundation, a director with Dental Codeology Consortium Susan is a 2018 recipient of the Sunstar RDH Award of Distinction and recipient of the Colorado Dental Hygienists’ Association Ethyl Covington Award and Outstanding Contribution Award. Susan founded MAD(Make A Difference) for Healthy Smiles as a 2010-2011 member of Donny Osmond’s Make a Difference program and received Volunteer of the Year from the Oral Cancer Foundation in 2011. On a personal note, Susan loves walking the beaches of Hawaii, is a former country dance competitor, and loves watching college football. https://oralcancerconsulting.com/cotten-method-guide Connect with Susan Cotten: Email: oralcancerconsulting@gmail.com @SCottenRDH

In this episode, Amber Lovatos and I discuss the dual life of being a dental hygienist and content creator. We'll share insights on staying authentic and the unique challenges and rewards of juggling these two roles. Whether you're in the dental field, a content creator, or both, this episode is packed with tips and inspiration to help you thrive in both worlds. Amber Lovatos, RDH, BSDH, is a clinician, educator, author, and champion for public health issues, she inspires industry colleagues with unique stories that include triumph over abuse and discovering her identity as “The Latina RDH.” Celebrated as her family’s first college graduate, Amber holds a bachelor’s degree in dental hygiene from The University of Texas School of Dentistry She now hosts A Cuento De Dos Higienistas podcast. Amber is recipient of numerous national and state awards and academic scholarships including being named 2021’s Dimensions of Dental Hygiene Six Dental Hygienists You Want to Know & 2022 Sunstar Award of Distinction recipient. Amber is the co-author of Smiles Por Vida a Spanish & Spanglish not for profit children’s dental book. Amber is also the founder of Latin RDH, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering the Latin dental hygiene community. Instagram: @thelatinardh Email: amlovatos@gmail.com

In this episode, Stephanie Botts and I focus on dental ergonomics: ergonomic loupes and saddle stools. We'll discuss the benefits of how they reduce strain and explore how saddle stools promote better posture and back health. Whether you're a seasoned provider or new to the field, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to improve their practice and well-being. In addition, we'll review recommendations on purchasing your own saddle stool. Ms. Stephanie Botts has been a clinical dental hygienist for over 15 years. She is a Certified Ergonomics Assessment Specialist providing both in-office and virtual ergonomics consulting and coaching to dental professionals through her company, Polished Posture. She also provides CE to dental and dental hygiene associations on the topic of ergonomics. Her experience as a clinical dental hygienist and ergonomics expert has allowed her to recognize the unique challenges of practicing pain-free in the dental setting. Stephanie believes that by learning effective strategies to optimize proper ergonomics both inside and outside the operatory, dental professionals can practice pain-free and ensure career longevity. Links: www.polishedposture.net IG: @steph.polishedposture Additional episodes with Stephanie Botts: 63. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome 51. Ergonomic Loupes 47. Ergonomics Ergonomic Instagram Highlight: @steph.polishedposture Title: Saddle Stools

Get ready for an extremely informative episode on the importance of teamwork between hygienists and dentists. What makes this episode truly unique is our honored guest, Dr. Nolan, marking the very first appearance of a dentist on our show! Dr. Nolan brings to light the fundamental role of hygienists as the cornerstone of dental practices, emphasizing the connection between successful practice management and the seamless partnership of dentists and hygienists. You won't want to miss this one! Dr. Nolan attended the University of Illinois where he studied chemistry followed by Midwestern University for his DMD in 2014. His research focus is on the development of novel nanomaterials for use in preventative dentistry. He has published on a wide scope of topics including toxicology, remineralization dynamics, and nanotechnology. He is currently the Chief Science officer for Elementa Oral care, and has worked extensively on the development of plant based nanoparticles for their unique anti caries applications.

Join me in this episode as I welcome Dr. Emily Boge to share invaluable advice for conquering the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE). Together, we dive into a discussion on preparation strategies, everything from live reviews to online resources. We tackle common concerns like exam anxiety, offer detailed studying tips, and provide guidance for the days leading up to and including the exam day. Drawing from our personal journeys, we shed light on the preparation options available and share insights that will benefit you, whether you're gearing up for the boards or just embarking on your dental hygiene school journey. Don't miss this opportunity to enhance your understanding of the NBDHE and refine your test-taking skills with expert advice! Emily Boge: Wife, mother, farmer, college administrator, educator, inventor, public health advocate, businesswoman, researcher, writer, speaker–yet always a dental hygienist—Dr. Emily has worn many hats over the course of her 23 years in the dental industry. Dr. Emily takes pride in utilizing her inquisitive mind and honest attitude to lead faculty at her college, influence manufacturers to listen to dental professionals in product innovation, and transform students into entry-level professionals, promoting the use of inner accountability, tenacity, and empowerment. In her free time, Dr. Emily enjoys cooking and baking, target shooting, fast cars, four wheeling, reading, and shopping. Contact Dr. Emily: Instagram: @emilyboge Email: ereinert@hotmail.com

Welcome to another episode the BrushwithBritt podcast, where we're diving into the world of dental hygiene and the exciting journey of starting your career as a new dental hygienist. If you're ready to step into the dental world with confidence. We'll discuss what to wear, what to bring, and what questions to ask. This episode is your ultimate guide to acing your interview and securing your spot as a new dental hygienist! ❓Sample Questions❓ Team Harmony and Qualities: What qualities are you looking for in a hygienist as a team member? Understanding the attributes they value will help you gauge if you're a perfect fit for their team dynamic. Longevity Insights: Can you tell me about the longest-serving employee's journey here? Learning about long-term staff can reveal a lot about the work environment and opportunities for growth. Purpose of Hiring: Why is the office currently looking to hire a hygienist? This question provides insights into the clinic's growth and the role's importance in their team structure. Learning and Growth: Is this an office that I will be able to learn and grow at? Discover the office's commitment to professional development and how they support your continuous improvement. Time Allocation for Patients: How much time is provided per patient? It's crucial to know the time allocated for different procedures like new patient visits, scaling and root planing, prophylaxis, and pediatric appointments. Periodontal Insights: How is periodontal disease diagnosed, and what is the periodontal therapy protocol followed? Understand their approach to periodontal health, as it showcases their commitment to patient well-being. Cancellation Policies: How are cancellations handled? Will I be expected to clock out early if there's a cancellation? Clarifying this aspect ensures you're aware of how your time and compensation will be managed. Technological Advancements: What technology do you use? From X-rays and panoramic imaging to crowns and lasers, knowing their tech setup reveals their dedication to staying current. 📚 Recommended Resources: 🔗 Bonus Article: Dive into this recommended article that offers even more insights into interview strategies. It's the perfect supplement to this episode, providing additional tips and tricks to help you stand out. "Job-hunting tips for new dental hygiene grads" by Kevin Ohashi Lopez, MHA, BSDH, RDH 🎧 Separate Podcast Gem: We're not stopping at interviews! Tune in to a separate podcast recommendation dedicated entirely to negotiation skills. You'll gain valuable insights into negotiation psychology, tactics, and strategies that transcend industries. Your journey to landing that dental hygienist role starts right here, with the invaluable wisdom shared in this podcast episode. So, whether you're prepping for your first-ever interview or aiming to take your career to new heights, grab your headphones and get ready to conquer the world of dental hygiene. Negotiate Anything Podcast Episode: "The Power of Silence: Making or Breaking a Negotiation" 🎯 Episodes Within the Episode: But wait, there's more! Alongside this episode, I've curated a selection of three past episodes designed to complement your interview journey. Season 1 Episdoe 4. Interviewing Tips Season 1 Episode 23. Interview Guide Season 1 Episode 37. How To Ask For A Raise Good luck, and let's get you ready to nail that interview and secure the job you deserve! 🎉

Have you ever wondered what the cons of being a dental hygienist are? From physical strain to emotional toll, discover the drawbacks that come with being a dental hygienist. I discuss the repetitive nature of the job, the strain on the body from prolonged periods in awkward positions, and the toll it takes on mental health. Challenges hygienist face vary from person to person and from office to office. This episode was not created to scare you away from becoming a hygienist. It was created to give you the insight I wish I had before embarking on my journey to RDH. While listening to this episode keep in mind that our careers are what we make them and we all have the power to be the change in our profession. Stay tuned for the next episode...PROS of being a dental hygienist.

In this episode I give a brief description of how to become a dental hygienist. This episode is based off of my personal experience and requirements through community college. Find a CODA accredited program Understand all requirements and prerequisites Complete prerequisites (approx 2 years) Apply to dental hygiene program Complete 2 year dental hygiene program Pass NBDHE Pass WREB or CRDTS or whichever exam is required in your state Pass law and ethics exam Apply for licensure Every state and program is different. It is highly recommended to complete your own research on this topic for a clear understanding of requirements to become a RDH in your area.

In this episode Kathy Forbes BS, RDH, breaks down code D4346. What some call "the gingivitis code". Tune into an informative episode where you'll learn valuable information about implementing D4346 in your daily practice. You don't want to miss this one! About Kathy Forbes: Kathy has been a dental hygienist, educator, speaker, author, consultant, seminar, and study club leader for over 40 years. She speaks frequently about the correct classification, documentation, treatment planning, and CDT procedure code selection for patients with periodontal disease. In addition, she holds a license with the ADA for Current DentalTerminology© which allows her to provide the most up-to-date understanding of current procedure codes. She has articles published in RDH Magazine, Dentistry Today, and others specifically addressing dental hygiene treatment planning and correct procedure code selection. Her national engagements include presentations to the American Dental Association’s Annual Meeting, ADHA Center for Lifelong Learning, RDH Under One Roof, and the Pacific Northwest Dental Conference. Kathy’s most recent honors include being selected as a recipient of the 2023 Sunstar RDH Achievement of Distinction in the category of Entrepreneurship and a member of the inaugural class of Fellows for the American Dental Hygienists’ Association. She currently serves as a Director for the DentalCodeology™ Consortium, reviewing and developing procedure codes relevant to dental hygiene practice which are presented to the Code Maintenance Committee of the American Dental Association each year. Article worth mention: "When should you use the D4346 scaling procedure code?" RDH Magazine

Join Tina Punton, RDH and I as we embark on a discussion about the very common question: Corporate or Private Dentistry - Which is Better? Drawing from our firsthand experiences, having worked in both corporate and private dental practices, we provide you with valuable insights, shedding light on the distinct differences between the two practice models. We aim to provide you with the knowledge necessary to make an informed decision about your dental career path. Together, we highlight the various aspects that influence work-life balance, patient care, professional growth, and financial considerations. Let's explore the world of dentistry together and uncover what may be the best fit for you. Join us as we navigate through the advantages and drawbacks associated with each. Tina Punton, RDH is an accomplished dental professional who has made a significant impact in the dental industry throughout her career. After retiring as an RDH, Tina redirected her expertise and passion towards helping practices optimize their clinical efficiencies. She currently serves as an Account Executive and Efficiency Coach at Zirc Dental Products Inc., a renowned company specializing in dental products and services. Tina leverages her 23 years in the hygiene trenches to guide other dental professionals to identify areas for improvement and implement strategies that enhance clinical efficiencies. Outside of her professional endeavors, Tina finds joy and fulfillment in her personal life. She resides in Minnesota with her loving husband, Jason, and their son, Leyton who graduates high school in 2023. https://www.zirc.com/tina Use code BRITT for 25% Plan #2 https://www.zirc.com/color-method

Welcome to another exciting episode of the BrushwithBritt podcast! In this episode, I have the pleasure of speaking with Angela Do, also known as @thepediatricRDH. Join us as we delve into the fascinating world of pediatric dentistry and explore the vital role it plays in ensuring a lifetime of healthy smiles for our little ones. Angela shares her wealth of knowledge and experience, offering valuable insights into the importance of specialized care tailored to children. From techniques for making children feel comfortable and at ease during their visits to effective communication strategies, Angela provides us with great practical tips and tricks that can be implemented in your daily practice. Moreover, we explore the significance of early education in oral health and how parents can be proactive in creating good habits right from the start. Angela highlights the essential information that expecting parents need to know about caring for their child's oral health, empowering them to make informed decisions that positively impact their little one's oral health. Whether you're a dental professional seeking to enhance your skills in pediatric care or a parent eager to learn how to give your child the best oral health foundation, this episode is filled with practical insights and actionable advice. Tune in to this enlightening conversation with Angela Do as we explore key strategies to successful pediatric dental care and empower parents with the tools they need to promote optimal oral health for their children. An Chih “Angela” Do, RDH, MEd, MAADH has been practicing in pediatric dentistry for over 17 years as a dental assistant and hygienist. She is a speaker that brings impactful information to clinicians. Her background in film and television allows her creativity to expand beyond the operatory. As an immigrant and first-generation college graduate, she knows the impact that education can make. This awareness drives her to empower dental professionals with tools to better care for their patients. She runs her social media platform, @ThePediatricRDH, which provides valuable information to dental professionals on how to care for pediatric patients. She is a co-host of a podcast, “Positively Hygiene,” which explores the world of dental hygiene with a focus on positivity. Angela is an active American Dental Hygienists’ Association member who has served on all tripartite levels. She is a Past President of the Greater Houston Dental Hygienists’ Association and Speaker of the House for the Texas Dental Hygienists’ Association. She was also a District IX delegate and appointed to ADHA's 2021-2022 IDEA committee. She is also a mother of two young boys. You can contact her at anchihdo@gmail.com.

Join me as we review and answer some of your most pressing questions. From study tips and clinical techniques to career opportunities. I'll share practical tips, personal experiences, and insights from my journey from RDA to RDH. Whether you're wondering about effective time management strategies, best practices for patient care, or how to establish a work-life balance as a new graduate, I've got you covered. My aim is to empower you with the knowledge and resources you need to succeed in dental hygiene school and beyond.

Join Stephanie Botts and me as we delve into the topic of imposter syndrome in the dental industry, sharing personal experiences and insights on why it's prevalent among new grad hygienists. In this episode, we explore effective strategies for handling imposter syndrome, navigating office dynamics, and dealing with workplace drama. We discuss the importance of recognizing when it's time to move on from a toxic work environment and becoming a better communicator. Tune in to discover the power of problem-solving, conflict resolution, and understanding personality types to enhance your relationships with coworkers and patients. Don't miss out on this enlightening and informative discussion! Ms. Stephanie Botts has been a clinical dental hygienist for over 14 years. She is a Certified Ergonomics Assessment Specialist providing both in-office and virtual ergonomics consulting and coaching to dental professionals. She also provides CE to dental and dental hygiene associations on the topic of ergonomics. Her experience as a clinical dental hygienist and ergonomics expert has allowed her to recognize the unique challenges of practicing pain-free in the dental setting. Stephanie believes that by learning effective strategies to optimize proper ergonomics both inside and outside the operatory, dental professionals can practice pain-free and ensure career longevity. She can be reached through her website at www.polishedposture.net or through email at stephanie@polishedposture.net DISC Personality Test: https://discpersonalitytesting.com/free-disc-test/

In this episode, Jeannette Diaz, MPH, MS, RDHAP, RDH shares what grief literacy is and why it's important to healthcare professionals. Jeannette currently works as a dental liaison for the California Department of Developmental Services. She also owns and operates a portable dental hygiene practice that primarily serves older adults and people with special healthcarehealth-care needs. Jeannette is also an adjunct faculty at the Forsyth School of Dental Hygiene’s online graduate program at MCPHS University. As dental hygienists, there will be times in our career that we encounter grief in our personal lives. Do we know how to cope? How can we continue to provide high quality care while grieving? Am I equipped with tools to help me while grieving? These are all questions we should be asking ourselves as healthcare professionals. Every day we talk to our patients and build patient rapport. We learn about their day to day and get to hear about exciting milestones. But what about when our patients experience loss? Do we know how to respond? Are we equipped to have that conversation with our patients? This is where Jeannette has raised awareness about grief literacy. Throughout this episode she provides helpful tips and tools on how we can speak to our patients and ourselves while grieving. If you are a hygienist or healthcare professional, you don't want to miss this episode! "Grief literacy promotes compassionate care in dentistry" by Jeannette Diaz, MPH, MS, RDHAP, RDH https://www.dentistryiq.com/resources/contact/14186397/jeannette-diaz-msdh-rdhap https://unique-pioneer-6675.ck.page/griefresource Connect with Jeannette email her at ⁠jeannetterdh@gmail.com⁠ or find her on Instagram @californiaRDHAP

What does it mean to work in public health as a dental hygienist? In this episode, Amber Lovatos aka @thelatinardh explains why she has a passion for public health and how she started working as a public health dental hygienist. Amber Lovatos, RDH, BSDH, Amber Lovatos, RDH, BSDH, is a clinician, educator, author, and champion for public health issues, she inspires industry colleagues with unique stories that include triumph over abuse and discovering her identity as “The Latina RDH.” Celebrated as her family’s first college graduate, Amber holds a bachelor’s degree in dental hygiene from The University of Texas School of Dentistry She now hosts A Cuento De Dos Higienistas podcast. Amber is recipient of numerous national and state awards and academic scholarships including being named 2021’s Dimensions of Dental Hygiene Six Dental Hygienists You Want to Know & 2022 Sunstar Award of Distinction recipient. Amber is the co-author of Smiles Por Vida a Spanish & Spanglish not for profit children’s dental book. Amber is also the founder of Latin RDH, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering the Latin dental hygiene community. Connected with her @thelatinardh or email her at amlovatos@gmail.com

In this episode Sarah Johnson, RDH and I take a dive into where the salary rate is going for dental hygienists. We know we are worth the pay increase but what are someways we can continue to build value in a practice? Is knowing production always a bad thing? Is there room for improvement? Do I deserve a raise? You'll have to tune in to find out! Contact me at brushwithbritt@gmail.com

In this episode Bethany Montoya, RDH and go into depth about our most recent article "4 "green flags" to look for in a dental hygiene job". You will be left with a better idea of what to look for in a dental hygiene job position. Whether you are a student, new grad, or experienced hygienist this episode will help you find an office that fits your values and needs. Because not every "red flag" is a deal breaker we also give you advice on how to become a better communicator and how to practice conflict resolution. You won't want to miss it! Bethany Montoya, RDH, is a practicing dental hygienist with nearly 10 years of experience. She has advanced knowledge and training in complex cosmetic dentistry, sleep-disordered breathing, TMJ disorders, and implant dentistry. She has achieved success in hygiene diagnosis and acceptance that far exceeds the industry standard. Montoya has devoted her most recent years to focusing on the personal and relationship aspects of dentistry through her latest project, Human RDH. She can be reached at humanrdh@outlook.com. Connect with Bethany on Instagram: @humanrdh https://www.bonfire.com/human-rdh-kindness-conquers-campaign/ Referenced Article: https://www.rdhmag.com/career-profession/article/14284692/the-4-green-flags-to-look-for-in-a-dental-hygiene-job

Welcome to Season 3 of The BrushwithBritt Podcast! In this episode I share the top things I wish I would've known when starting dental hygiene school. The journey to becoming a dental hygienist can be incredibly scary and lonely but it doesn't have to be! My podcast is here to help you along your journey. To inspire, to motivate, and encourage. With each episode you'll find information that will guide you along the way. I'm super proud of you for being here and seeking information to help you on your journey to RDH! Connect with me: @brushwithbritt or brushwithbritt@gmail.com