Kids’ Dental Health: Early Screening, Diet, Fluoride and Reducing Anxiety with Dr. Abigail Moore

Sheena speaks with Dr. Abigail Moore, a pediatric dentist at Happy Teeth, about why early dental visits and screening matter, especially as school screening in Ireland is inconsistent and poorly communicated. Dr Moore explains pediatric dentistry training, the main issues she sees (preventable tooth decay, developmental concerns, and enamel hypomineralisation), and why baby teeth are important for eating, pain prevention, and holding space for adult teeth. They discuss modern diets, emphasising that frequency of eating and sipping drives acid attacks, and advise keeping juice to mealtimes (not in water bottles), with milk and water as safest drinks. Key home care tips include brushing twice daily, not rinsing after brushing, using soft/small brushes, and choosing toothpaste with 1,450 ppm fluoride, warning about trendy low-fluoride products. Dr Moore highlights parental anxiety, preparation, and prevention, and notes Ireland produces about 100 dentists a year, arguing for stronger prevention-focused policy and education.

00:00 Meet Dr Moore

00:16 What Pediatric Dentists Do

01:38 Why Early Screening Matters

03:11 First Dental Visits

04:21 Common Kids Dental Issues

05:31 Hypomineralization Explained

08:23 Modern Diet And Teeth

11:35 Juice And Tooth Damage

15:48 Brushing Basics For Kids

17:08 Choosing Toothbrushes

18:43 Soft Vs Hard Brushes

19:44 Dental Misinformation Online

21:07 Fluoride And Trendy Toothpaste - 1450ppm flouride needed!!

22:23 High Smile Marketing Trap

23:34 Why Baby Teeth Matter

26:21 School Screening Breakdown

30:43 Prevention Over Treatment

32:43 Helping Kids Fear Less

37:18 Happy Teeth Mission

40:08 Key Takeaways And Wrap

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Recorded on Sunday 22 March, this episode of A Wondercare Podcast breaks down the latest UK outbreak data, what it means for Ireland, and the practical steps you should take to protect yourself and your family.

This episode is essential listening for parents, university students, and anyone concerned about meningitis risk.

• The latest update on the Kent meningitis B outbreak (including confirmed cases and deaths)
• How meningitis B spreads — and why universities are high-risk environments
• The key symptoms of meningitis B in babies, children, and adults
• Why you should never wait for a rash
• The current situation in Ireland and whether there are links to the UK outbreak
• MenB vaccine availability, coverage, and policy gaps in Ireland
• What to do if you’ve been in close contact with a case
• When prophylactic antibiotics and vaccination are needed
• 
  

⚠️ If you suspect meningitis, do not wait for a rash — seek urgent medical help (999/112).

Sheena also shares context on her recent podcast schedule, reflects on the role of misinformation in public health, and highlights the importance of timely, evidence-based communication.

The episode also includes a preview of the upcoming Irish Pharmacy Podcast collaboration with the Vital Pharmacy Group.

00:00 – Welcome and context

00:17 – Why episodes slowed

02:06 – Back catalogue and mission

03:14 – Why MenB now

04:31 – Kent outbreak update

06:06 – Is the peak passing?

07:35 – Strain and vaccine cover

08:07 – Europe and Ireland risk

08:37 – What meningitis B is

09:46 – How it spreads

10:29 – Symptoms and red flags

13:31 – Ireland case numbers

15:21 – Vaccines and policy gap

17:35 – Act for Meningitis

18:52 – What parents should do

21:23 – Antibiotics and vaccine timing

22:12 – Where things stand now

23:41 – Lessons on misinformation

25:22 – New podcast announcement

27:14 – Wrap up and Easter wishes

Share this episode with other parents, students, or colleagues who need to stay informed.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Celebrating Nollaig na mBan - A Tribute to Women's Solidarity and Respect

In this episode, Sheena Mitchell, a pharmacist and mom, shares her heartfelt message about the importance of Nollaig na mBan, an Irish tradition celebrating women's solidarity. Sheena discusses the relevance of this celebration in today's world and emphasises the need for respect, autonomy, and dignity for all women, regardless of their diverse experiences. She also highlights her upcoming plans for the podcast, including covering health information, managing illnesses, and engaging with intriguing guests while balancing her life as a mom, pharmacist, and master's student in population health leadership.

00:00 Welcome and New Year Greetings

00:25 The Importance of Celebrating Nollaig na mBan

01:19 Challenges Women Face Today

02:36 Solidarity and Respect for Women

03:57 Podcast Goals for the Year

04:47 Personal Updates and Future Plans

05:48 Final Thoughts and Well Wishes

#nollaignamban #womensrights #tradwife #misogyny #tradlife #prochoice #genderroles #whatstheagenda

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Effective Strategies for Managing Children's Nasal Congestion

In this episode, Sheena Mitchell, a pharmacist and mother of three, discusses various strategies to manage nasal congestion in children, particularly during the school season when viruses are rampant. She provides an array of advice, from utilizing saline nasal sprays and humidifiers to practical tips like inclining beds and maintaining good hydration. Sheena also emphasizes the importance of identifying potential allergies and the benefits of the flu vaccine. Additionally, she shares information about natural remedies and appropriate use of decongestant products for older children. This episode is packed with practical recommendations to help keep your child comfortable and healthy.

00:00 Introduction and Overview

00:11 Understanding Congestion in Children

01:03 Saline Nasal Sprays: A Natural Solution

01:42 Additional Products for Congestion Relief

02:33 Tips for Nighttime Relief

02:44 Using Humidifiers and Vapor Oils

04:06 Nasal Aspirators and Other Techniques

04:45 Hydration and Hygiene

05:22 When to See a Doctor

05:39 Allergies and Other Causes of Congestion

05:56 Using the Salon Plus Device

07:28 Combining Methods for Best Results

08:50 Non-Natural Decongestants

09:18 Flu Vaccine for Children

09:52 Conclusion and Farewell

Product links as promised!

• Calpol saline nasal spray
• Calpol Blocked Nose Spray
• Sudafed decongestand nasal spray
• Cirrus Humidifier
• Salin plus
• Sterimar range

Simply following and reviewing this podcast can make a huge difference! If you enjoy this episode I would be so grateful if you could follow or subscribe to the show!

#congestion #blockednose #snottynose #kidshealth #winterhealth #covid #fluseason #fluvaccine #nasalfluvaccine #covidvaccine #irishhealth #irishhealthcare #pharmacist #patientadvocate #sheenamitchell #healthcare #healthcarepodcast #healthtips #preventativehealth #healthsystem #universalhealthcare

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Importance of COVID-19 Vaccination: Sheena's Personal Experience and Health Advice

In this episode, Sheena explains why she was unable to speak with the audience last week, detailing her recent battle with COVID-19. She shares her personal experience of contracting the virus for the first time since the pandemic began, emphasizing the severity of her symptoms and the slow recovery process. Sheena discusses the crucial role of COVID-19 vaccines, especially for those with weak immune systems like herself. She offers guidance on who should get vaccinated, the recommended frequency of vaccination, and stresses the importance of making informed decisions to protect oneself and others during the autumn and winter months.

00:00 My COVID-19 Experience: The First Time in 5.5 Years

00:23 The Onset of Symptoms: A Tough Week

01:42 The Importance of Vaccination: My Personal Plea

04:04 Who Should Get Vaccinated: Key Recommendations

05:04 Guidance on COVID-19 Vaccination Frequency

05:46 Healthcare Workers and Pregnant Women: Special Considerations

06:15 Addressing Vaccine Hesitancy: Safety and Efficacy

06:44 Protecting Yourself This Autumn and Winter

07:19 Praising the Health Service: Free Vaccines for All

08:10 Final Thoughts: My Personal Story and Call to Action

Simply following and reviewing this podcast can make a huge difference! If you enjoy this episode I would be so grateful if you could follow or subscribe to the show!

#winterhealth #covid #fluseason #fluvaccine #nasalfluvaccine #covidvaccine #irishhealth #irishhealthcare #pharmacist #patientadvocate #sheenamitchell #healthcare #healthcarepodcast #healthtips #preventativehealth #healthsystem #universalhealthcare

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Understanding Glandular Fever: Symptoms, Treatment, and Recovery

In this episode, Sheena Mitchell, a pharmacist and mom of three, discusses glandular fever, also known as infectious mononucleosis. She covers how the Epstein-Barr virus causes it, common symptoms such as fever, sore throat, swollen glands, and extreme fatigue, and the means of transmission. Sheena explains the significance of the incubation period, diagnosis methods, and the general lack of effective antiviral or antibiotic treatments. She also advises on when to seek medical help and offers guidance on returning to school, work, and sports while emphasizing the need to avoid potential spleen injuries. Additionally, Sheena touches on the importance of hand hygiene, avoiding alcohol, and the restrictions on blood donation post-infection.

00:00 Introduction to Glandular Fever

00:43 Understanding Glandular Fever

01:29 Transmission and Stigma

02:43 Symptoms and When to See a Doctor

04:24 Diagnosis of Glandular Fever

05:12 Treatment and Recovery

06:52 Returning to Normal Activities

07:41 Special Considerations

09:25 Conclusion and Additional Resources

#kissingdisease #glandularfever #mononucleosis #mono #epsteinbarr #epsteinbarrvirus #sorethroat #pharmacist #irishpharmacist #irishhealth #irishhealthpodcast #irishpharmacy #healthireland #sheenamitchell

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Understanding the Children's Flu Vaccine with Pharmacist Sheena Mitchell

In this episode, Sheena Mitchell, a pharmacist and mother of three, discusses the importance of the children's flu vaccine. She provides insights on the benefits and safety of the vaccine, busts myths surrounding it, and explains why it's essential to vaccinate children annually. Sheena also shares information about the flu strains, the administration of the nasal spray, its effectiveness, and what to expect post-vaccination. She emphasizes the significance of making informed decisions and offers contact details for further questions.

00:00 Introduction to the Children's Flu Vaccine

01:43 Why Vaccinate Your Child Against Flu?

02:24 Understanding the Flu Vaccine

05:15 Annual Vaccination and Flu Variants

07:46 Eligibility and Special Cases

11:35 What to Expect After Vaccination

13:26 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

Follow Sheena on Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/wondercare_irl

Simply following and reviewing this podcast can make a huge difference! If you enjoy this episode I would be so grateful if you could follow or subscribe to the show!

#winterhealth #flu #fluseason #fluvaccine #nasalfluvaccine #backtoschool #irishhealth #irishhealthcare #pharmacist #patientadvocate #sheenamitchell #healthcare #healthcarepodcast #healthtips #preventativehealth #healthsystem

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Boosting Your Child's Immune Health for the School year!

In this episode, Sheena dives into the complexities of supporting children's immune health as colds, flus, RSV, and COVID become more prevalent in the autumn and winter months. She discusses practical lifestyle tips, the role of multivitamins, and the importance of holistic health. Emphasising key elements like sleep, hydration, and hand hygiene, Sheena also explains the benefits and sources of essential vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin A, C, D, E, and Zinc. To help parents navigate the highly marketed world of children's multivitamins, she compares various products based on their nutritional content, spotlighting those best suited for immune support. Concluding with actionable advice, she aims to equip parents with the knowledge to make informed choices for their children's health.

00:00 Introduction to Immune Health for Children

00:49 The Importance of Multivitamins

02:12 Marketing Myths and Realities

04:20 Core Pillars of Children's Health

08:37 Vitamins and Minerals for Immune Support

15:51 Diet vs. Supplements

25:31 Top Multivitamin Recommendations

29:45 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Shop Vitamins with Sheena - www.wondercare.ie

Follow Sheena on Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/wondercare_irl

Simply following and reviewing this podcast can make a huge difference! If you enjoy this episode I would be so grateful if you could follow or subscribe to the show!

#multivitamins #bestvitamins #immunehealth #winterhealth #backtoschool #viviojunior #vitabioticswellkid #vitabioticswellteen #irishhealth #irishhealthcare #pharmacist #patientadvocate #sheenamitchell #healthcare #healthcarepodcast #healthtips #preventativehealth #healthsystem

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Organising Chaos: Tips from a Professional Organiser

In this episode, Sheena is joined by Ann Teehan, a professional organiser, who shares practical tips for managing a busy household. Anne discusses her own experiences with a large family and offers strategies for organising spaces, establishing routines, and maintaining systems to reduce stress. She emphasises the importance of evening resets, handling seasonal wardrobe changes, and creating efficient homework and storage solutions. Anne also addresses the value of starting small and tailoring organisational systems to individual family needs.

00:00 Introduction to Ann Teehan: Professional Organizer

00:44 Ann's Personal Journey and Professional Experience

02:21 Back-to-School Organisation Tips

03:44 Setting Up Effective Routines for Kids

05:54 Managing School Paperwork and Forms

09:21 Homework and Study Area Solutions

12:53 Organising Kids' Sports Gear and Toys

15:56 Seasonal Clothing Management for Kids

18:13 Evaluating and Adopting New Systems

20:08 Maintaining Motivation and Evening Resets

21:55 Decluttering and Meal Planning

23:13 Practical Tips for Home Organisation

24:55 Realistic Approaches to Decluttering

28:56 Professional Organising Services

33:21 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

Check out Ann's website!

Simply following and reviewing this podcast can make a huge difference! If you enjoy this episode I would be so grateful if you could follow or subscribe to the show!

#irishpodcast #sheenamitchell #annteehan #neatly.ie #decluttering #organisation #backtoschool #mealplanning #kidsroutines #familylife #parentingpodcast

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

RSV Immunisation Update: Inclusion of Catchup Cohort and New Developments

In this episode, Sheena explains the recent updates on the RSV immunisation program in Ireland. Last year, the monoclonal antibody called Nirsevimab was offered to babies born between September 1st and February 28th, providing protection against the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). This year, the program has expanded to include a catchup cohort of babies born from March 1st to August 31st, addressing concerns from parents whose babies missed out previously. Sheena highlights the significance of this development, the benefits of the immunisation, and the impact on reducing hospitalisations. Additional high-risk infants are also included in the updated plan. The episode covers the details of the program, eligibility criteria, and Sheena’s efforts to seek clarity on the rollout schedule.

00:00 Introduction and Host Background

00:11 RSV Immunisation Update

01:58 Understanding RSV

02:49 Last Year's Immunisation Program

07:31 New Immunisation Plan for This Year

08:19 Eligibility and Implementation Details

11:54 Conclusion and Upcoming Podcast Topics

Follow Sheena on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/wondercare_irl

#rsv #rsvimmunisation #respiratorysynctialvirus #respiratoryhealth #nirsevimab #infectiousdisease #immunisationrates #vaccinereality #irishhealth #irishhealthcare #pharmacist #patientadvocate #sheenamitchell #healthcare #healthcarepodcast #healthtips #preventativehealth #healthsystem #rsvcatchup #rsvcatchupprogramme #nirsevimab 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.