In this episode of the BrushwithBritt Podcast, Britt sits down with Derik Sven 🦷 to unpack what autonomy really means for dental hygienists in 2025 (and beyond).

🎓 Whether you're a new grad hygienist or a seasoned hygienist dreaming of making a difference, this convo will help you:

✅ Understand your power and potential in patient care

✅ See how autonomy impacts the future of our profession

✅ Learn small steps you can take right now to practice with more confidence

✅ Get inspired to be part of the movement changing dental hygiene for good 🌟

💡 Why does this matter? Learning about autonomy helps you advocate for yourself and your patients, give the care you know is needed, and build a career you’re proud of, without burnout or limitations.

If you’ve ever felt stuck or unsure of your place in this field, this episode will light a fire in you 🔥 and remind you that you can create change.

🎧 Grab your coffee, pop in your headphones, and hit play! Let’s shape the future of prevention together 🩵

Derik J. Sven, MBA, MPH, RDH, CDT, FADHA, has nearly two decades of experience as a board- certified lab tech and restorative hygienist. He holds undergraduate degrees in dental hygiene and health care administration, as well as master’s degrees in public health and business administration. He’s currently pursuing his doctorate in health science at George Washington University School of Medicine in Washington, DC, where his research focuses on advancing the autonomy of dental hygienists and the broad integration of dental therapists into the health- care system. He’s an inaugural fellow of the ADHA and president-elect of Virginia's chapter.

Connect with Derik:

Email: [email protected]

dentistrywithderik.com

Recommended reading:

"The case for dental hygienists’ autonomy, part I: Defining the paradigm" https://www.rdhmag.com/career-profession/alternative-practice/article/55273454/the-case-for-dental-hygienists-autonomy-part-i-defining-the-paradigm

Disclaimer: The thoughts and opinions shared by guests on the BrushwithBritt Podcast are their own and don’t represent the views of Brittany Glauz. Everything we discuss here is meant to inform, inspire, and entertain. Always connect with a licensed healthcare provider for any personal health concerns or decisions.

Get ready to dive deep into the world of dental waterline maintenance with none other than Amanda Hill BSDH, RDH CDIPC, educator, speaker, and infection control queen! 👑💧

In this episode of Brush with Britt, we’re flushing out the truth behind those sneaky biofilms, the importance of regular testing, and what every hygienist (and dental office!) should be doing to keep their waterlines safe and squeaky clean. Amanda breaks it all down with her signature blend of science, humor, and solutions you can actually use.

Whether you’re new to infection control or think you’ve got it down, this episode will leave you laughing, learning, and definitely rethinking what’s flowing through those lines. 🦷🚿

Spoiler: Yes, you really do need to test regularly.

Tune in and let's talk dirty water—the clean way.

Amanda Hill, BSDH, RDH, CDIPC, is an enthusiastic speaker, innovative consultant, and award-winning author. A sought-after thought leader contributing invaluable and inspiring insights into the current trends in dentistry. Affectionately known as the Waterline Warrior, she brings over 25 years of clinical dental hygiene and education to dentistry. Recipient of ADS’s Emerging Infection Control Leader award and an active participant with the advisory board for RDH magazine, Dentistry IQ, and ADS’s Infection Control In Practice Editorial Review Board, Amanda strives to make topics in dentistry accurate, accessible, and fun!

Connect with Amanda! [email protected]

Ready to step into the op solo for the first time? 😬💉

This week, I'm joined by Sade Gammage, a passionate new grad who’s been practicing dental hygiene since May 2023 🦷. A proud community college graduate, Sade entered the field with a mission to bring diversity, empathy, and patience to every patient interaction. Her lifelong passion for dentistry shines through in everything she does, and in this episode, she shares a fresh perspective on what it’s really like stepping into the op as a brand-new RDH. Sade and I break down what really goes down your first day on the job; no instructors, no safety net, and a full schedule waiting 👀.

We get into:

🗓️ Time constraints and how to survive a packed schedule

😳 First-day awkwardness and tips for confidence

⚖️ Ethical dilemmas and trusting your gut

🧳 The truth about temping as a new grad

💬 Real talk, relatable advice, and laughs along the way

Whether your first day is coming up or you're in the thick of it, this one’s for you 💪🎧

Connect with Sade:

Instagram: Sadé V. Gammage

TikTok: @sadev.rdh

Email: [email protected]

In this powerful and honest episode, we dive deep into the connection between alcohol consumption and oral health, shedding light on a topic often overlooked in the operatory.

Joined by Stephanie Botts, RDH, BSDH, CEAS, a passionate advocate for dental ergonomics and wellness, we explore how alcohol affects our mouths, minds, and lives both personally and professionally.

🔎 What We Cover:

How alcohol impacts oral health, including dry mouth, plaque development, and the elevated risk of oral cancer and caries.

How and when to start the conversation with your patients, without judgment, especially during medical history review or when noticing oral indicators.

The strong link between alcohol and oral cancer, and how dental hygienists can play a key role in early detection and patient education.

I share a little about my own journey with sober curiosity, the shift toward a lifestyle that prioritizes clarity and prevention, and how it's influenced my professional practice.

Stephanie opens up about her work with substance use disorder, sharing how dental professionals can better understand, approach, and support patients navigating addiction.

Why prevention starts with us, the importance of dental professionals checking in on their own habits and health.

🧠 Key Takeaway:

Alcohol is normalized in our society, but understanding its impact, especially as healthcare providers, empowers us to care better for our patients and ourselves.

This episode blends clinical insight with real-life reflection to open the door to meaningful, preventative conversations.

Stephanie Botts Bio:

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

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Social media: @BrushwithBritt

Want to have me on your podcast?

Want to be a guest on my podcast?

Email me!! 💌: [email protected]

In this episode of the BrushWithBritt Podcast, we sit down with the incredible Lindsey Lee 👩‍⚕️ both a Registered Dental Hygienist 🦷 and Registered Nurse 💉 whose path into aesthetics looks a little different than most. From scaling teeth to administering Botox , Lindsey shares her unique dual-licensed journey and what it’s really like being an RDH injector in today’s evolving dental landscape ✨.

We get into the 🔥 hot topic of hygienists administering Botox, breaking down the states where it’s currently legal and the real pros and cons ✅❌ both clinically and legally. Can it boost production 📈? Should dental offices get on board ? What about handling medical emergencies like vascular occlusion or adverse reactions? Let's talk about it!

Contact Lindsey Lee:

Welcome to SEASON 5! 🥳

In this kickoff episode, we’re going back to our roots, talking about the heart ❤️ of dental hygiene and the powerful meaning behind taking the Dental Hygiene Oath 📝.

This episode is a tribute to the passion, purpose, and professionalism that make dental hygienists essential 🧠💪It’s more than just cleanings. It’s prevention, advocacy, education, and care. 🌿✨

This season is all about owning your role, stepping into your power 💥, and celebrating what it truly means to be a dental hygienist 🪥👩‍⚕️. Let’s launch into a season of growth, empowerment, and connection 🚀💬.

Subscribe, share, and let’s brush up on what makes this profession so special 💖!

Follow me for more!

Instagram: @BrushwithBritt

Tiktok: @BrushwithBritt

Youtube: @BrushwithBritt

Facebook: BrushwithBritt

Want to have me on your podcast? Want to be a guest on my podcast?

💌: [email protected]

In today’s episode, Billie Lunt RDH, BA, MSDH and I explore why pursuing a career in dental hygiene remains a compelling choice despite recent ADA resolutions. We discuss the vital role dental hygienists play in healthcare and how they can maximize their impact within the scope of their training.

Takeaways:

The ADA resolutions aim to address the dental hygiene shortage but require state legislation to be enacted.

Today's dental hygiene students face unique challenges and need strong faculty support.

Advocacy is crucial for the dental hygiene profession, especially in educating the public.

Time management is essential for dental hygienists to provide comprehensive care.

Understanding the business side of dental hygiene is vital for new graduates.

Co-diagnosing with dentists enhances patient care and collaboration.

Dental hygienists play a key role in bridging the gap between medical and dental health.

The profession is evolving, with opportunities for hygienists to work more independently.

Students should focus on their unique role in prevention and patient education.

Continuous learning and adaptation are necessary for success in dental hygiene.

About Billie Lunt RDH, BA, MSDH:

With over 25 years of experience in the dental hygiene field, Billie Lunt is a passionate educator and public health advocate who strives to improve the profession and the community through teaching, research, and policy. Billie is a professor at NHTI, Concord's Community College, where she works as the dental hygiene program director and mentors students to reach their fullest potential.
Billie holds a master's degree in dental hygiene education and public health from the University of Bridgeport, where she graduated summa cum laude. She is also a registered dental hygienist who practices part-time. Billie is a member of the New Hampshire Oral Health Coalition, where she supports and advocates for legislation that increases access to oral health services. Billie is the Vice-Chair of the Steering Committee where she advances policy and opportunity to develop access for the populations of New Hampshire residents. In addition, Billie is a content creator and podcast developer who produces educational materials and resources for dental hygiene students and professionals. Billie's goals and aspirations are to advance the dental hygiene profession through innovation, collaboration, and leadership.

Connect with Billie:

[email protected]

The Happy Flosser Podcast:

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-happy-flosser-rdh/id1573933903

In this episode of the BrushwithBritt podcast, Jessica and I discuss the vital role of Hygiene Edge in supporting dental hygienists at all stages of their careers. We explore the challenges faced by dental hygiene students, emphasizing the importance of emotional resilience, competency over perfection, and the necessity of lifelong learning. Jessica shares her insights on advocating for patient care standards and creating a supportive work environment, encouraging new hygienists to find their path and embrace their professional growth. You don't want to miss this episode!🎧

Jessica Atkinson, MEd, BSDH, RDH, cofounder of Hygiene Edge and Assistant Professor of Dental Hygiene at Utah Tech University is passionate about all things dental hygiene.

Jessica has been in the dental field for 24 years with experience as a front office staff, dental assistant and Dental Hygienist. She has been in education for 10 years. As the COO of Hygiene Edge she seeks to “educate, grow and inspire” with dental professionals throughout their career with helpful videos, podcasts and other educational content.

Education is Jessica’s joy, from educating patients, students and anyone else who comes across Hygiene Edge’s YouTube channel. She has presented both nationally and internationally to continue educating, growing, and being inspired with her fellow dental professionals.📚

Connect with Jessica:🤳

[email protected]

Instagram: @hygieneedge

Tiktok: @hygieneedge

Takeaways🤓

Time Stamps⏱️

Introduction to Hygiene Edge and Its Impact

02:48

Navigating Dental Hygiene School Challenges

05:54

Emotional Resilience in Dental Hygiene Education

09:05

The Importance of Competency Over Perfection

11:55

Lifelong Learning and Professional Growth

15:11

Advocating for Patient Care Standards

18:03

Creating a Supportive Work Environment

21:11

Finding Your Path as a Dental Hygienist

23:53

Conclusion and Encouragement for Future Hygienists

✨🦷🧚🏻🪥💜

If you would like to be a featured sponsor or be a guest on the BrushwithBritt podcast, email [email protected]

In this episode of BrushwithBritt, we explore the inspiring possibilities of pursuing a career in dental hygiene, regardless of age or life stage. Join us as we discuss the reality and challenges of going back to school to become a dental hygienist while juggling work, family, and other personal commitments.

Hear from Lisa Trubey, who dared to dream big and took the leap back into education. Whether you're working full-time jobs, raising children, or transitioning from completely different careers. We'll discuss how individual determination, planning, and support systems play crucial roles in successfully managing school alongside other responsibilities.

This episode is designed to motivate and reassure you that it’s never too late to pursue your passion in dental hygiene. We aim to dismantle the myths that it's too difficult to change careers or return to school later in life. Whether you're considering a first-time venture into healthcare or looking to make a significant change, this discussion will provide the encouragement and practical insights needed to take those first steps towards fulfilling your dreams in dental hygiene. Tune in to feel inspired and gain the confidence to realize that your aspirations are achievable, and it’s all dependent on your unique journey and commitment.

Lisa Huitron Trubey is a seasoned Registered Dental Assistant and soon-to-be graduate with a Bachelor’s in Dental Hygiene from West LA College. Since starting her career in 2001, Lisa has mastered various roles in dental practices, from clinical duties to office management. Currently gearing up to enter the RDHAP program, she is also a dedicated single mom to a 14-year-old.

Lisa’s passion and dedication to the field has earned her several accolades, including placements in both CDHA and RDH UOR student poster competitions and winning first place in the ADHA undergraduate presentation in 2024. Follow Lisa’s exciting transition from student to RDHAP on Instagram @trubeyornottrubey_rdh as she embarks on the next chapter of her professional journey.

In honor of celebrating four years as a dental hygienist, join me for a special episode of the BrushwithBritt podcast where I get into my personal and professional journey to becoming the creator of BrushwithBritt. From my initial dreams to the realities of working in the dental field, I’ll share the pivotal moments, challenges, and triumphs that shaped my path to becoming a dental hygienist and content creator.

Happy dental hygiene month!!