Brush with Britt

This week on Brush with Britt, I’m joined by Shelley Brown, RDH, for an eye-opening conversation about silver diamine fluoride (SDF) — one of the most exciting tools we have in modern preventive dentistry.

SDF isn’t just about “stopping cavities.” It represents a shift toward minimally invasive, patient-centered care that allows hygienists to expand their impact in meaningful ways.

Shelley shares her expertise and passion for prevention as we dive into:

-How SDF works to halt active decay and protect vulnerable teeth before they progress

-When to use it — from pediatric patients to older adults, special needs populations, and a wide range of patients in between.

-How hygienists can lead the way in incorporating SDF into preventive protocols and advocating for its use chairside

-Overcoming the stigma of staining by learning how to set patient expectations and frame the “why” behind treatment

-Communication strategies that work when explaining SDF to parents, caregivers, or hesitant patients

-Why SDF matters for prevention — especially as we fight health disparities and look for solutions beyond the drill-and-fill model

Shelley and I also talk about the bigger picture: how embracing preventive services like SDF helps us reclaim our role as primary prevention specialists in dentistry. For hygienists who are passionate about protecting smiles, reducing disease, and practicing at the top of their scope, SDF is an incredible tool that can change lives.

Whether you’re brand new to silver diamine fluoride or already using it in practice, this conversation will give you practical tips, renewed excitement, and the confidence to advocate for prevention-first dentistry.

🎧 Grab your headphones and join us for a powerful episode with Shelley Brown, RDH, as we celebrate what’s possible when hygienists lead the charge in prevention.

👉 If this episode sparks something for you, share it with your hygiene bestie, bring it up at your next team meeting, and keep the conversation on prevention growing!

Shelley Brown, MEd, BSDH, RDH, Shelley has worked in dentistry for 23 years. She co-owns Hygiene Edge, whose goal is to inspire dental professionals to be their best, and promote industry best practices. Their Youtube channel has over 25 million views on their helpful videos. Shelley also currently works as adjunct faculty at the Utah College of Dental Hygiene, a baccalaureate program. She owns Homebound Smiles, where she provides care in public health settings. Shelley is an award recipient of the 2021 Today’s RDH Honor Awards and was on the 2023 RDH Magazine advisory board. She loves riding her 4 young boys around in her cargo bike.

Contact Shelley:

Email: ⁠[email protected]⁠

Instagram: @shelley_the_hygienist

LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelley-brown-rdh/⁠

Disclaimer: The Brush with Britt podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of dentistry, medicine, or other health-care services. No provider–patient relationship is formed, and the content is not a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Listeners should always seek the guidance of their licensed health-care providers for any questions or concerns. The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Brittany Glauz, (Brush with Britt).

This week on Brush with Britt, I sit down with Alana Hall, MHA, RDH, a former Army Preventive Dentistry Specialist turned registered dental hygienist, to unpack why adopting military-style preventive models is not the answer to our hygiene workforce shortage.

Drawing from her nine years of military service and 15 years across clinical, academic, and civilian care, Alana shares firsthand what the Army model was designed to do and why it can't be translated into civilian dentistry without putting patients at risk.

We cover:

-The real mission of military dentistry (battlefield readiness, not lifelong prevention)

-Why the “scaling assistant” approach fails to deliver comprehensive, evidence-based care

-Ethical and legal risks of lowering standards

-How underserved populations suffer most when shortcuts replace prevention

This episode is a must-listen for hygienists, dentists, and anyone passionate about preserving the integrity of preventive care. Because all patients deserve comprehensive, high-quality dentistry that protects lifelong health.

🎧 Grab your headphones and join us as we break down what’s at stake when access is pursued at the expense of standards.

Alana Hall, MHA, RDH, is a mission-driven dental professional with over 15 years of experience across military, academic, and civilian settings. She began her career in the U.S. Army as a Dental and Preventive Dentistry Specialist, delivering care in both stateside and deployed environments. After earning her dental hygiene degree, Alana advanced into roles as a Registered Dental Hygienist, Clinical Care Coordinator, and Adjunct Professor, where she combined clinical excellence with leadership and education.

Today, Alana practices in a private periodontal office in South Carolina, where she provides comprehensive periodontal care and patient education. With advanced training in laser therapy, local anesthesia, and healthcare administration, she is passionate about patient-centered dentistry, lifelong learning, and advocating for high standards of care in the profession.

Connect with Alana:

[email protected]

Recommended reading:

"Adopting substandard military preventive dentistry models is not the answer to solving the dental hygiene workforce shortage"

https://www.dentistryiq.com/dental-hygiene/article/55305332/adopting-substandard-military-preventive-dentistry-models-is-not-the-answer-to-solving-the-dental-hygiene-workforce-shortage

Follow me for more!

Social media: @BrushwithBritt

Want to have me on your podcast?

Want to be a guest on my podcast?

Email me!! 💌: [email protected]

Disclaimer: The Brush with Britt podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of dentistry, medicine, or other health-care services. No provider–patient relationship is formed, and the content is not a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Listeners should always seek the guidance of their licensed health-care providers for any questions or concerns. The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Brittany Glauz or Brush with Britt, nor do they represent the official policy or position of the U.S. military or Department of Defense.

This week on Brush with Britt I’m joined by Dr. Staci Whitman, a leading voice in functional dentistry.

We explore how whole-person oral care can transform outcomes—what your saliva can reveal, why airway health is foundational, and how daily habits (yes, nutrition!) shape prevention. Plus, we dig into nano-hydroxyapatite, remineralization strategies, and how hygienists can confidently bring these conversations chairside.

What we cover

Functional dentistry 101: where it overlaps with conventional care and what sets it apart

Saliva testing: pathogens, pH, buffering, and personalizing perio/caries prevention

Airway evaluations: red flags hygienists can spot and why every hygienist (and dentist) should be performing an airway screening

Nano-hydroxyapatite: indications, concentrations, and patient counseling

Nutrition counseling: simple frameworks for sugar frequency, microbiome-friendly diets, and deficiencies that show up in the oral cavity.

🎧 Grab your headphones, hit play, and let’s dive into the future of functional hygiene together.

Dr. Staci Whitman, a leading authority in functional dentistry, is on a mission to revolutionize oral healthcare. With a unique blend of scientific expertise and compassionate care, she's dedicated to creating a cavity-free world. Dr. Staci is board-certified in pediatrics, integrative dentistry, and naturopathic dentistry, and is one of the few dentists in the world to hold a Functional Medicine Certification from the Institute for Functional Medicine. She founded one of the leading functional pediatric dental offices, Bloom Kids, in the country, where she takes a whole-body and holistic approach to her care. She is the co-founder of the Institute for Functional Dentistry, launching in 2025, and lectures globally on Functional Dentistry and the Oral Systemic Connection. She also is the co-founder of Feed Your Good Guys (Fygg), a microbiome-friendly and supportive oral care line. With a passion for optimizing the oral microbiome, hormonal health, nutritional status, and sleep and airway health, she is a sought-after expert and educator with a strong focus on preventive dentistry, cavity arrest, remineralization, and the oral-gut-brain axis. Dr. Staci passionately shares her knowledge and insights on creating happy teeth and healthy lives.

Contact Dr. Staci

Instagram: ⁨@doctor_staci⁩

Dr. Staci’s website and newsletter: doctorstaci.com

The Institute for Functional Dentistry: functionaldentistry.org

Follow me for more!

Social media: @BrushwithBritt

Want to have me on your podcast?

Want to be a guest on my podcast?

Email me!! 💌: [email protected]

Disclaimer: The Brush with Britt podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of dentistry, medicine, or other health-care services. No provider–patient relationship is formed, and the content is not a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Listeners should always seek the guidance of their licensed health-care providers for any questions or concerns. The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Brittany Glauz, (Brush with Britt).

This week on Brush with Britt, I’m joined by the one and only Shelby RDH — yes, that Shelby from TikTok who has been serving up relatable RDH content and making perio cool again. 🦷✨

We’re diving into what it’s really like being a full-time perio hygienist — the good, the bad, and the why-did-I-choose-this moments. Shelby shares her journey from oral surgery to specializing in perio, the unique challenges (hello, complex cases 👀🪥), and the wins that make it all worth it.

We talk patient transformations, navigating burnout, and the reality of working with specialists. Plus… we get real about perio referrals, 12mm pockets 📏, and the new technology we’d love to practice with.

🎧 Listen in for:

Shelby’s day-in-the-life as a perio hygienist

Tips for thriving in a specialty setting without losing your sanity

Why perio doesn’t have to be scary — for you or your patients.

Grab your coffee , adjust that loupes light , and let’s talk gum health.

Shelby Wagenman brings 12 years of experience in dentistry, starting with a strong foundation in oral surgery. After graduating from dental hygiene school in 2022, she spent a year in general dentistry before finding her home in periodontics, where she’s honed her skills in soft tissue management and implants.

Having lived and worked in five different states, Shelby has practiced in a variety of settings, from a dental school and private practices to a mobile unit for the National Guard and volunteer clinics. This diverse background has given her a well-rounded perspective on patient care, and she’s passionate about sharing her knowledge and experiences to inspire and support other dental professionals.

Connect with Shelby:

Email: [email protected]

Tiktok: @Shelby_RDH

Instagram: @shelbyy.rdh

Follow me for more!

Social media: @BrushwithBritt

Want to have me on your podcast?

Want to be a guest on my podcast?

Email me!! 💌: [email protected]

Disclaimer: The thoughts and opinions shared by guests on the Brush with Britt 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.

In this episode, I’m joined by the one and only Amber Lovatos, also known as The Latina RDH—an outspoken advocate, content creator, and powerhouse hygienist who’s built an online brand rooted in passion, purpose, and transparency.

Together, we’re getting into the real stuff about being a dental hygienist and content creator:

😬 The not-so-glamorous side of content creation—burnout, criticism, and constantly feeling the pressure to show up online

📦 Why we don’t accept “free product” as payment and how we advocate for creators (and professionals) to know their worth

💸 The truth about brand deals and sponsorships—and how to navigate them

🧠 Using your platform for GOOD—why impact should always come before influence

🤖 Buying followers and gaming the algorithm: let’s have an honest talk about what’s happening behind the scene

🧾 The business side of it all—from forming an LLC to filing taxes, this isn’t just a hobby anymore—it’s a business.

• This episode is part pep talk, part wake-up call, and 100% real. Whether you're a new grad trying to build your presence or a seasoned RDH feeling the pressure to stay relevant, this conversation is for YOU.

Amber shares her journey from starting out on social media to becoming one of the most recognizable faces in the dental creator space; without losing her voice, her values, or her why.

We talk about the emotional weight of being visible, the behind-the-scenes politics of the industry, and how to navigate brand partnerships with confidence and clarity.

At the end of the day, we’re more than just our likes, our follower count, or the latest freebie in the mail. We’re professionals, educators, leaders—and we’re allowed to make noise, take up space, and demand better.

So plug in those headphones, grab your iced matcha or a protein bar between patients, and hit play on this honest convo with Amber Lovatos. You don’t want to miss it.

Connect with Amber:

@thelatinardh

[email protected]

https://www.dentalhygienespark.com/

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.

Follow me for more!

Social media: @BrushwithBritt

Want to have me on your podcast?

Want to be a guest on my podcast?

Email me!! 💌: [email protected]

Disclaimer: The thoughts and opinions shared by guests on the Brush with Britt 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.

In this episode of the BrushwithBritt Podcast, I sit 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

Follow me for more!

Social media: @BrushwithBritt

Want to have me on your podcast?

Want to be a guest on my podcast?

Email me!! 💌: [email protected]

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 Brush with Britt podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of dentistry, medicine, or other health-care services. No provider–patient relationship is formed, and the content is not a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Listeners should always seek the guidance of their licensed health-care providers for any questions or concerns. The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Brittany Glauz, (Brush with Britt).

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]

Follow me for more!

Social media: @BrushwithBritt

Want to have me on your podcast?

Want to be a guest on my podcast?

Email me!! 💌: [email protected]

Disclaimer: The thoughts and opinions shared by guests on the Brush with Britt 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.

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 Sadé:

Instagram: Sadé V. Gammage

TikTok: @sadev.rdh

Email: [email protected]

Follow me for more!

Social media: @BrushwithBritt

Want to have me on your podcast?

Want to be a guest on my podcast?

Email me!! 💌: [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

Follow me for more!

Social media: @BrushwithBritt

Want to have me on your podcast?

Want to be a guest on my podcast?

Email me!! 💌: [email protected]

Disclaimer: The thoughts and opinions shared by guests on the Brush with Britt 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.

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: