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!!

In this episode of the BrushwithBritt podcast, we discuss the importance of dental hygienists understanding the business and production side of dentistry.

Join me as we explore how mastering the numbers not only empowers hygienists but also enhances the value they bring to the practices. We'll tackle the common misconceptions surrounding the ethics of being business-savvy in a healthcare role and demonstrate why it's essential, not unethical, for hygienists to be well-versed in the economic aspects of their work.

This episode is packed with insights on how being knowledgeable about the numbers can lead to better patient care, increased clinic efficiency, and personal career growth. Whether you’re a practicing hygienist or still in training, this discussion will help you start to understand production and the business side of dentistry.

Recommended readings:

Crunching the numbers: Using metrics to improve job performance and patient outcomes Part I and Part II written by Josalyn Sewell, RDH

Tiktok: @brushwithbritt search #productionwithbritt

In this episode Sue Scherer, RDH, BS and I discuss the crucial role dental hygienists play in caring for pregnant patients. Pregnancy brings significant changes that can affect oral health, and understanding these changes is essential for effective treatment and care. We'll cover everything from the increased risk of periodontal disease during pregnancy to the best practices for managing dental hygiene appointments to ensure both mother and baby's health are protected. This episode is packed with valuable information for dental professionals looking to enhance their knowledge and skills in prenatal dental care. Join us as we dive into the do's and don'ts of dental hygiene for expecting mothers, ensuring their smile stays bright and healthy throughout their pregnancy.

Sue Scherer, RDH, BS is the Education Professional Relations Manager for Water Pik Inc. She has been a dental hygienist for over 20 years and has experience as a chairside clinician, dental hygiene program instructor, CE speaker and author. Sue is an active member of the ADHA, NJDHA, and ADEA. She is the Immediate Past President of the NJDHA and a member of the Bergen Community College Dental Hygiene Advisory Board. Sue is passionate about educating dental professionals. Her courses provide the current scientific evidence on topics that often bring confusion to patient care. Sue lives in Mahwah, NJ with her husband, two sons and their sweet rescue pup Harley.

Recommended reading: https://www.rdhmag.com/patient-care/article/14279348/safely-caring-for-pregnant-dental-patients

Recommended webinar: https://www.gotostage.com/channel/24830adc58984892be28b36a1108901b/recording/9948ab62d24c45caa4732c091b5eca72/watch

Contact Sue Scherer: [email protected]

In this episode, we shine a spotlight on Registered Dental Hygienists in Alternative Practice (RDHAPs) in California and explore the critical impact of hygienist-owned practices across the United States. Join us as we delve into how RDHAPs are breaking barriers to increase access to care, especially in underserved communities. We discuss the unique challenges they face, the innovative solutions they provide, and the empowering journey of dental hygienists who are pioneering their own practices. Tune in to learn why these trailblazers are essential in shaping a more inclusive and accessible dental care system.

Sade Morel, RDHAP is originally from Rhode Island. She has more than 10 years of experience in the dental field, and was a specialty RDA before becoming a hygienist. Sade is owns her own dental hygiene practice in California and encourages others to do the same. When she's not practicing, she enjoys photography, traveling, ,eating healthy, and working out Professional Associations Board member to GRC, Tri-county Dental Hygienists' Association, American Dental Hygienists' Association

Dental Hygiene Practice • (909) 801-1061 ~ [email protected] 

Instagram: @SmilesbySade_RDHAP

"I have a great passion for dental health. My goal as a dental hygienist is to make genuine connections with my patients by providing the most up-to-date quality care available. Having a positive experience is a high importance to me. I take pride in making my patient's visits enjoyable and fun."

https://www.ultra-brite-smiles.com/hygiene

In this episode of BrushWithBritt, we highlight the crucial role dental hygienists play in expanding access to oral healthcare. We explore the innovative ways hygienists are stepping beyond traditional settings to provide essential care in schools, nursing homes, and mobile clinics.

Discover how increased autonomy for dental hygienists can bridge gaps in dental care access, particularly in underserved communities.

Tune in to hear Shelley Brown's inspiring stories and expert insights. Don't miss this empowering discussion on the transformative impact of dental hygienists working in alternative settings!

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. 

Helpful resource for all things dental hygiene:

https://www.hygieneedge.com/

Instagram: @hygieneedge

Contact Shelley: [email protected]

In this episode, we discuss dental hygienists administering Botox and dermal fillers. As the scope of dental hygiene expands, professionals are increasingly equipped to offer these aesthetic treatments, enhancing both facial aesthetics and therapeutic applications within dental practices.

We'll explore the training required, the legal and ethical considerations, and how these skills can complement traditional dental care.

Hear from Katie, an experienced hygienist, who has successfully integrated these services. Whether you're a dental professional curious about expanding your services or a patient interested in what your dental hygienist can offer beyond oral health, this episode provides valuable insights into this evolving practice.

Tune in to discover how the roles of dental hygienists are transforming in the world of cosmetic and therapeutic treatments.

Katie Barrer is a Registered Dental Hygienist and Certified Esthetic Injector. Elevating her traditional hygiene skills, Katie integrates Botox and dermal filler into her practice viewing them as essential components in her dental hygiene tool kit!

Katie is also a faculty member of the American Academy of Facial Esthetics and enjoys traveling the country teaching health care professionals the art of injecting and facial esthetics! 

Connect with her on instagram @theRDHinjector or email her at [email protected]

Recommend readings:

"This got you talking: What's your take on RDHs administering Botox?" by Sara Joyce

"The buzz about Botox: What dental hygienists need to know" by Tala Alkhatib, BSDH(c), Saheleh Ansarizadeh, BSDH, Michelle Mendoza Nicolas, BSDH, Lesley Harbison, MS, RDH, EPDH

"Dental hygienists and Botox: It's complicated" by Jessica Myers, BA, RDH

"Dental hygienist-owned practices: Transforming dentistry through prevention" by Britt Glauz, BSDH, RDH

Today, you'll hear straight from a dental hygiene school professor! Everything from studying tips to managing stress while in dental hygiene school. This episode shares advice to help get you through school. We touch on finding patients, mental health, imposter syndrome and more. Even if you are half way through the program, you will still benefit from this episode.

Melissa Calhoun, a 2005 graduate of Pensacola State College's dental hygiene program, is a distinguished professional with extensive experience in pediatric, implant, and general dentistry. In 2021, she earned her master’s in dental hygiene with an education focus from MCPHS University. Based in Keller, TX, Melissa is an educator at Tarrant County College in their Dental Hygiene Department, where she teaches Radiology, Oral Anatomy and Histology, and Pharmacology. Melissa is also a clinician, a faculty member with Sanders Board Preparatory, a professional educator with Church and Dwight, and an SDA trainer with EMS Dental. In leadership roles, she serves as the President-Elect of the American Academy of Dental Hygiene. Melissa's dynamic contributions highlight her commitment to advancing oral health education and professional growth.

The AADH (American Academy of Dental Hygiene) has not begun accepting student membership yet. I encourage students to join our emailing list (LINK HERE ) to be the first to learn when registration begins. Once they accept students, the mentorship program will be opened to them.

Contact Melissa:

[email protected]

Additional recommended episodes:

54. Hygiene School Advice

32. Pressure of Hygiene School

25. Navigating Hygiene School

22. Managing Hygiene School

12. Working While in Dental Hygiene School

3. Finding Patients

2. Six Tips for Starting Dental Hygiene School