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In this episode of Straight Up With Steph, I’m joined by returning guest and online dental educator Whitney, also known as Teeth Talk Girl, to discuss the spread of dental health misinformation on social media. 

Together, Whitney and I dive into all the “natural” dental trends and how we can separate dental fact from fiction. We play a rapid-fire round debunking common dental myths, discuss the science behind fluoride and dental x-rays, and talk through ways clinicians can compassionately communicate evidence-based recommendations to patients without shaming them. 

About Whitney

Connect with Whitney:

Website

YouTube

Instagram

To watch on YouTube, click here

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Polished Posture. The information shared in this podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making significant lifestyle changes.  

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In this episode of Straight Up With Steph, I sat down with Erin and Lancette, the President and President-Elect of American Dental Hygienists' Association’s (ADHA), as we talk about their ongoing initiatives, including their drive for license portability and their efforts to update standards of practice to include new technologies and airway assessments. We delve into the controversial Nevada bill, the importance of advocacy, and what “autonomy” truly means for our profession. 

This episode gets honest about membership dollars, how the ADHA structures their efforts at the state and national levels, and why unity and legislative engagement are more critical than ever. 

About Erin

About Lancette

Autonomy webinars:

ADHA Empowering Independence: A Journey to Professional Autonomy

ADHA From Provider to Change-Maker: The Autonomy Evolution

Podcast:

ADHA Podcast Safety & Standards Under Fire: ADHA and Nevada RDHs Rise to Legislative Defense (Ep 162)

Reports:

ADHA Workforce Growth Initiatives – April 2025

Dental Workforce Shortages: Data to Navigate Today’s Labor Market

Innovative Workforce Models

To watch on YouTube, click here

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Polished Posture. 

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In this episode of Straight Up With Steph, I’m joined by Kim McGuire to discuss case acceptance, a topic that every dental professional faces. We explore the challenges and solutions surrounding why patients say “no” to needed treatment, how to move past the objections, and truly connect with your patients.

Kim shares actionable insights into treating patients as individuals, communicating value, and elevating trust through emotional intelligence, curiosity, and teamwork. We break down common mistakes in presenting treatment and dive into practical tips for leveraging technology such as intraoral photos, digital scans, and payment options to increase acceptance. 

This episode highlights that real growth in case acceptance comes from connecting with patients on an emotional level and communicating with authenticity, empathy, and consistency.

About Kim

Connect with Kim:

LinkedIn

To watch on YouTube, click here!

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Polished Posture. The information shared in this podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making significant lifestyle changes.

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I get so many questions about Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT), and truthfully, I don’t know as much about it as I would like to. That’s why, in this episode of Straight Up With Steph, I'm joined by Kevin Ohashi Lopez to uncover what GBT is, how it differs from traditional dental hygiene, and why it might make more sense for both patients and clinicians.

Kevin walks us through the GBT protocol step-by-step, explaining the equipment needed (and why not all air polishers are created equal), how treatment flow completely shifts, and what sets GBT apart in its focus on minimally invasive care. Kevin also shares how the use of GBT impacts patient outcomes, improves ergonomics for clinicians, and allows for smarter, not harder, workdays. We also dig into practical matters—what to say to patients when your protocols change, how to handle concerns about equipment investment, and strategies for practice owners who are thinking about adding GBT to their hygiene departments.

Beyond the protocol and equipment, we chat about patient education, how GBT can increase case acceptance, and tackle the common misconceptions that keep many clinicians stuck in their old ways. Conversations like this remind us that as hygienists, we’re not just cleaning teeth, we’re providing essential, evidence-based healthcare, and investing in the evolution of our profession.

About Kevin Lopez

Connect with Kevin:

Instagram

To watch on YouTube, click here!

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Polished Posture. The information shared in this podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making significant lifestyle changes.  

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In this episode of Straight Up With Steph, Dr. Brett Kessler, president of the American Dental Association, returns to the podcast to dive headfirst into a conversation about the complex and contentious state of our industry. Our goal today was to clear up common misconceptions, answer pressing questions, and open up an honest, balanced dialogue about the future of our profession. 

Dr. Kessler sheds light on hot-button issues affecting dentistry, like the national hygienist shortage, shifting practice models, and controversial initiatives aimed at expanding the hygiene workforce. He also shares his vision for the future of dentistry.

Lastly, we dive into everything from the ongoing fight surrounding fluoride, the critical need for improved insurance reimbursement, and the changing relationship between the ADA and ADHA. 

About Dr. Brett Kessler

Connect with Dr. Brett Kessler:

Email: [email protected]

Instagram

Links Mentioned In This Episode:

Ep 15: Wellness, Leadership, and Recovery: With ADA President-Elect Dr. Brett Kessler

Ep 51: The Oral Preventive Assistant Debate: What Dental Assistants Actually Want

Watch on YouTube!

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Polished Posture. The information shared in this podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making significant lifestyle changes.  

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In this episode of Straight Up With Steph, I sit down with Dr. Tony Stefanou for a wide-ranging and candid conversation about the future of dentistry. Our industry is rapidly evolving, and dentistry as we know it is changing by the day. Dr. Tony brings a unique perspective, combining years of clinical experience with deep involvement on the business side of dentistry, which makes him the perfect guest to unpack some of the major changes happening within our profession right now. 

Together, we tackle a broad range of topics, including the future of private practice vs. DSO affiliation, what really happens when a practice is acquired, and why a healthy hygiene department is so crucial not only for patient care but for practice valuation and transition. 

We also discuss our opinions on the controversial Oral Preventive Assistant (OPA) initiative, the importance of moving toward fee-for-service models, signals of a thriving hygiene department, and what it takes for clinicians to venture beyond the operatory. 

About Dr. Tony

Connect with Dr. Tony:

Connect the Dents

Instagram

Links Mentioned: 

Ep 47: The True Cost of Dental Insurance and Why It's Time for Reform

Ep 35: How ADA’s Dental Access Model Act Will Impact Dentistry

Ep 51: The Oral Preventive Assistant Debate: What Dental Assistants Actually Want

To watch on YouTube, click here!

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Polished Posture. The information shared in this podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making significant lifestyle changes.  

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In this episode of Straight Up With Steph, I am joined by Kevin Henry, a longtime advocate, speaker, and journalist for dental assistants, as we break down the new role being introduced in dentistry, the OPA (Oral Preventive Assistant). Together, we have a real and honest conversation about what this new position means for dental assistants, why it was created, and the real impact it could have on dental teams everywhere. 

Kevin and I break down not only the basics of what the OPA role is, but also how this position is intended to help with the workforce shortage of hygienists. We unpack how dental assistants truly feel about the OPA role and talk candidly about the lack of a strong national voice for assistants, the varied responses within that community, and the possible legal and financial gaps still unresolved when OPAs start to become the norm.

We discuss practical tips for assistants to advocate for themselves, the importance of communication among team members, and how both hygienists and assistants often share more struggles in common than they realize. 

At the end of the day, the message is clear: dental assistants are the backbone of our practices, and this new era in dentistry needs their voices and experiences front and center. This conversation is all about coming together as a profession because real change will only happen when every member of the dental team is valued and heard.

About Kevin: 

With more than 20 years in the dental publishing industry, Kevin Henry is the former group editorial director for Dental Products Report and managing editor for Dental Economics. Currently, he is the editor-in-chief for DrBicuspid.com. He has spoken to dental assistants throughout the world, in person and through the Dental Assistant Nation podcast series, reminding them of the important role they play every day in their practice. He is also certified as a DiSC trainer, helping dental practices learn how to understand each other better through personality assessments and training.

Connect with Kevin:

Website | Kevin Speaks Dental 

Instagram @DentalAssistantNation

Website| Dr. Bicuspid

Dental Assistant Nation [Apple Podcasts]

Dental Assistant Nation [Spotify]

Links Mentioned in this Episode: 

Ep 35: How ADA’s Dental Access Model Act Will Impact Dentistry

To watch on YouTube, click here!

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Polished Posture. The information shared in this podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only and should not be

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In this episode of Straight Up With Steph, I am joined by dental hygienist and anesthesia educator Tina Clarke to tackle questions and controversies sweeping the dental community over anesthesia. We cover everything from the new expansion of dental assistants’ roles, allowing dental assistants in some states to administer local anesthesia, the social media backlash Tina received as a result of this, practical tips for tricky injections, and guidance for how to stay ergonomic while working. 

Together, we unpack what it means for patient care when assistants can administer anesthesia, how education standards are being set, and how the dental profession is adapting to these changes. You’ll hear Tina’s firsthand experience with this industry change (as someone who played her part in weighing in on the educational standards), her opinions on hot topics like using articaine on the lower jaw, and tips on navigating the real-world challenges of chairside anesthesia.  

Tina is a wealth of knowledge, so whether you’re a seasoned clinician or new to dental hygiene, this episode is packed with wisdom on clinical technique, advice for boosting your confidence with injections, and strategies to keep both you and your patients safe and comfortable.

About Tina:

Tina Clark, RDH, MEd is the leading voice in anesthesia dental education. From head & neck anatomy, medical emergency management, and practical tips and tricks to getting anesthesia right every time, Tina employs adult learning principles, equipping her course attendees for success. A nationally published author and founder of Teacher Tina RDH, she keeps her skills and knowledge current while continuing to serve the profession as a clinician, educator, trainer, and speaker. In addition, Tina is an approved provider by the Oregon and Georgia Board of Dentistry to provide education for the initial permit for local anesthesia. As well as an American Heart Association Certified BLS instructor. As an active member of the American Dental Hygienists Association, an approved CE provider by the American Academy of Dental Hygiene, Tina’s passionately serves her profession. She has been a practicing clinical dental hygienist for over 20 years and an educator for over 15. She received her bachelor’s degree in dental hygiene in 2001 and her master’s degree in education in 2013. Her teaching, training, and presenting style is upbeat and fun, making even the most difficult topics a delight to learn.

Connect with Tina:

Teacher Tina RDH Website

Instagram 

Facebook

YouTube

To watch on YouTube, click here!

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Polished Posture. The information shared in this podcast is for educat

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In this episode of Straight Up With Steph, I am joined by Tom Viola, a renowned pharmacologist and nationally recognized speaker, to dive into the world of GLP-1 medications– think Ozempic, Wegovy, and the rapidly growing black market alternatives becoming more common. Tom unpacks how these drugs work, why they’ve become so popular, and some of the lesser-known (and scary) side effects popping up.

Tom and I dig deep into the history of diabetes management and the unintended– but highly effective– weight loss side effects of these medications. We cover how GLP-1 medications function, their impact on hunger and satiety, and the real concerns that come along with rapid weight loss, like muscle loss. Tom details the concerns about rising counterfeit medications and the growing black market for these drugs, emphasizing the importance for patients to get their prescriptions from legitimate sources and under medical supervision.

Beyond the basics, we explore the lesser-known and emerging side effects—everything from gastroparesis, halitosis, and increased risk of pancreatitis to mental health concerns like depression and suicidal ideation. We chat about what dental professionals should look for when reviewing medical histories, the clues these medications may leave in the mouth, and why dental teams play a crucial role in the bigger healthcare picture. 

The bottom line: As dental clinicians, the more we understand about these trending medications, the more we can advocate for our patients’ overall health and well-being.

About Tom Viola:

With over 30 years’ experience as a board-certified pharmacist, clinical educator, professional speaker, and published author, Tom Viola, R.Ph., C.C.P. has earned his national and international reputation as the go-to specialist for making pharmacology practical and useful for all members of the dental team. Tom has presented over 1000 informative, humorous and engaging continuing education seminars and webinars to dental professionals internationally since 2001.

Connect with Tom:

Website

Email: [email protected] 

Facebook

Instagram

To watch on YouTube, click here!

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Polished Posture. The information shared in this podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making significant lifestyle changes.  

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Have you ever found yourself endlessly scrolling on your phone, procrastinating on your to-do list, or feeling completely drained after work, and chalked it up as the usual side effects of adulthood and overwhelm? There might be something bigger going on. In this episode of Straight Up With Steph, I am joined by Jenna Free, an ADHD therapist and coach (who lives with ADHD), to unpack the reality of adult ADHD and mental dysregulation, especially as it shows up in dental clinicians. 

Jenna shares her refreshing, beyond-medicine approach to ADHD that focuses on nervous system regulation, stress management, and redefining what it means to function well both in and outside of the operatory. In our discussion, we unpack what ADHD really is (beyond the stereotypes), why many people, especially women, aren’t diagnosed until adulthood, and the telltale signs of ADHD. 

We unpack the concepts of what it means to be in “fight or flight” mode, survival mode, and dysregulation, and give you actionable advice for an ADHD reset through nervous system, thought/ belief, and behavior regulation. Beyond technique and diagnosis, we explore how this dysregulation can show up as physical pain, emotional reactivity, and unhealthy habits like doom-scrolling. 

Regardless of whether you have an ADHD diagnosis or are just feeling overwhelmed, learning to regulate your stress response will make you a better clinician, colleague, and human. Making small changes today can add up, allowing you to take control over your well-being.

About Jenna:

Jenna Free is a therapist for ADHD with ADHD. She specializes in getting ADHDers out of fight or flight (which is the thing making life so hard, not just ADHD) and into a life that is more productive and, most importantly, more enjoyable.

Connect with Jenna:

Website

FREE ADHD Regulation Guide

Instagram

TikTok 

ADHD with Jenna Free Podcast (Apple Podcasts)

ADHD with Jenna Free Podcast (Spotify)

To watch on YouTube, click here!

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Polished Posture. The information shared in this podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making significant lifestyle changes.  

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