Straight Up With Steph

In this episode of Straight Up With Steph, Dr. Mark Burhenne, famously known as “Ask the Dentist,” and I are diving deeper into the hot topic debate of fluoride vs. nano-hydroxyapatite. 

With the rising controversy over the use of fluoride, Dr. Burhenne shares his insights on the systemic issues with fluoride, its potential toxicity concerns, and why nano-hydroxyapatite is undoubtedly the better choice for oral health. We explore what it means to be a functional dentist and how this holistic approach can change the landscape of dental care, focusing on prevention and the oral microbiome's role in maintaining oral and systemic health.

This episode is not just about dental mechanics; it's about shifting perspectives and embracing a preventative approach to health care. Whether you're a dental professional or someone interested in holistic health, Dr. B provides invaluable insights into why nano-hydroxyapatite is making waves in the dentistry world and how it stands up to traditional fluoride treatments. He also shares valuable resources for you to continue your research and make the best decision for yourself and your patients. 

About Dr. Mark Burhenne:

Dr Mark Burhenne, aka “Ask the Dentist,” is a bestselling author and a family and sleep medicine dentist who has been in private practice for nearly 35 years. He has focused on patient-centered and preventative dental healthcare with patients who come to him from all over the world. He is the creator of AsktheDentist.com and is known as “Dr. B” to his followers, around the web, on Instagram, and on his podcast. Most recently, Dr.B has been advising an Oral Microbiome testing company (Bristle) to help establish the importance of the oral microbiome in healthcare. Dr. B recently launched a new oral healthcare line of products that furthers this message: protecting and nourishing the oral microbiome to facilitate both oral and systemic health. FYGG.com stands for feeding your good guys, not trying to disinfect the mouth. 

Connect with Dr. B:

AskTheDentist.com 

Ask the Dentist Podcast

Fygg 

Resources Mentioned in this Episode:

FLUIDINOVA

SCCS - Final Opinion on Hydroxyapatite (nano)

PubMed Nanohydroxyapatite 

Nature.com Article on Nanohydroxyapatite Toothpaste

Continued Education Course with Dr. Stacy

Fygg References 

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 honor of Oral Cancer Awareness Month, I wanted to bring you a special bonus episode of Straight Up With Steph, where Susan Cotten, a returning podcast guest, seasoned dental hygienist, and oral cancer specialist, presents a masterclass in oral cancer education. 

This year, it’s estimated that about 59,660 Americans will be diagnosed with either oral or oral pharyngeal cancer. That’s over 160 Americans diagnosed every single day.  

Susan joins us in sharing the four pillars of her Cotten Method for oral cancer screening, common risk factors & symptoms, the significant role HPV plays in oropharyngeal cancer, and how to confidently talk to patients about HPV and the vaccine. 

About Susan Cotten:

Susan Cotten, BS, RDH, OMT, is dentistry’s oral cancer coach! She is the founder and CEO of Oral Cancer Consulting and developed The Cotten Method, an oral cancer screening method and dental oral cancer office system. In addition to speaking, Susan holds hands-on oral cancer screening workshops for dental professionals who want to have more confidence in a comprehensive screening, reduce the risk of liability, and increase early detection. In her career, Susan has performed over 60 thousand oral cancer screenings. She is the Dental Lead for the Alliance for HPV Free Colorado, an instructor for the National Network for Healthcare Hygienists, an RDH Advisory Board member at The Oral Cancer Foundation, and director with Dental Codeology Consortium. 

Links Mentioned:

Ep 17: Disability Insurance 101: Tips For Protecting Your Future with Susan Cotten

Oral Cancer Foundation

NNHH Cotten Method Online Course

RDH Article: It’s time to get comfortable discussing HPV

Colorado Dental Association

DenSmiles 

Connect with Susan Cotten:

Oral Cancer Consulting

Facebook:@SusanCottenRDH

LinkedIn: @SusanCotten

Instagram: @scottenrdh

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. Marc Liechtung and I are unpacking the critical role that hygienists play in dental practices and the dynamics within the hygiene department. The sad truth is that hygienists are often underestimated and undervalued, focusing more on their daily production than their full value and potential. 

Dr. Marc Liechtung, an experienced dentist and dental practice owner, has seen firsthand the role that hygienists play in bridging the gap between the patient and the front desk, as well as the patient and the dentist, and their role in the overall success of a practice.

Together, we discuss what a successful hygiene department looks like, the percentage of overall practice production that should come from hygiene, the interplay between hygienists and dentists for optimum treatment acceptance, and the implications of the ongoing remuneration adjustments in the profession. Dr. Marc also shares his opinion on assisted hygiene, practices where dentists are doing all of the hygiene, and the potential of non-hygienists being allowed to do hygiene duties. 

About Dr. Marc Liechtung:

Dr. Marc Liechtung is a pioneer in restorative and cosmetic dentistry, the host of Dentistry Beyond the Numbers, and the inventor of Snap-On Smile. Dr. Marc graduated from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine. His interest in restorative and cosmetic dentistry led him to invent the Snap-On Smile multi-purpose restorative appliance. In addition to his thriving practices, Dr. Marc has spent the last several years evaluating and purchasing practices for Guardian Dentistry Partners, giving him an insider’s perspective on what drives value in a dental practice. Most recently, Dr. Marc has embarked on the journey of sharing his experience and wisdom with others. Dr. Liechtung created 'Dentistry Beyond the Numbers, ' a podcast catered towards mastering the inner workings of dentistry for clinicians at any stage of their career.

Connect with Dr. Marc Liechtung:

Instagram

Facebook

YouTube

Listen to Dentistry Beyond the Numbers on Spotify

Listen to Dentistry Beyond the Numbers on Apple Podcasts

Contact: [email protected] 

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.  

🌟Click here for my free intro course

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In this episode of Straight Up With Steph, Kathryn Gilliam and I are tackling one of the most pressing challenges faced by dental hygienists today: time management. While the expectations of dental hygienists keep growing, the time we have to meet these expectations is not, leaving many of us overwhelmed and on the verge of burnout. 

As a time management coach and dental hygienist herself, Kathryn is a wealth of knowledge and shares her top tips for time management including: using the 20-20-20 approach, being early and prepared, limiting chitchat, multitasking whenever possible, using the best technology, and delegating. 

In addition to time management, Kathryn and I also dig into the importance of building a dental team that is on the same page, advice for hygienists who feel constantly rushed during appointments, and briefly discuss the value of embracing biological hygiene. 

About Kathryn:

Kathryn Gilliam is a certified biological dental hygienist, practicing clinician, writer, speaker, consultant, and lead clinical coach with Inspired Hygiene. She graduated from the University of Texas Dental Branch and started her career with a microscope and the Keye’s Technique way back in 1985. Yes, it’s true! Although she looks like she’s no older than 40, that’s how many years she has been in practice! And she has absolutely loved every minute of it…well, almost.

Connect with Kathryn Gilliam:

PerioLinks

Facebook

Instagram

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.  

🌟Click here for my free intro course

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In this episode of Straight Up With Steph, certified biological hygienist Kristen King joins the podcast as we explore a fascinating yet underutilized tool: dental microscopes. She shares her expert insights on how to incorporate a microscope into your practice, what training looks like to introduce this new tool, and how you can use it to enhance patient participation in their oral health and, thus, grow your practice. 

After having the opportunity to step into biological dentistry and see firsthand how microscopes can provide a more holistic view of patient health, Kristen set out to increase the accessibility of using this incredible tool. Thus, she created Dental Reveal to educate practices on how to incorporate a microscope into their practice and find the right microscope for their needs. 

Through the lens of a microscope, hygienists can see what’s happening at a microbial level in patients’ mouths, which can be hugely educational and motivating. This tool not only serves as an excellent way to educate patients about their oral health but also significantly improves case acceptance by visually demonstrating what might otherwise go unnoticed. Ultimately, microscopes can revolutionize dental hygiene practices, elevate patient care, and boost practice productivity.

About Kristen King:

Kristen King has 29 years of clinical experience and is a member of the American Academy for Oral & Systemic Health (AAOSH) and the International Academy Of Oral Medicine & Toxicology (IAOMT) where she has completed her HIAOMT training and is accredited as a biological dental hygienist. She’s a Bale/Doneen preceptor and has been published in Today’s RDH magazine. Kristen founded Dental Reveal, a dental microscope education company to help dental and hygiene practices educate patients on oral-systemic disease.

Connect with Kristen King:

Dental Reveal

Instagram

Facebook

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.  

🌟Click here for my free intro course

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In this episode of Straight Up With Steph, I am joined by Dr. Jennifer Eisenhuth (aka Dr. Jen, Founder of Dr. Jen Natural) to unpack a hot topic in dentistry: nano-hydroxyapatite vs. fluoride. With controversy over fluoride arising, Dr. Jen introduces an alternative to remineralization and enamel protection by using nano-hydroxyapatite. 

After her daughter developed C. diff following prolonged antibiotic use, Dr. Jen set out to create a clean and effective solution for dental health that her daughter could use. This resulted in the launch of a line of nano-hydroxyapatite-based products. 

Together, we unpack nano-hydroxyapatite, how it compares to fluoride, its role in Xerostomia and sensitivity, and some red flags to look out for when looking for nano-hydroxyapatite toothpaste on the market. 

It is so important for us as clinicians to evolve with the science. This means opening ourselves up to all of our options, not just pushing fluoride because that’s what we’ve always been told. Adding more tools to our toolbox only benefits our patients by giving us alternatives to offer more personalized and effective dental health solutions. 

About Dr. Jen:

Dr. Jennifer Eisenhuth isn’t just someone who got an idea and made a toothpaste—she is a highly trained and experienced dental professional. She graduated from the University of Minnesota Medical School in 1994 at the top of her class and earned the Minnesota Association of Orthodontic Achievement Award. She then began her residency in orthodontics at the University of Minnesota, where she earned both a certificate in orthodontics and a Master of Science degree. Since 1996, she has led her own practice where she offers both orthodontic and general dentistry care. As a mom of three kids and a dentist, she knows how important it is to provide safe, remineralizing, and healthy products for children’s long-term health and development. This started her on the quest to find a remineralizing toothpaste that works. After not seeing adequate remineralizing and healthy toothpaste available, she took on the challenge of satisfying this gap. Bringing her prior experience as an engineer and working alongside chemists, she created the ultimate remineralizing toothpaste using clinically proven ingredients to strengthen teeth.

Connect with Dr. Jen:

DrJenNatural.com 

DrJenOralCare.com 

Dr. Jen CE Presentation

Instagram

To watch on YouTube, click here.

Links Mentioned in this Episode: 

European Commission: Hydroxyapatite (nano)

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.  

🌟Click here for my free intro course

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In this episode of Straight Up With Steph, Sade Morel, another dental hygienist who made the leap from traditional practice models, outlines her path to building an independent dental hygiene practice in California. 

Driven by the desire for autonomy and frustration with outdated business models limiting hygienists, Sade knew she wanted more from her career. After overhearing about a unique program that supports hygienists working outside of traditional dental offices, she knew exactly where she was headed and now supports others doing the same. 

Sade is passionate about making changes to how we practice. Whether you want to offer mobile services or open your own brick-and-mortar business, no details are spared. Together, we unpack financial considerations, business logistics such as insurance and equipment procurement, and what it takes to build your clientele. 

Despite the challenges that come with being a business owner, Sade shares an inspiring message: straying from traditional practice models is so rewardin,g and if she can do it, so can you!

About Sade Morel:

Sade Morel is a Registered Dental Hygienist in Alternative Practice in Southern California. She has been working as a dental hygienist for 10 years, with 6 of those years having practiced independently. Between offering mobile services and opening her own brick-and-mortar dental hygiene-only practice, she has found the autonomy and job satisfaction all hygienists deserve. 

Connect with Sade:

Instagram: @smilesbysade_rdhap

Email: [email protected]

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.  

🌟Click here for my free intro course

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In this episode of Straight Up With Steph, dental hygienist and entrepreneur Jazmine Chavez shares her insights into breaking off from the norm and opening up an independent practice. With changes to legislation and the future of our profession shifting as we speak, I wanted to bring on a guest who can shed light on the options that are out there for dental professionals. 

After working as a dental hygienist for many years, Jazmine decided to embark on a pioneer journey and open her own brick-and-mortar hygiene-only practice in a field traditionally dominated by offices with dentists. She shares with us why she chose to practice this way, how she did it step-by-step, and the pros and cons she is learning along the way. 

Jazmine is a wealth of knowledge and an open book for starting an independent practice. And if this is something you’ve considered doing yourself, you’ll be happy to know she is also a coach, helping hygienists and dental professionals who want to start their own company within dentistry.

About Jazmine Chavez:

Jazmine Chavez is a New Mexico native and single mom to two amazing sons. She has been in the dental profession for nearly 15 years, currently working as a dental hygienist and worked as an assistant before starting hygiene school. She is a clinical instructor at Pima Medical Institute, owner of Pearl House Dental Hygiene in New Mexico, and owner of The Dental HyGenius Dental Business Development Company.

Connect with Jazmine:

Email: [email protected]

Instagram: Pearl House Dental Hygiene Studio

Instagram: The Dental Hygenius

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.  

🌟Click here for my free intro course

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In this episode of Straight Up With Steph, I am joined by returning guest Alyssa Aberle to take a closer look at the Dental Access Model Act, specifically looking at the Certification of Oral Preventive Assistants (OPA) section as introduced by the American Dental Association (ADA). We unpack what this is, what it means for the future of our profession, and what we, as practitioners, can do about it. 

Alyssa, a seasoned dental hygienist, has been at the forefront of discussions around legislation that could negatively impact dental professionals and our patients, advocating for change in the right direction. 

This episode is a must-listen if you want to better understand the current state of our industry and where our future is headed.

About Alyssa Aberle:

Alyssa Aberle is a Colorado dental hygienist with a deep understanding of our profession and a big dream for our future. Alyssa has spent her dental hygiene career working with several local nonprofit and community health organizations, including Kids In Need of Dentistry, Salud Family Health Centers, Colorado Orthodontic Foundation, STRIDE Community Health Center (formerly MCPN), and currently Deserving Dental. While working with these organizations, Alyssa pursued a Master’s in Business Administration to gain a deeper grasp on organizational management and leadership. Alyssa currently works in a mobile dental program serving homeless shelters and residential treatment facilities. Alyssa served as the Executive Director for the Colorado Dental Hygienists’ Association for the past 8 years until recently moving into a volunteer position in the association. Alyssa is passionate about advocacy and advancing the profession of dental hygiene.

Connect with Alyssa:

Instagram

[email protected]

To watch on YouTube, click here

Links mentioned in this episode:

Straight Up With Steph Ep 22: How Internationally-Trained Dentists Could Impact U.S. Hygienists

Dental Access Model Act

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.  

🌟Click here for my free intro course

🌟Click here for my operator positioning course

🌟Click here for my courses + club memberships

 To connect with me: 

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In this episode of Straight Up With Steph, Melissa Groves Azzaro and I are unpacking the intricate relationship between nutrition, exercise, and hormonal balance! She dives into conditions such as PCOS and perimenopause, as well as shedding light on some of the root causes of fatigue, acne, weight gain/ difficulty managing weight, and hair loss. 

As an integrative and functional women’s health dietitian, Melissa’s focus is finding the root cause of the conditions impacting us, not just slapping a generic bandaid on what she thinks will fix the problem. 

As it turns out, what we choose to put in our mouths goes beyond the impacts on our dental health. It affects our entire body and can be the root cause of many of the “common” concerns we, as women, face. 

Be sure to listen for the two supplements she recommends women take to maintain muscle mass, promote healthy skin and bones, and maintain brain health.

To watch on Youtube, click here

About Melissa:

Melissa Groves Azzaro, RDN, LD, CEO & Founder of The Hormone Dietitian® LLC, is an award-winning integrative dietitian who helps busy women with hormone imbalances, PCOS, and perimenopause manage hormonal symptoms and metabolic issues. She uses a functional medicine approach to identify and address the root causes of symptoms with a personalized nutrition, supplement, and lifestyle plan to balance hormones and optimize fertility. She works virtually with clients in the US in one-on-one and in group programs, is the creator of The PCOS Root Cause Roadmap™ and The Period Problems Root Cause Roadmap™, is the author of A Balanced Approach to PCOS, and is the host of the podcast Hormonally Yours with The Hormone Dietitian.

Connect with Melissa:

The Hormone Dietitian

Instagram

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.  

🌟Click here for my free intro course

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🌟Click here for my courses + club memberships

 To connect with me: 

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