In this episode, we dive deep into the realities of life after dental school. From managing team communication to navigating different patient personalities and balancing work-life dynamics, we uncover the truths and challenges that new dental professionals face.

Join Emma as she shares her experiences of over a decade in the dental industry practical advice, and the lessons she’s learned along the way.

Key Topics Covered:

1. The Human Element

2. The Business of Dentistry

3. Ethical Considerations

And more!

Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to our podcast for more insights and tips about navigating the dental profession. Don’t forget to leave a review and share this episode with your friends and colleagues. Have questions or topic suggestions? Email us at [email protected] 

In this episode, we dive into the personal experience of an Australian Oral Health Therapist Li-Ming who applied and successfully received registration to work as dental professional in the UK. 

Li-Ming chats us through the admin, unexpected roadblocks, wait time, costs and everything in between while navigating the General Dental Council (GDC) application process

Key Topics Covered:

Guest Highlights:

Links and Resources Mentioned in the Episode:

The final episode in "How to Refer to a Specialist" series with Specialist Endodontist Dr Aovana Timmerman.

What You’ll Learn:

Speaker Bio: Dr Aovana Timmerman graduated with a Bachelor of Dental Science from the University of Melbourne in 2001. 

After completing her fellowship with the Royal Australasian College of Dental Surgeons (RACDS) in 2010, she continued with her specialist training in endodontics, obtaining a Doctorate of Clinical Dentistry in Endodontics, also from the University of Melbourne.

Aovana has been involved in endodontic education since 2011. Currently, she is a clinical demonstrator for the Doctor of Dental Surgery Endodontic program at The University of Melbourne and examines dentists in the Membership (GDP) program for RACDS and Australian Dental Council. Above all, she is a lovely person and this is her second Talk Dental to Me episode so we are very lucky to have her end this series!

Aovana will walk you through the essential elements of an orthodontic referral and key stages of development to refer on.

In this episode with Specialist Orthodontist Dr Katie Xu, we’ll dive into the essential elements of crafting a top-notch referral, improving patient outcomes, and strengthening professional relationships. Whether you are a Dentist, Oral Health Therapist, Dental Hygienist or Dental Therapist - these tips will help streamline your referral process.

What You’ll Learn:

Connect with Us:
Got questions, have a podcast idea or would like to be on the podcast yourself? Share them with us! Email us at [email protected] or connect on Instagram [@emma.cubis / @talkdental.tome

We are very lucky to have the incredible Dr Emilija Jensen on this episode and she will discuss the essential components of a stellar paeds referral and how to effectively communicate with specialist paediatric dentists

By the end of this episode, you'll have actionable steps to elevate your referral process and ensure your patients receive the best possible collaborative care.

Dr Emilija will walk you through the essential elements of a pediatric dental referral, including how to identify when to refer, what information to include, and how to prepare both the child and parents for a smooth transition to specialised care.

Episode Highlights:

Guest Bio: Dr Emilija Jensen is a Specialist Paediatric Dentist at the Dental Department of the Women’s and Children’s Hospital. She graduated with a Bachelor of Dental Surgery and concurrent Bachelor of Dental Science awarded with First Class Honours from the University of Adelaide in 2012. She then completed a Doctor of Clinical Dentistry in Paediatric Dentistry from the University of Adelaide in 2020. Emilija has commenced a PhD through ARCPOH, University of Adelaide in the area of cleft lip and palate.

Thank you to Byron Medical for powering the "How to Refer to Specialist Series" and this episode of the podcast.

My refractive ergoloupes from Byron Medical: https://www.byronmedical.com.au/?gclid=Cj0KCQiA_qG5BhDTARIsAA0UHSJ16tbyCZGg6iLBJZwEqOEnAS8HMusBZ9WIeksJAObmjSwNx5lko4AaAkVBEALw_wcB

In this episode, we dive deep into the critical process of creating an effective referral to an oral medicine and oral pathology specialist with Dr Amanda Phoon Nguyen.

Whether dealing with complex oral lesions, undiagnosed soft tissue abnormalities, or systemic conditions manifesting in the oral cavity, knowing how to craft a clear, comprehensive referral can significantly impact patient outcomes.

We’ll cover when and why to refer, the key components to include, and how to ensure smooth collaboration between general dentists and specialists.

Episode Highlights:

1. The Role of Oral Medicine and Oral Pathology Specialists

2. When Should You Refer to an Oral Medicine/Pathology Specialist?

3. Key Elements of a Stellar Referral

4. Providing Adequate Supporting Documentation

5. Communicating Clearly with the Specialist

6. Preparing Your Patient for the Specialist Visit

7. Following Up Post-Referral

8. Common Pitfalls in the Referral Process

Referrals are more than just routine paperwork; they are a vital part of ensuring comprehensive patient care.

We are very lucky to have the incredible Dr Rebecca Ellis on this episode and she will discuss the essential components of a stellar referral, how to effectively communicate with periodontists, and what to include to improve the patient’s periodontal outcomes.

By the end of this episode, you'll have actionable steps to elevate your referral process and ensure your patients receive the best possible periodontal care.

Episode Highlights:

1. Understanding the Importance of a Proper Referral:

2. Key Indicators for Referral to a Periodontist:

3. What Makes a Stellar Referral:

4. Effective Communication Between General Dentists and Periodontists

5. Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Dr Rebecca Ellis Bio:

Dr Rebecca Ellis graduated top of her class with BDS (Distinction) from the University of Otago, New Zealand 2011. In 2015 Rebecca moved to Melbourne, Australia to complete a three-year doctoral degree in Periodontology at the University of Melbourne. During her training she was awarded an ITI research grant for preclinical research in implant dentistry. Her research interests include preclinical and clinical research in immediate implant placement and also guided bone regeneration. Rebecca is a fellow of the ITI, and current Australasian Section Chair. She is a member ofNZDA, ADA &ANZAP. Rebecca enjoys teaching and presenting both locally and internationally. Since 2018 Rebecca has been a young KOL for Geistlich Asia-Pacific. She also presents for Straumann, Nobel Biocare and EMS. She holds honorary faculty positions at both Charles Sturt University, NSW and the University of Melbourne. In 2020 Rebecca launched a new initiative- ‘Women in Dentistry- Ladies who lunch and learn’, a group focused on the wellbeing, education and support of the female demographic within the dental profession of New Zealand. Rebecca is a specialist Periodontist working in full-time private practice at Sydney Periodontics Implant Centre. In 2024 she become co-director of the practice.

Thank you to Byron Medical for powering this episode of the podcast!

In this episode, we delve into the latest advancements in dental hygiene with the immensely passionate and inspirational Certified GBT trainer, Kevin Ohashi Lopez. 

We explore the groundbreaking concept of Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT) and how it's transforming the way we approach oral care. We also discuss the pivotal role of EMS Airflow technology in achieving optimal oral health.

Kevin Ohashi Lopez, MHA, BSDH, RDH, is a San Francisco-based dental hygienist. He graduated from West Coast University in 2019 and obtained a master's in health administration. Currently practicing in Napa Valley, Kevin brings diverse dental experience, with both front- and back-office expertise. He is a speaker, ambassador, mentor, Guided Biofilm Therapy trainer with the Swiss Dental Academy, and NBDHE review faculty with Sanders Board Preparatory.

Key Topics:

Can you have it all? This episode explores the inspiring story of Mary Jane Livingston, a dental hygienist who wears many hats – a skilled professional, a dedicated mom, and a captivating online presence. We delve into her journey of juggling a demanding career with the joys of motherhood and we also get real about her experiences of working while pregnant and the transition back to dental hygiene while building a successful platform while staying true to herself.

Key Points Discussed:

Who Should Listen:

Links and Resources:

A big thank you to my friends at Byron Medical for powering this episode of the podcast!