In this milestone episode, we’re celebrating both the 100th episode of the Brush with Britt podcast and the close of Dental Hygiene Month with a special tribute to the dental hygiene community.
This episode features a collection of incredible hygienists who have made an impact on my personal and professional journey. Each guest shares who they are, their favorite part about being a dental hygienist, and a piece of advice or encouragement for others in the profession.
While this episode highlights only a few voices, it represents the many hygienists who continue to inspire, support, and uplift one another in this field. It’s a celebration of growth, community, and our shared passion for prevention and patient care.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
Reflections from inspiring dental hygienists
Personal stories and favorite moments in hygiene
Advice and encouragement for every stage of your career
Guest List:
Dr. Joy Boyd Holmes – info@drjoyrdh.com
Amanda Hill – amandahillrdh@gmail.com
Shelley Brown – care@shelley.dental
Derik Sven – derik@dentistrywithderik.com
Angela Do – anchihdo@gmail.com
Sue Scherer – sueschererrdh@gmail.com
Jessica Atkinson – Jessica.Atkinson@utahtech.edu
Amber Lovatos – amlovatos@gmail.com
Dr. Emily Boge – ereinert@hotmail.com
Susan Cotten – oralcancerconsulting@gmail.com
Whitney DiFoggio – whitney@teethtalkgirl.com
Shelby Wagenman – shelbywagenman@yahoo.com
Anistinn Donovan – floss.fairy.anistinn@gmail.com
You’ll leave this episode feeling motivated, inspired, and ready to continue striving for excellence in your dental hygiene career!
In this episode, I sit down with Marvelyn Navarro, RDH, founder of Perio Precise, to talk all about the Perio Endoscope.
With over 15 years in clinical and administrative dental hygiene, Marvelyn shares how endoscopy has transformed her approach to patient care making perio therapy more precise, predictable, and impactful. From the science behind subgingival visualization to how you can bring this technology into your own operatory, this episode will leave you inspired and curious about the future of non-surgical periodontal therapy.
Whether you’re a student hygienist learning the foundations, a new grad building confidence in perio care, or a seasoned clinician ready to level up your toolkit, this episode will help you see perio in a whole new way.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
-What the Perio Endoscope is and how it elevates patient outcomes
-How Marvelyn integrates advanced technology into daily hygiene practice
-Advice for hygienists interested in endoscopic training and career growth
-The importance of staying inspired and continued learning in a fast-evolving profession
About Marvelyn Navarro, RDH:
Marvelyn Navarro, RDH, is a dedicated dental hygienist with over 15 years of clinical and administrative experience. Her passion lies in preventive care, periodontal therapy, and addressing airway-related and oral-systemic health concerns to improve overall health outcomes.
She is the founder of Perio Precise, where she provides advanced subgingival therapy using the Perio Endoscope and offers clinical training to hygienists nationwide. As a Key Opinion Leader, national speaker, and content creator, Marvelyn is known for her engaging and relatable approach to education and clinical excellence.
Currently serving as the President-Elect of the Nevada Dental Hygienists’ Association, Marvelyn is an advocate for the profession and finds great joy in mentoring and inspiring dental hygiene students. Outside of dentistry, she’s a proud wife and mom of two, and together her family has traveled to over 20 countries, with many more on the list!
Her mission is simple: to raise the standard of care, support her colleagues, and make periodontal therapy more precise, predictable, and impactful.
Contact:
Email: Marvelyn.rdh@gmail.com
Instagram: @marvelynrdh | @perioprecise
Connect with Brush with Britt
Email: brushwithbritt@gmail.com
Social channels: @brushwithbritt
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 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: care@shelley.dental
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:
alanahallrdh@gmail.com
Recommended reading:
"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!! 💌: BrushwithBritt@gmail.com
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
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.
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: shelbywagenman@yahoo.com
Tiktok: @Shelby_RDH
Instagram: @shelbyy.rdh
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
amlovatos@gmail.com
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.
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, Britt sits 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: derik@dentistrywithderik.com
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 thoughts and opinions shared by guests on the BrushwithBritt 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.
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! amandahillrdh@gmail.com
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 Sade:
Instagram: Sadé V. Gammage
TikTok: @sadev.rdh
Email: sadegammagerdh@gmail.com
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!! 💌: BrushwithBritt@gmail.com
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:
Instagram: @aestheticleenm
Email: lindsey.miran.lee@gmail.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!! 💌: BrushwithBritt@gmail.com
Welcome to SEASON 5! 🥳
In this kickoff episode, we’re going back to our roots, talking about the heart ❤️ of dental hygiene and the powerful meaning behind taking the Dental Hygiene Oath 📝.
This episode is a tribute to the passion, purpose, and professionalism that make dental hygienists essential 🧠💪It’s more than just cleanings. It’s prevention, advocacy, education, and care. 🌿✨
This season is all about owning your role, stepping into your power 💥, and celebrating what it truly means to be a dental hygienist 🪥👩⚕️. Let’s launch into a season of growth, empowerment, and connection 🚀💬.
Subscribe, share, and let’s brush up on what makes this profession so special 💖!
Follow me for more!
Instagram: @BrushwithBritt
Tiktok: @BrushwithBritt
Youtube: @BrushwithBritt
Facebook: BrushwithBritt
Want to have me on your podcast? Want to be a guest on my podcast?
💌: BrushwithBritt@gmail.com
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:
happyflosserrdh@gmail.com
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:🤳
jessica@hygieneedge.com
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 brushwithbritt@gmail.com
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: sueschererrdh@gmail.com
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 ~ SadeRDHAP@gmail.com
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."
