The Happy Flosser RDH

By Billie Lunt RDH MSDH

The path to becoming a Registered Dental Hygienist (RDH) can be a challenging journey. There is such a vast amount of specialized information that you need to know to be successful on your national and state board exams. We will cover a wide variety of information that you can easily review in short sessions. My hope is to help you with some of the basic concepts and challenges that you face as a student in the dental hygiene program and beyond.
Study Sheets: Thehappyflosserrdh.Etsy.com
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#67: The History of Fluoride - How did we get here?

The Happy Flosser RDHAug 19, 2022

00:00

17:47

#155: "Helpisode" Smartweight Technology with Marna Pacheco

Many of our dental patients present in the office with some level of dental anxiety. Often times it takes a bit of time working with our patients to discover the level of anxiety they have or the source behind their dental anxiety.
Marna Pacheco is the owner of CapeAble. She has developed weighted products that align with current neuroscience using smartweight technology to optimize more nerve contact. Simply put, the product works!
In this episode, I speak with Marna and learn her story of how CapeAble was formed. I just love her story and could not wait to share her story and her product development. I have personally used her products in the clinical setting and can't say enough about the benefits of use! I started working on sharing language with patients and found that "Comfort Shield" worked the best to produce an inviting and open mind to the use of these products with patients. I hope you open your mind to discovering how this product can help you with your patients.
To contact Marna or learn more about her company:
CapeAble.com
marna@capeable.com
Marna will be at RDH Under One Roof 2024 at booth #1220 Stop by and say hello! CODE: RDH2024 to receive a discount on your order
Additional resources:

Additional resources: Study Sheets: thehappyflosserrdh.etsy.com/
Other Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/dental_hygiene_podcasts/
Take a look at a recent product I have tried and recommend. bit.ly/thehappyflosser promo code: HAPPYFLOSSER
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Apr 19, 202428:36

#154: Radiology: Sensor Placement

Taking a diagnostic set of radiographs requires skill and lots of practice. As a dental hygienist, you are responsible to take diagnostic radiographs to provide the dentist with images to assess and diagnose the presence of dental disease. In this episode, I will review proper sensor placement for taking radiographs on your patient to allow you the opportunity to review the techniques.

Additional resources: Study Sheets: thehappyflosserrdh.etsy.com/
Other Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/dental_hygiene_podcasts/
Take a look at a recent product I have tried and recommend. bit.ly/thehappyflosser promo code: HAPPYFLOSSER
Send Messages to: anchor.fm/billie43/message.

Apr 12, 202415:51

#153: “Helpisode”: Bias within the Healthcare Realm with Kristine Berry

Are you aware of bias? Kristine is an expert in helping the dental hygienist identify their own bias related to patient care. As providers, we need to be aware of our bias. Kristine talks about ways in which we can identify bias and how to navigate through situations where we identify our bias. The first step is identification, become aware of how you speak, what you say, and how you say it. Consider the reasons why you say certain things or feel a certain way. Kristine is the founder of Dental Diversity and Inclusion alliance. She provides great examples of implicit bias and how it impacts the care that we provide patients, the types of treatment plans we create, the products we offer, and our expectations, just as a few examples. To contact Kristine for more information reach out to her: coachkristineberry@gmail.com

Additional resources: Study Sheets: https://thehappyflosserrdh.etsy.com/ Other Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/dental_hygiene_podcasts/ Take a look at a recent product I have tried and recommend. bit.ly/thehappyflosser promo code: HAPPYFLOSSER Send Messages to: https://anchor.fm/billie43/message.

Apr 05, 202436:55

#152: PSR Probe

We use many tools and instruments in the clinical setting to measure the extent of dental disease. The PSR probe is an example of a dental instrument that helps a clinician quickly and easily make a determination of the presence of health or disease during the screening process. The PSR will help the clinician determine if there is a need for a comprehensive evaluation. It is also used in several dental index models.

Additional resources: Study Sheets: thehappyflosserrdh.etsy.com/
Other Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/dental_hygiene_podcasts/
Take a look at a recent product I have tried and recommend. bit.ly/thehappyflosser promo code: HAPPYFLOSSER
Send Messages to: anchor.fm/billie43/message.

Mar 29, 202410:60

#151: “Helpisode”: Avoid Career Burnout and Keep Growing with Laura Bettencourt and Danielle Avila

The perspective of others is important to hear as you are about to embark on the world of dental hygiene. In this episode, I speak with Laura Bettencourt and Danielle Avila about their journey along the path in dental hygiene. They share what lead them to develop a coaching program and where they want to see the profession grow in the future. We discuss the essential benefits all of us discovered about networking with others and creating a support network. I hope this episode helps you see the value in developing your networking skills and coaching services to support your growth. You can reach out to Diamond dental or follow them on Instagram.

Additional resources: Study Sheets: thehappyflosserrdh.etsy.com/
Other Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/dental_hygiene_podcasts/
Take a look at a recent product I have tried and recommend. bit.ly/thehappyflosser promo code: HAPPYFLOSSER
Send Messages to: anchor.fm/billie43/message.

Mar 22, 202422:41

#150: Radiology: Density is your Destiny!

Radiographic density brings us back to elementary school science class experiments. It is important to understand the correlation between the density of the object you are imaging and how it presents itself on an image. Several factors impact density that you need to know as a clinician. Let’s discuss this today so your images are top-notch!

Mar 15, 202413:36

#149: Anxiety - Care of the Dental Patient

Dental anxiety is a real barrier to care for many patients. It can keep patients from seeking preventive care and limit their ability to maintain a healthy mouth. Let’s talk about the role of the dental hygienist in supporting the needs of patients to overcome some of the obstacles related to the dental anxiety they experience. Additional resources: Study Sheets: thehappyflosserrdh.etsy.com/
Other Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/dental_hygiene_podcasts/
Take a look at a recent product I have tried and recommend. bit.ly/thehappyflosser promo code: HAPPYFLOSSER
Send Messages to: anchor.fm/billie43/message.

Mar 08, 202418:17

#148: Special Needs: Seizure Disorder Patients

We treat patients with all sorts of Cronin disease and conditions. In this episode, we will discuss the patient who suffers from seizure disorders. It is important as a clinician to understand our patients level of risk, needs, and dental challenges. Additional resources: Study Sheets: thehappyflosserrdh.etsy.com/
Other Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/dental_hygiene_podcasts/
Take a look at a recent product I have tried and recommend. bit.ly/thehappyflosser promo code: HAPPYFLOSSER
Send Messages to: anchor.fm/billie43/message.

Mar 01, 202413:54

#147: Getting ready to take your National Board Exam (NBDHE)

Taking the national board exam can provoke significant levels of anxiety, stress, and doubt. There is so much content covered on the exam that students can feel a bit overwhelmed when they first start the preparation process. In this episode we are going to cover what is on the exam, how to prepare for a successful outcome, and tips that will help you in the weeks leading up to exam day. Some of the information in this podcast comes right out of the NBDHE 2024 candidate guide. Study Sheets: thehappyflosserrdh.etsy.com/

Feb 23, 202419:41

#146: Non Narcotic Analgesics

Non narcotic analgesics are a commonly prescribed and widely used drugs for mild to moderate pain. It is important for the dental hygienist to be aware of the therapeutic effects, side effects, contraindications, dental implications and precautions surrounding this category of drugs. Additional resources: Study Sheets: thehappyflosserrdh.etsy.com/
Other Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/dental_hygiene_podcasts/
Take a look at a recent product I have tried and recommend. bit.ly/thehappyflosser promo code: HAPPYFLOSSER
Send Messages to: anchor.fm/billie43/message.

Feb 16, 202412:25

#145: Oral Pathology: connecting the dots

Episode #31 introduced you to the descriptions we use to document oral pathology. In this episode we dive a bit deeper to distinguish between different types of lesions and treatment considerations for care. It is important to document findings, have a plan, and closely monitor lesions that you see. Follow up with patients on treatment recommendations related to a diagnosis. Additional resources: Study Sheets: thehappyflosserrdh.etsy.com/
Other Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/dental_hygiene_podcasts/
Take a look at a recent product I have tried and recommend. bit.ly/thehappyflosser promo code: HAPPYFLOSSER
Send Messages to: anchor.fm/billie43/message.

Feb 09, 202415:32

#144: Coronal Polishing and Air Flow

Coronal polishing has been seen as the core of the prophylaxis by most of the population for decades. Those of us in the field are aware of this misconception. As providers driven to practice following the evidence, I have asked myself many times. Why are we still polishing? In this episode I will share my journey on coronal polishing as well as the struggle to increase awareness and understanding of the reasons why we shouldn’t polish our patients teeth. Airflow technology has provided us with a safe and effective alternative to polishing that makes sense to both clinicians and patients. We have finally found the answer we were looking for all this time. It’s time to lay down that hand piece and get moving on airflow.

Feb 02, 202414:46

#143: The Decision Making Process: Ethical Dilemma in Dental Hygiene

Ethics provides us with the decision-making model. We use our ADHA core Values as a guidepost to consider all of our options as a healthcare provider and weigh out the risks involved.
It would be nice to think that we will never have an ethical dilemma. The reality is that we will all face ethical dilemmas throughout our careers. The best thing you can do is be prepared and ready for when an ethical dilemma does happen.
Using the decision-making model as a guide, you will be sure to arrive at a decision that is at the heart of our core principles. Considering all of your options and reflecting on those options takes time, so provide yourself a little time to make a decision.

Additional resources: Study Sheets: thehappyflosserrdh.etsy.com/
Other Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/dental_hygiene_podcasts/
Take a look at a recent product I have tried and recommend. bit.ly/thehappyflosser promo code: HAPPYFLOSSER
Send Messages to: anchor.fm/billie43/message.

Jan 26, 202412:24

#142: For the Love of Public Health with Melanie Solari

Join me as I talk with Melanie Solari about her journey to becoming a dental hygienist. Melanie shares her story as an experience of continued evolution and growth.
Melanie's story is an example of my favorite quote "Little by little, a little becomes a lot" Melanie shares how her path pushed her to develop herself, listen to her inner voice, and keep growing on her journey in the field of dental hygiene. Melanie's passion for the field is evident. Her love for public health and the opportunity to work with students can be felt in her voice and her words.

Additional resources: Study Sheets: thehappyflosserrdh.etsy.com/
Other Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/dental_hygiene_podcasts/
Take a look at a recent product I have tried and recommend. bit.ly/thehappyflosser promo code: HAPPYFLOSSER
Send Messages to: anchor.fm/billie43/message.

Jan 19, 202429:46

#141: You can do this! with Christine Phillips

In this episode, I have guest Christine Phillips who owns RDHPro Connect. Christine shared her journey to becoming a RDH and the discovery of how we can sometimes fail our way to the best successes. Christine was driven by her desire to support others in the profession to create RDHPro Connect. Listen in as Christine shares some of her journey and advice on the field of dental hygiene.
Reach out to Christine on her instagram @rdhproconnect

Additional resources: Study Sheets: thehappyflosserrdh.etsy.com/
Other Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/dental_hygiene_podcasts/
Take a look at a recent product I have tried and recommend. bit.ly/thehappyflosser promo code: HAPPYFLOSSER
Send Messages to: anchor.fm/billie43/message.

Jan 12, 202431:41

#140: Plan for a successful next semester

The Christmas break can seem too short, and full of many things that keep us from actually resting and recovering from the rigors of the fall semester. In this episode, we will review some of the main strategies that will help you stay focused on your plan for a successful start to the spring semester. Sometimes it is good to be reminded of why we are doing this thing called dental hygiene school. Stay focused on your end goal. We can sometimes lose motivation and drive once the "honeymoon" phase of dental hygiene school ends. Remember how excited you were when you received your letter of acceptance into the program? Once the semester begins and you start feeling the side effects of school rigors, the energy and excitement can fade. Fatigue, stress, and demands can take over your focus. You don't want to let things drag you down to a point where you lose site of your reason for wanting to begin this journey in the first place. Take some time to recenter yourself and get back into the game. Focus your thoughts on your "WHY" to keep you motivated and committed to the demands and rigors of the program. You can do this - You will do this!
Study Sheets: thehappyflosserrdh.etsy.com/
Additional Information: blog.feedspot.com/dental_hygiene_podcasts/
Take a look at a recent product I have tried and recommend. bit.ly/thehappyflosser promo code:HAPPYFLOSSER

Jan 06, 202415:36

#139: Advocacy and Growth with Shavonne Healy

Shavonne Healy is defined by me as a true change agent for the profession of dental hygiene. Shavonne and I did our masters degree program at the University of Bridgeport together. I had the opportunity to get to know Shavonne during that time and admired her ability to speak out about the challenges of our profession as it relates to access to care. Shavonne is a brave ambassador for the field and is always eager to support the developing needs of dental hygienists across the country.
In this episode, Shavonne shares her journey, advice for students, the standard of care, ethics, and the development of learning beyond school.
You can learn more about Shavonne at smilebrillant.com/rdh/profile/srhrdh
join her email list at www.ahigherlearning.co/
email her directly at: mail to.contact@ahigherlearning.co

Additional Resources:
Study Sheets: thehappyflosserrdh.etsy.com/
Other Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/dental_hygiene_podcasts/
Take a look at a recent product I have tried and recommend. bit.ly/thehappyflosser promo code: HAPPYFLOSSER
Send Messages to: anchor.fm/billie43/message.

Dec 29, 202325:21

#138: Learn, Pivot, and Grow with Melondy Martin

Our life unfolds as a series of small incremental steps and decisions that lead us down a path. The path takes many twists and turns - this is the journey we call life.

In this episode, I speak with Melondy Martin, Owner of Improved Dental Solutions. Melondy is a Dental Hygienist and entrepreneur passionate about growth over time.
Melondy shares her own story with our audience to express the need to ask yourself, What's Next? Success comes from continued growth over time that adds up to mastering a skill needed in the world. Melondy helps us to consider the possibilities of what is possible.
You can contact Melondy at www.improveddentalsol.com or email her at info@improveddentalsol.com

Additional resources: Study Sheets: thehappyflosserrdh.etsy.com/
Other Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/dental_hygiene_podcasts/
Take a look at a recent product I have tried and recommend. bit.ly/thehappyflosser promo code: HAPPYFLOSSER
Send Messages to: anchor.fm/billie43/message.

Dec 22, 202326:24

#137: “Helpisode”: Providers Unite! Medical and Dental Integration with Bambi Dixon

Today on the podcast I have an open conversation with Bambi Dixon on her recent research into interprofessional care and dental/medical integration. Communication is the key to successful medical/dental integration. Bambi has had conversations with providers and challenged providers to ask the screening questions necessary to provide comprehensive preventive care to our most vulnerable populations which includes oral health status.
Diabetic patients are at a higher risk for developing periodontal disease. They have a harder time with the healing process and responding to pathogen overloads. It is also important to realize that A1C can be impacted by unstable periodontal infection making it very important for our patients to receive care for their periodontal disease - especially our diabetic patients.
We recognize as healthcare providers that we are trying to create healthy living choices for our patients to manage disease and prevent progression. Collaboration between the dental provider and the healthcare practitioner will create the opportunity to increase knowledge and awareness around oral health and the impact it can have on A1C and diabetes stability.

Additional resources: Study Sheets: thehappyflosserrdh.etsy.com/
Other Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/dental_hygiene_podcasts/
Take a look at a recent product I have tried and recommend. bit.ly/thehappyflosser promo code: HAPPYFLOSSER
Send Messages to: anchor.fm/billie43/message.

Dec 15, 202341:07

#136 Protein: Roles and Functions

Nutritional considerations are one of the key aspects of the assessment for the dental hygienist. Patients have many variations of food choices which impact how they present in the dental chair. In this episode we take a look at the role of proteins and how they impact oral health in the body. Additional resources: Study Sheets: thehappyflosserrdh.etsy.com/
Other Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/dental_hygiene_podcasts/
Take a look at a recent product I have tried and recommend. bit.ly/thehappyflosser promo code: HAPPYFLOSSER
Send Messages to: anchor.fm/billie43/message

Dec 09, 202317:24

#135: Diabetes and Periodontal Disease

Our patients need medical-dental integration for them to receive comprehensive care for the treatment of both diabetes and periodontal disease. It is up to us as healthcare providers to first understand the connection between periodontal disease and glycemic index. We are responsible for collaborating with medical professionals to meet the specific needs of our patients.
In this episode, I will cover the basics of screening for diabetes and the role we play in educating our patients who are at a higher risk for developing diabetes or who are having trouble managing the disease.

Additional resources: Study Sheets: thehappyflosserrdh.etsy.com/
Other Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/dental_hygiene_podcasts/
Take a look at a recent product I have tried and recommend. bit.ly/thehappyflosser promo code: HAPPYFLOSSER
Send Messages to: anchor.fm/billie43/message.

Dec 01, 202318:50

#134: Student Chat: A Dental Hygiene Student Shares His Journey

In this episode, I have a conversation with one of my very own NHTI senior dental hygiene students Zack. He shares the journey that brought him to dental hygiene school, some of the challenges and obstacles he has faced, and some of the triumphs that have occurred on his journey. Zack shares his poem from Oral Anatomy 1 and so much more about life as a dental hygiene student.

Additional resources: Study Sheets: thehappyflosserrdh.etsy.com/
Other Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/dental_hygiene_podcasts/
Take a look at a recent product I have tried and recommend. bit.ly/thehappyflosser promo code: HAPPYFLOSSER
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Nov 19, 202346:57

#131: Tobacco Cessation - Our Role as Oral Health Professionals

Tobacco cessation is one of the toughest things our patients face and can be one of the most challenging conversations for us to have as oral health therapists. In this episode I speak about some of the effective ways you can lead a conversation with your patient to walk them down the path to being tobacco free.

Additional resources: Study Sheets: thehappyflosserrdh.etsy.com/
Other Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/dental_hygiene_podcasts/
Take a look at a recent product I have tried and recommend. bit.ly/thehappyflosser promo code: HAPPYFLOSSER
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Nov 10, 202320:18

#130: Motivation #3: Stages of Change

In this episode, we will build on the information centered around motivation for our patients. The social cognitive theory and stages of change will be discussed. This can apply to the individual in the clinical setting, or population beliefs when designing a program to shift perspectives among a population.
Additional resources: Study Sheets: thehappyflosserrdh.etsy.com/
Other Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/dental_hygiene_podcasts/
Take a look at a recent product I have tried and recommend. bit.ly/thehappyflosser promo code: HAPPYFLOSSER
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Nov 03, 202313:02

#129: I am Enough - A Poem for College Students

Whenever we are taking on a new challenge or embarking on a journey into the unknown it can be scary. Often times as we approach the high stakes leg of an important journey things can get really tough. In those moments where we are challenges to stretch ourselves and grow we may need to have a gentle reminder that we are capable of many things and that we have what we need to be successful. Additional resources: Study Sheets: thehappyflosserrdh.etsy.com/
Other Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/dental_hygiene_podcasts/
Take a look at a recent product I have tried and recommend. bit.ly/thehappyflosser promo code: HAPPYFLOSSER
Send Messages to: anchor.fm/billie43/message

Oct 27, 202304:22

#128: Evidence Based Research in Dental Hygiene

The dental hygiene student is challenged with developing an understanding of how to do a successful appraisal of research. We deliver care based on the most current research and are evidence based in all we do for our patients. In this episode we will discuss evidence based research and the PICO question. The basics of research development and the process of assessing research that is currently available.
Additional resources: Study Sheets: thehappyflosserrdh.etsy.com/
Other Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/dental_hygiene_podcasts/
Take a look at a recent product I have tried and recommend. bit.ly/thehappyflosser promo code: HAPPYFLOSSER
Send Messages to: anchor.fm/billie43/message. thehappyflosserrdh.etsy.com/listing/1578115418

Oct 20, 202320:03

#127: Pharmacology: Benzo’s, Barbiturates, and Banter with Rachel Leo Flagg

In dental hygiene school, you have to take pharmacology. Drugs are an important component of the medical history and are used to support patients with a variety of conditions. It is important for the dental hygiene student to understand drug pharmacological effects, adverse reactions, side effects, and dental considerations. As providers, we should have an understanding of drug uses and precautions. In this episode, I speak with Rachel Leo Flagg, a professor who has been teaching pharmacology for over a decade to dental hygiene students about barbiturates and benzodiazepines similarities and differences. Rachel helps create an understanding of how to remember important information and the role of the dental hygienist when working with patients who are prescribed these drugs.

Additional resources: Study Sheets: thehappyflosserrdh.etsy.com/
Other Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/dental_hygiene_podcasts/
Take a look at a recent product I have tried and recommend. bit.ly/thehappyflosser promo code: HAPPYFLOSSER
Send Messages to: anchor.fm/billie43/message

Oct 13, 202337:45

#126: Test Taking in Dental Hygiene School

Taking exams can be one of the toughest aspects of dental hygiene school. The entire program is an ongoing accumulation of knowledge building with a continuous expectation of clinical application of theory to practice. It is an essential skill-building component of being a successful student. Taking tests and learning the right way to study can take some practice.
In this episode, we will discuss some of the ways for you to flex your test-taking muscles and improve your results. Keep in mind, that you have to take a national board exam at the end of your program. You may as well learn the strategies and techniques to become a great test taker!

Additional resources: Study Sheets: thehappyflosserrdh.etsy.com/
Other Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/dental_hygiene_podcasts/
Take a look at a recent product I have tried and recommend. bit.ly/thehappyflosser promo code: HAPPYFLOSSER
Send Messages to: anchor.fm/billie43/message
Link to the Study Sheets that cover this episode:
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Oct 06, 202320:10

#125: Assessment of the Periodontally Involved Patient

The first time you have a patient in your chair who has bone loss on the radiographs and presents with active infection may cause you additional stress. You have all of the knowledge you need in order to perform a complete assessment on this type of patient. You will need to use all that you have learned to be comprehensive in your assessment. You can do this!

Additional resources: Study Sheets: thehappyflosserrdh.etsy.com/
Other Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/dental_hygiene_podcasts/
Take a look at a recent product I have tried and recommend. bit.ly/thehappyflosser promo code: HAPPYFLOSSER
Send Messages to: anchor.fm/billie43/message

Link to the study sheets for this episode:
thehappyflosserrdh.etsy.com/listing/1516357545

Sep 29, 202321:04

#124: Nutrition Part 2: Carbs, Proteins, Lipids

As a dental hygienist, you can support your patient's nutritional needs by providing them with education and supporting their efforts to make meaningful changes in their lives. Improving our patients' food choices and habits will go beyond meeting the oral health needs of our patients. It will strengthen the ability of our patients to defend against chronic diseases and lower the risk of systemic deficiencies.
Resources: Diet and Nutrition in Oral Health 3rd edition Palmer C, Boyd L. (2016)
Additional resources: Study Sheets: thehappyflosserrdh.etsy.com/
Other Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/dental_hygiene_podcasts/
Take a look at a recent product I have tried and recommend. bit.ly/thehappyflosser promo code: HAPPYFLOSSER
Send Messages to: anchor.fm/billie43/message

Link to these show notes:

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Sep 22, 202316:18

#123: Nutrition: Vitamins and Minerals

Nutritional counseling is one of the tasks performed by the dental hygienist. Nutrition is a core component of overall health and assists the hygienist during the assessment process to meet the patient's needs. A strong correlation exists between nutritional habits - caries risk - and periodontal risk. Many patients are unaware of how their food choices impact the dentition.
In this episode, we will review the Essential Vitamins and Minerals found in nature. We will review Function, impact, and foods associated with each of these vitamins and minerals.

Additional resources: Study Sheets: thehappyflosserrdh.etsy.com/
Other Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/dental_hygiene_podcasts/
Take a look at a recent product I have tried and recommend. bit.ly/thehappyflosser promo code: HAPPYFLOSSER
Send Messages to: anchor.fm/billie43/message

Link to these show notes: thehappyflosserrdh.etsy.com/listing/1568816951

Sep 15, 202315:03

#122: Pharmacology and the Autonomic Nervous System.

Pharmacology can be a challenging course in dental hygiene school. I have found that the best place to start is by understanding how the body naturally works and how the central nervous system controls the functions of the body. Having a good understanding of the autonomic nervous system goes a long way in helping you to develop a comprehensive understanding of drugs and how they work. Additional resources: Study Sheets: thehappyflosserrdh.etsy.com/

Other Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/dental_hygiene_podcasts/

Take a look at a recent product I have tried and recommend. bit.ly/thehappyflosser promo code: HAPPYFLOSSER

Send Messages to: anchor.fm/billie43/message Link to these show notes: thehappyflosserrdh.etsy.com/listing/1412231850

Sep 08, 202318:39

#121: Feeling Overwhelmed? Focus on your goals.

There are times in our lives where the feeling of being overwhelmed can creep up on us. Being a student enrolled in a dental hygiene program and trying to balance the rest of your life can certainly create more demands than we can handle. In this episode, we will review the most common traits of being overwhelmed. Even more important is a discussion of ways to reduce the feeling of being overwhelmed and recenter your mind in a different direction.

Additional resources: Study Sheets: thehappyflosserrdh.etsy.com/
Other Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/dental_hygiene_podcasts/
Take a look at a recent product I have tried and recommend. bit.ly/thehappyflosser promo code: HAPPYFLOSSER
Send Messages to: anchor.fm/billie43/message

Sep 01, 202316:31

#120: Dental Caries: Risk, Treatment, and Prevention

One of the major diseases we help patients to manage is dental caries (tooth decay). As a student, you will learn all about the formation of enamel. As a clinician, you will need to know all the ways in which dental caries can be managed to help your patients combat the disease.

Understand the process of caries and know what creates an increased risk for our patients. Discover and learn what the best solutions are for each patient we treat. As Oral Health Therapists, it is essential for dental hygienists to have a comprehensive understanding of the risk, the process, and the treatment options available for our patients.

Additional resources: Study Sheets: https://thehappyflosserrdh.etsy.com/

Other Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/dental_hygiene_podcasts/

Take a look at a recent product I have tried and recommend. bit.ly/thehappyflosser promo code: HAPPYFLOSSER

Send Messages to: https://anchor.fm/billie43/message

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Aug 25, 202321:52

#119: NewGradRDH: Astrida Curis

Navigating the transition from student to clinical dental hygienist can be a challenge. Join me as I have a quality discussion with Astrida Curis, owner and operator of newgradrdh. We discuss some of the benefits and drawbacks of temping in clinical dental hygiene. What lead her to becoming a “Dentaprenuer” and how she recognized and overcame burnout in hygiene. Astrida brings so much valuable information to this episode to help new graduates navigate temping and transitioning from the school setting to the “real world”

https://instagram.com/the_traveling_rdh?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

Aug 18, 202318:23

#118: Find your Passion in Dental: Meet Paola Brown

The field of dentistry has always shown me so much love! Networking and collaboration are essential for growth and development. Paola Brown is a fine example of what can happen when you open your heart and mind to all that is possible in dental hygiene.
In this episode, Paola shares her journey and discovery process in becoming a dental hygienist. She shares her path to becoming the hygienist she is today and how it has shaped who she is and what she cares about. Her insight helps students develop the confidence needed to become a star Oral Health Therapist.
Paola and I have an open discussion about the necessary relationship-building required among healthcare providers in order to provide comprehensive care to every patient we serve. The medical-dental integration effort is in full swing! Paola and I share the excitement and joy that surrounds the possibilities around this partnership development.
Paola is here to share the connection between oral health and overall health. She shares an easy way to explain this connection to patients. As you listen to her insight, be sure to recognize her passion, love, and advice to you to take the steps toward your future as a Dental Hygienist who is functioning as an Oral Health Therapist.
Follow Paola Brown on Instagram at: paola_rdh.15

Study sheets available at thehappyflosserrdh.etsy.com/
Other Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/dental_hygiene_podcasts/
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Aug 11, 202332:16

#117: Value Based Care in Dentistry: Medical-Dental Integration

Value-Based Care in dentistry puts the focus on Prevention, Education, and Sustainability. Dental Hygienists are the prevention specialists of oral health and are trained to meet the challenges ahead in our communities. Listen as I discuss the challenge of going from school to private practice. In school, we are taught the value-based care model and then become employed in a primarily fee-for-service model of care. I believe this transition and conflict is one of the primary causes of burnout in dentistry for clinicians. As you listen, ask yourself - What type of Dental Hygienist do I want to become? What impact do I want to make? How can I do it?!

Additional Resources: www.etsy.com/shop/TheHappyFlosserRDH
Other Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/dental_hygiene_podcasts/
Take a look at a product line I have tried and recommend #ad: bit.ly/thehappyflosser Promo code: HAPPYFLOSSER

Aug 04, 202317:09

#116: Radiology: Assessment and Implementation

Taking radiographs takes practice. Taking good diagnostic radiographs takes skill. In this episode, we will discuss some of the criteria for taking radiographs, review some of the anatomy that causes challenges, and many patient management techniques to help with successful radiographs. Every patient comes with unique needs. As a clinician, the skills and techniques you use to take quality radiographs will go a long way at developing trusting relationships with your patients. They will appreciate your effort and empathy.

Additional resources: Study Sheets: thehappyflosserrdh.etsy.com/
Other Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/dental_hygiene_podcasts/
Take a look at a recent product I have tried and recommend. bit.ly/thehappyflosser promo code: HAPPYFLOSSER
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Jul 28, 202319:23

#115: Advice for Life: Dental Poem

In this episode, I thought I would share a poem I wrote about a life well lived and the connection to dentistry. We become connected to all facets of dental. You are on break, so I thought I would share something that may bring you joy and relieve your stress.

Additional resources: Study Sheets: thehappyflosserrdh.etsy.com/
Other Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/dental_hygiene_podcasts/
Please take a look at a recent product I have tried and recommend. bit.ly/thehappyflosser promo code: HAPPYFLOSSER
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Jul 21, 202304:32

#114: Sealants - The Clinical Basics

Dental sealants are a game changer in arresting and preventing decay in the occlusal surfaces of all the grooves we find in the posterior teeth. It is essential for the dental clinician to gain knowledge, learn the techniques, and understand the process of providing this preventive service.

Additional resources: Study Sheets: https://thehappyflosserrdh.etsy.com/

Other Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/dental_hygiene_podcasts/

Please look at a recent product I have tried and recommended. bit.ly/thehappyflosser promo code: HAPPYFLOSSER

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Jul 14, 202317:44

#113: IA Nerve Block - Triumphs, Techniques, and Troubles

Providing Local Anesthesia for our patients is a blessing for our profession. It allows us to provide care and comfort to our patients. We are strongly connected to our patient's experiences in the dental setting and are able to meet the challenges of providing local to our very anxious patients. Having a good understanding of the techniques allows us to become confident in delivering adequate anesthesia to serve our patients at the highest level.
Additional resources: Study Sheets: thehappyflosserrdh.etsy.com/
Other Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/dental_hygiene_podcasts/
Please take a look at a recent product I have tried and recommend. bit.ly/thehappyflosser promo code: HAPPYFLOSSER
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Jul 08, 202322:20

#112: Paradigm Shift in Caries Treatment and Prevention

How did we get here as Prevention specialists? The field of dental hygiene is focused specifically on education and prevention of oral disease. As prevention specialists, we must follow the research and use our ethical principals to do no harm to the patients we serve. It is important to use the data to guide us down the path to implement the process of care that serves our patients at the highest level. We continue to have more options and abilities to treat patients in the most conservative and effective way. It is important to gain as much knowledge about these treatment options as we can. “When we know better, we do better” Maya Angelou

Additional Resources:
Study Sheets at: www.etsy.com/shop/TheHappyFlosserRDH
Check out these podcasts on Feedspot blog.feedspot.com/dental_hygiene_podcasts/
This is a link to a product I have tried and recommend #ad: www.brio4life.com/products/total-whitening-bundle

Jun 30, 202321:24

#111: Topical Anesthesia and “Non-Injectables” - What you need to know

The use of topical anesthetics is commonplace in the dental office. They have been used to help reduce pain felt during many minor dental procedures as well as take the edge off the injection process of local anesthesia use for more involved treatment. As a provider, you should be aware of some critical elements of topicals and “non-injectable” options when using them with patients you see.

Additional resources: Study Sheets: https://thehappyflosserrdh.etsy.com/

Other Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/dental_hygiene_podcasts/

Take a look at a recent product I have tried and recommend. bit.ly/thehappyflosser promo code: HAPPYFLOSSER

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Jun 23, 202319:51

#110: Community Water Fluoridation: Historical Perspective

How did water fluoridation take shape? It is important to understand the path to the process and all of the science behind how we got from A to B. Historical perspective helps us to understand how to stand behind our beliefs and the “why” behind what we do. In this case - we monitor the levels of fluoride in the community water systems because the years of research guided us down the path to understanding the benefits of doing so. Study sheets available at thehappyflosserrdh.etsy.com/
Other Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/dental_hygiene_podcasts/
Take a look at a product line I have tried and recommend #ad: bit.ly/thehappyflosser Promo code: HAPPYFLOSSER
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Jun 16, 202316:58

#109: Motivation #2: The Health Belief Model

This is the second episode in the motivation series. Episode #97 was Motivation #1 covering Maslow’s Hierarchy of needs. in this episode, we will cover the Health Belief Model. This is an essential model for the dental hygiene student to understand in the process of care when trying to change a behavior with our patients to improve oral health outcomes.
Check out this website for additional resources:
Study Sheets: https://TheHappyFlosserRDH.Etsy.Com

Other Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/dental_hygiene_podcasts/
Take a look at a product line I have tried and recommend #ad:
bit.ly/thehappyflosser Promo code: HAPPYFLOSSER

Jun 09, 202316:35

#108: DISC Personality Profiles

Self-awareness can create some fantastic opportunities for you as you move ahead in your profession. The DISC personality profile test is available for you to take to allow you the opportunity to discover how you respond to the world around you. It is helpful to get to know yourself and understand the different personality types so you can be better at communicating with those who have different styles. If you are unfamiliar with DISC, I encourage you to take the test to discover more about your communication. it will also help you discover how to see the traits of others and mirror them to be more effective at communicating with those who communicate differently than you do. D- Dominance I- Influence S-Steadiness C-Conscientiousness Take the DISC Test: https://onlinedisctests.com/disc-test?gad=1&gclid=CjwKCAjwpuajBhBpEiwA_ZtfhYrAIo2xqaCvXS3R18eoIWYGy4lkwg0yZf2u8wuvNjGO0p-o1O54qhoCtGcQAvD_BwE

Check out this website for additional resources: Study Sheets: https://TheHappyFlosserRDH.Etsy.Com Other Podcasts: https://blog.feedspot.com/dental_hygiene_podcasts/ Take a look at a product line I have tried and recommend #ad: https://bit.ly/thehappyflosser Promo code: HAPPYFLOSSER

Jun 02, 202318:42

#107: Pain Management is Giving Me Anxiety!

Local anesthesia is widely used for many dental procedures to ensure patient comfort and provider accessibility. It provides the ability for patients to relax during procedures known to cause discomfort. As a dental hygienist, having the ability to provide local anesthesia opens up so many doors in the area of patient care. In this episode, we will look at some of the main components of pain management as it relates to patient care for the dental hygiene student. Additional resources:
Study Sheets: thehappyflosserrdh.etsy.com/
Other Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/dental_hygiene_podcasts/
Take a look at a recent product I have tried and recommend. bit.ly/thehappyflosser promo code: HAPPYFLOSSER
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May 26, 202328:05

#106:Dental Materials are Messy!

In a world of 3D imaging and computer technology….why are we taking impressions and pouring up models? It is important to have a wide range of skills when you graduate to build on where we have come from and discover where we are going. Additional resources:
Study Sheets: thehappyflosserrdh.etsy.com/
Other Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/dental_hygiene_podcasts/
Take a look at a recent product I have tried and recommend. bit.ly/thehappyflosser promo code: HAPPYFLOSSER
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May 19, 202325:09

#105: End of Semester Hangover

The end of the semester marks a milestone on your journey toward your goal of graduating and becoming a dental hygienist. It is important to reflect on your experiences and take time to recharge your batteries. Keep your eye on your goal - take some time for self-care and recharging.

It is necessary to provide yourself the space and time to prepare yourself for the next step in your journey

Additional Resources: https://www.etsy.com/shop/TheHappyFlosserRDH

Other Podcasts: https://blog.feedspot.com/dental_hygiene_podcasts/

Take a look at a product line I have tried and recommend #ad: https://bit.ly/thehappyflosser Promo code: HAPPYFLOSSER

May 12, 202313:28

#104: Why Isn’t My Working Stroke Working?

You have taken the time to learn all of the fundamentals of instrumentation. The hours of practice are countless. Now it is time for patient care and the calculus just won’t come off! In this episode, we will take a closer look at the working stroke. Let’s use all that you have learned and know to get the stroke right. It is essential to use all of the skills and knowledge you have acquired to be the most effective with calculus removal. At the same time, it is important to keep an eye on your own self-care component involved with the daily performance of the working stroke.
Study sheets available at thehappyflosserrdh.etsy.com/
Other Podcasts: blog.feedspot.com/dental_hygiene_podcasts/
Take a look at a product line I have tried and recommend #ad: bit.ly/thehappyflosser Promo code: HAPPYFLOSSER
Send message to: anchor.fm/billie43/message

May 05, 202328:25