Talk Dental to Me

In this episode, we sit down with Imogen to explore the growing field of sports dentistry and why oral health deserves a place in every conversation about athlete performance, health and wellbeing. While nutrition, sleep, recovery and physical conditioning are often front of mind for athletes and their support teams, oral health is frequently overlooked. Imogen shares how sports dentistry is helpi...

In this episode, we sit down with Dr Lora Banicevic to unpack one of the most unspoken realities in dentistry: perfectionism. From the pressure to perform chairside to the fear of complaints, judgement and never feeling “good enough,” this conversation explores the hidden mental and emotional load so many clinicians quietly carry. Together, we discuss the difference between high standards and harm...

In this episode, I sit down with Cassie Cowdroy to talk about one of the most nuanced and underserved spaces in oral health — working with neurodivergent kids and the families navigating it all. Cassie brings a depth of clinical experience and a genuinely refreshing perspective on what it means to deliver care that’s actually useful, not just textbook-perfect. We cover: ✦ Cassie’s clinical backgro...

What if the key to a smoother, more efficient and more harmonious dental practice has been sitting right beside you at the chair all along? In this episode of Talk Dental to Me, we sit down with Rochelle Fisher - founder of Dental Assisting and Beyond . Rochelle has spent her career championing one of the most underestimated roles in dentistry, and this conversation is long overdue. We get into th...

In this episode, we’re diving into one of dentistry’s biggest grey zones:  TMD and craniofacial pain . It’s an area that sits at the intersection of dentistry, physiotherapy, osteopathy, and pain science - yet it’s often siloed, inconsistently managed, and misunderstood. While most dental professionals receive some exposure to TMD during training, it’s rarely enough to feel truly confident assessi...

In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Anh Makkar — dentist, wellbeing educator and founder of Makkar Wellbeing — to explore a powerful theme as we wrap up the year: reflection. In this conversation, we dive into why looking back can actually move us forward: how reflection fuels growth, how self-judgment can be transformed into self-compassion, and what mindset shifts help young professionals handle...

In this episode, we sit down with Larelle Bradley, an experienced Dental Hygienist who has navigated a unique career path. From hands-on clinical care to a career-impacting injury that led to the world corporate dentistry and back to clinical practice once more. We explore: 💬 Larelle's background as an Oral Health Therapist and what first drew her to the profession 🏢 The inspiration behind h...

What happens when your passion for helping teams and dental professionals takes you beyond the dental chair? In this episode, Danielle Hammond an Oral Health Therapist and Work Health and Safety Business Partner at Abano Healthcare Group, shares her personal journey of growth, courage, and reinvention. From hands-on patient care to building safer, healthier workplaces, she reflects on the transfer...

In this episode, we’re joined by Hannah Thompson , an Oral Health Therapist working with the Bourke Aboriginal Corporation Health Service , or BACHS , in remote New South Wales. She shares what drew her to BACHS , and gives us a look at what a typical week looks like in her role.  Hannah speaks openly about the importance of building trust , promoting culturally safe care , and connecting with pat...

In this episode, we're talking about moving countries, navigating paperwork, and building a new career across the ditch . And to walk us through it, we’re joined by Ruby Mills —a New Zealand–trained Oral Health Therapist who has been living and working in Australia for the last few years.  In this episode, Ruby shares  what that transition really looked. She dives into the AHPRA registration proce...

In this episode, I’m honoured to speak with Andrea Wilson, a dental hygienist who has been battling cancer and has been incredibly generous with us to share her chemotherapy journey in hopes to help others going through the same.  Her hope is to also share with fellow dental colleagues  management tips, symptoms to be aware of, her own personal challenging symptoms and products that have helped he...

In this episode, Issy, a Swiss trained dental hygienist, opens up about her fascinating journey—from chairside dentistry to her current role as Education Manager at Curaprox Australia, and everything in between. We explore how clinical skills translate into leadership and innovation in the world of oral health education. Issy shares what it really means to manage education at Curaprox,  her role a...

In this episode, we’re speaking with someone who’s taken a bold and inspiring leap — from scaling teeth to scaling implant solutions. Thomas Clark-Otton spent many years building career as an oral health therapist, building a strong foundation in patient care and preventative dentistry and now pivoted into navigating the cutting edge of surgical technology and digital workflows, working as an impl...

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to take dentistry on the road? Imagine trading a traditional clinic for a fully equipped, high-tech dental bus—bringing care directly to the people who need it most. Well, in this episode, we’re diving into the world of mobile dentistry with someone who’s done just that!" "In this episode, I’m sitting down with Yung Starling of Starling Mobile Dental...

In this episode, we dive into the world of  health promotion and oral health therapy  with Shelley Pham. As a  Health Promotion Lead and Oral Health Therapist , she plays a crucial role in educating communities, advocating for better oral health policies, and providing hands-on care. We explore: ✅ What a  Health Promotion Officer  does and why it matters ✅ The  dual role  of being an Oral Health...

Are you interested in moving to Australia to study a Bachelor of Oral Health? This one is for you!! In this episode, we explore the unique realities of studying a Bachelor of Oral Health as an international student in Australia from a recent graduate and practicing Oral Health Therapist Aayushma Rijal. Key Takeaways: Understand the challenges and opportunities international oral health students en...

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 th...

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: Introduction...

The final episode in "How to Refer to a Specialist" series with Specialist Endodontist Dr Aovana Timmerman. What You’ll Learn: When to Refer to an Endodontist: Recognizing cases that require specialist expertise (e.g., difficult canal anatomy, retreatment needs). Understanding the benefits of early referral for optimal outcomes. Crafting a Comprehensive Referral: Key information to include, such a...

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: The Importance of Clear Communic...

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 wal...

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...

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, y...

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 Ohash...

Have you ever dreamt of living and working abroad? In this episode, we chat with Jenna Jodrey, a registered dental hygienist who took the leap and moved to Dubai! We delve into her exciting journey, from navigating the application process to adjusting to a new culture and dental practice environment. Key Points Discussed: The inspiration behind Jenna's move to Dubai. The process of obtaining a den...