Talk Dental to Me

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

In this episode, we explore the hidden dangers of dental noise pollution with Lilly Leaver, a licensed audiologist.  We discuss the impact of high volume evacuation (suction), high-pitched drills and other dental equipment can have on your hearing, and why ear protection is crucial for dental professionals.  Key Points Discussed: The decibel levels of common dental tools and how they can damage he...

In this impactful episode of the podcast, the wonderful Amber Lovato’s will share about her journey as an Hispanic Dental Hygienist and how it has shaped the way she provides care in her community. We explore the root causes of the smile gap, from lack of access to affordable dental services to the systemic barriers that prevent underserved communities from receiving the care they need.  Amber wil...

In this episode, we'll explore the rewarding career path of becoming an oral health therapist, specifically geared towards males.  Chris and I will debunk any stereotypes and highlight the attractive aspects of this profession for males seeking a stable, in-demand career in healthcare. Why Oral Health Therapy? Chris and I will discuss his experiences as a male oral health therapist, the benefits,...

Are you a dental professional with an entrepreneurial spirit? Have you ever considered the flexibility and impact of a mobile dental practice? In this episode, we delve into the exciting world of mobile dentistry. We explore the reasons why dental professionals are increasingly choosing this path, the unique considerations involved in setting up a mobile clinic, and the options you can take  to tu...

Thank you to Byron Medical for powering this episode of the podcast! In this episode, we'll dive into the world of ergonomics for dental professionals.  Is strain and pain inevitable in dentistry? Is it worth buying a wearable posture corrector?  Here's what we'll cover: The importance of ergonomics in dentistry: Why should dental professionals care about ergonomics? We'll explore...

What is ADOHTA and what can we look forward to for our profession? The Australian Dental and Oral Health Therapists' Association (ADOHTA) plays a vital role in advocating for and supporting oral health therapists (OHTs) across the country. In this episode, we delve into the exciting future of ADOHTA. HIGHLIGHTS: 1.Recent Developments:  We'll explore the recent news surrounding ADOHTA, incl...

Have you thought about starting your own online platform as a dental professional? What opportunities are out there? How much can this non clinical work supplement your income? (We actually share how much we make in this episode..) You’ve come to the right place. A big thank you to my friends at Byron Medical for powering this episode of the podcast! In this episode, Fiona Mattrasingh (RDH) shines...

Let's get beyond the drill. We all know dental hygiene school, a Bachelor of Oral Health and DDS equips you with the knowledge to tackle the trickiest cases, but what about the little nuggets of wisdom because there isn't enough time to include them in the curriculum? That's where we come in. Today, I'm spilling the dental beans on the 30 things you probably never learned in those...

Do you want to thrive as a dental professional in 2024? This isn't possible without being mentally and emotionally fit as well. So, tune into the final TDTM episode of 2023 as Dr Mahrukh Khwaja sheds light on the changing perspectives surrounding mental health within the dental community, breaking down stigma, learning how to deal with imposter syndrome as a dental professional and fostering a...

Are you an American RDH who would like to know how to practice in Australia? This episode is for you. Join me as we deep dive into this journey with Denise Montry, an American qualified dental hygienist who made a giant leap of faith to cross continents for a new chapter in her career. Learn about the Australian dental landscape, differences there may be to the American hygiene profession and what...

Did you know there are scholarships available to supplement your studies towards a Bachelor of Oral Health?? Join Emma as she chats with Aisha Mansfield, a proud Moonbird Aboriginal woman, originating from the North and Northwest coast of Tasmania. Through hard work and a strong vision, listen in as Aisha opens up about her journey of sheer dedication since joining Dental Health Services Victoria...

Kia ora and Guten Tag! Get ready for an unconventional dental adventure as the podcast welcomes Grace Park, a spirited oral health therapist from New Zealand who embarked on a journey from the lush landscapes of New Zealand to the charming streets in Germany.  On this episode, Grace takes you through the journey of navigating the German dental landscape, her application process and adjusting her K...

In this powerful episode, we shine a spotlight on the transformative impact of dental care for survivors of domestic abuse. Emma sits down with Dr Shanash, a Perth Dentist who is part of the amazing Healing Smiles team. She share insights into the unique challenges faced by abuse survivors and the role that oral health plays in their journey to recovery. From rebuilding broken smiles to restoring...

Is it worth considering dental assisting before Dental Hygiene or Oral Health Therapy? On this episode, you’ll hear a firsthand account from Melinda Sefa and her journey from dental assisting to applying for, being accepted and completing a Bachelor of Oral Health. We'll dive deep into Melinda’s experiences, the challenges she faced, the lessons she learned, and the passion that fuels her jour...

What is it like teaching the next generation of oral health professionals? Our guest today is none other than the dynamic and knowledgeable Steph Chang, the Year 1 clinical coordinator of the Bachelor of Oral Health course at the University of Melbourne. Steph has great experience and dedication to shaping the next generation of oral health professionals. We'll be uncovering the journey that l...

If you're an oral health therapist who dreams of becoming a dentist or simply someone curious about the transition, this podcast is here to guide and inspire you. In this podcast we explore  her journey and leap of faith to studying dentistry.  Join us as we dive deep into the motivations, discussing the pivotal moments that drove change, challenges that Hannah experienced. Hannah will provide...

In this thought-provoking episode of the Talk Dental to Me Podcast, we delve into the challenging topic of what to say when things don't go as planned in dentistry. Join us as we explore the importance of effective communication and compassionate dialogue when addressing unexpected outcomes or errors. Tune in for insights from specialist endodontist Dr Aovana Timmerman on navigating difficult...

The Hismile V34 colour corrector has been the elephant in the (dental industry) room for a while now, raising eyebrows and provoking conversations among professionals and the wider population. This innovative teeth whitening product claims to revolutionise the way we achieve brighter smiles, but it has certainly sparked debates about its efficacy and place in the industry. On one side of the argum...

Did you know that periodontal disease is highly prevalent in nursing homes? With mild–moderate loss of periodontal attachment common. The care required for the aging population is ever increasing and the need is astronomical. The trajectory for oral care needs is through the roof and they need YOU. There is an important role for dental professionals to play in the oral health of nursing home resid...

Do you know that how we breathe affects our quality of life? In this episode, we explore the critical connection between oral health and the airway, uncovering how they intertwine to impact overall well-being and as dental professionals, the critical role in identifying these issues in the patients we see. From sleep apnea and breathing disorders in children, impacts of mouth breathing and orofaci...

There’s no “one size fits all” roadmap when it comes to working in dentistry, but the one thing that every dental professional has in common is the intrinsic want to work for a healthy workplace.  In this episode, Emma chats with Dr Jennifer Bhuta a general dentist, who will share her experiences searching for jobs and her advice for any dental professional who is currently looking or for when tha...

Is corporate dentistry or private dentistry better?? The great debate. Or are you currently weighing up the pros and cons between accepting a private practice job or DSO (corporate) job? Marie Grob gets it. From applying to multiple practices and being offered multiple positions including corporate offers, she has been there herself.  In this week’s episode, Marie is opening up about her journey a...

What can you expect during the Bachelor of Oral Health? What is it really like? Studying can be overwhelming (dental school is definitely not an exception) and then searching for a job as a new graduate can be equally daunting. But don’t worry, today’s special guest has the keys to help you overcome studying obstacles and some great advice especially for students and new graduates, so listen up! O...

Join Emma as fellow podcaster Andrew Johnston, an American RDH, comes on for Part Two of our “Would You Rather: Dental Edition” series. You will find Part One as episode 374 on the Tale of Two Hygienists podcast. This episode is a little different but really shines a light on what type of clinicians we are and also some very real situations where we give our best answers to the "Would You Rather"...