A Tale of Two Hygienists Podcast

Jessica Atkinson, RDH and David Torres CRDH
  • 4.5 (2)
  • Life Sciences
  • Updated Weekly

We created A Tale of Two Hygienists in 2015 because we are passionate about helping our fellow clinicians be the best version of themselves, both professionally and personally. We Interview experts in their fields to provide better care for our patients while promoting the joys of being a dental hygienist.

  1. 18h ago

    541 Implant Instrumentation: Preserving the Implant While Treating the Patient — From Single Implants to Full-Arch Fixed Prostheses

    In this episode of A Tale of Two Hygienists, Jessica and Dave sit down with implant maintenance expert Alison Stahl to unpack the hidden risks surrounding dental implants — and why successful implant therapy requires far more than simply placing the implant.   Alison explains why implants remain vulnerable to periodontal and systemic disease, why water flossers are essential for long-term implant health, and how palpation and 3D radiographs can dramatically improve diagnosis and treatment outcomes. She also reveals why stainless steel instruments may be damaging implants without clinicians realizing it and shares the essential protocols every hygienist should know when treating implant patients.   From single implants to full-arch fixed prostheses, this conversation challenges outdated approaches to implant care and highlights what modern clinicians need to protect both the implant and the patient.   Guest: Alison Stahl alisonstahl@precisionperi-implantacademy.com   What We Discuss:   Why implants are still susceptible to periodontal and systemic disease   Why water flossers are critical for implant maintenance   The importance of palpation and 3D radiographs in implant assessment   How stainless steel instruments can damage implant surfaces   Essential implant maintenance protocols for clinicians   Treatment considerations for single implants and full-arch prostheses   Resources & Links: Website: https://precisionperi-implantacademy.com/   If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to A Tale of Two Hygienists, leave a review, and share this episode with your colleagues and clinical team.

    34 min

  2. May 27

    540 More Than a Credential: The Responsibility, Trust, and Purpose Behind Licensure

    About This Episode: What does it really mean to hold a dental hygiene license? In this episode, Dave and Jessica sit down with Amanda Hill — speaker, consultant, award-winning author,to unpack what licensure truly represents for dental hygienists. This is not a conversation about paperwork and renewal fees. It is a candid, thought-provoking discussion about responsibility, public trust, and what it means to show up for your patients at the highest level of your profession.   What We Cover:   Why "access to care" can become "babysitting disease" in dentistry   A clarion call for dental hygienists to level up   Virginia's new dental laws: 120-hour assistants and foreign-trained dentists   Why dental hygiene should feel like a therapeutic massage and what that means for patient care   Why patients trust the letters on your scrubs and why licensure matters more than you think   The invisible protections your dental hygienist provides every single appointment   About Amanda Hill, BSDH, RDH, CDIPC Amanda Hill is an enthusiastic speaker, innovative consultant, and award-winning author with over 25 years of clinical dental hygiene experience. A sought-after thought leader, she has authored over one hundred articles bringing clarity to some of dentistry's hottest topics. She is the recipient of the Association for Dental Safety's Emerging Infection Control Leader award and serves on the advisory boards of RDH Magazine, Dentistry IQ, and the Association for Dental Safety's Infection Control In Practice Editorial Review Board. Amanda is passionate about making dentistry accurate, accessible, and yes — fun.   Connect With Amanda: Website: www.amandahillrdh.com Email: amandahillrdh@gmail.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-hill-rdh-261167149/

    32 min

  3. May 20

    539 You're Not a Student Anymore — Advocating for Yourself as a Professional

    In this episode of A Tale of Two Hygienists, co-hosts David Torres and Jessica Atkinson sit down with Billie Lunt, RDH, BA, MSDH, to explore the pivotal transition from student to practicing professional—and what it really means to advocate for yourself in today's dental hygiene landscape.   The conversation dives into the gap between school and real-world practice, challenging the mindset many hygienists carry into their careers. Billie shares insight on how to step confidently into your role, define your own standards of care, and navigate the complexities of patient relationships and clinical expectations.   Key topics discussed include: Transforming patient anxiety into health success stories through trust-building and communication   Defining your professional standards and why they matter in everyday practice   The truth behind "practicing dentistry" and what it looks like in real clinical settings   The importance of questioning and aligning your values as a dental hygienist   Bridging the gap between education and real-world expectations   Rather than staying stuck in a student mindset, this episode encourages hygienists to take ownership of their professional identity. Billie offers a thoughtful perspective on how self-awareness, advocacy, and intentional growth can lead to stronger patient outcomes and a more fulfilling career.   This episode is a must-listen for new graduates and seasoned hygienists alike who are ready to elevate their role and confidently advocate for themselves and their patients.   Call to Action Take time to evaluate your professional standards and values. Identify where you can advocate more effectively for yourself and your patients, and begin making intentional changes in your daily practice.   Connect with Billie Lunt:   Email: happyflossertRDH@gmail.com   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/billielunt/

    31 min
  4. Not All Nano-Hydroxyapatite Toothpaste Is Created Equal

    May 16

    Not All Nano-Hydroxyapatite Toothpaste Is Created Equal

    In this episode of Fast Facts Ask the Expert, Dr. Jen discusses the science behind nano-hydroxyapatite toothpaste and why not all fluoride-free formulations are created equal. Learn why concentration, crystal quality, and science-backed formulation matter when it comes to enamel protection and oral health. For more information or to schedule a CE for your team, visit: Dr. Jen Oral Care

    4 min

  5. May 13

    538 Clinic Isn't the Real World — But It Wasn't Useless Either

    In this episode, David Torres and Jessica Atkinson sit down with Kevin Lopez to unpack the gap between clinical education and real-world dental hygiene practice. Kevin shares honest insights from his experience, highlighting what truly matters once you step outside the classroom and into patient care.   What We Talked About:   Why disclosing is non-negotiable in dental hygiene practice and its impact on patient outcomes   Understanding vitals, liability, and staying within your scope of practice   The realities of transitioning from clinic to real-world settings   Why you don't need a 4.0 GPA to become a skilled and effective clinician   Key Takeaways: Clinical training lays the foundation, but real growth happens when hygienists apply those skills in practice. Prioritizing patient education tools like disclosing, understanding legal responsibilities, and building confidence matter more than perfection in academics.   Call to Action: Stay committed to improving your clinical skills and understanding your professional responsibilities. Focus on delivering quality patient care, continue learning beyond graduation, and connect with professionals who can help guide your journey.   Resources/Links:   Email: kevin@kevstalksteeth.com   Website: https://www.kevstalksteeth.com/   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevstalksteeth/

    36 min

  6. May 6

    537 What We're Actually Worried About: Graduating Hygienists Speak

    In this episode, David Torres and Jessica Atkinson dive into the real concerns and experiences of graduating dental hygienists as they transition from school into the professional world. This candid conversation highlights the emotional and professional challenges new hygienists face, along with practical insights to help them navigate this pivotal stage of their careers.   What We Talked About:   First job anxiety and the pressure of entering the workforce   Why hygienists must stay actively involved in their careers beyond graduation   Adjusting to life after school and building confidence in clinical practice   How life-changing events and personal growth shape career paths   Key Takeaways: Graduating hygienists are not alone in their worries. Staying connected to the profession, seeking mentorship, and continuing education are critical to long-term success and fulfillment. Embracing change and remaining adaptable can make all the difference in building a rewarding career.   Call to Action: If you're a new or soon-to-be dental hygienist, stay engaged with your professional community. Continue learning, ask questions, and seek out support systems that help you grow. Don't let early career fears hold you back from pursuing opportunities.   Resources:   Emails: Kalea Woodyatt: kalea.woodyatt@utahtech.edu   Claire Zufelt: Claire.zufelt@utahtech.edu   Abigail Vogel: Abby.vogel@utahtech.edu   Haydn Bush: Haydn.mcmillan@utahtech.edu

    37 min

  7. Apr 29

    536 Caring for the Cancer Patient

    In this episode of A Tale of Two Hygienists, co-hosts David Torres and Jessica Atkinson sit down with Melia Lewis, MEd, to discuss the critical role dental hygienists play in supporting patients undergoing cancer treatment.   Drawing from her personal experience with her father's cancer diagnosis, Melia brings a deeply meaningful perspective to the conversation. She highlights the emotional and clinical impact of cancer care, and how dental hygienists can become essential advocates and providers within a patient's healthcare journey.   Key topics discussed include: * Melia's personal journey navigating her father's cancer diagnosis and how it shaped her professional perspective. *Whether dental hygiene should be more formally integrated into oncology care. *The importance of resilience and understanding why the work hygienists do truly matters. *Common oral side effects experienced by cancer patients and how to recognize them. *How hygienists can tailor appointments to better support patients undergoing cancer treatment.   Rather than viewing care as routine, this episode challenges listeners to approach each patient—especially those facing serious health conditions—with intention, empathy, and clinical adaptability. Melia offers insight into how hygienists can elevate their role and make a meaningful difference during some of their patients' most vulnerable moments.   This episode is a must-listen for hygienists who want to expand their understanding of patient-centered care and play a more active role in supporting individuals through complex health challenges.   Call to Action: Take time to deepen your understanding of how systemic health conditions, like cancer, impact oral health. Look for opportunities to adapt your care approach and advocate for patients who may need more personalized support.   Connect with Melia Lewis:   Email: melia@hygieneedge.com   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melia-lewis/

    32 min

  8. Apr 22

    535 What Do You Say? Oral Cancer Screening Verbiage That Builds Trust

    In this episode, Alyssa Aberle shares her powerful personal journey through a patient diagnosis, surgery, and tongue reconstruction, offering a perspective that deeply resonates with dental professionals. The conversation emphasizes the critical role hygienists play in early detection of oral cancer and why cutting corners is never an option when it comes to patient care.   Alyssa, along with David and Jessica, dives into practical strategies for oral cancer screenings, including how to communicate findings with confidence and compassion. They also discuss when and how to refer patients to specialists, ensuring the best possible outcomes. A key highlight is the discussion around effective screening scripts and the importance of the 10–14 day rule in monitoring suspicious lesions.   What We Talked About:   Alyssa's personal experience with her patients diagnosis, surgery, and tongue reconstruction   The responsibility of dental professionals to thoroughly screen for oral cancer   Why you should never cut corners during exams   How to confidently refer patients and choose the right specialist   Verbiage and scripts that build trust during oral cancer screenings   Understanding and applying the 10–14 day rule   Call to Action: This episode is designed to empower dental hygienists to take ownership of their role in patient care. By listening, you'll gain the confidence, language, and clinical mindset needed to perform thorough screenings and advocate for your patients' health.   Resources and Links: Connect with Alyssa: linktr.ee/alyssardh alyssa.aberle@gmail.com

    34 min
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4.5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

We created A Tale of Two Hygienists in 2015 because we are passionate about helping our fellow clinicians be the best version of themselves, both professionally and personally. We Interview experts in their fields to provide better care for our patients while promoting the joys of being a dental hygienist.

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