Dental Bun Podcast

Janiece

5.0 (3)
Education
Updated Biweekly

Embrace the sassy, classy and messy bits of dentistry with the perfect blend of life and work wisdom.

4d ago

Independent Dental Hygiene Practice

Send us Fan Mail If you’ve ever thought, “I love hygiene, but I can’t do one more day of being micromanaged,” this conversation is for you. We sit down with Shade, an RDHAP in Southern California, to get honest about what it takes to build an independent dental hygiene practice that actually works, clinically and financially. The goal isn’t to bash dentistry, it’s to prove something bigger: hygienists can expand access to preventive care while building careers with real autonomy. We walk through the practical realities of independent practice and mobile dental hygiene, including treating seniors, homebound patients, people with disabilities, and anyone who struggles to get care in a traditional office. Shade breaks down California’s RDHAP requirements, the dental shortage area designation process, and why state-by-state rules (hello, Colorado) change the entire startup timeline. We also talk about the non-negotiables: collaborative agreements with dentists, clear patient communication about exams, and documentation. Then we go where most trainings don’t: money and systems. We dig into fee-for-service dental hygiene, why insurance reimbursements can undercut your work, and how superbills and reimbursement forms can let patients use benefits without letting payers set your price. We also cover equipment that stays portable, marketing that drives steady bookings (website SEO, Google visibility, community outreach), and why partnering with other hygienists under one roof can be a smart way to grow without losing your freedom. If you’re ready to map out your next move, subscribe, share this with a hygienist friend, and leave a review so more clinicians can find it. What would your ideal independent schedule look like? Rate, Review, & Follow "I love the Dental Bun!" If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps me support more people--just like you. Don't forget to follow the podcast. I'm adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed, and if you're not following, there's a good chance you will miss out. Follow The Dental Bun On: YouTube Apple Podcast Spotify Amazon Music
Apr 6

A Story Behind the Screening: Dr. Makkar's Oral Cancer Mission After Losing Her Brother

Send us Fan Mail We talk with Dr. Parul Dua Makkar about losing her brother Manu to a late oral cancer diagnosis and how that loss reshapes her mission to help dental teams catch oral cancer earlier. We share concrete ways to screen efficiently, communicate without fear, and build referral relationships that lead to timely biopsies and better outcomes. • Manu’s story and why late diagnosis happens even for clinicians • Turning grief into education through writing and publishing Life Interrupted • Choosing learning, mindset, and prevention over legal action • What a practical head and neck oral cancer screening looks like • Making screening a whole-team process from assistant to front desk • How to talk about lesions and biopsies without alarming patients • Why a scapel biopsy is required for diagnosis • Picking referral partners who align with urgency and follow-through • Bridging dentistry and medicine to improve survival rates That is on April 22nd. And it is a free webinar, it’s complimentary to everyone who signs up. 4/22/26 Dr. Makkar | Dental Bun Courses with Dr. Makkar: www.duagoodjob.com 25% off booth courses with promo code: APRIL26 Rate, Review, & Follow "I love the Dental Bun!" If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps me support more people--just like you. Don't forget to follow the podcast. I'm adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed, and if you're not following, there's a good chance you will miss out. Follow The Dental Bun On: YouTube Apple Podcast Spotify Amazon Music
10/14/2025

Oral Health During Cancer Treatment: How Side Effects Support Is Changing Patient Care

Send us Fan Mail Cancer changes the way a mouth feels, heals, and functions—and too often, patients don’t get the guidance they need until they’re in pain. We sit down with hygienist and Side Effect Support founder Jill Meyer-Lippert to talk about practical ways clinicians and caregivers can prevent oral complications before they start. From pre-treatment dental visits to gentle, microbiome-friendly products. We unpack the power of early intervention and compassionate education: short, clear brochures for adults and kids (in English and Spanish), Her partners marketplace, and ready-to-use kits make adherence easier and safer, especially when patients are immunocompromised. You’ll hear how clinics customize kits for their populations, what goes inside (from toothbrush shields to gentle rinses), and how small daily habits add up to big wins in comfort and confidence. If you’re a hygienist, dentist, caregiver, or patient navigating cancer care, these tools bring clarity and calm to a stressful season—and help preserve smiles through treatment and beyond. Jill Meyer-Lippert's contact information: Link to chairside downloads: Prevent side effects of mouth when going through cancer treatments – Side Effect Support LLC Chemotherapy Side Effect Remedies – Side Effect Support LLC https://www.instagram.com/sideeffectsupportllc/ https://www.facebook.com/SideEffectSupportLLC https://www.linkedin.com/in/jill-meyer-lippert-8ba63050/ Want more like this? Subscribe, share the show with a colleague, and leave a review to help others find these resources. Rate, Review, & Follow "I love the Dental Bun!" If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps me support more people--just like you. Don't forget to follow the podcast. I'm adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed, and if you're not following, there's a good chance you will miss out. Follow The Dental Bun On: YouTube Apple Podcast Spotify Amazon Music
08/07/2025

Your Greatest Asset Is You: Elevating Your Professional Presence

Send us Fan Mail Ever wondered what truly sets one dental practice apart from the dozens of others lining "dental row" in your town? Kelly Dugan, certified image consultant and presence expert, shares a refreshing perspective that might surprise you. The secret isn't found in your clinical skills or even your office décor—it's in the subtle nuances of how you and your team show up every day. "When we think about communication, it comes from how we dress, to how our bodies communicate, to how we verbally communicate, to the sound of our voice," explains Kelly. "Individually, we're our greatest asset." Drawing from her background with the Association of Image Consultants International, Kelly reveals how personal branding transcends mere appearance to encompass a total professional presence. She walks us through the process of building authentic consistency across all touchpoints—from in-person patient interactions to digital platforms. Using her 360 Reach assessment tool, she helps professionals understand current perceptions and define their unique brand personas that resonate with patients. What makes this conversation particularly valuable for dental professionals is Kelly's emphasis on "the little things" that create memorable patient experiences. Something as simple as body language during patient handoffs or the energy a team member brings into a room can have a significant impact on trust-building. Through individual coaching, team training, and even uniform development, Kelly helps practices create the consistency that elevates the entire patient experience. Kellye Duggan's Contact Information: - https://kellyduggan.com/ - https://linktr.ee/kdiconsulting Rate, Review, & Follow "I love the Dental Bun!" If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps me support more people--just like you. Don't forget to follow the podcast. I'm adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed, and if you're not following, there's a good chance you will miss out. Follow The Dental Bun On: YouTube Apple Podcast Spotify Amazon Music
05/27/2025

Flexibility, Security, and Support: The Hidden Benefits of Dental Temp Agencies

Send us Fan Mail Dental professionals seeking flexibility often explore temporary work, but navigating the options between agencies, platforms, and independent contracting can be overwhelming. Shannon Ferguson, owner of Assistance on Call, Colorado's longest-running dental temp agency (est. 1983), pulls back the curtain on what truly matters when choosing a temping path. The conversation reveals how temping can be tailored to fit almost any lifestyle—from the hygienist who travels internationally six months yearly to new graduates seeking diverse experience, to parents requiring specific scheduling to accommodate childcare. Unlike the growing trend toward faceless digital platforms, agencies like AOC maintain the critical human connection that ensures dental professionals receive real-time support when they encounter challenging situations in unfamiliar offices. What sets quality temp agencies apart are the unexpected benefits that digital platforms often can't match: W-2 employment status rather than 1099 contracting, workers' compensation protection, unemployment insurance, and even retirement benefits with employer matching. Shannon explains how temps can often take home more actual income through proper employment relationships despite seemingly lower hourly rates compared to independent contracting. Whether you're considering dental temping for the first time or re-evaluating your current temping situation, this conversation provides essential criteria for making informed decisions that protect your wellbeing, professional growth, and financial security. Assistance On Call: Denver Dental Temp Agency – Assistance On Call Rate, Review, & Follow "I love the Dental Bun!" If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps me support more people--just like you. Don't forget to follow the podcast. I'm adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed, and if you're not following, there's a good chance you will miss out. Follow The Dental Bun On: YouTube Apple Podcast Spotify Amazon Music
04/17/2025

Hope for Health: The Mobile Approach to Holistic Dental Hygiene

Send us Fan Mail A conversation with Janet Madrid, a veteran dental hygienist who's revolutionizing oral healthcare through her mobile holistic practice. After 46 years in dentistry, Janet discovered her true calling when she established "Hope for Health" – a business dedicated to the critical connection between oral health and whole-body wellness. Janet's journey began with a revelation: traditional dental settings rarely address the complex relationship between oral health and systemic conditions. Her approach represents a paradigm shift in how we understand dental care – not as isolated treatment of teeth, but as an essential component of overall health optimization. Janet bridges this gap through comprehensive testing, affordable advanced treatments, and patient education that empowers rather than shames. What truly distinguishes Janet's practice is her role as a "health quarterback" for patients from all walks of life. From those living in vans to individuals in subsidized housing, she demonstrates that quality holistic care isn't exclusively for the affluent – it's for anyone committed to their wellbeing. Her newly published book, "Hope for Health: Illuminating the Foundations of Health and Wellness," extends her mission beyond clinical practice, offering readers a roadmap to better health through body, mind, and spirit. Janet's Mobile Dental Hygiene Information: Website: https://hopeforhealthco.com/ Rate, Review, & Follow "I love the Dental Bun!" If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps me support more people--just like you. Don't forget to follow the podcast. I'm adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed, and if you're not following, there's a good chance you will miss out. Follow The Dental Bun On: YouTube Apple Podcast Spotify Amazon Music
03/17/2025

Saving Lives Chairside: The Cotten Method for Oral Cancer Screening

Send us Fan Mail Every dental professional knows they should perform oral cancer screenings, but many struggle with confidence in their technique and communication. In this episode with Susan Cotten, creator of the Cotton Method Screening and owner of Oral Cancer Consulting, we explore how to transform routine dental appointments into potentially life-saving encounters. Susan walks us through her four science-based pillars for effective oral cancer screening, beginning with implementing dedicated risk assessment forms that not only collect vital patient information but naturally open conversations about oral cancer risk factors. She shares practical language for discussing sensitive topics like HPV—now the leading cause of oropharyngeal cancers—using her signature phrase "what we know now is..." to present information in a non-threatening way that invites patient questions. The most valuable takeaway might be Susan's guidance on communicating findings confidently without causing alarm. "We're not diagnosing," she reminds us, "but anything that persists for two weeks deserves further investigation by a specialist." This simple, matter-of-fact approach keeps both clinician and patient calm while ensuring proper follow-up care. For practices struggling with time constraints, Susan offers a framework for difficult conversations with practice owners using "I feel, I think, I want" language that addresses concerns about patient care and professional liability. Ready to enhance your oral cancer screening protocols? Connect with Susan through her Website: https://oralcancerconsulting.com/ Email: oralcancerconsulting@gmail.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SusanCottenRDH Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scottenrdh/ Thank you to our sponsors: The DEN List: www.thedenlist.com DEN Study Club: https://www.denstudyclub.com/ Rate, Review, & Follow "I love the Dental Bun!" If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps me support more people--just like you. Don't forget to follow the podcast. I'm adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed, and if you're not following, there's a good chance you will miss out. Follow The Dental Bun On: YouTube Apple Podcast Spotify Amazon Music
02/12/2025

Navigating New Opportunities in Dental Hygiene with Cheryl Calmis RDH, BS, MEd

Send us Fan Mail This episode features Cheryl Calmis, a dental hygienist with 35 years of experience, who shares her journey of evolving from clinical practice to writing and education. Cheryl emphasizes the importance of embracing new technology and networking to overcome burnout, encouraging dental professionals to explore diverse career paths within the industry. • Cheryl shares her 35-year journey in dentistry • Discusses the impact of technology on dental hygiene practice • Highlights her transition from clinical to writing, speaking engagements and working as a clinical educator for Waterpik. • Talks about the importance of networking within dental associations • Encourages hygienists to explore career opportunities outside clinical setting Rate, Review, & Follow "I love the Dental Bun!" If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps me support more people--just like you. Don't forget to follow the podcast. I'm adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed, and if you're not following, there's a good chance you will miss out. Follow The Dental Bun On: YouTube Apple Podcast Spotify Amazon Music
11/05/2024

Anne Guignon's Guide to Career Creativity in Dentistry

Send us Fan Mail Join us on the Dental Bun Podcast for an enlightening conversation with Anne Guignon. In our discussion, we cover the vital role of integrating dental care products into everyday practice, enhancing both patient care and professional satisfaction. Anne opens up about the importance of self-care for dental hygienists, urging us all to overcome the guilt of investing in ourselves. With heartfelt reflections on the challenges of the dental profession. Anne's journey is anything but ordinary—driven by a thirst for creativity and autonomy that traditional practices couldn't quench. Her story showcases the power of a supportive workplace that values innovation and lifelong learning. As Anne shares her transformative experiences in her dental hygiene career and entrepreneurial leaps, you'll find inspiration in her commitment to personal and professional growth. Anne will be delivering the Live Webinar course: Title: pH is just the beginning... Why the right test matters Nov. 17th, 2024 at 6:30pm MST Register at: www.denstudyclub.com Rate, Review, & Follow "I love the Dental Bun!" If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps me support more people--just like you. Don't forget to follow the podcast. I'm adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed, and if you're not following, there's a good chance you will miss out. Follow The Dental Bun On: YouTube Apple Podcast Spotify Amazon Music
10/08/2024

Workplace Vampires

Send us Fan Mail Ever felt like your workplace is a haunted house, teeming with energy vampires lurking around every corner, waiting to drain your spirit? Join me on the Dental Bun Podcast as I recount my own eerie encounters with those negativity-driven coworkers who thrive on gossip and emotional chaos. Through candid storytelling, I unravel the profound impact these energy vampires can have on our mental and physical health. We will explore effective strategies for setting boundaries and reclaiming your personal space, transforming the workplace from a horror show into a haven of positivity and well-being. Rate, Review, & Follow "I love the Dental Bun!" If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps me support more people--just like you. Don't forget to follow the podcast. I'm adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed, and if you're not following, there's a good chance you will miss out. Follow The Dental Bun On: YouTube Apple Podcast Spotify Amazon Music
09/03/2024

Dental Hygienists: You Know Things w/ Amanda Hill RDH

Send us Fan Mail Embrace the importance of self-care and career exploration. Amanda shares personal experiences on stepping out of her comfort zone, saying yes to opportunities, and the pivotal role of writing in career growth. She emphasizes the significance of curiosity, not just in your profession but also in understanding and connecting with your patients. Tune in to find out how to make small changes to increase interest in your career and open doors to new career opportunities. The DEN Study Club will be hosting Amanda Hill on Sept. 17, 2024, for a 1.5 CEU course- There Is An Instrument For That: Conquering Tricky Spots in Dental Hygiene Instrumentation Want to reach out to Amanda: Email: Amandahillrdh@gmail.com Website: www.amandahillrdh.com Facebook: Amandahillrdh Instagram: Amandahillrdh Rate, Review, & Follow "I love the Dental Bun!" If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps me support more people--just like you. Don't forget to follow the podcast. I'm adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed, and if you're not following, there's a good chance you will miss out. Follow The Dental Bun On: YouTube Apple Podcast Spotify Amazon Music
03/03/2024

Diving Deep into the world of Dental Speaking with Katherine Eitel Belt

Send us Fan Mail Ever ponder the impact of a well-delivered presentation in the dental world? Katherine Eitel Belt, a certified speaking professional who is known in the dental world as the unscripted communication coach, joins me, Janiece, to unravel the intricacies of public speaking and its profound effects on dental careers and practice growth. With Katherine's expertise, we embark on a journey through the nuances of crafting speeches that resonate and training sessions that transform. Our conversation is a treasure trove of insights on how to captivate an audience, whether you're leading your dental team or inspiring peers with innovative ideas. This episode is chock-full of actionable advice for dental professionals looking to sharpen their communication blades. Katherine shares a game-changer: the 'bookshelf method,' a structured approach to prevent your audience from drowning in information overload. We also dissect the anatomy of an engaging opening and the persuasive power of storytelling—essential tools for those who aim to lead and inspire. Katherine and I tackle the universal jitters of public speaking head-on, offering strategies to transform trepidation into confidence in any setting, from the stage to working with your patients' chairside. Rate, Review, & Follow "I love the Dental Bun!" If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps me support more people--just like you. Don't forget to follow the podcast. I'm adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed, and if you're not following, there's a good chance you will miss out. Follow The Dental Bun On: YouTube Apple Podcast Spotify Amazon Music

12 Episodes

5

out of 5

3 Ratings

Embrace the sassy, classy and messy bits of dentistry with the perfect blend of life and work wisdom.

Creator

Janiece
Years Active

2024 - 2026
Episodes

12
Rating

Clean
Copyright

© 2026 Dental Bun Podcast
Show Website

Dental Bun Podcast