Episodios

  • Episode 416: Top 5 Dental Assistant Nation Podcasts of 2025 | New Year Special
    Dec 29 2025
    As we close out 2025 and look ahead to an even bigger 2026, this New Year special episode of Dental Assistant Nation is all about you. In this episode, Kevin Henry counts down the Top 5 most-listened Dental Assistant Nation podcasts of 2025. These episodes were not chosen by a panel or a ranking system. They were chosen by what dental assistants listened to, shared, and cared about the most this year. You will hear highlights from conversations that covered: • Career growth and leveling up • Dental assistant onboarding and training • Recognition and appreciation in dentistry • Professional development and success tips • The topics that truly mattered to dental assistants in 2025 Thank you for making 2025 an incredible year for Dental Assistant Nation. Your support, engagement, and passion continue to drive this movement forward. We are excited for what is ahead in 2026 as we tackle tough topics, elevate the profession, and keep raising dental assistants up. The Top 5 Dental Assistant Nation Podcasts of 2025 10:28 #1: Episode 374: How Top Dental Assistants Level Up Their Careers: Essential Tips https://youtu.be/_aGzvOVquLw 08:01 #2: Episode 373: 5 Must-Know Tips for Dental Assistants During Recognition Week! https://youtu.be/iD_xzc8-qek 06:36 #3: Episode 382: What Every Aspiring Dental Assistant Must Know To Be Successful https://youtu.be/tJOwwTz9ovI 04:32 #4: Episode 381: THIS is the BEST Onboarding Guide for Dental Assistants! https://youtu.be/cnWgzK2dWf0 02:43 #5: Episode 391: The Oral Preventive Assistant: Is it bad news for dental assistants? https://youtu.be/ElyssposlQQ Follow us on Tiktok! : https://www.tiktok.com/@dentalassistantnation?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc
    Más Menos
    17 m
  • Episode 415: How Dental Assistants Can Take Better Dental X-Rays Every Time
    Dec 22 2025
    Taking dental X-rays can be one of the most challenging parts of a dental assistant’s day, especially when patients are anxious, uncomfortable, or difficult to image. Small technique mistakes, rushed positioning, or missed opportunities to build trust can turn a routine task into a frustrating experience for both the assistant and the patient. In this episode of the Dental Assistant Nation podcast, Kevin Henry sits down with dental radiography educator Janet Simpson to explore how dental assistants can take better dental X-rays every time. Janet shares practical insights from decades of clinical and teaching experience, explaining how proper positioning, understanding X-ray beam behavior, and adjusting technique can dramatically improve image quality. The conversation also highlights the importance of patient comfort, empathy, and communication, showing how trust and compassion play a critical role in successful radiographs. From correcting common imaging errors to creating a calmer experience for nervous patients, this episode offers a thoughtful look at how mastering dental X-rays goes beyond equipment and technique and starts with the assistant behind the sensor. Connect with Janet Janet’s YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@janetsimpson2024 Sensor skinz website: https://sensorskinz.com/ Dental Fundamentals CE: https://dentalxraycoach.com/ How to take better Dental X-rays 10% Coupon Code: KEVIN —-------------------- BIG NEWS! The annual dental podcast contest is officially underway, and we’d love your support. If you enjoy this podcast, now’s your chance to help us shine! Just head over to https://dentalpodcast.org/vote/ and hit the big “Vote” button on the bottom banner. Voting runs from November 1 through December 31, 2025, so jump in and make your vote count. Thanks for being an amazing part of this community! Don’t forget to follow us! Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dentalassistantnation/ Tiktok https://www.tiktok.com/@dentalassistantnation —-------------------- Big things are coming in 2026 for dental assistants! Join me at the Rocky Mountain Dental Convention in Denver, January 22–23, for Real Talk About the State of Dental Assistants happening 1:30 PM – 4:30 PM MST. We’re getting real about what’s working, what needs improvement, and how we can strengthen the future of our profession together. Then meet me at the Chicago Midwinter Meeting, February 20–21, for two powerful sessions: ✨ Harnessing the Power of Personalities in the Dental Practice February 20, 8:00 AM – 9:30 AM learn how understanding personalities can transform teamwork and communication in your dental practice. 🔥 Battling and Beating the Demons of Dental Assisting February 21, 8:00 AM – 9:30 AM an honest, empowering session just for dental assistants about overcoming the real challenges in our profession. Let’s connect, learn, and grow together. In 2026 it’s going to be a year of real conversations and real change for dental assistants everywhere. 👉 Rocky Mountain Dental Convention: https://rmdconline.com/ 👉 Chicago Midwinter Meeting: https://midwintermeeting.eventscribe.net/?_gl=1*15ae5ic*_ga*MTY3Nzc0OTM5OC4xNzU5OTcxOTAw*_ga_VZTQV2NKLH*czE3NTk5NzE5MDAkbzEkZzAkdDE3NTk5NzE5MDAkajYwJGwwJGgw
    Más Menos
    21 m
  • Episode 414: How Dental Assistants Build Confidence and Reduce Mistakes Every Day
    Dec 15 2025
    Confidence isn’t something you’re born with. It’s built through everyday choices, skills, and brave moments. In this episode, we explore how dental assistants grow into confident professionals who protect patients, their practices, and themselves while helping reduce errors along the way. Kevin Henry talks with Tosha Gurley, a dental assistant turned safety consultant and educator, about her journey and the real-life incident that sparked her passion for infection control and compliance. They discuss how education, strong workplace culture, and speaking up create safer, more effective teams, and how embracing leadership and ongoing learning empowers dental assistants to elevate both their careers and patient care. Connect with Tasha Email: GurleyTosha@gmail.com Dental Compliance Training and Consulting https://www.sldentalcompliance.com/about Association for Dental Safety Website: https://www.myads.org/ —-------------------- BIG NEWS! The annual dental podcast contest is officially underway, and we’d love your support. If you enjoy this podcast, now’s your chance to help us shine! Just head over to https://dentalpodcast.org/vote/ and hit the big “Vote” button on the bottom banner. Voting runs from November 1 through December 31, 2025, so jump in and make your vote count. Thanks for being an amazing part of this community! Don’t forget to follow us! Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dentalassistantnation/ Tiktok https://www.tiktok.com/@dentalassistantnation —-------------------- Big things are coming in 2026 for dental assistants! Join me at the Rocky Mountain Dental Convention in Denver, January 22–23, for Real Talk About the State of Dental Assistants happening 1:30 PM – 4:30 PM MST. We’re getting real about what’s working, what needs improvement, and how we can strengthen the future of our profession together. Then meet me at the Chicago Midwinter Meeting, February 20–21, for two powerful sessions: ✨ Harnessing the Power of Personalities in the Dental Practice February 20, 8:00 AM – 9:30 AM learn how understanding personalities can transform teamwork and communication in your dental practice. 🔥 Battling and Beating the Demons of Dental Assisting February 21, 8:00 AM – 9:30 AM an honest, empowering session just for dental assistants about overcoming the real challenges in our profession. Let’s connect, learn, and grow together. In 2026 it’s going to be a year of real conversations and real change for dental assistants everywhere. 👉 Rocky Mountain Dental Convention: https://rmdconline.com/ 👉 Chicago Midwinter Meeting: https://midwintermeeting.eventscribe.net/?_gl=1*15ae5ic*_ga*MTY3Nzc0OTM5OC4xNzU5OTcxOTAw*_ga_VZTQV2NKLH*czE3NTk5NzE5MDAkbzEkZzAkdDE3NTk5NzE5MDAkajYwJGwwJGgw
    Más Menos
    14 m
  • Episode 413: The Tough Side of Being a Dental Assistant
    Dec 8 2025
    Thinking about becoming a dental assistant but not sure what really happens behind the scenes? This episode breaks open the truth in a way most people never talk about. In this podcast, we dive into the real challenges dental assistants face every day and why some assistants say they would warn others before joining the field. We talk honestly about pay, respect, and the physical pain that can build up over time. You’ll hear why these issues matter, how they affect careers, and what can be done to make things better. This isn’t about scaring anyone away but about giving you the clearest picture so you can understand what dental assisting is really like and how to make your path stronger if you’re already in it. —-------------------- This podcast is sponsored by Dental Supply Guy. Tired of scrambling for supplies or realizing you’re out right when you need something? Dental Supply Guy takes all that stress off your plate by automating your ordering, tracking, and inventory so you never have to think about it again. No more guessing, no more last-minute runs, just a smoother, easier workflow for your whole team. Ready to ditch the supply chaos? Book a quick demo at: https://dentalsupplyguy.com/ —-------------------- BIG NEWS! The annual dental podcast contest is officially underway, and we’d love your support. If you enjoy this podcast, now’s your chance to help us shine! Just head over to https://dentalpodcast.org/vote/ and hit the big “Vote” button on the bottom banner. Voting runs from November 1 through December 31, 2025, so jump in and make your vote count. Thanks for being an amazing part of this community! Don’t forget to follow us! Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dentalassistantnation/ Tiktok https://www.tiktok.com/@dentalassistantnation —-------------------- Big things are coming in 2026 for dental assistants! Join me at the Rocky Mountain Dental Convention in Denver, January 22–23, for Real Talk About the State of Dental Assistants happening 1:30 PM – 4:30 PM MST. We’re getting real about what’s working, what needs improvement, and how we can strengthen the future of our profession together. Then meet me at the Chicago Midwinter Meeting, February 20–21, for two powerful sessions: ✨ Harnessing the Power of Personalities in the Dental Practice February 20, 8:00 AM – 9:30 AM learn how understanding personalities can transform teamwork and communication in your dental practice. 🔥 Battling and Beating the Demons of Dental Assisting February 21, 8:00 AM – 9:30 AM an honest, empowering session just for dental assistants about overcoming the real challenges in our profession. Let’s connect, learn, and grow together. In 2026 it’s going to be a year of real conversations and real change for dental assistants everywhere. 👉 Rocky Mountain Dental Convention: https://rmdconline.com/ 👉 Chicago Midwinter Meeting: https://midwintermeeting.eventscribe.net/?_gl=1*15ae5ic*_ga*MTY3Nzc0OTM5OC4xNzU5OTcxOTAw*_ga_VZTQV2NKLH*czE3NTk5NzE5MDAkbzEkZzAkdDE3NTk5NzE5MDAkajYwJGwwJGgw
    Más Menos
    24 m
  • Episode 412: What Dental Assistants Should Know About Dental Therapists?
    Dec 1 2025
    Dental therapists are opening new doors in dentistry and the earning potential might surprise you. In this episode, we break down what a dental therapist is, how the role fits into the oral health care team, and why more states are considering dental therapy to expand access to care. You’ll learn what dental therapists are trained to do, how their scope compares to dental assistants and hygienists, and why so many underserved communities rely on this role. We also discuss how dental therapy can become a career path for dental assistants who want to advance, along with the realistic salary expectations, including how dental therapists typically earn around one-third to one-half of what a dentist makes in similar settings. If you’re exploring dental career opportunities, looking for ways to grow in the profession, or simply want clarity on the future of the oral health workforce, this episode gives you a clear, accurate overview to help you understand the value of dental therapists. Connect with Laura Brannon Website: https://communitycatalyst.org/ Email: lbrannon@communitycatalyst.org —-------------------- This podcast is sponsored by Dental Supply Guy. Tired of scrambling for supplies or realizing you’re out right when you need something? Dental Supply Guy takes all that stress off your plate by automating your ordering, tracking, and inventory so you never have to think about it again. No more guessing, no more last-minute runs, just a smoother, easier workflow for your whole team. Ready to ditch the supply chaos? Book a quick demo at: https://dentalsupplyguy.com/ —-------------------- BIG NEWS! The annual dental podcast contest is officially underway, and we’d love your support. If you enjoy this podcast, now’s your chance to help us shine! Just head over to https://dentalpodcast.org/vote/ and hit the big “Vote” button on the bottom banner. Voting runs from November 1 through December 31, 2025, so jump in and make your vote count. Thanks for being an amazing part of this community! —-------------------- Big things are coming in 2026 for dental assistants! Join me at the Rocky Mountain Dental Convention in Denver, January 22–23, for Real Talk About the State of Dental Assistants happening 1:30 PM – 4:30 PM MST. We’re getting real about what’s working, what needs improvement, and how we can strengthen the future of our profession together. Then meet me at the Chicago Midwinter Meeting, February 20–21, for two powerful sessions: ✨ Harnessing the Power of Personalities in the Dental Practice February 20, 8:00 AM – 9:30 AM learn how understanding personalities can transform teamwork and communication in your dental practice. 🔥 Battling and Beating the Demons of Dental Assisting February 21, 8:00 AM – 9:30 AM an honest, empowering session just for dental assistants about overcoming the real challenges in our profession. Let’s connect, learn, and grow together. In 2026 it’s going to be a year of real conversations and real change for dental assistants everywhere. 👉 Rocky Mountain Dental Convention: https://rmdconline.com/ 👉 Chicago Midwinter Meeting: https://midwintermeeting.eventscribe.net
    Más Menos
    17 m
  • Episode 411: Inside the AI in Dentistry Summit: How Dental Assistants Are Shaping the Future with AI
    Nov 25 2025
    Join host Kevin Henry as he welcomes Hanna Aronovich and Atia Black from DANB, along with dental assistant Nicole Mora from Dr. Bari Posner’s office, for a powerful recap of the AI in Dentistry Summit. In this episode, they break down how artificial intelligence is reshaping the world of dental assisting, the emerging skills DAs will need to thrive, and how DANB is preparing the profession for this rapidly evolving landscape. Meet Our Guests Hanna Aronovich serves as Chief Marketing & Strategy Officer for the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) and the DALE Foundation. With over 15 years of experience in nonprofit and association leadership, she drives strategic marketing, communications, and partnerships that elevate certification, infection prevention standards, and professional development. Hanna has led national initiatives highlighting DANB credentials such as the CDA and CDIPC and oversaw the launch of the Dental Assisting Professional Model, a framework supporting career growth, workforce retention, and excellence across the dental industry. Atia Black is the Director of Business Development for DANB and the DALE Foundation. Her background spans chairside assisting, office management, sterilization, and leadership roles in administration and business development. With academic training in biology, pre-dental hygiene, and business administration—as well as a Women in Leadership certificate—Atia brings a deep understanding of dental operations and career pathways for assistants. Nicole Mora is a dentist from Ecuador and a graduate of Universidad de las Américas (UDLA). After completing her dental social service in rural communities, she gained over three years of experience as a dental assistant, developing strong clinical and digital skills. Nicole is passionate about AI-driven dentistry and how new technologies enhance diagnosis, treatment planning, and patient-centered care. Resources and Links • AI in Dentistry Summit Recap: https://www.danb.org/news-blog/detail/news/summit-attendees-envision-the-future-of-ai-and-dental-assisting DANB Website: https://www.danb.org DALE Foundation Learning Resources: https://www.dalefoundation.org Dental Assisting Professional Model: https://www.danb.org/professional-model Stay Connected: https://www.danb.org/contact-us Dental Associates of Hoboken: https://www.dentalassociatesofhoboken.com/meet-bari-posner/ This podcast is sponsored by Dental Supply Guy: Tired of scrambling for supplies or realizing you’re out right when you need something? Dental Supply Guy takes all that stress off your plate by automating your ordering, tracking, and inventory so you never have to think about it again. No more guessing, no more last-minute runs, just a smoother, easier workflow for your whole team. Ready to ditch the supply chaos? Book a quick demo at: https://dentalsupplyguy.com/ BIG NEWS! The annual dental podcast contest is officially open, and your support means the world to us. If you enjoy the show, head to DentalPodcast.org/vote and hit the big “Vote” button. Voting runs November 1–December 31, 2025. Thanks for being part of this community! Big things are coming in 2026 for dental assistants! Join me at the Rocky Mountain Dental Convention in Denver, January 22–23, for Real Talk About the State of Dental Assistants from 1:30 PM–4:30 PM MST. Then meet me at the Chicago Midwinter Meeting, February 20–21, for two energizing sessions: ✨ Harnessing the Power of Personalities in the Dental Practice – February 20, 8:00–9:30 AM 🔥 Battling and Beating the Demons of Dental Assisting – February 21, 8:00–9:30 AM Let’s connect, learn, and grow together. Here's to real conversations and real change in 2026 for dental assistants everywhere. 👉 Rocky Mountain Dental Convention: https://rmdconline.com/ 👉 Chicago Midwinter Meeting: https://midwintermeeting.eventscribe.net/
    Más Menos
    19 m
  • Episode 410: The Real Reason Stress Messes With Your Gut
    Nov 17 2025
    Stress doesn’t just live in your mind it shows up in your gut. If you’ve ever felt bloated, gassy, or uncomfortable during busy seasons of life, there’s a real physiological reason your digestive system reacts the way it does. When stress hormones surge for long periods, they disrupt digestion, slow metabolism, and increase inflammation making bloating, constipation, cravings, and low energy far more likely. Chronic stress throws off gut–brain communication, leaving you feeling foggy, tired, and hungrier than usual, especially for high-sugar comfort foods. Supporting your body with high-fiber snacks, healthy fats, protein, and magnesium-rich foods can help stabilize blood sugar and calm your nervous system. Simple daily habits like mindful eating, journaling, and nourishing your body with gut-supportive nutrients make a significant difference in how you digest, recover, and handle life’s pressures. This episode breaks down the real reason stress impacts your digestion and what you can do today to relieve bloating and feel better from the inside out. Connect with Sahar Berjis Website: https://innerhealthwellness.com/ —-------------------- This podcast is sponsored by Dental Supply Guy. Tired of scrambling for supplies or realizing you’re out right when you need something? Dental Supply Guy takes all that stress off your plate by automating your ordering, tracking, and inventory so you never have to think about it again. No more guessing, no more last-minute runs, just a smoother, easier workflow for your whole team. Ready to ditch the supply chaos? Book a quick demo at: https://dentalsupplyguy.com/ —-------------------- BIG NEWS! The annual dental podcast contest is officially underway, and we’d love your support. If you enjoy this podcast, now’s your chance to help us shine! Just head over to https://dentalpodcast.org/vote/ and hit the big “Vote” button on the bottom banner. Voting runs from November 1 through December 31, 2025, so jump in and make your vote count. Thanks for being an amazing part of this community! —-------------------- Big things are coming in 2026 for dental assistants! Join me at the Rocky Mountain Dental Convention in Denver, January 22–23, for Real Talk About the State of Dental Assistants happening 1:30 PM – 4:30 PM MST. We’re getting real about what’s working, what needs improvement, and how we can strengthen the future of our profession together. Then meet me at the Chicago Midwinter Meeting, February 20–21, for two powerful sessions: ✨ Harnessing the Power of Personalities in the Dental Practice February 20, 8:00 AM – 9:30 AM learn how understanding personalities can transform teamwork and communication in your dental practice. 🔥 Battling and Beating the Demons of Dental Assisting February 21, 8:00 AM – 9:30 AM an honest, empowering session just for dental assistants about overcoming the real challenges in our profession. Let’s connect, learn, and grow together. In 2026 it’s going to be a year of real conversations and real change for dental assistants everywhere. 👉 Rocky Mountain Dental Convention: https://rmdconline.com/ 👉 Chicago Midwinter Meeting: https://midwintermeeting.eventscribe.net/?_gl=1*15ae5ic*_ga*MTY3Nzc0OTM5OC4xNzU5OTcxOTAw*_ga_VZTQV2NKLH*czE3NTk5NzE5MDAkbzEkZzAkdDE3NTk5NzE5MDAkajYwJGwwJGgw
    Más Menos
    12 m
  • Episode 409: Blood-Stained Surgical Tools Found at Colorado Hospital By State Inspectors
    Nov 10 2025
    The shocking discovery of blood-stained surgical tools at a Colorado hospital is a wake-up call for every dental practice. When sterilization falls behind, even briefly, safety can break down fast and dentistry faces the same risks, especially with short staffing, rushed schedules, and inconsistent infection control habits. In this episode, Kevin Henry and infection control expert Mary Govoni, CDA, RDH, discuss how incidents like this happen and why dental teams must stay alert. They talk through common failures in instrument processing, gaps in PPE use, and how post-pandemic complacency has led to rising safety concerns in many practices. Mary explains the importance of proper onboarding, reliable training, and strong infection control routines especially as respiratory illnesses surge and demands on clinical teams increase. She also addresses often-missed issues such as waterline testing and how dental assistants can identify red flags and advocate for safer practices. Links: Association for Dental Safety: https://www.myads.org/ Dental Infection Prevention and Control: https://www.cdc.gov/dental-infection-control/hcp/index.html State inspectors found trays of blood-caked surgical tools at University of Colorado Hospital: https://www.denverpost.com/2025/10/17/uchealth-university-colorado-hospital-inspections-sterilization/ Connect with Mary Govoni Website: https://www.marygovoni.com/ Email: mary@marygovoni.com BIG NEWS! The annual dental podcast contest is officially underway, and we’d love your support. If you enjoy this podcast, now’s your chance to help us shine! Just head over to https://dentalpodcast.org/vote/ and hit the big “Vote” button on the bottom banner. Voting runs from November 1 through December 31, 2025, so jump in and make your vote count. Thanks for being an amazing part of this community! —-------------------- Big things are coming in 2026 for dental assistants! Join me at the Rocky Mountain Dental Convention in Denver, January 22–23, for Real Talk About the State of Dental Assistants happening 1:30 PM – 4:30 PM MST. We’re getting real about what’s working, what needs improvement, and how we can strengthen the future of our profession together. Then meet me at the Chicago Midwinter Meeting, February 20–21, for two powerful sessions: ✨ Harnessing the Power of Personalities in the Dental Practice February 20, 8:00 AM – 9:30 AM learn how understanding personalities can transform teamwork and communication in your dental practice. 🔥 Battling and Beating the Demons of Dental Assisting February 21, 8:00 AM – 9:30 AM an honest, empowering session just for dental assistants about overcoming the real challenges in our profession. Let’s connect, learn, and grow together. In 2026 it’s going to be a year of real conversations and real change for dental assistants everywhere. 👉 Rocky Mountain Dental Convention: https://rmdconline.com/ 👉 Chicago Midwinter Meeting: https://midwintermeeting.eventscribe.net/?_gl=1*15ae5ic*_ga*MTY3Nzc0OTM5OC4xNzU5OTcxOTAw*_ga_VZTQV2NKLH*czE3NTk5NzE5MDAkbzEkZzAkdDE3NTk5NzE5MDAkajYwJGwwJGgw
    Más Menos
    22 m