Episodios

  • 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
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    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/
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    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
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    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
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    22 m
  • Episode 408: How Top Dental Assistants Stand Out and Earn More
    Nov 3 2025
    Dental assistants play a bigger role in a practice’s success than most people realize. The difference between staying stuck and standing out often comes down to small, everyday actions that boost efficiency, protect equipment, and support the office’s bottom line. From managing supplies to improving documentation and communication, the best dental assistants know how to make themselves indispensable. Discover what sets top earners apart, the habits that make them valuable, and how small changes in your routine can open the door to recognition, respect, and higher pay. Connect with Sherrie Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dentalassistantconnection/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sherrie.busby.5 Email: Sherrie.Busby@yahoo.com —-------------------- Don’t miss Episode 387: The Reason Dental Practices Get Shut Down — where Sherrie Busby and Kevin Henry uncover the overlooked mistakes that can close a practice faster than you think. It’s a wake-up call every dental professional should hear. Watch here: https://youtu.be/zf0WowNpEiI —-------------------- 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
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    29 m
  • Episode 407: The Dental Assistant Side of Dentistry
    Oct 27 2025
    Behind every confident smile sits a team that makes it possible … but what happens when the stress behind the dental chair becomes too much? In this episode, we dive into the unspoken side of dental assisting, including the office politics, burnout, and emotional strain that can quietly erode morale in a practice. This episode takes a candid look at what it’s really like to be on the dental assistant side of dentistry. From the moment you walk into a new office, you can sense the energy and when that energy turns toxic, it doesn’t just affect the team, it affects patient care too. We explore how toxic workplace dynamics, bullying, and lack of communication can make even the most passionate assistants question their worth. You’ll hear first-hand insight about recognizing when an office environment isn’t right for you, overcoming the fear of leaving, and rediscovering your value in a field that too often overlooks the emotional toll of the job. Most importantly, we talk about how dental assistants can help build morale fostering compassion, understanding, and teamwork so that every member of the dental team, from front desk to doctor, works together for the greater good. Because dentistry isn’t just about teeth it’s about people. And when the people behind the chair are cared for, the care they give shines even brighter. Connect with Karen Kendall Email: karenken42@gmail.com —-------------------- 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://midwintermeeting.eventscribe.net/?_gl=1*15ae5ic*_ga*MTY3Nzc0OTM5OC4xNzU5OTcxOTAw*_ga_VZTQV2NKLH*czE3NTk5NzE5MDAkbzEkZzAkdDE3NTk5NzE5MDAkajYwJGwwJGgw 👉 Chicago Midwinter Meeting: https://rmdconline.com/
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    16 m
  • Episode 406: What Makes the Best Dental Teams So Seamless
    Oct 20 2025
    What if I told you the secret to a truly seamless dental team isn’t about skill, it’s about connection? When the front and back office move together as one, everything changes. Genuine communication and trust turn daily routines into a smooth, consistent flow that patients can feel the moment they walk in. Every handoff, every small exchange, shapes how comfortable and confident a patient feels in your care. It’s not about titles or tasks, it's about teamwork. When barriers fade and connection takes over, the entire practice runs with ease, creating an experience that feels effortless for both the team and the patient. Connect with Lorie Streeter Website: https://maxassist.com/book-a-demo-lorie/ —-------------------- 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://midwintermeeting.eventscribe.net/?_gl=1*15ae5ic*_ga*MTY3Nzc0OTM5OC4xNzU5OTcxOTAw*_ga_VZTQV2NKLH*czE3NTk5NzE5MDAkbzEkZzAkdDE3NTk5NzE5MDAkajYwJGwwJGgw 👉 Chicago Midwinter Meeting: https://rmdconline.com/
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    21 m
  • Episode 405: This Dental Assistant Turned Her Clinical Skills into Her Biggest Asset
    Oct 13 2025
    From the operatory to the tech world.How one dental assistant turned her skills into success. In this episode, Kevin Henry sits down with Treneice Negron, a former dental assistant who transformed her clinical experience into a thriving career in dental technology. Treneice shares how her adaptability, organization, and deep understanding of patient care helped her transition from chairside work to a key role at SOTA Cloud, a modern imaging software company. She opens up about making a bold career move during the pandemic, the importance of staying curious about technology, and how dental assistants can leverage their hands-on expertise to grow beyond the operatory. Her story is an inspiring reminder that the skills learned in dentistry can open doors to new and fulfilling opportunities. Connect with Treneice Website: https://www.sotacloud.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/treneicenegron/ —-------------------------------------------- Hey friends—cool news! The Dental Assistant Nation Podcast was featured on Feedspot’s Top 100 Dental Podcasts and their Top Dental Assistant Podcasts list. Huge thanks to you for listening, subscribing, and supporting the show. Couldn’t have done it without you. Go check it out—we’re listed alongside some amazing shows! 100 Best Dental Podcasts - https://podcast.feedspot.com/dental_podcasts/ 4 Best Dental Assistant Podcasts - https://podcast.feedspot.com/dental_assistant_podcasts/
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    15 m