531 When Advocacy Doesn’t Win: How to Respond When Legislation Goes the Other Way
A Tale of Two Hygienists Podcast
Release Date: 03/25/2026
532 What We’re Missing: An Oral Pathologist on Red Flags, Referrals, and Reality
A Tale of Two Hygienists Podcast
In this episode of A Tale of Two Hygienists, co-hosts David Torres and Jessica Atkinson sit down with oral pathologist Dr. Bryan Trump to discuss the important role dental professionals play in identifying abnormalities and knowing when to refer patients to a specialist. Dr. Trump shares valuable insight into what clinicians might be missing during routine exams and how to strengthen their confidence when suspicious findings arise. The conversation dives into practical strategies for performing thorough oral cancer screenings, recognizing key red flags, and navigating patient conversations...
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531 When Advocacy Doesn’t Win: How to Respond When Legislation Goes the Other Way
A Tale of Two Hygienists Podcast
In this episode of A Tale of Two Hygienists, co-hosts David Torres and Jessica Atkinson sit down with Joffree Bunleang to unpack one of the most challenging realities in professional advocacy—what happens when legislation doesn’t go the way you hoped? The conversation centers around Oral Preventive Assistants (OPAs) and the evolving landscape of dental practice. Joffree brings clarity to what OPAs are, why they’re being introduced in various regions, and how their presence impacts dental hygienists and the broader dental team. Key topics discussed include: ...
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530 Legislation 101 for Hygienists: What Actually Moves the Needle
A Tale of Two Hygienists Podcast
Legislation impacts your daily practice more than most clinicians realize. In this episode, we sit down with Derik J. Sven to break down what truly drives change in dental hygiene policy — and what doesn’t. Derik shares insight into the realities behind dental care standards, the ongoing fight for hygienist autonomy, and the complex supervision structures that shape scope of practice across the country. He also explains why legal expertise often carries significant influence in regulatory conversations and how business, public health, and law intersect in advancing the profession....
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Comfort, Confidence & Stronger Smiles
A Tale of Two Hygienists Podcast
Tooth sensitivity can make everyday things—like drinking cold water or even getting a routine cleaning—uncomfortable for patients. In this TIPisode, Dr. Marc Geissberger shares his experience beta testing ReminGel, a professional-strength remineralizing gel from PerioProtect designed to reduce sensitivity and support enamel health. Marc Geissberger DDS, MA shares how patients in his practice used the gel with PerioProtect trays for just 15 minutes a day, with many reporting dramatic reductions in sensitivity after only one week. If you treat patients who struggle with sensitivity,...
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529 Advocating for Yourself Without Burning Out
A Tale of Two Hygienists Podcast
Advocacy can feel exhausting — especially in a profession that already demands so much emotionally and physically. In this powerful episode, we sit down with Bethany Montoya, MBA, BAS, RDH to talk about how to stand up for yourself, your patients, and your profession without sacrificing your well-being. Bethany shares her personal journey through challenge, change, and growth — and how embracing the storm can actually make you stronger. From navigating the pressures of clinical life to stepping into new leadership roles, she reminds us that authenticity and community are essential...
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528 From Complaining to Constructive: Turning Frustration Into Advocacy
A Tale of Two Hygienists Podcast
In this episode, we sit down with Danyelle Evans to explore her path from an invested clinician to becoming a state and national advocate for oral health and access to prevention. Danyelle shares the moment that shifted her perspective from frustration to action: caring for a patient who could no longer continue treatment in a traditional brick-and-mortar dental office. Watching him lose access to care sparked her desire to create opportunities to continue caring for patients in more accessible, patient-centered ways. From that experience, Danyelle’s advocacy journey...
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527 Practicing With Purpose: Lessons From the Wind River Reservation
A Tale of Two Hygienists Podcast
Dr. Johnson returns to the podcast to share a powerful and often-overlooked perspective on tribal dentistry, career fulfillment, and why passion truly matters in dentistry. This conversation goes beyond clinical techniques and dives into purpose, opportunity, and loving the work you do. 🦷 What You’ll Learn in This Episode Understanding Tribal Dentistry: A Unique Perspective Dr. Johnson offers an inside look at tribal dentistry—how it operates, who it serves, and why it plays a vital role in improving access to care in underserved communities. Navigating Job...
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526 Pediatric Medical Emergencies & Anesthesia: Prepared, Not Panicked
A Tale of Two Hygienists Podcast
In this episode of A Tale of Two Hygienists, hosts Jessica Atkinson and David Torres sit down with Brittnee Thibault and Lindsay Richmond—two hygienists who graduated with no pediatric local anesthetic practice in school and went on to become confident clinicians providing local anesthesia for children. Brittnee and Lindsay share how they developed pediatric anesthesia skills after graduation, building confidence through preparation, mentorship, and real-world experience. They discuss behavior management, anesthesia techniques, and parent-provider communication—highlighting how...
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525 Choosing Pediatrics: Training, Practice, and the Art of Caring for Kids
A Tale of Two Hygienists Podcast
In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Johnson, a dedicated pediatric dentist (pedodontist), to explore what makes pediatric dentistry truly unique—and why it’s about so much more than just teeth. From mastering parent communication to handling unexpected holiday emergencies, Dr. Johnson shares real-world insights from the front lines of pediatric care. 🦷 What You’ll Learn in This Episode Why Dr. Johnson Became a Pedodontist Dr. Johnson shares the personal and professional journey that led him to specialize in pediatric dentistry, and what continues to inspire his passion...
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524 Why Sharpening Matters: Instrument Care with Christine Jeffs
A Tale of Two Hygienists Podcast
In this episode, we sit down with Christine Jeffs, co-founder of Acuti Sharpening, to talk about why sharpening isn’t optional—it’s essential. Christine shares how she got started in the sharpening business and how Acuti Sharpening came to life alongside co-founder Melia Lewis, RDH. We unpack the often-overlooked role instrument sharpness plays in ergonomics, efficiency, patient comfort, and long-term career longevity. This conversation goes beyond the what and into the why. Christine explains how sharpening directly impacts clinical outcomes and why making it a consistent...
info_outlineIn this episode of A Tale of Two Hygienists, co-hosts David Torres and Jessica Atkinson sit down with Joffree Bunleang to unpack one of the most challenging realities in professional advocacy—what happens when legislation doesn’t go the way you hoped?
The conversation centers around Oral Preventive Assistants (OPAs) and the evolving landscape of dental practice. Joffree brings clarity to what OPAs are, why they’re being introduced in various regions, and how their presence impacts dental hygienists and the broader dental team.
Key topics discussed include:
Understanding OPAs and their intended role within dental practices
The surprising truth about the hygienist perspective on change and professional identity
The real impact OPAs may have on workflow, patient care, and team dynamics
Practical ways hygienists can work with OPAs in everyday clinical settings
How to respond constructively when advocacy efforts don’t achieve the desired outcome
Rather than framing OPAs as a threat, this episode challenges listeners to consider how collaboration, leadership, and proactive engagement can strengthen the profession. Joffree offers thoughtful insight into how hygienists can continue advocating for themselves while also building effective working relationships with Oral Preventive Assistants.
This episode is a must-listen for hygienists navigating legislative changes and seeking productive ways to move forward—together.
Call to Action
Empower yourself as a dental hygienist. Advocate for your profession, stay informed about legislative developments, and focus on collaboration. Learn how to work alongside Oral Preventive Assistants in ways that support patient care, professional growth, and team success.
Resources:
Email: joffree.bunleang@hygieneelevated.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joffreebunleang/
“What if OPAs became the strength we didn’t see coming?”