537 What We’re Actually Worried About: Graduating Hygienists Speak
A Tale of Two Hygienists Podcast
Release Date: 05/06/2026
537 What We’re Actually Worried About: Graduating Hygienists Speak
A Tale of Two Hygienists Podcast
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...
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536 Caring for the Cancer Patient
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 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...
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535 What Do You Say? Oral Cancer Screening Verbiage That Builds Trust
A Tale of Two Hygienists Podcast
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...
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534 Oral Cancer Screening: Stepping Fully Into Your Role
A Tale of Two Hygienists Podcast
In this episode of A Tale of Two Hygienists, co-hosts David Torres and Jessica Atkinson welcome renowned speaker and dental educator Jo-Anne Jones for an impactful conversation titled “Oral Cancer Screening: Stepping Fully Into Your Role.” Jo-Anne shares deeply personal and professional insights that challenge clinicians to recognize the true life-saving potential of routine dental visits. Through powerful storytelling and clinical expertise, she highlights the urgency of early detection—especially in the face of rising HPV-related cancers—and encourages hygienists to fully...
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Solventum Podcast Chat -Focus on the fluoride facts: Talking with patients about Clinpro™ Clear
A Tale of Two Hygienists Podcast
Fluoride conversations don’t have to feel uncomfortable. In this Bonus episode, we’re joined by Jen Post, RDH, MDH, FADHA, to discuss practical strategies for improving patient communication and increasing fluoride acceptance. Jen shares how hygienists can confidently address common patient concerns, simplify their messaging, and create more effective chairside conversations. We also explore how Clinpro™ Clear fluoride varnish supports both clinicians and patients with its clear appearance, smooth application, and comfortable feel—helping reduce objections and improve...
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533 When the Provider Becomes the Patient: An RDH's Early Detection of Thyroid Cancer
A Tale of Two Hygienists Podcast
In this episode of A Tale of Two Hygienists, Jessica and David sit down with dental hygienist Angeli Walton to share her powerful story of recognizing early signs of a thyroid condition—within herself. What began as clinical awareness quickly turned into a deeply personal journey, as Angeli navigated the unexpected shift from provider to patient. Angeli reflects on how her training helped her notice subtle changes that might have otherwise gone overlooked, and how trusting those instincts ultimately led to early detection. The conversation explores the emotional and professional...
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Dry Mouth Relief That Actually Lasts
A Tale of Two Hygienists Podcast
Dry mouth isn’t just uncomfortable—it can impact sleep, swallowing, oral health, and overall quality of life. In this TIPisode, we learn about Moisyn, a unique solution designed to provide lasting moisture and relief for patients dealing with xerostomia. Unlike traditional products that offer only temporary relief, Moisyn uses a mucoadhesive, moisture-retentive technology to help keep the oral environment hydrated longer. We also break down how clinicians can improve patient compliance, why dispensing products in-office matters, and how dry mouth solutions can impact...
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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....
info_outlineIn 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:
Abigail Vogel:
Haydn Bush:
Haydn.mcmillan@utahtech.edu