A Tale of Two Hygienists Podcast

Welcome to the world's #1 dental hygiene podcast! You will get up-to-date information with some real life application. Andrew and his panel of cohosts are exactly where you are, dental professionals looking to get better! We may not be experts, but we will do our best to get them on the show! Please rate and review us on iTunes or your favorite podcast app and enjoy the show!

519 And The New Co-Hosts Are... 12/31/2025

Spice/K2: A Pharmacists Perspective with Tom Viola 12/22/2025

518 Being Thin Does NOT Equal Health with Machell Hoover, RDH 12/17/2025

What Should Hygienists Know About Treating Pregnant Patients? Ask The Expert with Katrina Sanders! 12/12/2025

517 Let's Close Down 2025 Already! 12/10/2025

518 Burned Out On Burn Out with Andrew Johnston, RDH 12/04/2025

How Do I Know When a Patient Truly Needs Scaling and Root Planing? Ask The Expert with Katrina Sanders! 11/28/2025

515 The Current Model of Prevention is Broken with Tim Ives! 11/26/2025

515 The Current Model of Prevention is Broken with Tim Ives! Episode Overview In this thought-provoking episode, Tim Ives joins the show for an in-depth conversation on the evolving role of dental hygienists, the ongoing challenges in oral health, and the importance of behavior change and communication in achieving better patient outcomes. The discussion delves into dental education, interprofessional collaboration, measuring success in hygiene, and innovative ideas for the profession’s future, such as independent hygiene practices and high street outreach. Key Topics Defining the Role of the Dental Hygienist: Tim Ives challenges listeners to rethink the traditional image of the hygienist and advocates for a broader understanding among patients, dentists, and hygienists themselves. Barriers to Change in Dental Health: Discussion on why oral diseases like dental caries and periodontal disease remain prevalent and the systemic issues preventing progress. Measuring Success in Hygiene: How hygienists can (and should) measure patient health outcomes, and why communication and behavior change skills should be prioritized. Business vs. Healthcare: The difficulties in balancing profitability and genuine health care—especially in corporate/group practice settings. Ideas for the Future: Envisioning hygienists as independent professionals on the high street, specialists in behavioral change, and as accessible advisors to the public. Education Pathways and Research: Insight into the innovative programs at O’Hehir University, including international bachelor’s and master’s degrees for dental hygienists, and the recently launched journal publishing condensed (400-word) research papers. Behavioral Change & Stress in Oral Health: Exploring newer research that ties socioeconomic status, stress, and cortisol to dental caries risk, and the need to address systemic social issues to truly improve health. Professionalism & Interprofessional Education: The impact of UK programs where hygienists and dentists are trained side by side, and how this fosters professionalism and teamwork. Direct Access & Practice Ownership: How changes in UK policy now allow hygienists to own practices, employ dentists, and offer direct patient access. Personal Reflections: Tim Ives shares his candid views on career development and success, plus a fun closing discussion on football and Wrexham’s promotion odds. O’Hehir University Programs 6-month Bachelor’s program — open globally to licensed dental hygienists 18-month Master’s program — focused on oral health promotion, leadership, and research New journal featuring concise, practice-relevant research summaries Learn more and contact Tim Ives: Email: tim@ohehiruniversity.com O’Hehir University Website: Connect For more information about O’Hehir University or to reach Tim Ives Email: tim@ohehiruniversity.com Shout-Out Huge thanks to Tim Ives for his insights and dedication to the profession, and to all listeners for supporting these important conversations that help shape the future of dental hygiene. Stay Connected Subscribe to A Tale of Two Hygienists on your favorite podcast platform Follow on social media Sign up for the newsletter Thanks for tuning in! /episode/index/show/offthecusppodcast/id/39139455

Inflammation Drivers and Disease Solutions with Tanya Dunlap! **Bonus** 11/22/2025

Inflammation Drivers and Disease Solutions with Tanya Dunlap! **Bonus** Episode Overview This episode is a recording of a CE-Caliber presentation led by Tanya Dunlap, Vice President of Clinical and Business Development, and research liaison for Perio Protect. Key Topics Covered Chronic Oral Infections & Systemic Health: Tanya Dunlap explains why chronic oral infections are not just a local problem, but can affect overall health—especially for patients with conditions like type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and more. Prescription Tray Therapy Explained: Learn the science behind Perio Protect's periodontal medicament carrier trays—how they deliver low-concentration hydrogen peroxide deep into periodontal pockets to fight infection and improve gum health. Case Studies & Clinical Outcomes: See real-world examples of patients who used Perio Protect, including those with crowns, implants, advanced periodontal disease, and systemic health concerns. Hear about measurable reductions in bleeding, improved gum scores, and even systemic improvements in markers like hemoglobin A1c. Impact on Restorations & Implants: Tanya Dunlap discusses how Perio Protect can help maintain the longevity of crowns and implants, prevent peri-implant mucositis, and support healthy tissue around restorations. Patient Communication & Compliance: Tips for presenting the treatment in a way patients can understand, including how to use the “gum score” as an objective health metric. Strategies for boosting patient commitment and overcoming common objections. Safety, Usage, and Cost: Answers to audience questions on sensitivity, safety of low-concentration peroxide, compatibility with other dental products, recommended usage duration, and the typical costs for trays and gel. Insurance & Coding: Insights into dental insurance coverage for Perio Protect, recommended CDT codes, and how to handle FSA/HSA payments for patients. Featured Speakers Tanya Dunlap Resources & Links For more information, visit or check out their research at . You can also find additional patient-facing materials and educational brochures mentioned in the episode. Takeaways Whether you’re a dental professional looking to improve patient outcomes, or just curious about the link between oral and systemic health, this episode is packed with actionable insights and practical tips. Hear audience questions answered live, learn how Perio Protect fits into comprehensive care plans, and see how this adjunctive therapy can elevate your clinical results. Connect Don’t miss out on future updates—follow A Tale of Two Hygienists, subscribe, and sign up for the newsletter! If you have further questions or want access to slides or studies mentioned, be sure to contact Tanya Dunlap directly via the contact information provided in the episode. Thank you for listening! /episode/index/show/offthecusppodcast/id/39139380

514 Has Endurance Disappeared in Dentistry? With Dr. Alan Mead 11/19/2025

514 Has Endurance Disappeared in Dentistry? With Dr. Alan Mead Welcome back to another insightful episode of A Tale of Two Hygienists! This week, Andrew Johnston is joined by none other than Dr. Alan Mead—podcaster, dentist, mentor, and community builder. Dr. Mead shares how the dental podcasting landscape has evolved over the years, what it takes to maintain endurance in dentistry, and how the profession continues to change. Highlights from This Episode: Podcasting Roots & Mentorship: Andrew Johnston credits Dr. Alan Mead as the reason this very podcast exists, touching on early Facebook communities, learning tech, and the supportive culture of dental podcasters. CE, Learning, and Growth: Dr. Mead discusses his experience at recent Bioclear courses, the tendency to fall back into comfortable habits, and the challenges of integrating new techniques into everyday practice. The Changing Face of Dental Podcasting: The conversation covers the shift from traditional audio podcasts to video and social-focused content, the pros and cons of new tools, and how AI is changing audio editing and show notes. Dentistry Over the Years: Reflections on what’s changed in the profession, from new grads facing massive debt, to decreasing engagement on platforms like Facebook, and the difference in career expectations from Dr. Mead's early days to now. Advice for New Podcasters: Dr. Mead offers sage advice for anyone starting a podcast: don’t obsess over download numbers, focus on genuine engagement and conversation, make your show personal and relatable, and always prioritize the audience’s needs. Looking Ahead – The Future of Dentistry: Thoughtful (and candid) takes on whether Dr. Mead would encourage a new grad to enter the profession, the importance of finding fulfillment outside of work, and how impermanence—among both dental staff and patients—might affect long-term patient relationships. Voices of Dentistry Podcast and Event Dr. Alan Mead also talks about the return of the Voices of Dentistry conference—a unique gathering for dental podcasters, listeners, and anyone interested in the dental podcasting community. Voices of Dentistry 2026 Dates: January 16th and 17th, 2026 Location: Implant Pathway, Arizona Details & Tickets: Note: Limited tickets due to fire codes! This is an intimate event with great speakers and loads of podcasters—not to be missed if you’re a fan of dental podcasts. You can also check out the for discussions with some of the biggest names in dental podcasting. Connect with Us: Follow and engage on social media! Don’t forget to subscribe and sign up for our newsletter via our website. Thank You for Listening! If you enjoyed this episode, consider leaving a review and sharing with a friend. Have thoughts or want to connect? Reach out to the show or join the discussion on Facebook. This episode is a production of Endeavor Business Media. /episode/index/show/offthecusppodcast/id/39099710

How A Periodontist Saves Teeth At A Multi-Location Practice! 11/14/2025

How A Periodontist Saves Teeth At A Multi-Location Practice! Episode Summary: This tipisode from "A Tale of Two Hygienists" features Dr. Sadie, a periodontist from Maryland, sharing insights on the implementation of Perio Protect in her multi-specialty practice. Hosted by Tanya Dunlap, the conversation delves into the evolution of Perio Protect's role in patient care, how its usage has expanded across multiple locations, and the impact on patients' outcomes and retention. **In Partnership with PerioProtect visit Key Topics Discussed: Introduction to Perio Protect: How Dr. Sadie was introduced to Perio Protect and her initial experiences after a colleague recommended it in 2018. Implementing Perio Protect: Transition from selective case usage to a comprehensive protocol adopted across five practice locations. Benefits and Expanded Applications: Improvements in patient outcomes such as reduced bleeding, better pocket depths, and successful management of difficult cases (like unknown gum etiologies and patients on seizure medications). Patient Motivation and Maintenance: Discussion on how seeing improvements with Perio Protect motivates patients to maintain better oral hygiene, leading to long-term gum health and even saving teeth from extraction. Use with Implant Patients: Evolution from using Perio Protect only for cases of peri-implantitis to proactively recommending it for all implant maintenance. Case Presentation Tips: Dr. Sadie shares strategies to introduce Perio Protect to patients—including using testimonial videos and explaining the science behind hydrogen peroxide as an adjunctive tool. Notable Quotes: "I thought it was just for scaling and root planings, maybe just hygiene patients. But as I started seeing positive results...I started implementing it for all my perio patients." — Dr. Sadie "It's motivating...for the patients to see that." — Dr. Sadie "The hardest part for clinicians who are just getting started with Perio Protect is case presentation." Action Items for Listeners: Consider how adjunctive therapy like Perio Protect can enhance your workflow and patient outcomes. Use patient testimonials and clear explanations to boost case acceptance. Subscribe and visit the podcast website for more tips and updates! Connect With Us: Follow the Podcast and guests on social media, subscribe for updates, and sign up for the newsletter at the podcast website! Production Credits: A Tale of Two Hygienists, brought to you by Endeavor Business Media. Thanks for tuning in! Don’t forget to subscribe and join us for the next tipisode. /episode/index/show/offthecusppodcast/id/39040945

513 Do You Still Love Taking Perio-Focused CEs? with Sarah Thiel 11/12/2025

513 Do You Still Love Taking Perio-Focused CEs? with Sarah Thiel Episode Summary In this episode, Andrew Johnston welcomes long-time friend and hygiene industry leader Sarah Thiel back to the show. As one of Andrew’s final episodes, the two reflect on their years of friendship, the evolution of dental industry networking, and the incredible journey and impact of CE Zoom—Sarah’s unique platform for tracking and managing continuing education (CE) requirements across all 50 states. Listeners get an inside look at how Sarah Thiel and her team keep up with the constantly shifting requirements of CE, the challenges of regulatory compliance, and what it means to truly support clinicians in their licensing journeys. The episode also explores hot topics in dental CE—including oral pathology, vaping, local anesthesia, substance abuse, and perio trends—plus stories from the frontlines of regulatory changes and audits. Key Topics Discussed The Evolution of CE Zoom: Sarah Thiel shares how CE Zoom went from a simple CE tracker to a comprehensive platform serving every dental license type and, now, other industries requiring CE. Navigating Audits & Regulations: Hear how CE requirements are more complex than most professionals realize, and why real-time tracking and board-specific courses matter. Networking & Relationship Building: Sarah Thiel talks about the authentic approach to networking—why helping others comes first, and how most of her professional connections (and successful matchmaking) happen in relaxed, informal settings. Hot Topics in CE: The episode spotlights recent and perennial favorite courses among dental professionals—oral pathology, vaping, local anesthesia updates, substance abuse, perio, and instrumentation. Behind the Scenes Managing Compliance: The intricate process of following every dental board’s changes—thanks to Sarah’s team, especially Melissa, who attends and reviews every board meeting to keep users ahead of the curve. Stories from the Field: Listen for a cautionary tale about regulatory changes and how CE Zoom went to bat for a clinician caught in a timing loophole—highlighting why trusting experts matters. Memorable Quotes “You don’t know what you don’t know... until you’re audited and realize the rules have changed.” – Sarah Thiel “Sarah’s made that crossover from dental friend to real-life friend.” – Andrew Johnston “I just love meeting people and figuring out ways to help them—business comes after.” – Sarah Thiel “The dental boards don’t care if you almost met the requirements—you have to get it exactly right.” – Sarah Thiel Resources & Links CE Zoom: Contact Sarah & the Team: Email help@cezoom.com for questions or support. A Tale of Two Hygienists: Stay updated by following the show on social media and subscribing to the newsletter. Thanks for tuning in! Subscribe for more insightful conversations and updates as the podcast transitions to its next era. /episode/index/show/offthecusppodcast/id/39009525

Toothpaste: The Most Power Prescription We Don't Have To Write with Melissa Calhoun! **Bonus** 11/08/2025

512 Is Temping Making a Comeback? 11/05/2025

512 Is Temping Making a Comeback? Episode Summary: In this engaging throwback episode, Andrew and guest co-host Brittany catch up with Dr. James Younger to talk all things temping in the dentistry. As temping continues to grow in popularity, especially following shifts during the pandemic, this episode is a practical guide and deep dive for early-career professionals and anyone considering a more flexible career path in dentistry. Key Topics Covered: Why Temping is Growing: James Younger discusses how both new grads and seasoned professionals are increasingly choosing temp shifts for flexibility, empowerment, and financial reasons. Finding Your "Work Home": The importance of prioritizing workplace culture and respect over purely financial incentives. Transparency in Temping: TempStars’ unique system provides office reviews, equipment ratings, and infection control compliance, so temps know exactly what they're walking into. Regional Trends: A look at how temping, demand, and office culture differ from state to state and between the US and Canada. Dental Assistants & Hygienists: Debunking the myth that temp assistants are less committed, and how temping is becoming a lifestyle choice for many. Expanded Functions & Office Matching: Updates on TempStars’ expansion into the US and how technology is improving matches between offices and dental professionals based on detailed qualifications. Impact of AI: The potential for artificial intelligence in making better matches and improving dental workflows. Advice to New Grads: Why gaining a broad perspective by temping early in your career helps you find the right office fit without long-term limitations or strings attached. Must-Listen Moments: James Younger shares data-backed insights on what offices are doing to create better environments—and how TempStars uses reviews to ensure transparency and quality. Recommendations for graduates on how to explore multiple offices and make informed decisions about where to settle, with no exclusivity or hidden costs. Lively discussion about the evolution of infectious control protocols post-COVID and their ongoing importance. More Resources: Explore TempStars: – Free for professionals to sign up and start browsing opportunities. Don’t miss previous tipisodes with Dr. James Younger : Topics include temping done right, how to request a raise, permission-based care, and unique pathways in dental careers. Quotes: "You have to be cautious about chasing just the next dollar. Life is too short." – James Younger "There’s a proper way to treat people, and that’s aligned now with good business for keeping and retaining great team members." – James Younger Interested in temping or finding your perfect dental work home? Check out TempStars and connect with thousands of offices and professionals nationwide. Don’t forget to visit RDH Under One Roof () for networking and education in dental hygiene! Thanks for listening! Share this episode with a friend who might be considering a new path in dentistry, and tune in next week for more great conversations. /episode/index/show/offthecusppodcast/id/38928970

511 Is Clinical Excellence in Dentistry Transferable? with Dr. Chris Salierno! 10/29/2025

511 Is Clinical Excellence in Dentistry Transferable? with Dr. Chris Salierno! Episode Highlights: Networking & Power Networking: Dr. Chris Salierno returns for an in-depth conversation on building meaningful professional relationships in dentistry. He offers his insights into "power networking," stressing the importance of showing up, saying yes to opportunities, and making deposits before making withdrawals. Learn how he identifies red flags in networking and why intentional relationship-building leads to lasting success. Clinical Excellence: Andrew and Dr. Salierno discuss the idea that the path to clinical excellence is not always linear. The conversation encourages grabbing knowledge from various sources—networking, colleagues, and even dental influencers—to continually improve patient care. Dr. Salierno talks about taking inspiration from both clinical work and soft skills, emphasizing the ongoing journey toward greatness in dentistry and hygiene. Hiring and Team Values: Dr. Salierno shares his perspective as Chief Dental Officer at Tend and his passion for hiring people who bring personality and technical skill. He discusses why hospitality and a clear mission matter, focusing on how creating a strong employee value proposition attracts the right kind of team members and boosts retention, especially in a competitive dental employment market. Social Media & Professional Comparison: The dangers of social media—especially comparing yourself to peers who only showcase their highlight reels—is a key theme in this episode. Dr. Salierno provides thoughtful advice on maintaining a healthy outlook and keeping professional standards high, both online and offline. Transitions & Career Flexibility: The episode touches on career pivots in dentistry and highlights Dr. Salierno’s observations on professionals who successfully transition into various roles—be it technology, teaching, or administration. He shares that the dental field offers incredible flexibility for those willing to say yes, learn, and embrace new challenges. Where to Find More from Dr. Salierno: Dr. Salierno’s Substack, “Leaving Healthcare,” is packed with posts for anyone interested in non-clinical career options or broadening their horizons in dentistry. You can find him on Instagram as @thecuriousdentist for more content, updates on speaking engagements, and thoughtful discussions. Connect: Dr. Chris Salierno Substack: Instagram: Final Notes: Thanks to Dr. Salierno for sharing his time and wisdom! Make sure to subscribe, check the show notes for resources, and sign up for Andrew’s newsletter for more content. /episode/index/show/offthecusppodcast/id/38833020

510 Hygienists (and Teeth!) On The Move with Tom Viola, Misty Mattingly, and Renata Nehme! 10/22/2025

510 Hygienists (and Teeth!) On The Move with Tom Viola, Misty Mattingly, and Renata Nehme! Episode Overview In this special, nostalgia-fueled episode, Andrew takes a look back at meaningful conversations from prior episodes, bringing in crucial advice for dental professionals and hygienists that's just as relevant today as when it first aired. Whether you’re a long-time listener or just finding the show, this episode is packed with practical insights and inspiring stories from Tom Viola and Renata Nehme on topics crucial to the dental hygiene field. Key Topics and Highlights 1. Dental Hygiene Training and Qualifications (with Tom Viola) Rigorous Training: Tom shares insights from his experience teaching pharmacology to hygienists, highlighting the level of stress, acumen, and stringent requirements of dental hygiene programs. Anesthesia Rights for Hygienists: Discussion on why dental hygienists should be qualified to administer local anesthesia in every state and the process Georgia undertook to make this a reality. Inter-Professional Trust: Tom argues that dentists often lack understanding of hygienists’ training. If they witnessed the training firsthand, their confidence in hygienists’ skills would grow. Education & Reciprocity: Andrew and Tom debate how state-to-state differences in training impact reciprocity of credentials and the importance of maintaining high standards. 2. Palatal Expansion in Adults (with Renata Nehme) Early Intervention Matters: Renata explains how early observation of jaw growth and dental spacing in children can predict future needs for orthodontic intervention. Adult Expansion Experience: She shares her personal journey with palatal expansion as an adult—including the use of MARPE (mini-implant-assisted rapid palatal expander), the procedure, and recovery. Relapse & Muscle Function: The conversation dives into the importance of myofunctional therapy for lasting results and the role of tongue and muscle habits in dental relapse. Facial Changes: Renata explores how palatal expansion affects not only occlusion but also facial structure, including cheekbones, lips, and nasal width. Must-Listen Moments Tom recalling the intense nature of hygiene school and advocating for robust education standards. Insights into how anesthesia training and workflow advances have elevated the hygiene profession. Renata’s deeply personal account of her orthodontic journey, the challenges, and the transformative facial changes she experienced. Practical advice on early dental intervention and the significance of myofunctional therapy from a seasoned clinician. Connect with Today’s Guests Tom Viola: Website: Social: @PharmacologyDeclassified Renata Nemi: Instagram: @myomoves Airway Circle: Courses for hygienists at Myo University How to Support the Show Subscribe: Don’t miss an episode—hit that subscribe button! Newsletter: Sign up for our updates on . Engage: Follow us on social media and let us know what you’d like covered in future episodes. Produced by Endeavor Business Media. Have questions, comments, or want to be a guest? Drop Andrew a line through the website or on social media! /episode/index/show/offthecusppodcast/id/38745015