Episodes

  • Episode 358: 3 lessons dental assistants can learn from Wicked

    Episode 358: 3 lessons dental assistants can learn from Wicked
    Nov 18 2024
    In this episode of Dental Assistant Nation, host Kevin Henry discusses the intersection of dental assistants and the musical Wicked. He shares three key lessons that dental assistants can learn from the story: understanding that everyone has a backstory, the importance of sticking to one's beliefs, and the necessity of being consistent in both public and private settings. Through these lessons, he emphasizes the value of empathy, integrity, and authenticity in the dental profession.
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    19 mins
  • Episode 357: How this DSO is shaping the future for dental assistants

    Episode 357: How this DSO is shaping the future for dental assistants
    Nov 11 2024
    In this episode of the Dental Assistant Nation podcast, host Kevin Henry speaks with Rose Olague, PhD, about the vital role of dental assistants in healthcare and the initiatives by PDS Health to support their education and career advancement. They discuss the scholarship programs available, the importance of continuous education, and the various career paths within the dental field. The conversation highlights the significance of technology in modern dentistry and the future of dental assisting, emphasizing the need for dental assistants to create their own definitions of success in their careers. Learn more about Pacific Dental Services at https://www.pdsfoundation.org/
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    18 mins
  • Episode 356: Dental assistant empowerment, tech talk with Allison Lacoursiere

    Episode 356: Dental assistant empowerment, tech talk with Allison Lacoursiere
    Nov 4 2024
    In this episode of the Dental Assistant Nation podcast, Kevin Henry speaks with Allison Lacoursiere about the evolving role of dental assistants, particularly in the context of clear aligners and digital dentistry. Allison shares her journey from dental assistant to professional speaker and coach, emphasizing the importance of self-empowerment and continuous learning. The conversation highlights the growing presence of women in dentistry and the need for dental assistants to embrace technology and leadership roles in their practices. Allison encourages dental assistants to invest in their education and take ownership of their careers, as the future holds great potential for those willing to adapt and grow. Learn more at https://www.yourclearalignercoach.com/
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    14 mins
  • Episode 355: How this DSO engages and inspires its dental assistants

    Episode 355: How this DSO engages and inspires its dental assistants
    Oct 28 2024
    In this episode of the Dental Assistant Nation podcast, Kevin Henry speaks with Dr. Cindy Roark and Misty Mattingly, RDH, from Sage Dental about the vital role of dental assistants in the DSO environment. They discuss the importance of creating career growth opportunities, fostering a positive work environment, and the significance of ongoing training and professional development. The conversation also highlights the hiring practices that prioritize personality and attitude over resumes, emphasizing the value of empathy and a positive outlook in the dental field. Learn more about Sage Dental at https://mysagedental.com
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    19 mins
  • Episode 354: How this dental assistant became a teacher and thought leader

    Episode 354: How this dental assistant became a teacher and thought leader
    Oct 20 2024
    In this episode of the Dental Assistant Nation podcast, Kevin Henry interviews Kricket Doker, a certified dental assistant and registered dental technician, who shares her journey in the field of dentistry, particularly focusing on chairside restorations. Kricket discusses her passion for digital dentistry, the importance of strong relationships with dental professionals, and her role as an educator in the field. She emphasizes the significance of confidence, persistence, and community support for dental assistants, while also providing practical advice on shade selection for restorations. The conversation highlights the value of dental assistants in the practice and encourages them to pursue their passions and seek opportunities for growth. Learn about her upcoming webinar at us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/…hEJ#/registration Follow her on Instagram — @kricketdoker
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    13 mins
  • Episode 353: How dental assistants can help solve rather than sell

    Episode 353: How dental assistants can help solve rather than sell
    Oct 14 2024
    In this episode of the Dental Assistant Nation podcast, Kevin Henry and Nancy Coy discuss the importance of financial literacy for dental assistants. They explore how understanding credit basics can empower assistants to have meaningful conversations about financing options with patients. The conversation emphasizes the significance of communication skills alongside clinical skills, the role of teamwork in patient care, and strategies for new dental assistants to navigate financial discussions. Nancy shares insights on increasing case acceptance without the negative connotation of 'selling' in dentistry, focusing instead on solving patient needs. Learn more about Nancy and get the link to her book at https://www.finrxstudio.com/about
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    14 mins
  • Episode 352: The importance of a dental infection control coordinator and knowing the facts

    Episode 352: The importance of a dental infection control coordinator and knowing the facts
    Oct 7 2024
    In this conversation, Kevin Henry interviews Leslie Canham, a key opinion leader in infection control. They discuss the importance of testing and treating dental unit water lines, citing outbreaks and cases where contaminated water led to illness in patients. They also highlight the need for proper training and adherence to CDC guidelines and manufacturer's directions. The conversation emphasizes the role of an infection control coordinator and the importance of empowering team members to ensure compliance and patient safety.
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    10 mins
  • Episode 351: The power of unsubscribing and re-evaluating our time

    Episode 351: The power of unsubscribing and re-evaluating our time
    Sep 30 2024
    In this episode, Dental Assistant Nation host Kevin Henry speaks with author Julio Vincent Gambuto about his book 'Please Unsubscribe, Thanks.' They discuss the inspiration behind the book, practical steps to unsubscribe from life's distractions, the impact of social media on happiness, and the challenges faced by the younger generation in a digital world. Julio emphasizes the importance of reevaluating our time and attention in a society filled with distractions and the concept of 'ultimate gaslighting' that encourages us to return to old habits that may not serve us well. Check out the book here ... https://www.amazon.com/Please-Unsubscribe-Thanks-Attention-Designed/dp/1668009544 Learn more about the author here ... https://www.juliovincent.com
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    16 mins