Dental Assistant Nation

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 bui

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 st

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

Dental assistants bring incredible value to every practice, but too often they feel stuck with limited pay and few growth opportunities. In this episode of Dental Assistant Nation, a wonderful guest and respected voice in dentistry, Teresa Duncan, shares her story of moving beyond the operatory and building a career filled with new opportunities, higher income, and long-term stability. The conversation dives into how dental assistants can break through salary ceilings, discover career paths they may have never considered, and turn their existing skills into powerful tools for advancement. From roles in sales, compliance, and DSOs to opportunities in speaking, writing, podcasting, and treatment plan presentation, you’ll hear exactly how assistants can transform their careers while still making a lasting impact in dentistry. This episode is full of inspiration and practical advice for any dental assistant who’s ready to earn more, grow professionally, and discover what’s possible beyond the chair. —----------

Nicotine use is rapidly evolving beyond traditional cigarettes, with new products like pouches, vapes, and heat-not-burn devices changing the way patients consume and the way oral health professionals need to respond. In this episode, Kevin Henry speaks with Sherri Warshaw, RDH, CTTS and founder of Smokefree Steps, LLC, about the critical role dental assistants play in identifying nicotine use, educating patients, and supporting cessation efforts. Gain insights into the latest nicotine delivery systems, their oral health risks, and practical strategies for having non-judgmental, effective conversations with patients. Whether you’re a dental assistant, hygienist, or part of the clinical team, this discussion will prepare you to recognize modern nicotine challenges and better guide patients toward healthier outcomes. Connect with Sherri Email: Sherriwarshaw@gmail.com Phone number: 513 509 9998 Check our previous podcast “Episode 303: How dental assistants (and practices) can help their patients overcome nic

If you’ve ever felt the weight of stress in the dental office, this episode is one you don’t want to miss. Kevin Henry sits down with Dr. Eric Johnson to talk about the pressures dentists face and more importantly, what every dental assistant should know to make the day run smoother and less overwhelming. Dr. Johnson shares a powerful story from his own practice and introduces a simple but game-changing approach that can help assistants feel more in control, more confident, and less drained by the daily chaos. It’s about shifting from being just a passenger in the operatory to becoming a true co-pilot and that small change can transform not only your workday but your entire career in dentistry. Connect with Dr. Eric Website: https://www.leadersindentistry.com/ Email: info@leadersindentistry.com Check our podcast on DrBicuspid.com: https://www.drbicuspid.com/podcasts/article/15753730/lets-talk-about-the-dentist-stress-and-burnout —-------------------------------------------- Hey friends—cool news! The Dent

The Dark Side of Ozempic From the Archives: Episode 313 Time-travel with us to a past episode where we dive into the rise of Ozempic for weight loss and what it means for both patients and dental professionals. Originally designed to manage type 2 diabetes, Ozempic’s surge in popularity as a weight loss aid has sparked shortages and concerns for those who truly need it. We also explore side effects like digestive issues and halitosis that can show up in the dental chair. Rediscover this eye-opening episode and get the honest scoop on the promises and pitfalls of today’s most talked-about weight loss drug. Connect with Tom Viola Website https://www.tomviola.com/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/PharmacologyDeclassified LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/pharmacologydeclassified/ —-------------------------------------------- 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 l

Stepping into a new chapter with a different doctor can feel uncertain for many dental assistants. The routines you’ve relied on may suddenly change, the expectations may shift, and the comfortable rhythm of the practice can feel disrupted. Questions like why did this happen or where do I fit in now often surface, creating stress and doubt. But in every challenge lies opportunity. While some dental assistants struggle by holding onto the way things used to be, others discover how to adapt, stay proactive, and even grow into stronger roles within the practice. With a new doctor entering the picture, there’s a chance to shape the future of the dental team, strengthen communication, and find ways to shine in the transition. Thank you to all of our amazing listeners for being part of Dental Assistant Nation. We wouldn’t be here without your support, and we’re so grateful you’ve joined us on this journey. Here’s to celebrating 400 episodes together and many more to come! Connect with Dayna Johnson Website: no

Proven Dental Marketing Tips That Bring New Patients Bringing in new patients today requires more than polished ads. It’s about authenticity, visibility, and connection. A Dental Assistant plays a crucial role in dental marketing, not only inside the practice but also in shaping how the team is seen online. From genuine patient testimonials to engaging posts on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, reels, and YouTube Shorts, the way a practice shows its personality is often what builds trust. Even something as simple as consistent content or thoughtful dental SEO contributes to growing a dental practice by making sure the right people see the right message. Marketing isn’t just about promotion—it’s about creating a human presence that patients can believe in. Connect with Denny Mladenov Email: denny@orthogrow.co.uk Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/denny-mladenov-0b47761b4/?originalSubdomain=uk —-------------------------------------------- Hey friends—cool news! The Dental Assistant Nation Podcast was featured

Did you know hand-foot-and-mouth disease can knock an adult out for a week? Kevin Henry welcomes infectious disease and compliance expert Joyce Weeks of Dental Ed for a timely conversation on keeping dental teams safe as school is back in session and community bugs resurface. Joyce shares her journey from HIV vaccine research to teaching dental professionals about OSHA and infection control, and why understanding the “why” behind safety protocols makes all the difference. She explains how easily illnesses like hand-foot-and-mouth or measles can spread through carriers who don’t even show symptoms, and why dental teams must remain vigilant long after the COVID era. From simple handwashing habits at home to choosing the right level of mask in the operatory, Joyce makes clear how small actions can protect not only dental assistants but also their families, patients, and communities. The discussion dives into the reality of what happens when a visibly sick patient shows up for treatment and how regulations dif

Did you know being prepared can make or break a dental assistant’s chance of getting hired by a dentist? Landing a dental assisting position isn’t just about having the right skills. It’s about making the hiring decision effortless for the dentist. That means showing up prepared, polished, and ready to fit into their dental office culture. From a spotless, typo-free resume to researching the practice’s specialty, small details can make a big difference. Print the job ad, have thoughtful questions ready, and bring hard copies of your resume, license, and certifications in a neat portfolio. Preparation goes beyond paperwork, dress professionally (even for virtual or phone interviews), map out the route to the dental practice ahead of time, and take care of small things like filling your gas tank the night before. These steps not only boost your confidence but also show the dentist that you’re reliable and ready to assist without being prompted. By combining solid preparation with authentic communication, a d

Why are dental assistants still being held back in 2025? The dental industry continues to face frustrating inconsistencies that limit the growth and mobility of dental assistants. This episode reveals a bold new professional model created to fix the fractured system of dental assisting across the U.S. With each state enforcing its own confusing rules, dental careers often stall or reset entirely when professionals move. But now, a unified approach is gaining traction aimed at standardizing training, improving career advancement, and addressing staffing shortages. If you've ever wondered why the dental assistant role isn’t treated like a true profession, this conversation delivers the answers and a plan to finally change that. Connect with DANB Website https://www.danb.org/ Certified Press Newsletter: https://www.danb.org/news-blog/newsletters Contact: 800-367-3262 Email: gr@danb.org —-------------------------------------------- Hey friends—cool news! The Dental Assistant Nation Podcast was featured on

Discover the science-backed strategies behind setting goals that truly lead to success. Many people set goals with good intentions, but few apply proven methods that actually move them forward. In this episode, we explore motivation not as a feeling, but as a system that can be built and sustained with the right approach. Backed by psychology and real research, these goal-setting techniques aren’t about hustle; they're about structure, clarity, and consistency. You’ll hear how small shifts in the way you set and pursue goals can change your long-term results. We also touch on how motivation connects to mindset, and how aligning those with a solid framework can create lasting progress. If you’re serious about reaching the next level, this is the strategy episode you’ve been waiting for. —-------------------------------------------- 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

She went from dental assisting to redefining what it means to be a hygienist. Some stories don’t age, they just get more relevant. Episode 298 is one of those, which is why we’re pulling it from the archives and back into the spotlight. Sherri Warshaw’s path through dentistry isn’t the one you’ve heard before. She didn’t just climb the career ladder, she took a hard left, pushed through the tough stuff, and built something entirely her own. From the quiet grit it takes to survive hygiene school to the deeper reasons people chase those RDH initials, Sherri unpacks the kind of truths that rarely make it into open conversation. This episode isn’t about status or salary it’s about staying power, perspective, and redefining what a meaningful career in dentistry really looks like. Connect with Sherri sherriwarshaw@gmail.com www.smokefreestepsllc.com —-------------------------------------------- Hey friends—cool news! The Dental Assistant Nation Podcast was featured on Feedspot’s Top 100 Dental Podcasts and their

Did you know being a great coworker can actually make your job easier and more enjoyable? When the team works well together, everything gets easier. In this episode of Dental Assistant Nation, Kevin Henry talks with Monica Satake about how being a great coworker can improve your day-to-day experience as a dental assistant. Monica shares real, simple ways to build better relationships at work. It starts with showing up with a good attitude, supporting others, and handling tough situations with patience and respect. When dental assistants focus on being dependable and kind, it helps the whole team work better and creates a more productive environment. And the best part is, it makes your own job feel smoother and more enjoyable. Connect with Monika Website: www.truenorthtrainingandconsulting.com Email: Monica.tntc@gmail.com Watch our previous podcast! (DA Nation Episode 381: THIS is the BEST Onboarding Guide for Dental Assistants!) https://youtu.be/cnWgzK2dWf0 Access the full blog here at Dr. Bicuspid

Did you know the California Dental Assistants Association is no longer part of the ADAA? The split is real, and it could be a sign of bigger shifts ahead. What does this mean for the profession, for state associations, and for dental assistants? We’re diving into the “why” behind the separation and what happens next. Shari Becker shares what led to the decision, how members have responded, and what changes are already underway in California. Could this mark a turning point for organized dentistry, or is it an isolated move? The conversation raises key questions about leadership, support, and the evolving needs of dental assistants in 2025 and beyond. Connect with CDAA Website: https://cdaaweb.org/ Email: DiabloDAS@cdaaweb.org —-------------------------------------------- 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

The ADA introduced a new role. Is the Oral Preventive Assistant a problem for Dental Assistants? Everyone in dentistry is talking about something big. For dental assistants, this change feels like a direct challenge to their daily work. The American Dental Association's proposed Oral Preventive Assistant role could redefine work, value, and entire career paths. Are assistants about to take on more without fair compensation, pushing them further into burnout? We explore key questions about increased workload, the "slippery slope" concerns, and growing tensions among dental professionals. This episode reveals how the Oral Preventive Assistant could impact the dental profession. Get the truth behind the headlines! To truly grasp the full scope of this critical issue, make sure to watch the entire podcast; every moment holds crucial insights into dentistry's evolving future. Connect with Stephanie Website: https://www.polishedposture.net/ Podcast (Straight Up With Steph): https://straightupwithsteph.buzzspro

When dentists and dental assistants support each other, everything gets better In this episode, Dr. Alan Stern opens up about the hidden tension that lives inside many dental practices—not between patients and staff, but between dentists and dental assistants themselves. He shares why miscommunication, lack of feedback, and unspoken expectations are doing more damage than any full schedule ever could. Dr. Stern challenges the old top-down model of dental leadership and makes the case for a more human approach—where assistants feel empowered, dentists feel supported, and mutual respect drives the entire practice forward. From hiring the right fit to giving feedback with empathy, this conversation is a blueprint for reducing stress and creating a workplace people actually want to be part of. If your office feels tense, this episode might explain exactly why—and how to finally fix it. Connect with Alan: Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterricherstronger/ Email: Alan@betterricherstronger

Is dental waterline safety a headache in your practice? Discover how simple and easy it can truly be. Ensuring your dental unit water lines are safe for patients is incredibly important. But let's be honest, it often feels like a complicated and time-consuming task, especially with everything else dental assistants juggle. If a process isn't straightforward, it's easy for it to get pushed aside. Good news: it doesn't have to be difficult. We explore how products that work together as a cohesive system are designed to make maintaining your water lines lean, fast, and remarkably easy. When water line protocols are simple and efficient, they actually get done. This is vital for busy practices, especially those that are shorthanded. We look at how having clear protocols helps ensure consistent safety, avoiding the pitfalls of neglected tasks or relying on just one person's knowledge. This episode empowers dental assistants to take on their crucial role in infection control with confidence. By using reliable to

Ever feel like dental ordering is a confusing task that only one dental assistant knows how to handle? If you’re a dental assistant who’s ever felt overwhelmed by online ordering or unsure if you’re getting the best deal on dental supplies, this episode is for you. Kevin Henry sits down with Elise Hill to explore how dental assistants can take charge of dental ordering, simplify the process, and truly shine in the eyes of their dentist. Elise shares her journey from dental assistant to hygienist to her current role at Torch Dental, where she now helps dental assistants across the country feel confident and capable with online ordering. She explains how the right dental ordering platform can take the guesswork out of managing dental supplies, saving time and money while keeping the practice running smoothly. Whether you're a new dental assistant or someone who’s been handed the responsibility with no instructions, Elise offers relatable advice and insights that will resonate. This episode highlights the essen