Seriously, dental assistants, are your handpieces living their BEST life? 🤔 You NEED to hear this!This episode, featuring Mike Etheridge, Senior Manager for Marketing and Channel with KaVo North America, delves into the critical role dental assistants play in ensuring the optimal performance and longevity of dental handpieces. The discussion stress…

Still failing waterline tests? This protocol shows why—and how to fix it for good.Only around 30% of dental practices are testing their waterlines regularly—and that’s a problem.Regulations are changing fast. Some states now require quarterly testing, immediate remediation after failure, and documentation.This game-changing protocol breaks it down …

Micromanaged as a dental assistant? Try these 5 genius ways to handle it.Is your dentist boss constantly hovering, double-checking your every move, or refusing to let go of control? You’re not alone—and you’re not powerless either. In this episode, we’re diving into 5 brilliant strategies dental assistants can use when dealing with a micromanaging …

Do you think your dental waterlines are clean? Discover the hidden risks and how to ensure patient safety.In this episode, Kevin Henry and Michelle Strange, RDH, delve into the critical topic of dental waterline safety. They explore the formation of biofilm in dental unit waterlines and its potential health risks. The discussion covers essential pr…

Most people have no idea what dental assistants actually do — and it’s costing the profession trust, talent, and respect.In this episode, Dr. Mark Thoreson pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to become a successful dental assistant — from the truth about patient trust to the soft skills no one’s teaching. You'll hear how his weekend trai…

Onboarding in a dental office isn't just about policies and protocols—it's about how clearly you communicate when the pressure is on. Miss the mark, and even the most experienced hires can falter.Training new team members starts with avoiding assumptions. Just because someone has experience doesn’t mean they understand how things are done in a new …

Wait! your dental implant failed... because of an antidepressant?This is what nobody tells you about SSRIs, and honestly, it’s terrifying.Antidepressants like Lexapro, Prozac, and Zoloft are more common than ever—but they come with side effects your patients and your team might not be ready for. In this episode, we dig into the surprising ways thes…

Is AI going to replace dental assistants? Or is it here to help?AI is one of the biggest trends in dentistry today — but it’s also one of the most misunderstood. In this episode, we talk about how AI is changing the dental workflow, what that means for dental assistants, and why this technology isn’t something to fear. From improving patient commun…

Many patients struggle with gagging during dental procedures — and it’s stressful for both the dentist and the patient. In this episode, we meet someone who decided to fix that problem with a simple but powerful solution.Recorded live from IDS in Cologne, Germany, this episode features Rodney Schutt, founder of No Gag, a company tackling one of den…

Dental assistant pay is one of the most talked-about issues in the industry right now, and for good reason. A surprising 47% of dental assistants feel they aren’t being compensated fairly, yet many don’t know what fair pay actually looks like in their area. That’s where today’s guest, Garrett Wilson, CEO of Pay Insights, comes in. His company is wo…

Burnout is hitting hard. If you're a dental assistant feeling exhausted, underappreciated, or just ready to walk away—this episode is for you. Burnout in dentistry is more common than we think, and the worst part? Too many assistants are keeping it all inside.In this episode, Kevin Henry talks with Lynne Leggett from Victory Dental Management about…

We always hear how social media ruins our mental health—but what if it’s also the tool we’ve been overlooking to actually heal?Social media isn’t just noise—it can be a lifeline. When used with purpose, social media helps create spaces that are uplifting, safe, and community-driven. It plays a critical role in supporting mental health, especially w…

Want to excel as a dental assistant? Discover how top assistants level up and advance their careers!Are you a dental assistant looking to take your career to the next level? In this episode, we dive deep into the strategies that successful dental assistants use to stand out, grow, and thrive in their field.💡 Learn how to level up by mastering new s…

Dental assistants, gear up! This recognition week, we're unleashing 5 powerful tips to elevate your dental game and capture the recognition you deserve.In this episode, we break down 5 straightforward tips for dental assistants. These dental tips provide a surface-level insight into improving your workflow. Embrace this recognition week with action…

Are dental assistants just support staff, or are they key leaders in a thriving practice? This episode dives into the power of secondary leadership and why assistants should step up.Discover how assistants can take on leadership roles and drive real change. Learn about primary vs. secondary leadership and why being the “second dancer” can create mo…

Want to land a dental assistant job faster? AI is changing how recruiters screen resumes, and if you’re not adapting, you could be missing out on job opportunities without even realizing it!In this episode, Kevin Henry sits down with talent acquisition specialist Lisa Newburger to break down the secrets of getting hired in today’s job market. From …

In the past year, Kansas City saw one of the largest tuberculosis outbreaks in the U.S., and it’s raising concerns in dental practices.With multiple cases being reported, dental professionals in Kansas City are on high alert. The Kansas City tuberculosis outbreak has affected both public health and local clinics. In this episode, we dive into how t…

Want to discover the game-changing chairside skills that could transform your career?In this episode, Christie Baker, shares her two decades of experience in dentistry. From starting in the lab to becoming a trusted dental assistant mentor, Christie reveals the skills that make assistants stand out, how to build confidence, and tips for growing in …

Nearly half of billing professionals are considering a job change next year—what’s driving this trend?—--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Don’t miss CE on the Beach™, June 26–28, 2025, at the stunning Westin Grand Cayman Resort & Spa! Dentists, teams, coaches, and speakers are all welco…

Struggling with confidence in your dental assistant role? Jennifer Schultz shares her proven tips on how to build confidence and master key skills that make you invaluable to your team.In this episode, I chat with Jennifer Schultz, a dental assistant with over 20 years of experience, who’s now helping others level up their careers. Jennifer talks a…

Are you ready to take your dental assistant career to the next level in 2025? Discover the 3 must-dos that will set you up for success this year!In this episode, let’s dive into the essential steps every dental assistant should take to start 2025 on the right foot. From creating actionable plans to setting realistic milestones and having honest con…

Do you ever feel like your busy schedule leaves no room for self-care? Today, we tackle burnout and the importance of taking breaks—even in the middle of a hectic workday.In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Laura Schwindt and Dr. Karen Tindall, life coaches and former dental professionals. They share valuable insights on recognizing burnout, why b…

As we close out 2024, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to all of you who tuned into the Dental Assistant Nation Podcast this year. It's been an incredible journey sharing insights, tips, and encouragement with our amazing dental assistant community.Take a moment to celebrate your growth, achievements, and the profound impact you've had on yo…

Have you ever wondered how better front-to-back communication could transform your dental practice? Don’t let poor handoffs and missed details hold you back!In this episode, Michelle Lasky, founder of Consistent Dental Solutions, shares her insights on streamlining communication between the front and back office. From effective handoffs to overcomi…

Are you curious about how dental practices are evolving to meet modern challenges? In this video, we explore a game-changing innovation in dental instrument processing that’s designed to save time, improve compliance, and support overworked dental assistants and hygienists.Join us as we take a closer look at the latest Midmark steam sterilizer. Lea…

Ready to Land Your Dream Dental Assistant Job?Thinking of a fresh start in 2025? Whether you’re new to dental assisting or looking for a new practice, this video is for you! Learn how to stand out in interviews and find a workplace that truly fits your needs.In this episode, you’ll discover:- 6 important questions to ask during your interview.- Tip…

What does digital workflow mean for dental assistants and how can you integrate it into your practice? Whether you're looking to stay ahead of industry trends or want to boost your skills, understanding the technology in today’s dental world is key.In this episode of the Dental Assistant Nation podcast, Kevin Henry sits down with Jordan Reiss, Seni…

Are you a dental assistant looking to take your case acceptance and communication skills to the next level? Today’s episode is packed with game-changing insights you won’t want to miss!Discover how dental assistants can confidently contribute to the case acceptance process, build trust with patients, and create seamless alignment within their pract…

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 publ…

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 c…

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 …

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 train…

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 wi…

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 communicatio…

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 manuf…

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 digita…

In this episode, Dental Assistant Nation founder Kevin Henry reflects upon a recent social media post made by Steve from Blue's Clues and the profound impact it seemed to have on an entire generation. Did it prove we need to know we're not alone in our struggles and someone is listening to us when we need it? Kevin thinks so ... so what does that m…

In this episode, I sit down with Productive Dentist Academy CEO and co-founder Victoria Peterson to discuss why dental assistants and productivity are such a focus for PDA. What does it mean to really be a "productive" dental assistant? Is it the dentist or assistant (or both) who creates a "productive" assistant? We talk about this and much more. …

In this episode, two thought leaders join the show to help dental assistants know how to finish the year strong professionally (with thoughts from Tija Hunter, EFDA) and personally (with thoughts from Caitlin Parson, RDH). As 2024 starts to wind down, how can dental assistants make sure they are in a good place inside and outside the dental practic…

Recorded during the South African Dental Association meeting in Pretoria, Kevin Henry welcomes back Jeanné Oosthuysen, the dental assistant champion of South Africa, to discuss what she sees from assistants in her native land and how there are so many similarities between how they feel on the job and the feelings of American dental assistants. This…

In this episode of the Dental Assistant Nation podcast, Kevin Henry interviews two dental assistants, Amy Mitchell and Catie Lis, about their experiences in the field. They discuss the importance of core values, creating a positive work environment, and celebrating wins. Hanna Aronovich from the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) and DALE Found…

The conversation between Kevin Henry and Mary Govoni, CDA, RDH, discusses the balance between social media engagement and infection control in dental practices. It emphasizes the importance of professionalism and the potential negative impact of inappropriate social media posts on the image of the practice. The hosts also highlight the need for pro…

In this episode, Tija Hunter, CDA, EFDA, joins the show to talk about how dental assistants can finish 2024 strong, and that includes making sure they are educated through both clinical and practice management CE courses. She also discusses why documentation is so important and how dental assistants can make sure it is done properly.You can reach T…

In this episode, Kevin Henry interviews Lisa Heaton from CareQuest Institute for Oral Health about the importance of health screenings in dental practices. They discuss the disconnect between patients' willingness to undergo screenings and the low percentage of patients actually receiving them. They also highlight the role of dental assistants in f…

In this conversation, Kevin Henry and Linda Harvey discuss the importance of patient safety training for dental assistants. They explore different ways for dental assistants to receive training, including mentorship, consulting, and additional courses. They emphasize the need for dental assistants to be aware of their state's requirements and to se…

In this episode, Kevin Henry, founder of Dental Assistant Nation, interviews Sarrah Rose, the CEO and founder of Elixr, about Gen Z and their needs and desires in the dental practice. They discuss the loneliness that Gen Z often feels, the importance of connection and relationships, and how older generations can better connect with Gen Z. Sarah als…

Today's episode is a pivot for Dental Assistant Nation founder Kevin Henry after a comment from a recent meeting drew his attention. Dental assistants, what are your goals for the rest of 2024? What's keeping you from achieving them? We all have to be ready to take that next step, but it's up to us to set the path. In this episode, let's embrace wh…

After an unexpected week off to deal with his dad's medical emergency, Dental Assistant Nation founder Kevin Henry discusses finding work-life balance and how dental assistants can work with their dentists to plan ahead for contingencies. As always, communication is key, as is knowing what you want in teams of the ideal work-life balance.…

In this episode of the Dental Assistant Nation podcast, host Kevin Henry interviews Linda Harvey, a dental assistant advocate and patient safety champion. They discuss the important role of dental assistants in patient safety and the various hats they wear in the dental practice. They also delve into four types of medical errors in dentistry: commu…

In this episode, Kevin Henry interviews dental hygienist Cris Duval about the lifeguard approach to patient care. Duval emphasizes the importance of dental assistants in improving patient outcomes and increasing practice profitability. She encourages dental assistants to decide who they want to be for their patients and to ask quality questions tha…