Episodios

  • Episode 427: How Dental Assistants Protect Themselves in an Unethical Dental Practice

    Episode 427: How Dental Assistants Protect Themselves in an Unethical Dental Practice
    Mar 16 2026
    Working in a dental practice should be built on trust, but what happens when something in the office does not feel right? In this episode of the Dental Assistant Nation Podcast, Kevin Henry sits down with dental consultant and author Susan Gunn to have an honest conversation about ethics inside dental practices. Many dental assistants have quietly struggled with situations where decisions in the office do not align with their values, whether it involves questionable communication with patients, dishonest reporting, or workplace behaviors that cross ethical boundaries. Susan shares insights from years of working with dental teams and discusses survey results that reveal how common ethical concerns can be in the workplace. The conversation explores how small compromises in honesty can slowly affect the culture of a dental office and why both leadership and team members must take responsibility for maintaining integrity. Susan and Kevin also talk about the difficult position dental assistants may find themselves in when they notice something unethical happening around them. They explain why documenting situations, asking the right questions, and having honest conversations with leadership can help protect both your career and your peace of mind. Most importantly, they emphasize that every professional has a line they should not cross and that protecting your integrity will always matter more than protecting a paycheck. Connect with Susan Gun Email: Susan@SusanGunnSolutions.com Survey link: https://forms.gle/tUYQB9cEm7v4vqB18 --------------------------- Dental assistants play a powerful role in whether patients move forward with treatment. You are a key part of the patient journey, and having the right financial options can make all the difference. CareCredit is a health and wellness credit card that offers flexible financing options, so patients can pay over time for the care they want or need, subject to credit approval. When money isn’t the obstacle, patients say yes. Want to make CareCredit part of your practice’s offerings and strengthen case acceptance? Email me at kevin@kevinspeaksdental.com and let’s make it happen for your team.
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    17 m
  • Episode 426: Overwhelmed Dental Assistant? Try This

    Episode 426: Overwhelmed Dental Assistant? Try This
    Mar 9 2026
    What if the stress you carry home from work is not about the job at all but about the energy you are giving away without even realizing it? In this powerful conversation on the Dental Assistant Nation podcast, Kevin Henry sits down with author and entrepreneur Anne Karber to unpack the truth about boundaries, self awareness, and what it really means to take control of your life. Anne shares how many dental assistants and professionals struggle because they blur the lines between work and home, replaying workplace drama long after the day is done. She explains that energy is our most valuable resource and when we spend it on situations we cannot change, we drain ourselves mentally, emotionally, and physically. Through her concept of savage self awareness and her Skittles analogy for energy, Anne challenges listeners to look closely at where their focus is going and whether it is fueling growth or unnecessary suffering. She reminds us that no one is coming to save us, and that realization is not discouraging but empowering. When we understand that we are holding the paintbrush to our own lives, we can shift our mindset, build healthy boundaries, embrace main character energy even as employees, and start small practices like gratitude journaling that create massive change. Her message is clear. You are the architect of your life, and today is the day to act like it. Connect with Anne Karber! Website: https://annekarber.com/ Podcast: https://letsgetnakedpodcast.com/ --------------------------- Dental assistants play a powerful role in whether patients move forward with treatment. You are a key part of the patient journey, and having the right financial options can make all the difference. CareCredit is a health and wellness credit card that offers flexible financing options, so patients can pay over time for the care they want or need, subject to credit approval. When money isn’t the obstacle, patients say yes. Want to make CareCredit part of your practice’s offerings and strengthen case acceptance? Email me at kevin@kevinspeaksdental.com and let’s make it happen for your team.
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    16 m
  • Episode 425: What is an Expanded Function Dental Assistant and What They Can Do

    Episode 425: What is an Expanded Function Dental Assistant and What They Can Do
    Mar 1 2026
    Expanded Function Dental Assistants are helping dental practices work smarter, improve efficiency, and deliver better patient care. Taking on expanded functions allows assistants to perform more advanced clinical duties, which increases production and strengthens the partnership between doctor and assistant. Success depends on understanding the legal scope of practice, proper scheduling, and having the right tools to support the role. When dentists trust their assistants and delegate effectively, the entire team becomes more productive and patients receive more efficient care. This path not only builds confidence and career growth for assistants but also helps practices serve more patients and improve overall workflow. Check Stacey’s article at DrBicuspid! What is the EFDA? The keys to implementing and using an expanded functions dental auxiliary https://www.drbicuspid.com/dental-hygiene/scope-of-practice/article/15815967/the-keys-to-using-an-expanded-functions-dental-auxiliary Connect with Stacey Website: https://www.talkteeth2me.com/ What the EFDA workbook: https://www.talkteeth2me.com/efda-workbook.html --------------------------- Dental assistants play a powerful role in whether patients move forward with treatment. You are a key part of the patient journey, and having the right financial options can make all the difference. CareCredit is a health and wellness credit card that offers flexible financing options, so patients can pay over time for the care they want or need, subject to credit approval. When money isn’t the obstacle, patients say yes. Want to make CareCredit part of your practice’s offerings and strengthen case acceptance? Email me at kevin@kevinspeaksdental.com and let’s make it happen for your team.
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    16 m
  • Episode 424: Dental Assistant Shortage and What PDS Health Is Doing About It

    Episode 424: Dental Assistant Shortage and What PDS Health Is Doing About It
    Feb 21 2026
    Education access, financial barriers, and limited career awareness continue to slow the pipeline of new dental assistants entering the workforce. At the same time, patient demand keeps growing, putting more pressure on clinical teams. Organizations like PDS Health are actively working to close this gap through scholarships, mentorship, externship opportunities, and structured career development programs designed specifically for dental assistants. The conversation also explores how Dental Support Organizations create pathways for advancement beyond chairside roles, opening doors in leadership, recruiting, marketing, and clinical specialization. Real experiences and professional insight highlight the skills that matter most today including resilience, communication, and long term career vision, offering a grounded look at both the challenges and the solutions shaping the future of dental assisting. Connect with Rose and Casey PDS Foundation website: https://www.pdsfoundation.org/ https://jobs.pdshealth.com/ Facebook: Pacific Dental Services Foundation PDS Health LinkedIn: PDS Health Foundation PDS Health Instagram: pds_health —--------------------------- Dental assistants play a powerful role in whether patients move forward with treatment. You are a key part of the patient journey, and having the right financial options can make all the difference. CareCredit is a health and wellness credit card that offers flexible financing options, so patients can pay over time for the care they want or need, subject to credit approval. When money isn’t the obstacle, patients say yes. Want to make CareCredit part of your practice’s offerings and strengthen case acceptance? Email me at kevin@kevinspeaksdental.com and let’s make it happen for your team.
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    14 m
  • Episode 423: What Helps Dental Assistants Grow And Earn More

    Episode 423: What Helps Dental Assistants Grow And Earn More
    Feb 16 2026
    What dental assistants really want from their careers might surprise most practices. Imagine walking into a room with hundreds of dental assistants and asking them what matters most at work. The answers reveal a powerful pattern about growth, recognition, and having a real voice in the practice. Dental assistants shared that they love helping patients and keeping everything running smoothly, but they also want feedback, appreciation, and clear opportunities to elevate their careers. Simple ideas like personal business cards, public recognition, and meaningful appreciation during Dental Assistant Recognition Week can transform how valued they feel. The conversation also highlights why earning and maintaining a CDA credential matters for validation, confidence, and higher pay, showing that investing in professional development can change how assistants see themselves and how others see their value in the practice. Connect with Atia DANB website: https://www.danb.org/ Email: ABlack@DANB.org Contact: 800-367-3262 —--------------------------- At the Rocky Mountain Dental Convention, Kwikly teamed up with Dental Assistant Nation to give away FIVE sets of Fabletics scrubs, and we’re celebrating the amazing dental assistants who make it all happen every day. Congratulations to our winners: Emma Ghent Karen Sigala Virginia Valles Reyna Gonzales Marians Grajeda Huge thanks to Sarah McLaughlin and the Kwikly team for supporting our community and giving back in a big way 💗 Want to learn more about how Kwikly supports dental assistants nationwide? Check out their website https://www.joinkwikly.com/ and see how it can help grow your career. —--------------------------- Dental assistants play a powerful role in whether patients move forward with treatment. You are a key part of the patient journey, and having the right financial options can make all the difference. CareCredit is a health and wellness credit card that offers flexible financing options, so patients can pay over time for the care they want or need, subject to credit approval. When money isn’t the obstacle, patients say yes. Want to make CareCredit part of your practice’s offerings and strengthen case acceptance? Email me at kevin@kevinspeaksdental.com and let’s make it happen for your team.
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    20 m
  • Episode 422: What Every Dental Assistant Should Know About 3D Printing

    Episode 422: What Every Dental Assistant Should Know About 3D Printing
    Feb 7 2026
    What if the future of dentistry is already sitting inside your practice and your assistant is the one who unlocks it? Digital dentistry brings speed, confidence, and opportunity into the practice by allowing assistants to create appliances in house, reduce wait times, and deliver same day solutions patients can trust. Scanning and 3D printing streamline workflows, improve patient communication, and give teams pride in providing high quality care without relying solely on outside labs. Through education like DDAA and the Digital Dental Assistant Academy, assistants gain hands-on training, build real confidence with technology, and step into expanded roles that support the entire practice, creating smoother days, stronger outcomes, and a future focused approach to dentistry. Connect with Rochelle Website: https://theddaa.com/ Email: info@theddaa.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DigitalDentalAssistantAcademy Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/digitaldentalassistantacademy/?hl=en Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@digitaldaacademy —------------------------------- Meet me at the Chicago Midwinter Meeting, February 20–21, for two powerful sessions: ✨ Harnessing the Power of Personalities in the Dental Practice February 20, 8:00 AM – 9:30 AM learn how understanding personalities can transform teamwork and communication in your dental practice. 🔥 Battling and Beating the Demons of Dental Assisting February 21, 8:00 AM – 9:30 AM an honest, empowering session just for dental assistants about overcoming the real challenges in our profession. Let’s connect, learn, and grow together. In 2026 it’s going to be a year of real conversations and real change for dental assistants everywhere. 👉 Chicago Midwinter Meeting: https://midwintermeeting.eventscribe.net/?_gl=1*15ae5ic*_ga*MTY3Nzc0OTM5OC4xNzU5OTcxOTAw*_ga_VZTQV2NKLH*czE3NTk5NzE5MDAkbzEkZzAkdDE3NTk5NzE5MDAkajYwJGwwJGgw
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    16 m
  • Episode 421: How Dental Assistants Elevate Occlusal Analysis with T-Scan

    Episode 421: How Dental Assistants Elevate Occlusal Analysis with T-Scan
    Feb 2 2026
    Most dental bite problems are not caused by difficult patients or complex cases. They happen because the bite is rarely measured. In this episode of the Dental Assistant Nation podcast, we explore how accurate bite measurement can completely change patient outcomes and day to day efficiency in the dental practice. Kevin Henry sits down with prosthodontist Dr. Robert Kerstein to explain why traditional bite adjustment methods rely heavily on guesswork and why articulating paper alone cannot measure bite force or timing. Dr. Kerstein shares decades of clinical experience using computerized bite analysis and explains how objective data leads to more precise adjustments, fewer post treatment visits, and greater patient comfort. The conversation highlights the important role dental assistants play in recognizing unresolved bite issues, supporting better diagnostic tools, and helping practices move toward more efficient and predictable care. This episode offers practical insight into how measuring the bite improves treatment results, strengthens patient trust, and supports long term oral health. Connect with Dr. Robert Kerstein TechScan Website: www.tekscan.com/dental Dr. Robert’s Website: https://www.drrobertkerstein.com/ Email: tmjdoc@ix.netcom.com 4 Volume T-Scan Research Book: https://www.igi-global.com/book/handbook-research-scan-technology-applications/318679 —------------------------------- Meet me at the Chicago Midwinter Meeting, February 20–21, for two powerful sessions: ✨ Harnessing the Power of Personalities in the Dental Practice February 20, 8:00 AM – 9:30 AM learn how understanding personalities can transform teamwork and communication in your dental practice. 🔥 Battling and Beating the Demons of Dental Assisting February 21, 8:00 AM – 9:30 AM an honest, empowering session just for dental assistants about overcoming the real challenges in our profession. Let’s connect, learn, and grow together. In 2026 it’s going to be a year of real conversations and real change for dental assistants everywhere. 👉 Chicago Midwinter Meeting: https://midwintermeeting.eventscribe.net/?_gl=1*15ae5ic*_ga*MTY3Nzc0OTM5OC4xNzU5OTcxOTAw*_ga_VZTQV2NKLH*czE3NTk5NzE5MDAkbzEkZzAkdDE3NTk5NzE5MDAkajYwJGwwJGgw
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    16 m
  • Episode 420: Dental Assistants Avoid Burnout With These Steps!

    Episode 420: Dental Assistants Avoid Burnout With These Steps!
    Jan 26 2026
    Dental assistants work under constant pressure, expected to stay focused, calm, and precise while caring for patients and supporting the dental team. Over time, this demanding pace often leads to stress, physical pain, mental exhaustion, and burnout, especially when dental assistants put everyone else first and ignore their own health. This conversation explores why burnout is so common in dental assisting and how daily stress builds when self-care is treated as optional instead of necessary. It covers practical ways dental assistants can manage stress, protect their physical and mental health, and build simple daily habits around sleep, movement, nutrition, emotional awareness, and boundaries. It also shares quick techniques that can be used during the workday to reduce stress and support long-term career sustainability. This podcast is sponsored by: CareCredit CareCredit alleviates financial stress so you can focus on the precision and skilled work your patients deserve. Our financing options provide a foundational support system for both your practice and your dental team. drop me an email at: Kevin@kevinspeaksdental.com to learn how care credit works with your practice and you as a dental assistant. —------------------------------- Connect with Wendy Ernzen LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendyernzen/ Email: letsplanthouses@gmail.com Website: https://www.letsplanthouses.com/ —------------------------------- Meet me at the Chicago Midwinter Meeting, February 20–21, for two powerful sessions: ✨ Harnessing the Power of Personalities in the Dental Practice February 20, 8:00 AM – 9:30 AM learn how understanding personalities can transform teamwork and communication in your dental practice. 🔥 Battling and Beating the Demons of Dental Assisting February 21, 8:00 AM – 9:30 AM an honest, empowering session just for dental assistants about overcoming the real challenges in our profession. Let’s connect, learn, and grow together. In 2026 it’s going to be a year of real conversations and real change for dental assistants everywhere. 👉 Chicago Midwinter Meeting: https://midwintermeeting.eventscribe.net/?_gl=1*15ae5ic*_ga*MTY3Nzc0OTM5OC4xNzU5OTcxOTAw*_ga_VZTQV2NKLH*czE3NTk5NzE5MDAkbzEkZzAkdDE3NTk5NzE5MDAkajYwJGwwJGgw
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    15 m