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A Tale of Two Hygienists Podcast

A Tale of Two Hygienists Podcast

By: Jessica Atkinson RDH and David Torres CRDH
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About this listen

We created A Tale of Two Hygienists in 2015 because we are passionate about helping our fellow clinicians be the best version of themselves, both professionally and personally. We Interview experts in their fields to provide better care for our patients while promoting the joys of being a dental hygienist.©2026 Biological Sciences Hygiene & Healthy Living Physical Illness & Disease Science
Episodes
  • Dry Mouth Relief That Actually Lasts
    Apr 4 2026

    Dry mouth isn't just uncomfortable—it can impact sleep, swallowing, oral health, and overall quality of life. In this TIPisode, we learn about Moisyn, a unique solution designed to provide lasting moisture and relief for patients dealing with xerostomia.

    Unlike traditional products that offer only temporary relief, Moisyn uses a mucoadhesive, moisture-retentive technology to help keep the oral environment hydrated longer.

    We also break down how clinicians can improve patient compliance, why dispensing products in-office matters, and how dry mouth solutions can impact long-term oral health outcomes.

    If you're seeing more patients struggling with dry mouth, this is an episode you don't want to miss.

    Learn More about Moisyn https://periosciences.com/products/moisyn-mist

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    22 mins
  • 532 What We're Missing: An Oral Pathologist on Red Flags, Referrals, and Reality
    Apr 1 2026

    In this episode of A Tale of Two Hygienists, co-hosts David Torres and Jessica Atkinson sit down with oral pathologist Dr. Bryan Trump to discuss the important role dental professionals play in identifying abnormalities and knowing when to refer patients to a specialist. Dr. Trump shares valuable insight into what clinicians might be missing during routine exams and how to strengthen their confidence when suspicious findings arise.

    The conversation dives into practical strategies for performing thorough oral cancer screenings, recognizing key red flags, and navigating patient conversations when something concerning is discovered. Dr. Trump also offers guidance on how clinicians can communicate pathology findings in a clear and compassionate way—helping patients understand the situation without causing unnecessary fear.

    This episode provides practical tips for dental hygienists and dentists who want to improve their screening protocols, referral confidence, and patient communication when dealing with potentially serious diagnoses.

    What We Talked About:

    How to confidently refer patients to specialists

    Essential tips for performing effective oral cancer screenings

    Recognizing concerning findings and clinical red flags

    Navigating difficult conversations about the possibility of cancer

    How to communicate pathology findings without unnecessarily scaring patients

    If you found this episode helpful, be sure to subscribe to A Tale of Two Hygienists, leave a review, and share the episode with colleagues who are passionate about improving patient care and early detection.

    Resources:

    Contact Dr. Bryan Trump: bryan.trump@hsc.utah.edu

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    35 mins
  • 531 When Advocacy Doesn't Win: How to Respond When Legislation Goes the Other Way
    Mar 25 2026

    In this episode of A Tale of Two Hygienists, co-hosts David Torres and Jessica Atkinson sit down with Joffree Bunleang to unpack one of the most challenging realities in professional advocacy—what happens when legislation doesn't go the way you hoped?

    The conversation centers around Oral Preventive Assistants (OPAs) and the evolving landscape of dental practice. Joffree brings clarity to what OPAs are, why they're being introduced in various regions, and how their presence impacts dental hygienists and the broader dental team.

    Key topics discussed include:

    Understanding OPAs and their intended role within dental practices

    The surprising truth about the hygienist perspective on change and professional identity

    The real impact OPAs may have on workflow, patient care, and team dynamics

    Practical ways hygienists can work with OPAs in everyday clinical settings

    How to respond constructively when advocacy efforts don't achieve the desired outcome

    Rather than framing OPAs as a threat, this episode challenges listeners to consider how collaboration, leadership, and proactive engagement can strengthen the profession. Joffree offers thoughtful insight into how hygienists can continue advocating for themselves while also building effective working relationships with Oral Preventive Assistants.

    This episode is a must-listen for hygienists navigating legislative changes and seeking productive ways to move forward—together.

    Call to Action

    Empower yourself as a dental hygienist. Advocate for your profession, stay informed about legislative developments, and focus on collaboration. Learn how to work alongside Oral Preventive Assistants in ways that support patient care, professional growth, and team success.

    Resources:

    Email: joffree.bunleang@hygieneelevated.com

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joffreebunleang/

    "What if OPAs became the strength we didn't see coming?"

    https://www.rdhmag.com/career-profession/article/55344645/what-if-opas-became-the-strength-we-didnt-see-coming

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    30 mins
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