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 actionable strategies and a fresh perspective, ensuring dental assistants shine. With our tips, you'll harness the power of dental expertise and step into well-earned recognition. Ready to transform your routine? These tips are the key for dental assistants to make every recognition week a celebration of dental excellence and true recognition.

Five Things Dental Assistants Should Know During Dental Assistants Recognition Week 🦷🎉

1️⃣ YOU ARE THE BACKBONE OF THE DENTAL TEAM 💪

Dentists may lead the procedures, but you keep everything running smoothly! From patient care to chairside assisting and sterilization, your role is essential to a well-functioning practice.

2️⃣ YOUR SKILLS DESERVE TO BE CELEBRATED 🎊

You do SO much — multitasking, patient education, scheduling, infection control and so much more! Take this week to acknowledge your hard work and be proud of your impact in dentistry!

3️⃣ THIS IS A GREAT TIME TO ADVANCE YOUR CAREER 🚀

Recognition Week isn’t just about appreciation—it’s also a great time to level up! Consider taking a new course, learning expanded functions (if applicable in your state), or setting new professional goals.

4️⃣ SELF-CARE MATTERS! 💆‍♀️

Dental assisting is a fast-paced, physically demanding job. This week, make sure you prioritize yourself too! Stretch, take breaks, and celebrate your wins — big or small.

5️⃣ YOU MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN PATIENTS’ LIVES ❤️

From calming anxious patients to ensuring a smooth visit, you create a positive dental experience every day. Your compassion and expertise change lives — one smile at a time!

💙 TAG a fellow dental assistant who deserves to be recognized! 

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 welcome at this premier destination event.
👉 Save $150 using promo code KHENRY.
👉 Register now at ceonthebeach.com.

Connect with Kevin:
Email: Kevin@KevinSpeaksDental.com

Episode 373: 5 Must-Know Tips for Dental Assistants During Recognition Week!

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 skills, taking on leadership roles, and making a bigger impact in your practice.
🦷 Discover why many dental assistants leave after 5-7 years—and how you can break the cycle and build a long-term dental career you love.
🚀 Find out the secrets behind continuous learning, workplace influence, and increasing your value in the dental industry.

If you're ready to level up your role and maximize your potential in dental assisting, this episode is for you!

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 welcome at this premier destination event.
👉 Save $150 using promo code KHENRY.
👉 Register now at ceonthebeach.com.


Connect with Kevin:
Email: Kevin@KevinSpeaksDental.com

Connect with Sherrie
Instagram: dentalassistantconnection
https://www.instagram.com/dentalassistantconnection/

Episode 374: How Top Dental Assistants Level Up Their Careers: Essential Tips

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 when users intentionally seek content that nurtures well-being. To fully experience the benefits of social media, filter your feed, join groups that discuss mental health, and mute triggers that cause stress. Supporting mental health also means taking control—setting time limits, engaging with mental health advocates, and finding professional resources.

Embracing social media mental health strategies allows you to shift your mindset, build positive habits, and stay connected. Whether it's daily check-ins, peer support, or curated content, social media mental health practices can empower your journey. Make the most of social media mental health by using platforms to support, not sabotage, your well-being. Social media can heal, connect, and inspire when used intentionally.

Prioritize supporting mental health by building your digital environment. And remember—your mental health matters, on and offline.

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 welcome at this premier destination event.

👉 Save $150 using promo code KHENRY.
👉 Register now at ceonthebeach.com.


Connect with Sean 
Website: https://www.nugenwellness.org/

Episode 375: The Positive Role of Social Media in Supporting Mental Health

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 the real struggles facing dental assistants. From feeling invisible to handling unfair treatment, Lynne shares what burnout really looks like—and how to start healing.

We break down the 3 signs of burnout: emotional exhaustion, disconnection from your team, and feeling like your work doesn’t matter. These signs are showing up every day in dental offices across the country.

Burnout doesn't just affect the dental assistant—it affects patient care, teamwork, and the entire dentistry practice. If you're working in dental and wondering if you’re the only one feeling this way, you're not. You're surrounded by others who care about your well-being.

Lynne shares practical tools, including a simple "1–5" check-in method during huddles, to open up the conversation about burnout. If you’re feeling low, it’s okay to say it. It’s okay to ask for support. Talking is better than holding it in.

Remember: You’re not weak. You’re not failing. Burnout in dental offices is real—and it’s fixable. If you love working with teeth but feel like you're at your limit, don’t wait. Speak up. You matter.

For more support, you can contact Lynne at Victory Dental Management or check out her book You Can’t Coach Quit on Amazon.

Website: 
https://victorydentalmanagement.com/	
You Can’t Coach Quit on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/You-Cant-Coach-Quit-Practice/dp/1080806237	

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 welcome at this premier destination event.
👉 Save $150 using promo code KHENRY.

👉 Register now at ceonthebeach.com.
—--------------------------------------------
 Attention Dental Leaders!   
 
I'm thrilled to speak at the 2025 AADOM Conference in Round Rock, TX – AADOM's 20th anniversary celebration! Join me for my session, [Insert Session Title], where we'll dive into [brief topic highlight].  
 
Early bird pricing ends 3/31!  Don't wait—secure your spot now and be part of the biggest dental management event of the year! Plus, lock in your stay on-site at the Kalahari Resort before rooms fill up!   
 
September 4-6, 2025  
Kalahari Resort, Round Rock, TX  
 
Register now at aadomconference.com  

Episode 376: Is Burnout Destroying Your Career as a Dental Assistant

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 working to bring real data on dental assistant salary to the industry so that professionals can understand what they should be earning.

In this episode, we take a deep dive into pay in dentistry and why compensation varies so much based on location. Many assume that working in a big city means higher wages, but some rural practices are actually paying more to compete for talent. Understanding these trends is key to making informed career decisions. If you’ve ever wondered whether your salary in dentistry is where it should be, this episode will give you the insights you need.

Beyond location, we also discuss why dental assistant pay isn’t just about time served—it’s about showing your value, knowing how your practice is performing financially, and backing up your salary request with real data. Many assistants love their jobs, but without proper compensation, job satisfaction can only go so far. That’s why it’s critical to have open, data-driven conversations about dental assistant salary with employers.

If you’re thinking about negotiating a raise, or just want to know where you stand in terms of pay in dentistry, don’t miss this episode. Garrett shares how his company is crowdsourcing salary in dentistry data to help assistants, hygienists, and office staff advocate for themselves. The best way to understand your worth is by comparing your dental assistant salary to what others in your area are earning.

Connect with Garrett 
Website: https://payinsights.com/

Email:
Garrett.Wilson@payinsights.com
info@payinsights.com

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/payinsights	
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/pay_insights/
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/garrett-wilson/

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 welcome at this premier destination event.

👉 Save $150 using promo code KHENRY.
👉 Register now at ceonthebeach.com.
—--------------------------------------------
 Attention Dental Leaders!   
 
I'm thrilled to speak at the 2025 AADOM Conference in Round Rock, TX – AADOM's 20th anniversary celebration! Join me for my session, [Insert Session Title], where we'll dive into [brief topic highlight].  
 
Early bird pricing ends 3/31!  Don't wait—secure your spot now and be part of the biggest dental management event of the year! Plus, lock in your stay on-site at the Kalahari Resort before rooms fill up!   
 
September 4-6, 2025  
Kalahari Resort, Round Rock, TX  
 
Register now at aadomconference.com

Episode 377: What's FAIR PAY for a Dental Assistant in Your Area?

Azizam

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 dentistry’s most annoying problems: the gag reflex.

Rodney explains how the gag reflex creates issues with impressions, scans, and general dental comfort. He shares how No Gag developed a powder that, when placed on the tongue, stops the gag reflex in 10 seconds — lasting for at least an hour. It’s non-invasive, simple to use, and helps both dental teams and patients feel more at ease.

🤖 AI in Dentistry

AI is rapidly becoming part of dental treatment planning.

➡️ AI is being used in scanning, radiographs, and diagnostics.
➡️ There’s growing concern that dental professionals might rely too heavily on AI instead of using their own judgment.
➡️ The episode compares it to students asking why they should learn math when they can use Siri — raising questions about long-term skills and decision-making in clinical care.

Stay informed and involved with how AI integrates into dental practice — without replacing the human element.

Connect with Rodney

Website: https://www.nogag.com/	

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 welcome at this premier destination event.
👉 Save $150 using promo code KHENRY.
👉 Register now at https://ceonthebeach.com/	
—--------------------------------------------
 Attention Dental Leaders!   
 
I'm thrilled to speak at the 2025 AADOM Conference in Round Rock, TX – AADOM's 20th anniversary celebration! Join me for my session, [Insert Session Title], where we'll dive into [brief topic highlight].  

Early bird pricing ends 3/31!  Don't wait—secure your spot now and be part of the biggest dental management event of the year! Plus, lock in your stay on-site at the Kalahari Resort before rooms fill up!   
 
September 4-6, 2025  
Kalahari Resort, Round Rock, TX  
 
Register now at aadomconference.com  

Episode 378: Dentists Are Solving the Gag Reflex Problem With This New Trick

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 communication to making the day-to-day tasks easier, AI is helping dental teams work smarter, not harder.

What You'll Hear:
Why AI is one of the biggest trends in dentistry
How AI helps dental assistants in the operatory
Better patient communication with the help of AI
Common fears about AI — and the truth behind them
How AI supports (not replaces) the dental team

Disclaimer:
All visuals and B-roll footage used in the trailer are stock footage and do not represent the actual AI software featured in the episode.
Connect with Doug:

Website: https://www.velmeni.ai/	
Email: Doug@velmeni.com	

AI in dentistry doesn’t have to be scary. If you're a dental assistant wondering how this technology fits into your role, this episode will give you clarity and confidence. Tune in to learn how AI can be a tool — not a threat — in your everyday workflow.
—--------------------------------------------
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 have done it without you. Go check it out—we’re listed alongside some amazing shows!

100 Best Dental Podcasts - https://podcast.feedspot.com/dental_podcasts/
4 Best Dental Assistant Podcasts -  https://podcast.feedspot.com/dental_assistant_podcasts/
—--------------------------------------------
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 welcome at this premier destination event.
👉 Save $150 using promo code KHENRY.
👉 Register now at https://ceonthebeach.com/	
—--------------------------------------------
Attention Dental Leaders!   
 
I'm thrilled to speak at the 2025 AADOM Conference in Round Rock, TX – AADOM's 20th anniversary celebration! Join me for my session, [Insert Session Title], where we'll dive into [brief topic highlight].  
 
Early bird pricing ends 3/31!  Don't wait—secure your spot now and be part of the biggest dental management event of the year! Plus, lock in your stay on-site at the Kalahari Resort before rooms fill up!   

September 4-6, 2025 
Kalahari Resort, Round Rock, TX  
 
Register now at aadomconference.com 

Episode 379: Dental Assistant + AI: The Game-Changing Workflow You Need to Know

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 these meds impact the mouth, including:
Why clenching and facial pain could be linked to SSRIs

The real reason some patients bleed more during procedures
A hidden connection between antidepressants and implant failure
A smarter way to talk to patients about what they’re really taking
Why dental assistants often hear things no one else does—and what to do about it

If you’re doing extractions, implants, or any kind of surgery, this info is a must. Plus, there’s a reminder for any dental assistant who might be struggling themselves: you’re not alone, and help is out there.

Connect with Tom:
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/PharmacologyDeclassified	
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/pharmacologydeclassified/	
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/pharmacologydeclassified/	
Pinterest https://www.pinterest.com/pharmacologydeclassified/	
Website https://www.tomviola.com/	
—--------------------------------------------
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 have done it without you. Go check it out—we’re listed alongside some amazing shows!

100 Best Dental Podcasts - https://podcast.feedspot.com/dental_podcasts/
4 Best Dental Assistant Podcasts -  https://podcast.feedspot.com/dental_assistant_podcasts/
—--------------------------------------------
🎤 I’m Speaking at Accelerate: The Dental Revenue Workshop!
Accelerate is where the brightest minds in dental revenue come together — and I’m heading to Nashville to share insights that will challenge, inspire, and help practices grow.
🗓 Date: July 31 - August 1 2025
 📍 Location: Nashville, TN
 🎟 Grab $150 off your ticket with my code: KevinH
If you’re ready to level up your systems, strategy, and revenue, this is the event you don’t want to miss. I’d love to see you there!
Let’s make this the most impactful dental event of the year.
 See you in Music City! 🎶
#Accelerate2025 #DentalRevenue #DentalLeadership #DentalBusiness #DentalConference 
—--------------------------------------------
 Attention Dental Leaders!   
 
I'm thrilled to speak at the 2025 AADOM Conference in Round Rock, TX – AADOM's 20th anniversary celebration! Join me for my sessions:
ㅤ
➡️ Wednesday, Sept 3 "DPLN Leadership Meeting" - Learn how to maximize publicity for your DPLN
➡️ Saturday, Sept 6 "Simple Steps to Help You Become an Author " - We'll dive into how you can formulate a plan for your best article and how to find your voice as an industry leader.

Early bird pricing ends 3/31! Don't wait—secure your spot now and be part of the biggest dental management event of the year! Plus, lock in your stay on-site at the Kalahari Resort before rooms fill up!

📅 September 4-6, 2025
📍 Kalahari Resort, Round Rock, TX

Register now at aadomconference.com 🔗

Episode 380: We Found Out What Antidepressants REALLY Do to Your Teeth… and It’s Scary

Kevin Henry is a champion for dental assistants and host of the Dental Assistant Nation podcast. He is also the editor in chief for DrBicuspid.com. Speaker, consultant and author focused on empowering, enlightening and educating dental assistants.

Episode 375: The Positive Role of Social Media in Supporting Mental Health

Dental Assistant Nation

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