Anastasia Turchetta, RDH

, chatted with Jen Post, RDH, an adjunct assistant professor at the University of Minnesota, about how fluoride works and if it is safe. 

When using a prescription toothpaste that delivers fluoride, a protective barrier is created around the calcium during manufacturing to allow it to coexist with the fluoride ions. This barrier breaks down when it comes in contact with saliva, allowing remineralization to occur.

RELATED: Read a clinician's review of Clinpro 5000

"The fluoride helps bring the calcium and phosphate into the tooth, so I like to think of it as a bridge," Post said. "Those are really the building blocks of the enamel and help make the tooth strong."

During one part of the interview below, Turchetta asked Post how long that her patients can expect the fluoride to last.

"When we think about fluoride, we don't always think about how long it lasts. Really it's more about the mechanism of action," Post said. "As long as the calcium and phosphate are available in the saliva and we have fluoride introduced, then it's going to be bringing those in as long as it's available."

RELATED: Anastasia Turchetta's 5 hot dental hygiene topics for 2015

. You can hear the entire interview by watching the video below. 

Articles

 On a recent Google Hangout, Anastasia Turchetta, RDH, chatted with Jen Post, RDH, an adjunct assistant professor at the University of Minnesota, about how fluoride works and if it is safe. 

Straight Talk: How a prescription fluoride toothpaste works

	There’s no question that Patti DiGangi and Shirley Gutkowski shook things up when they wrote their article, “

3 reasons why a Modern Millennial Hygienist does not perio chart

.” The article by these two respected dental hygienists took social media by storm and was passionately discussed by their peers throughout the country.

, Anastasia Turchetta, RDH, revisited the article with DiGangi and asked for some of her thoughts on why it was a topic that drew so many responses.

“We were trying to get across that there are some things you have to think about differently and the ways that you can do that,” DiGangi said. “There is a feeling out there that sacred cows sometimes can’t be challenged. I don’t understand that. Everything should be challenged and examined and I think it’s important for our profession to do that.”

DiGangi also talked about why she and Gutkowski began the 

“It all boils down to a state of mind,” DiGangi explained. “It’s like the old saying goes, ‘How do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time.’ That’s important to us and to the dental hygiene profession … we have to see where we can change things and how we can do it. Ultimately, it’s about what is best for our patients and that’s the thing we have to all keep as the goal at the end of the day.”

More from Patti DiGangi:	CDT 2015 shifts and coding tips every dental practice should know

You can hear more of Turchetta and DiGangi discussing the controversial article, the future of Modern Millennial Hygienists, and more in the latest edition of Straight Talk below.

 There’s no question that Patti DiGangi and Shirley Gutkowski shook things up when they wrote their article, “3 reasons why a Modern Millennial Hygienist does not perio chart.” The article by these two respected dental hygienists took social media by storm and was passionately discussed by their peers throughout the country.

Straight Talk: Revisiting a controversial article and the importance of the Modern Millennial Hygienist

"The only way to make sense out of change is to plunge into it, move with it, and join the dance." -- Alan Watts

Change happens … change in our patients, the way we practice, the products we use, and the choices we make to expand our career. When deciding whether to plunge into the entrepreneur “dance” or choose another path, consider reflecting on four things for your success.


	The decision to be an entrepreneur is a bold one. After all, it almost sounds glamorous, kind of like how traveling sounds … until you experience delays, cancelations, zero priority with an airline, lost luggage, or a cab ride that rivals your worst passenger experience ever!

Ask yourself what your message will be, who will be your audience, what platform will deliver best, and then be bold in your actions to accomplish it. Stand by your decision while remaining flexible. It is in this space that you will be open to learn more about your skills and how to hone them.

RELATED: Anastasia's 5 hot dental hygiene topics for 2015


	It would be great to be liked by everyone, but that is not reality. Say this out loud, “Being respected trumps being rejected.” Be respected for your character, passion, image, brand, leadership, and expertise.

Anastasia asks if you're willing to grow yourself to grow your paycheck


	It will happen. You will get let go from a project. If you work with corporate America, there will be decisions or leadership you will not agree with and you will have colleagues “talk.” There’s no way around it … it will suck.  This is part of the dance. How you respond reinforces your level of boldness as a business owner and empowers your ability to persevere with a strength you didn’t know you had!

Anastasia dishes on 3 things that have made her a better hygienist


	Speak it, show it, and take time to recognize it daily. Surround yourself with people who live it.

May those of you who choose this route embrace the ride! Look at change as a dance and join in!

I’d like to thank you for giving me this opportunity to be your editor. Until the next time we meet … “Take What You Learn & Make A Difference With It!”

 "The only way to make sense out of change is to plunge into it, move with it, and join the dance." -- Alan Watts

4 characteristics dental hygienists need to become successful entrepreneurs

	Our industry is currently buzzing about a deflate debate … and I’m not referring to the Super Bowl! Our post last week on the numbers from the Bureau of Labor Statistics initiated more controversy than the Go Daddy commercial pulled from its potential showing for the Super Bowl!

If you missed that salary post, allow me to bring you up to date. 

The annual income and hourly wage for dentists, dental hygienists, and dental assistants in our 50 states was wrapped neatly in an average number bow and placed oh so quietly here online for us to view

I’m thankful this has created engagement and constructive conversation! This average has given us a baseline to work with and, after all, isn’t that exactly what we do every day with our patients? We have baselines for their current state of oral health, which flow into services we either provide or treatment that we recommend out of our scope of practice to improve or maintain health. To me, it is no different.

More from Anastasia: 3 things that have made me a better hygienist

Are the numbers deflated? I say heck yes! So let’s stop complaining and as the leaders in our profession, discuss some solutions. Sit down with an open mind and really reflect on what you bring to your profession for your practice and patients every hour of every workday. Here are some questions to get you started. How can I add value to the practice? For example, get local anesthesia certification, laser certified and integrate a comprehensive periodontal program, etc. View the video below for additional solutions to consider.

Once you discover what areas of professional development you can improve, write a plan of integration showing leadership and investment in the practice and be consistent with your message … the time for salary discussion will promptly arrive.

Yes, some of us may awaken by the realization that you may out grow your current state of average. 

DentalPost just launched a matchmaking service for dental professionals

. Office culture, values, and skill sets are matched to nurture stronger dental teams and better service.

"I'm intimidated by the fear of being average." -- Taylor Swift

Ask yourself this question: What am I willing and able to do to impress how the average isn’t good enough for your current practice skill sets?

 Our industry is currently buzzing about a deflate debate … and I’m not referring to the Super Bowl! Our post last week on the numbers from the Bureau of Labor Statistics initiated more controversy than the Go Daddy commercial pulled from its potential showing for the Super Bowl!

More on dental hygienist salaries: Are you willing to grow yourself to grow your paycheck?

episode was a huge success! It is apparent that hands-on programs dealing with ultrasonics remain of interest to many of us. Thank you to 

 for her time and for sharing how we can continue to improve our skills. This inspired me to recognize and appreciate three things that have made me a better dental hygienist.

  The list may seem basic, yet each area impacts my ability to co-diagnose, clinically perform, document, schedule and communicate. Here’s what I use most often: 

, instruments and chairside products for desensitizing.

Watch Anastasia's Webinar on dealing with hypersensitivity

 seem to be the universal choice of the practices here in the Outer Banks, NC. I remember product detailing 

Discus Dental’s Insight Ultrasonic Insert

 in 2009 and 2010, thinking this was a game changer for us. Light, ergo-friendly, LED light for better vision and swivel without leaking. Technology has made me a better clinician.

More from Anastasia Turchetta: Five hot dental hygiene topics for 2015

. I consider continuing education any evidence-based or beneficial information that is health related, with health related including oral, overall and mental health. It may be online, hands-on or webinar format, and it doesn’t have to offer me credit. Oral systemic and total health, medication interaction with oral health, communication with our cognitive impaired patients and their care givers, dental anxiety, pregnancy, caries assessment, periodontal programs, oral cancer and HPV, hypersensitivity options, remineralization, dental implants, e-cigs & marijuana, pre-medication, cosmetic, bruxism, TMJ & migraines – just to name a few! Continuing education has made me a better health care professional.

More from Anastasia Turchetta: Taking accountability for your image ... and your actions

 I attended my first “networking” event in our profession in 2002, the 

Academy of Dental Management Consultants 

(ADMC). Many of us are also likely involved in online groups and forums, lurking or contributing a comment from a solution-focused mindset. These groups continue to impact my personal and professional growth.  Networking has made me a better professional in business.

Our role is to provide the best care for our patients to help them gain and maintain optimum oral health. How you do that could be a reality show in some cases, no doubt! What you choose to do each day, with each patient or with team members, employers, friends and colleagues has an impact. Think of it as the “power of do.” 

 Last week’s “Straight Talk” episode was a huge success! It is apparent that hands-on programs dealing with ultrasonics remain of interest to many of us. Thank you to Rachel Wall for her time and for sharing how we can continue to improve our skills. This inspired me to recognize and appreciate three things that have made me a better dental hygienist.

3 things that have made me a better RDH

You will never change what you tolerate." ~ Joel Osteen

Disturbing comments in a closed online group

 are breathing life into that statement. This week, 

thirteen male fourth-year dental students were suspended

 from all clinical activities. As if our dental profession was deficient in relevant material to promote mistrust from within it, to surprisingly hit a whole new set of dysfunctional standards outside of it.

When writing this week’s editor's note on the recent scandal, the thought was to revisit our online image and how it can impact your career, now and in the future. #SMH!! Why soften this blow to our profession? Whether you are currently a student or experienced professional, it’s likely that similar groups are engaging in discussions that breed a concoction of toxicity, but sweeten it with an ounce of positivity and world peace intentions. The existence of online groups isn’t the problem; adversely affecting another person’s participation in them or promoting obscenities as acceptable topics are.

More from Anastasia Turchetta: The importance of collaboration for today's dental hygienist

What would happen if we faced this adversity with a fierce commitment to set expectations which are often unspoken, or protocols in our own groups that many of us are currently involved in? Perhaps that is exactly where change may happen. Step back and view your groups’ conversations. Do they contribute to how you would best treat your patients, employers, employees or co-workers? 

Are you going to tolerate or participate in discussions that do not promote the positive professional or personal growth of a colleague, mentor, student or basically any human being who is a member?

This isn’t only about “boys being boys.” I remember a few years ago, a dental hygienist made the cover of a magazine. She looked gorgeous. In a time to celebrate her achievements in our profession, I was personally and professionally saddened by the relentless comments on the blouse she chose to wear. It was like reading an episode of mean girls, only it featured fellow RDHs!! Was this scandalous, no. Was it hurtful and did it adversely affect that colleague’s participation in the group … I’m saying yes.

Taking a stand: The dental professional's role in stopping domestic violence and abuse

What’s a solution? Align yourself with accountability, awareness and acceptance of consequences when you make a less than stellar choice. Be bold enough to rise up out of any mediocrity. How you continue to show up reveals whether you’ve grown up!

“The less you associate with some people, the more your life will improve. Any time you tolerate mediocrity in others, it increases your mediocrity." ~ Colin Powell

 "You will never change what you tolerate." ~ Joel Osteen  Disturbing comments in a closed online group are breathing life into that statement. This week, thirteen male fourth-year dental students were suspended from all clinical activities. As if our dental profession was deficient in relevant material to promote mistrust from within it, to surprisingly hit a whole new set of dysfunctional standards outside of it.

Thoughts from Anastasia Turchetta: Taking accountability for your image ... and your actions

, the editor of Modern Hygienist, recently sat down with Carol Jahn, senior professional relations manager at 

, to talk about Waterpik and the innovations the company has produced since 1962.

“The Water Flosser is essentially the same product we’ve had since the company began,” Jahn said. “Water flossing is extremely intuitive. We have data to show how the Water Flosser does a better job for patients than string floss. This really is an ideal product for people who don’t floss, as well as those patients who have orthodontia or dental implants.”

More Straight Talk: What dental hygienists need to know about getting hired

Jahn went on to tell Turchetta about what little time it takes to make a difference in a patient’s oral health using the Water Flosser.

“It’s very easy to ask the patient, ‘Do you have one minute to focus on your teeth?’ If the answer is yes, let me tell you about a product that can make a difference,” Jahn explained. “As hygienists, we need to make things manageable for our patients. Also, if patients use this before they brush and see the debris that can be eliminated, it will make a big impact.”

Watch our exclusive show video about the launch of the Aquarius Water Flosser

Click below to learn more about the Waterpik Water Flosser and hear more of the exclusive interview.

 Anastasia Turchetta, RDH, the editor of Modern Hygienist, recently sat down with Carol Jahn, senior professional relations manager at Waterpik, to talk about Waterpik and the innovations the company has produced since 1962.

Straight Talk: Learning more about the Waterpik Water Flosser

	Warning: some football references are found sprinkled in this read! I will not bore you with play analogies for our profession or chant with a “there is no I in team” commentary. My intention is to provoke thought as you begin 2015. 

As a Steelers fan, I had the chance to listen to Coach Mike Tomlin’s interview with the press today about what changes may happen in effort to move forward when the journey ends each season. Amidst the obvious sports chat, two key statements were made:

1. We have to reflect on experiences we have had in 2014. It’s not about asking, “What areas can we get better in?” It’s the minds set of “what areas can we NOT get better in?”

 2. Often, it’s not what you do; it’s who you’re doing it with. We have a really selfless group this season.

Here are five areas I believe will be the “hot” topics for dental hygiene in 2015 that will provoke thought to accomplish value for your patients, productivity and require working with a selfless group.

Codes are changing and it’s our job as clinicians to know what was deleted, what is added, how does this fit into your current patient base and do you require training.

Related reading: What you need to know about dental codes

Health: Physical, mental and entrepreneurial

Health; physical, mental and entrepreneurial. This area is multi-tiered. 

 is always an interest. Hand instruments, ultrasonics, loupes, chairs and cordless handpieces are wise investments for your long-term health. Nutrition has become a delish topic not only for those who have food allergies, but also for those in our field who are now tapping into their entrepreneurial side via distributing nutritional products. Holistic nutrition and its impact on our oral health and systemic health make food fun! Finally, exercise to strengthen our bodies or release stress given your daily abuse! Invest in the time to be kind to your body and soul. Many of our colleagues are 

I get this is an area that has not fully tapped into its potential. With areas in dentistry that treat migraines, TMJ, sleep apnea, snoring, impact from smoking marijuana, smoking or vaping/e-cigs, bacterial testing for periodontal bacteria or A1c’s … every piece of content we read that is evidence based will grant the responsibility of working together for a common goal: Health.

Our stats have not significantly changed regarding the five-year 50/50 survival rate, yet we as a profession continue to press on with awareness and discussions about risk factors such as HPV.

Social media content, video content and marketing

This will only grow so you and your practices may best begin the mindset that Coach Tomlin shared: What area can we NOT get better in? Our patients are consumers. Consumers are watching video content and reading research. This raises our standard of care, as patients will ask about new products, technology, etc.

Related reading: How to better engage with patients on social media

As you finish this first week of 2015, consider these five areas and reflect. Ironically, it does go back to football for success. Mindset for improvement and a selfless group are a proven successful combination. What you have to give of yourself to your practice and your patients will determine how you move forward in our profession.  

 Warning: some football references are found sprinkled in this read! I will not bore you with play analogies for our profession or chant with a “there is no I in team” commentary. My intention is to provoke thought as you begin 2015. 

Anastasia Turchetta's five hot dental hygiene topics for 2015

How many times have we reviewed our patients’ health history and shared the oral systemic link connecting their current health, recent surgery or medication to their current state of oral health? If you answered countless … I’m with you.

Have you ever thought, “Wouldn’t it be nice if the medical and dental professionals could just get along and work as a team for our patients’ best chance at total health?”

Now, what if I told you that there are dental practices whose philosophy embraces that? If you are a dental hygienist who seeks to extend your clinical realm, then our video series “Your MD & Me” may whet your palate for more information on how this may be a fit for you in your hygiene career.

Recently, I sat down with our colleague, Stephanie Lodding, RDH. She is

 president of The American Academy for Oral Systemic Health (AAOSH)

 and the only RDH to hold this esteemed position! Her passion and expertise for introducing communication, skill sets, research, and teamwork between both medical and dental professionals has proven results.

RELATED ARTICLE: How to work with physicians to bridge the oral-systemic gap

Many of us may immediately think of periodontal disease and how it is the culprit of chronic inflammation linked to heart disease or stroke. We educate and treatment plan for periodontal therapy. This protocol has been successful for thousands of dental hygienists and their patients. However, something is still missing. Those same patients are still fighting heart disease, stroke, etc.

What if we educated and aligned ourselves with our medical professionals as we do periodontists, oral surgeons, and endodontists? Imagine how powerful the communication and results would be IF our physicians and specialists viewed periodontal disease as a medical disease which medical professionals cannot literally treat?

RELATED ARTICLE: Why oral-systemic health and EHRs make a great marriage

Although AAOSH is in its fourth year as an association, it continues to grow each year. Dental hygienists are encouraged to check out the benefits of membership and how those will impact the way you practice. The refreshing news is how the union of both fields blends what we are taught regarding nutrition, occlusion, chronic infection, caries, and oral cancer and extends that opportunity to be a part of a change in your practice. Do your research, discover whether this concept is a fit for the direction of how you want to practice, and take action.

RELATED ARTICLE: Is it practical to screen for diabetes during routine dental visits

Tis the season of giving and celebrating. Perhaps the real gift is giving our patients healthier lives to live by strategizing with our medical professionals! It is then we will witness what it means to “Take What You Learn & Make a Difference with It.”

Your MD & Me: The oral-systemic link and the dental hygienist

Clark: Oh, Eddie ... If I woke up tomorrow with my head sewn to the carpet, I wouldn't be more surprised than I am now.

The schedules in many practices during the holiday season may play out just like the Griswolds' 

! As we prepare for those who are home from college, off work or new to the practice as well as emergencies, cancelations, walk-ins with an attitude for entitlement, out-of-town family members and the patients who purchased whitening specials that have procrastinated, what can look like a routinely scheduled day from June becomes daily mayhem.

Some practices will make the best of it, as Clark Griswold did with unexpected surprises, leaving behind a path of destruction while questioning our sanity and repeating the pattern year after year!

Download DPR’s free e-book: What you need know	about changing dental fees and what you're charging patients

Here are some suggestions to consider for your hygiene schedule during the holiday season.

		Reserve a time every day from December 15ish on in the late morning or early afternoon for those who are home from college. They don’t like to get up early, and if their parents make them, it is safe to say they will be late. Check their treatment plan as the doctor may accommodate treatment if needed. 

		Select certain days to practice assisted hygiene. Keep the doctor free of lengthy appointments to avoid running behind. Those patients who are routine will be your targets for these days.

		If you have a treatment room that may easily be equipped with hygiene appointment essentials, you may elect to contact a hygienist who temps in your area. The option may include days or additional holiday hours.

Is there still going to be chaos in your schedule? Of course!

Related reading: Dentistry and nutrition: How dairy is actually hurting your teeth and bones

Discuss the scenarios first mentioned or add your own Griswold flavor to set you up for a successful and productive December! Yes, there is still some action to take today! Check out how the remainder of this month looks and to determine your saving grace or whether you are going to need nine lives to live through it!

: [Referring to the electrocuted cat] That thing had nine lives. You just spent 'em all.

 Eddie: You surprised to see us, Clark?  Clark: Oh, Eddie ... If I woke up tomorrow with my head sewn to the carpet, I wouldn't be more surprised than I am now.