Disrupting Dentistry Podcast

• Episode 69: The Hidden Harms of Vaping and Nicotine Pouches - What Dental Professionals Need to Know

  Episode 69: The Hidden Harms of Vaping and Nicotine Pouches - What Dental Professionals Need to Know Hosts: Tabitha Acret (Australia) & Melissa Obrotka (USA)  Episode Description  In this critical episode, Tabitha and Melissa tackle one of the most pressing and misunderstood topics in oral health today: the harms of vaping and nicotine pouches like Zyn. Far from being "harmless alternatives," these products present significant risks that dental professionals need to understand and address. Key Topics Covered What Are Vapes and Nicotine Pouches? 🔑   Vaping devices (e-cigarettes): Heat liquid containing nicotine, flavorings, and chemicals              for inhalation 🔑   Nicotine pouches (Zyn): Tobacco-free pouches placed between the lip and gum, absorbed          through the oral mucosa 🔑   Nicotine concentration: One Zyn pouch contains 6-12mg of nicotine (potentially more                than a cigarette) Marketing Tactics: Big Tobacco 2.0 Bright colors and fruity flavors targeting teens and young adults Lifestyle branding and social media influence campaigns Packaging designed to look like gum or mints Stanford 2023 study: Flavored vaping products are the #1 reason adolescents try e-cigarettes Ingredient Breakdown E-liquids contain: Nicotine Propylene glycol Glycerin Flavorings (including diacetyl linked to "popcorn lung") Heavy metals (lead, nickel) Volatile organic compounds Nicotine pouches contain: Nicotine salts (more bioavailable) pH adjusters Flavorings Fillers and binders Oral Health Impacts  Vaping effects: Xerostomia (dry mouth) Gingival inflammation Increased caries risk Delayed healing Oral microbiome disruption Nicotine pouch effects: Localized gum recession Mucosal irritation Leukoplakia-like lesions Increased calculus formation Systemic Health Concerns Cardiovascular impacts: Increased blood pressure, heart rate, inflammation 2022 JAMA study: Daily vaping linked to increased myocardial infarction risk in young adults Respiratory conditions: 34% higher risk of chronic respiratory issues (2023 Lancet meta-analysis) Mental health: Potential links to increased anxiety and depression in teens Addiction Potential Single Zyn pouch may deliver more nicotine than a cigarette Adolescents using nicotine pouches show similar addiction profiles to daily smokers Products represent "harm redirection" rather than harm reduction Regulatory Landscape Australia Non-prescription nicotine vapes banned for importation Enforcement challenges remain Zyn and similar pouches available through online retailers despite restrictions United States Zyn legally available (not classified as tobacco product due to no leaf content) FDA slow to regulate; issued warnings in 2023 but sales continue growing Limited oversight compared to traditional tobacco products Clinical Guidance for Dental Professionals Assessment Questions Ask specifically: "Do you vape? Use nicotine pouches?" not just "Do you smoke?" Include all age groups, especially adolescents and young adults Clinical Signs to Watch For Gingival trauma Mucosal changes Halitosis Increased bleeding during procedures Localized recession patterns Intervention Strategies Patient education about actual risks vs. perceived safety Include nicotine cessation counseling in treatment planning Provide referrals to cessation programs when appropriate Use uncomfortable conversations as opportunities for life-changing interventions Key Takeaways Reframe the narrative: These products aren't "better than smoking" – advocate for health, not just harm reduction Education is essential: Many patients believe these products are safe Prevention is our responsibility: Use clinical encounters to identify and intervene Knowledge sharing: Discuss with colleagues, patients, and community members Research References JAMA Network Open (2022): "Electronic Cigarette Use and Risk of Cardiovascular Disease" The Lancet Respiratory Medicine (2023): "E-Cigarettes and Respiratory Health: A Meta-analysis" Tobacco Control (2022): "Adolescent Use of Nicotine Pouches" Stanford Research (2023): Impact of flavored vaping products on adolescent initiation Australian Government Department of Health: Vaping Regulation Updates BONUS - Listen for a spontaneous guest on current events/trends in high school as Melissa's 17-year-old son, Jade Obrotka, makes his debut on the show and shares the vaping and Zyn (anecdotal) stats from his peers.  Resources for Practitioners Cessation counseling tools and scripts Patient education materials Current research papers and clinical guidelines Regulatory updates by region Connect with Disrupting Dentistry Podcast: Available on Apple Podcasts and other major platforms Website: Disrupting Dentistry Podcast Share this episode if it resonated with you – knowledge sharing drives change in our profession! Instagram:  Follow ➡️ @disruptingdentistrypodcast Follow ➡️ @tabitha_dental_hygienist_ Follow ➡️ @itsthebadasshygienist Send us an 📧 [email protected] with your stories, reflections, or questions! Episode Credits Hosts: Tabitha Acret & Melissa Obrotka Podcast: Disrupting Dentistry Episode: The Hidden Harms of Vaping and Nicotine Pouches - What Dental Professionals Need to Know "Knowledge is power — and prevention is our responsibility." Stay kind, stay present, and keep disrupting!  Thank you for listening! 🤟

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• Episode 68: Beyond the Chair: Trauma-Informed Care in Dentistry

  _*]:min-w-0 !gap-3.5"> Beyond the Chair: Trauma-Informed Care in Dentistry Show Notes - Disrupting Dentistry Podcast Episode Description This isn't just about patient experience — it's about humanity, dignity, and creating safer, more responsive dental environments for everyone who walks through our door. In this powerful episode, Tabitha and Melissa delve into trauma-informed care, exploring why every dental professional needs to understand its impact on both patients and providers. What You'll Learn The real definition of trauma (it's not what you think) Why dental visits are perfect storms for trauma activation The five pillars of trauma-informed care and how to implement them How to recognize trauma responses in the dental chair The difference between PTSD and Complex PTSD Why trauma-informed care matters for your team, too Actionable steps to start practicing differently TODAY Episode Timestamps 0:00-3:00 - Introduction & Host Catch-Up 3:00-8:00 - What Is Trauma? Why It Matters in Dentistry Redefining trauma beyond "big events" Types of trauma our patients carry Why dental visits trigger trauma responses 8:00-18:00 - The 5 Pillars of Trauma-Informed Care Safety (physical and emotional) Trustworthiness and transparency Peer support and collaboration Choice, voice, and empowerment Cultural, historical, and gender considerations 18:00-25:00 - Recognizing Trauma in the Chair Signs to watch for during appointments Understanding PTSD vs Complex PTSD Real-world examples and case studies 25:00-30:00 - Trauma-Informed Care for Dental Teams Addressing vicarious trauma Creating psychologically safe workplaces Self-care strategies for providers 30:00-35:00 - Systems Change in Dental Education What dental schools need to teach Moving away from shame-based learning Policy and clinic transformations 35:00-40:00 - Where to Start: Practical Implementation The magic questions to ask patients Small changes with big impact Shifting from "what's wrong" to "what's needed" Key Takeaways 🔑 Trauma is any experience that overwhelms someone's ability to cope - not just "big" events 🔑 Dental visits can be triggering due to loss of control, intimate procedures, and power dynamics 🔑 The 5 pillars provide a framework for creating safer, more responsive care 🔑 Trauma responses show up in the body - watch for physical and emotional signs 🔑 This work isn't just patient-facing - teams need trauma-informed cultures too 🔑 Start with curiosity and presence - you don't need all the answers to care differently Resources Mentioned SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) - Framework for trauma-informed care Action Items for Listeners ✅ Ask these questions in your next patient interaction: "How can I make this space safer for you today?" "What do you need from me right now?" "What would help you feel more comfortable?" ✅ Implement the five pillars gradually: Start with one pillar per week Practice explaining procedures before touching Offer choices throughout appointments ✅ Check in with your team: Normalize debriefing complex cases Create space for emotional check-ins Encourage self-care and boundaries ✅ Share this episode with colleagues, faculty, and your dental community Connect with the Hosts Instagram:  Follow ➡️ @disruptingdentistrypodcast Follow ➡️ @tabitha_dental_hygienist_ Follow ➡️ @itsthebadasshygienist Connect With The Disrupting Dentistry Movement 🔥 Send us an 📧 [email protected] with your stories, reflections, or questions Share your trauma-informed care journey using #DisruptingDentistryPodcast Next Steps Ready to go deeper? Here are ways to continue your trauma-informed care education: Research SAMHSA's trauma-informed care principles Attend trauma-informed care training for healthcare providers Start conversations with your dental team about implementing these practices Connect with mental health professionals in your community for referral resources Advocate for trauma-informed care curriculum in dental education Episode Credits Hosts: Tabitha Acret & Melissa Obrotka Podcast: Disrupting Dentistry Episode: Beyond the Chair: Trauma-Informed Care in Dentistry Remember: This work can't fall solely on individual clinicians — it must be embedded into education, policy, and the very culture of how we practice dentistry. Let's build a more human profession — together. Stay kind, stay present, and keep disrupting!  Thank you for listening! 🤟  

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• Episode 67: Neuromarketing for Dental Pros: Understanding the Science Behind Effective Marketing

  Episode 67: Neuromarketing for Dental Pros: Understanding the Science Behind Effective Marketing In this enlightening episode, we delve into the fascinating world of neuromarketing with Yoli Dick, a seasoned expert with over a decade of experience at the intersection of dentistry and marketing. Discover how understanding the brain's 🧠 decision-making processes can transform your dental practice's marketing strategy from merely functional to deeply resonant and compelling. Key 🔑 Topics Discussed: How the brain processes marketing messages and makes healthcare decisions The science behind building trust signals into your dental brand Creating emotional connections that drive patient loyalty Practical neuromarketing techniques that dental professionals can implement immediately The importance of consistent brand touchpoints from website to waiting room Highlights ✳️ from the Conversation: Yoli explains how emotions, not logic, drive most healthcare decisions and what this means for dental marketing The physiological responses that patients have to different marketing approaches and environments Why traditional dental marketing often fails to connect with potential patients Practical strategies for designing your practice around the patient's emotional journey How to train your team to become authentic brand ambassadors About Our Guest: Yoli Dick helps dental professionals and healthcare providers build brands that feel as good as they perform. She creates purposeful, emotionally intelligent marketing that genuinely connects with patients by blending deep industry knowledge with neuroscience-driven strategy. Through her consulting and training programs, Yoli empowers dental teams to communicate clearly, connect authentically, and grow their practices with heart and purpose. Connect with Yoli:  📥 Subscribe to Yoli's Blog 🌐 Yoli Dick Marketing Services | Neuroscience Marketing Strategies 📲 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yolidick 📲 Instagram: Yoli Dick | Human-Centered Marketing (@yolidickneurosciencemarketer) • Instagram photos and videos Connect With The Disrupting Dentistry Movement 🔥 🚀 Share this episode with colleagues who can benefit from listening to it! 🚀 Subscribe to stay on the cutting edge of disruptive dental practice techniques! Follow ➡️ @disruptingdentistrypodcast Follow ➡️ @tabitha_dental_hygienist_ Follow ➡️ @itsthebadasshygienist DentalMarketing #Neuromarketing #PatientExperience #DentalBranding #EmotionalIntelligence #HealthcareMarketing #PracticeGrowth #PatientLoyalty #DentalBusiness #BrandStorytelling #DentalPracticeSuccess Thank you for listening! 🤟

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• Episode 66: Breaking Boundaries: Owning a Specialist Perio Practice as an OHT 🚀

  Special Guest Dental Disruptor: Alan Timmerman, Oral Health Therapist & Specialist Periodontal Practice Owner In this groundbreaking episode, Tabitha sits down with Alan Timmerman, an Australian Oral Health Therapist who has shattered traditional career expectations by purchasing and running his own specialist periodontal practice. This conversation explores Alan's unconventional journey from clinical practice to business ownership and provides valuable insights for OHTs looking to expand beyond conventional roles. Key Topics Covered 🔄 From Clinician to Owner: Alan's Journey Alan's background and early career as an Oral Health Therapist The pivotal moments that led him to consider practice ownership The transition process and unexpected challenges faced along the way How his clinical background prepared him for business leadership 💼 Business Ownership Realities for OHTs Navigating the financial aspects of purchasing a specialist practice Building credibility in a specialist setting as an OHT Managing the dual responsibilities of clinical work and business operations Creating systems that maintain quality while allowing for growth ⚖️ Scope of Practice Considerations How Alan structures his practice to respect the scope of practice limitations Building effective referral relationships with periodontists Creating clear protocols for case management and referrals Innovative approaches to team structure in a specialist setting 🌱 Practice Growth Strategies Marketing a periodontal practice in today's competitive landscape Building relationships with general practices for consistent referrals Investing in technology that elevates periodontal care Staff development and creating a perio-focused culture 💡 Advice for Forward-Thinking OHTs Essential skills OHTs should develop beyond clinical expertise Business education and resources Alan recommends Common pitfalls to avoid when expanding your career horizons Building a support network for unconventional career paths Key Takeaways OHTs have more career possibilities than traditionally recognized Business ownership requires both clinical credibility and leadership skills Specialist practices can thrive under OHT ownership with proper structure Expanding your vision requires stepping outside your comfort zone and embracing new challenges The future of dental practice ownership is becoming more diverse and inclusive Connect With The Movement 🔥 🚀 Join the dental revolution!  🚀 Share this episode with colleagues who can benefit from listening to it! 🚀 Subscribe to stay on the cutting edge of disruptive dental practice techniques! Follow ➡️ @disruptingdentistrypodcast Follow ➡️ @tabitha_dental_hygienist_ Follow ➡️ @itsthebadasshygienist #DisruptingDentistry #StopBleedingGums #OralSystemicConnection #DentalInnovation #PerioHealth

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• Episode 65: Stress & Your Smile: The Silent Oral Health Saboteur 😬💥

  This episode FINALLY exposes how stress is silently destroying your patients' mouths! 🚨 Melissa and Tabitha break through the traditional dentistry noise to reveal the science behind why stress might be the #1 oral health saboteur your patients (and YOU) aren't talking about. Key Topics Covered 🧠 The Science of Stress & The Oral Cavity (3:00-12:00) How the HPA axis is literally bathing your patients' mouths in cortisol! 💦 The SHOCKING immune suppression that's happening beneath our patient's gingiva Revolutionary research that mainstream dentistry isn't discussing Why your patients' stress behaviors are creating a perfect storm for oral disease 🌪️ 😬 Stress-Related Oral Conditions (12:00-25:00) Bruxism: The silent nighttime destroyer most dentists just band-aid with a nightguard TMD: It's not just about the jaw—it's about the WHOLE PERSON The stress-triggered conditions conventional dentistry misses: Aphthous ulcers that keep returning 🔄 Lichen planus that won't respond to traditional treatments Burning Mouth Syndrome—it's NOT just in their heads! The REAL reason periodontal treatments fail: STRESS! 🔥 🦷 What Dental Professionals NEED To Do (25:00-40:00) Ditch the antiquated screening methods and start asking the RIGHT questions Salivary diagnostics: The game-changing tool traditional practices ignore The MIND-BLOWING connection between stress, bruxism, and sleep apnea 😴 Breaking the vicious cycle your patients are trapped in Revolutionary signs you should be looking for: Scalloped tongues = RED FLAG 🚩 Constricted airways that are SCREAMING for attention High-arched palates telling a story of dysfunction Forward head posture that traditional dentistry overlooks Morning symptoms that connect to nighttime problems Why collaborating with sleep medicine is NO LONGER optional! 🤝 Key Takeaways That Will DISRUPT Your Practice Tomorrow 💪 Start seeing stress as the root cause, not just a contributing factor Implement stress screenings TODAY—your patients' health depends on it Stop treating symptoms and start healing causes—your oath demands it! Embrace the mouth-body connection that traditional dental education ignored Take care of YOUR stress, too—you can't pour from an empty cup! 🧘‍♀️ Because We ALWAYS Bring the Research Receipts 🧾 Al-Jewair, T., et al. (2023). Association between obstructive sleep apnea, periodontal disease, and systemic inflammation: A systematic review. Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine. Camacho, M., et al. (2021). Palatal expansion therapy as a treatment modality for obstructive sleep apnea: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Sleep Medicine Reviews. Carra, M.C., et al. (2022). Sleep bruxism and sleep-disordered breathing: A systematic review of polysomnographic studies. Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine. Gómez-Moreno, G., et al. (2022). Effects of psychological stress on the oral microbiome: A systematic review. Journal of Oral Microbiology. Iwasaki, M., et al. (2022). Association between salivary cortisol levels and periodontal clinical parameters. Clinical Oral Investigations. Lobbezoo, F., et al. (2023). Bruxism and temporomandibular disorders: A comprehensive review of comorbidities and management. Journal of Oral Rehabilitation. Manfredini, D., et al. (2022). Electromyographic assessment of masseter and temporalis muscles in individuals with different stress levels: A controlled study. Journal of Oral Rehabilitation. Martins, R.P., et al. (2023). Impact of psychological stress on periodontal disease progression: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Clinical Oral Investigations. Mendes, F.S., et al. (2023). Cortisol levels in patients with obstructive sleep apnea: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Sleep Medicine Reviews. Patil, S., et al. (2022). Psychological stress and oral lichen planus: A case-control study. Journal of Oral Pathology & Medicine. Peruzzo, D.C., et al. (2021). Psychological stress, salivary cortisol, and periodontitis: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Periodontal Research. Scully, C. (2021). Aphthous ulceration: A comprehensive review of etiopathogenesis. Journal of Oral Pathology & Medicine. Silva, L.A., et al. (2023). Burning mouth syndrome and psychological factors: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Oral Pathology & Medicine. Connect With The Movement 🔥 🚀 Join the dental revolution!  🚀 Share this episode with colleagues who can benefit from this episode! 🚀 Subscribe to stay on the cutting edge of disruptive dental practice techniques! Follow ➡️ @disruptingdentistrypodcast Follow ➡️ @tabitha_dental_hygienist_ Follow ➡️ @itsthebadasshygienist #DisruptingDentistry #StopBleedingGums #OralSystemicConnection #DentalInnovation #PerioHealth

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