Functional Roots Podcast

Beating Hygienist Burnout: Pain, Patients, and Practical ResetsThe script discusses burnout and physical strain among dental hygienists, including tight jaws, shoulder and neck pain, fatigue, and early-career injuries that lead some to consider leaving the profession. It contrasts draining, unappreciative patient interactions with meaningful moments, such as advocating for a terminal cancer patient to attend a concert and a patient crediting a hygienist’s blood pressure finding with saving his life. The conversation highlights paying attention to small ergonomic details like glove fit, using belly breathing to calm the nervous system, and simple mobility habits like morning hip circles. It also addresses workload pressures from constantly adding tasks without time, and describes a more sustainable model focused on patient education, support from a dedicated assistant, and staying present to make a difference day by day.00:00 Burnout Warning Signs00:31 Early Career Pain00:43 Listening Before It Hurts00:47 Difficult Patients Drain01:29 Moments That Matter02:24 Small Ergonomic Fixes02:54 Belly Breathing Reset03:47 Morning Mobility Habits04:06 Factory Feeling Burnout04:33 Redesigning The Role05:04 First Line Of Defense05:18 Be Present Now05:36 Build Life Where You Are

Amanda and Heather introduce their Functional Roots podcast, focused on holistic, functional, and naturopathic connections between oral health and whole-body wellness, and interview Tricia Rogers, an ASHA-certified speech-language pathologist with nearly 30 years of experience specializing in oral facial myofunctional disorders. Tricia explains myofunctional therapy as addressing habits and patterns that affect oral-facial muscle rest and function—impacting facial growth, nasal breathing, oral rest posture, chewing, swallowing, and speech—and describes how SLPs and registered dental hygienists can both practice in this space, with SLPs also treating speech clarity and swallowing disorders like dysphagia. The conversation covers practical red flags and screening ideas for clinicians and parents (mouth breathing, where children chew, open-mouth chewing, dark circles, bedwetting, attention issues, and crowding in primary teeth), plus a simple strategy to train back-molar chewing using Haribo gummy bears and the functional importance of chewing. Tricia distinguishes oral myofunctional swallowing issues from dysphagia related to neurological or motor conditions (e.g., Parkinson’s, stroke, cerebral palsy) and emphasizes appropriate referral for aspiration risk. They discuss tongue ties (anterior, posterior/mid ties), lip ties (including lower ties), compensations that can mask restriction, and how tongue posture relates to speech clarity, open bites, and orthodontic relapse, stressing that structure and function must be treated together through interdisciplinary collaboration (orthodontics, ENTs/allergists, bodywork, chiropractors, and myofascial release). Tricia shares how she uses child-friendly education through her children’s book series Ms. Tongue and Friends—titles including “Ms. Tongue Learns to Rest,” “The Lips Learn to Stay Together,” “Mr. Nose Learns to Breathe,” and “Ms. Tongue Learns to Dance” for lingual frenectomy prep/post support—suggesting books in dental offices and schools to build awareness, and provides a February discount code (Cupid10) and her website and social channels. The episode closes with takeaways emphasizing collaboration, early intervention rather than “wait and see,” and Tricia’s current reading recommendation, the book “Behind the Smile” by Dr. Donny R. (Donny Rowl).00:00 Welcome to Functional Roots: Whole-Body Wellness Starts in the Mouth00:38 Meet Tricia Rogers, SLP: Why Myofunctional Therapy Matters04:46 Myofunctional Therapy 101: Oral Habits, Airway, and Nasal Breathing09:21 Chewing & Swallowing Red Flags: Back Molars, Mouth-Open Eating, and Training Tips15:30 Dysphagia vs. Myofunctional Swallowing Issues: When It’s a Safety Concern21:20 The ‘Aha’ Case: How Tongue Posture and Breathing Impact Speech Clarity24:11 Tongue Ties & Lip Ties Explained: Assessment, Compensations, and Airway Effects31:45 Myofascial Release + Team-Based Care: Fascia, Posture, and Collaboration38:10 How to Talk to Patients: Simple Screening Talking Points (Mouth Breathing, Chewing, Crowding)50:12 Allergies, Obstruction vs Habit, and the Mouth-Breathing Cycle (Halitosis, Tonsils, Stones)55:15 Tongue Thrust & Ortho Relapse: Why Braces Alone Don’t Fix Function55:46 Tongue Thrust & Braces Relapse: Why Open Bites Come Back57:34 Myofunctional Therapy 101: Resting Posture vs Swallowing Function59:28 Getting Your Practice On Board: Referrals, Airway Awareness & DSO Challenges01:01:55 Tongue Rest Posture Debates: Airway vs Speech Perspectives01:09:17 Ms. Tongue & Friends: Using Kids’ Books to Teach Oral Habits01:16:39 Airway, Decay & Myo Tools: Myo Munchie, Lip Seal, and Nasal Breathing01:19:04 Adult-Friendly Hacks: Ortho Elastic as a Tongue

Welcome to Functional Roots! Dive deep with Amanda, Heather, and the remarkable Dr. Nathan Bryan as they unveil the links between oral health, nitric oxide, and overall wellness. Learn about Dr. Bryan’s journey, groundbreaking research, and how nitric oxide impacts cardiovascular health, insulin resistance, and more. Whether you’re a dental professional, wellness enthusiast, or curious about natural health, this episode is packed with insights and practical tips. Grab your herbal tea and join the conversation! Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share!00:00 Introduction to Functional Roots00:35 Meet Dr. Nathan Bryan: Nitric Oxide Expert03:02 Dr. Bryan's Journey into Nitric Oxide Research05:50 Understanding Nitric Oxide Pathways09:54 The Role of Oral and Gut Microbiome in Nitric Oxide Production11:54 Impact of Lifestyle and Medications on Nitric Oxide14:22 Challenges in Modern Medicine and Dentistry35:49 Chinese Medicine and Nitric Oxide40:02 Discussing the Teeth Mask and Product Evolution40:30 Clinical Testing and Nitric Oxide Measurement41:56 Salivary Test Strips and Oral Health44:14 The Importance of Beneficial Bacteria47:28 Addressing Cardiovascular Disease Through Oral Health48:49 Revisiting Nitric Oxide Strips and Supplementation53:19 Dietary Sources and Challenges of Nitric Oxide57:29 The Role of Processed Foods and Sodium Nitrate01:01:38 Developing Effective Nitric Oxide Supplements01:12:23 Final Thoughts and Upcoming Eventslinktr.ee/heatherkenneyrdh  https://heatherkenneyrdh.com/  https://saliva-sleuths.mn.co/landing/     https://intuitive-training-llc.kit.com/b11cc8efe6  

Dive into a captivating discussion that challenges the traditional boundaries of dental health! In this episode, we explore the deep and powerful connections between oral health and overall wellness. Learn how your mouth can be a window to your body's health, identifying chronic diseases and uncovering potential issues through microbiome and functional testing. Discover why integrating dental history into medical evaluations can revolutionize patient care, and hear compelling arguments for why dental professionals should collaborate more with functional healthcare providers. Like, subscribe, and share to help spread awareness about this vital, but often overlooked, aspect of health!

Connecting Oral Health to Whole Body Wellness: Featuring Dr. Claudia PortaWelcome to another enlightening episode of Functional Roots! Join Amanda and Heather as they dive deep into the powerful connections between oral health and overall wellness. Special guest Dr. Claudia Porta shares her journey into lifestyle and preventive medicine, emphasizing the significance of the oral microbiome. Learn how integrative approaches can impact everything from obesity to Alzheimer's. Don't miss out on this captivating discussion that bridges the gap between dental care and systemic health. Enjoy your favorite herbal tea, get comfortable, and let’s explore the roots of good health! If you enjoyed this episode, please like, subscribe, and share it with your friends!00:00 Introduction to Functional Roots00:42 Meet Dr. Claudia Porta01:04 Dr. Porta's Medical Journey03:29 The Shift to Lifestyle Medicine04:36 Understanding Obesity and Functional Medicine06:20 The Importance of Oral Health in Medicine11:15 Challenges in Integrating Dental and Medical Care14:34 Heather's New Educational Platform16:13 The Role of Oral Microbiome in Systemic Health20:27 The Evolution of Functional Medicine20:38 Collaborative Approaches to Patient Care30:43 The Impact of Environmental Factors on Oral Health34:49 Exploring Glossitis and Oral Microbiome35:19 Airway Issues and Dental Landmarks35:59 The Role of Hygienists in Dentistry37:09 Nutritional and Salivary Diagnostics38:26 Collaborative Care in Dentistry42:43 Case Studies on Oral Health and Systemic Diseases53:57 Integrating Dental and Medical Care01:03:07 Future of Preventative Medicine01:06:21 Educational Resources and Closing Remarks

Exploring Mercury Safe Dentistry with Dr. Mark Wisniewski | Functional Roots PodcastJoin us for a deep dive into the world of biologic dentistry on this episode of Functional Roots! Hosts Amanda and Heather are thrilled to welcome Dr. Mark Wisniewski, a pioneer in mercury-safe dentistry and ozone therapy. Discover the powerful connections between oral health and whole-body wellness, the essential protocols for safe amalgam removal, and Dr. Mark's personal journey into biologic dentistry. Whether you're a dental professional or a wellness enthusiast, this episode is packed with insightful information and practical tips. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share with friends who might find this information valuable!00:00 Introduction to Functional Roots00:41 Welcoming Dr. Mark Wisniewski04:13 Dr. Mark's Journey into Biologic Dentistry08:23 Mercury Toxicity and Safe Removal Protocols16:35 The Impact of Mercury on Health19:11 Public Education and Advocacy21:54 Controversies and Challenges in Dentistry31:18 Vaccines and Health: A Broader Discussion40:41 The Manipulation of Science40:56 Trust and Understanding in Science41:35 The Influence of Pharmaceuticals41:48 The Importance of Like-Minded Practitioners43:09 The Toxicity in Everyday Life44:00 The Paradigm Shift in Dentistry46:26 Bioaccumulation and Water Quality47:04 The Reality of Chemical Exposure49:51 The Role of Honesty in Dentistry52:26 The Future of Biologic Dentistry58:13 Advice for Young Dentists01:00:58 Innovations in Dental Practices01:04:43 The Importance of Biocompatible Materials01:10:37 International Expansion of Biologic Dentistry01:12:52 Conclusion and Announcements

Leading a New Movement in Dentistry: Dr. Brian Edwards on Kindness, Prevention, and TransparencyIn this episode of Functional Roots, hosts Amanda and Heather welcome Dr. Brian Edwards, a passionate dentist advocating for the highest quality oral health care with a people-first approach. Dr. Edwards shares insights into his innovative 3-2-3 model, focusing on kindness, prevention, and transparency in dental practice. He discusses his journey from a dental student to a practice owner, emphasizing the need for holistic, functional, and naturopathic approaches in dentistry. The conversation delves into the importance of empowering hygienists, creating a supportive practice environment, and the groundbreaking preventive strategies like Guided Biofilm Therapy and salivary diagnostics. Dr. Edwards also highlights the significance of transitioning to a fee-for-service model to improve patient care and practice sustainability.00:00 Welcome to Functional Roots00:42 Introducing Dr. Brian Edwards00:51 Dr. Edwards' Journey and Philosophy01:36 The 3-2-3 Model in Dentistry04:13 Challenges and Innovations in Dental Practice06:47 Empowering Hygienists and Team Dynamics14:22 Fee-for-Service Model and Patient Care23:35 Leadership and Vision in Dentistry29:03 Advocating for Collaborative Solutions in Dentistry29:14 The Systemic Impact of Dental Health30:37 Patient Advocacy and Systemic Health32:11 Technologies and Innovations in Dental Practice35:19 Empowering Hygienists and Team Collaboration40:40 The Importance of Continuous Learning and Team Unity44:00 Mentorship and Business Strategies for Dentists50:28 Concluding Thoughts and Future Directions

Unlocking the Secrets of Oral Health with Primal Health's Revolutionary TechnologyDive into an enlightening episode of Functional Roots with Amanda, Heather, and special guest Emily from Primal Health. Discover how Emily's innovative SMART technology, grounded in her expertise in microbiology and immunology, offers a groundbreaking approach to oral health. Learn about the profound connections between oral health, systemic health, and the role of diet, probiotics, and biocompatible ingredients in maintaining a balanced oral microbiome. Don't miss out on this deep dive into how natural solutions can revolutionize dental wellness and overall health. Like, subscribe, and share this episode if you found it insightful!00:00 Introduction to Functional Roots00:36 Guest Introduction: Emily from Primal Health01:24 Emily's Journey and Research04:28 The Science Behind Primal Health05:58 Innovations in Oral Health08:05 Challenges and Solutions in Oral Microbiome11:19 Product Details and Applications19:49 Clinical Implications and Future Directions25:22 Microbial Diversity in the Mouth26:29 Candida and Opportunistic Bacteria27:26 Cross Contamination and Hygiene Protocols27:58 Balancing Beneficial and Harmful Bacteria29:20 Impact of Diet on Oral Microbiome30:37 Acidity and Oral Health31:57 Microbial Influence on Dental Implants33:40 Streptococcus Species and Inflammation37:05 Antibiotics and Long-term Microbiome Effects38:28 Public Perception of Oral Health42:32 Innovative Oral Health Products46:01 Vitamin B and Oral Health47:08 Fun Question: Podcasts and Books48:12 Conclusion and Resources

In this podcast episode recorded from the RDH Under One Roof podcast lounge, esteemed guest Anne Rice engages in a deep discussion on the complexities of biological dental hygiene, periodontal disease, and the oral-systemic connection. Topics include the importance of individualized patient care, the evolving landscape of dental hygiene, and the role of new diagnostic tools and treatments. The conversation also delves into the need for greater autonomy for dental hygienists, access to dental care for the aging population, and the intersection of oral health with nutrition and systemic diseases like diabetes and leaky gut syndrome. This is part one of a two-part series.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:44 Discussing Biologic Hygiene00:59 The Oral Systemic Connection01:42 Advancements in Periodontal Disease Treatment04:10 The Role of Neutrophils in Oral Health07:29 Nutritional Impact on Oral Health09:26 Xylitol and Erythritol in Dentistry14:30 Challenges in Maintaining Oral Health16:39 Discussing Aging and Oral Health17:48 Challenges in Dental Care for the Elderly18:30 Financial Barriers in Dentistry20:34 Innovations and Tools for Elderly Oral Care21:29 The Importance of Preventive Dental Care24:03 Implant Failures and Their Causes27:36 Access to Dental Care in Nursing Homes30:32 Collaborative Approaches in Oral Health33:40 The Need for Preventive Models in Dentistry

Welcome to another captivating episode of Functional Roots! In this episode, hosts Amanda and Heather dive deep into the world of functional and holistic dentistry with special guest Janet Madrid, an author, speaker, and founder of Hope for Health Integrative Oral Health and Wellness. Janet shares her inspiring journey of over 46 years in dentistry, from her beginnings as a young dental assistant to her current role as an advocate for merging medicine and dentistry for holistic patient care.Janet discusses the powerful connections between oral health, overall wellness, and the body's innate ability to heal. She emphasizes the importance of individualized patient care, sharing her experience of running a mobile dental hygiene practice that allows her to give patients the comprehensive attention they need. Janet also talks about her personal battle with mercury toxicity, her passion for patient education, and her vision of providing hope and better health outcomes for her patients.Key takeaways from this episode include:- Understanding the importance of functional and holistic approaches in dental care- Impacts of mercury toxicity as experienced by Janet- The significance of patient education and individualized care plans- Janet’s journey of learning, passion, and lifelong engagement in her profession- Exploring diagnostic tools like salivary testing and the role of oral probiotics📚 Resources mentioned in the episode:- [International Academy of Biological Dentistry & Medicine](https://iabdm.org)- [International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology](https://iaomt.org)- [American Academy for Oral Systemic Health](https://aaosh.org)- [DeWitt Wilkerson](https://www.mcdean.com)- [Hope for Health Integrative Oral Health and Wellness](https://hopeforhealth.org)Don't miss out on this heartwarming and informative episode! Make sure to like, subscribe, and check out more episodes for insights into holistic dental care and whole-body wellness.#FunctionalDentistry #HolisticWellness #OralSystemicHealth #MercuryToxicity #PatientCare #DentalHygiene #HopeForHealth00:00 Introduction to Functional Roots00:48 Meet Janet Madrid: A Journey in Holistic Dentistry02:22 Janet's Early Career and Health Challenges04:39 Transition to Holistic Dentistry09:53 Starting a Mobile Dental Practice21:03 Integrating Functional and Holistic Concepts36:10 Switching to Cure Prox Electric Toothbrush37:01 Teaching Proper Brushing and Flossing Techniques37:55 The Importance of Extended Dental Appointments39:26 Addressing Burnout and Rethinking Hygienist Roles41:01 Promoting Patient Independence in Oral Care44:18 The Role of Hope in Patient Healing49:09 Writing a Book on Holistic Health54:30 Integrating Dental and Medical Practices59:04 The Importance of Airway Health01:01:12 Continuous Learning and Professional Development01:05:01 Upcoming Conferences and Networking

Exploring Functional Dentistry with Amber White: Oral-Systemic Health & Holistic HealingIn this episode of Functional Roots, Amanda and Heather, passionate dental hygienists, dive deep into the world of functional and biological dentistry with special guest Amber White. Amber, a holistic health practitioner and dedicated dental hygienist, shares her journey from traditional dental hygiene to embracing a biological approach to oral health. They discuss the profound connections between oral health and overall systemic wellness, highlighting the role of nutrition, lifestyle coaching, and the incorporation of holistic practices within dental care. Amber provides insights into treatment modalities, mineral testing, hormonal impact on oral health, and the importance of stress management in healing. This episode is packed with valuable information for dental professionals, wellness enthusiasts, and anyone curious about a natural approach to health. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with friends! ⁠https://www.naturallyamberwhite.com/⁠#FunctionalDentistry #OralSystemicHealth #HolisticHealth #BiologicalDentalHygiene #Wellness

In this enlightening episode of 'Functional Roots,' hosts Amanda and Heather, both passionate holistic dental hygienists, welcome special guest Stacy Weissman. Stacy, a registered dental hygienist and myofunctional therapist, discusses the intersections between oral health, nutrition, and overall wellness. With over 20 years of experience and a strong focus on functional health, Stacy shares her journey and insights on the role of dental professionals in whole-body wellness. Key topics include nutritional counseling, the impact of airway health on systemic conditions, the role of salivary testing, mineral assessments, and the challenges and benefits of functional care within a dental practice. This episode offers valuable information for dental professionals, wellness enthusiasts, and anyone interested in taking a more natural approach to health.

In this kickoff episode, we introduce you to Functional Roots—the podcast where whole-body wellness begins in the mouth. Join hosts Amanda and Heather, two passionate dental hygienists with a love for holistic and functional care, as they share why this podcast was created, what you can expect in future episodes, and how oral health is deeply connected to the rest of the body. Whether you're a wellness seeker, dental pro, or curious listener, you’re in the right place. Let’s get to the root of it all!https://functionalrootspodcast.com/

Sleep Apnea, UARS & Tongue Ties: Airway Red Flags Dentists Shouldn’t Miss (with Dr. Kristen Geist)Whole-body wellness starts in the mouth—and this episode goes straight to the root. Amanda and Heather sit down with Dr. Kristen Geist, a general dentist who shifted her focus to airway, sleep apnea, and adult laser tongue-tie release after her own diagnosis of Upper Airway Resistance Syndrome (UARS). They break down sleep apnea vs. UARS, why traditional screening often misses women, and the red flags hygienists and dentists can spot daily—like dry mouth, clenching/grinding, reflux, headaches, anxiety, and nighttime bathroom trips. Dr. Geist shares practical referral “cheat codes,” explains treatment options from CPAP and oral appliances to expansion and soft palate laser therapy, and highlights why early screening matters. If you’re ready to connect oral health to real-life energy and healing, hit like, subscribe, and share this episode!00:00 Welcome to Functional Roots00:42 Meet Dr Kristen Geist02:43 Her Sleep Struggle04:11 Accidental Sleep Test06:47 Apnea vs UARS08:23 Hidden Symptoms in Women11:07 Reading Sleep Study Scores15:00 Finding Airway Referrals17:48 Self Referral Sleep Testing19:08 Beyond CPAP Options21:44 Airway Screening Workflow25:25 Red Flags in Oral Exams30:51 Mouth Space and Mallampati32:42 Adult Treatment Paths35:19 Expansion Options Overview36:34 Simple Sleep Fixes37:26 Nasal Hygiene Routine39:58 Nasal Inhaler Hacks41:45 Mandibular Expansion Limits44:32 Braces vs Invisalign Debate46:30 Tongue Posture Retention49:08 Adult Tongue Ties Explained52:56 Laser Treatments and Fascia59:19 Where to Find Kristen01:00:57 Retreat and Final Wrap

Introduction to Functional RootsWelcome to Functional Roots where whole body wellness begins in the mouth....Podcast Format and UpdatesOkay, so this is gonna be a non-typical podcast because....Amanda's Certification JourneyAnd the first thing that I want to do is just congratulate Amanda because she has worked diligently to get her....Heather's Educational InitiativesYeah, so I am I've been working on education for, I feel seven months now....Building the Saliva Sleuth CommunitySo I purchased an app and I'm building saliva sleuth community....Global Reach and Listener EngagementIt was interesting, Amanda, I don't know if I had a chance to tell you, but someone from Switzerland....Salivary Diagnostics and EducationThis week I had a conversation salivary diagnostic isn't part of didactic treatments in education yet, I have been connected with someone who....Exciting Developments in Dental Hygiene EducationSo I think that's very exciting for those students at the University of New Mexico School of Dental Hygiene....Challenges in Oral Health DiagnosticsThe micro the microbes, like that's the foundation of oral health....Reflecting on 2025 and Looking Ahead to 2026Okay, we're winding down 2025....Upcoming Speaking Engagements and ConferencesI don't have anything in person yet, so a dental conferences, if you want to hear me in person, I would love to....Networking and Community BuildingAnd then locally, how we were talking about getting business off the ground, but I went to a networking event at my local health and wellness store....Concluding Remarks and Future PlansYeah, I think that's the goal....

Welcome to Functional Roots, where whole body wellness starts in the mouth! In this episode, Amanda and Heather, our expert hygienists, welcome the brilliant Dr. Karen Plymel. Dr. Plymel shares her journey from Obstetrics and Gynecology to pioneering integrative and functional medicine practices, emphasizing the critical link between oral health and overall wellness. They dive into fascinating topics such as the oral systemic connection, the importance of oral microbiome testing, and how hygienists can play a pivotal role in patient care. If you're passionate about holistic health or curious about how your mouth affects your body, this is one episode you can't miss! Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share the knowledge!00:00 Introduction to Functional Roots00:37 Meet Dr. Karen Plymel00:55 Dr. Plymel's Journey and Integrative Approach02:25 The Oral Systemic Connection04:14 Challenges and Discoveries in Oral Health10:00 The Importance of Imaging in Dentistry15:57 Collaboration Between Medical and Dental Fields19:53 Empowering Dental Hygienists23:46 The Future of Integrative Dental Care33:56 The Struggle with Oral Microbiome34:10 Nitric Oxide and Blood Pressure34:46 Exciting Discoveries in Oral Microbiome35:16 Interconnected Health Issues36:37 Burnout in Dental Hygiene38:56 Finding Fulfillment in Dental Practice48:30 The Importance of Salivary Testing53:31 Future of Dental Hygiene55:37 Closing Thoughts and Future Collaboration

Join us for Part 2 of an enlightening conversation with Anne Rice, a trailblazer in dental hygiene and oral systemic health. We dive deep into the challenges and opportunities for dental hygienists in achieving autonomy within dental practices. Anne shares her insights on the limitations posed by current practice models, the importance of embracing new technologies, and the role of prevention in dentistry. We also discuss the critical intersection of oral health with overall health, covering topics like post-surgical care, the microbiome, and innovative nutritional strategies for better patient outcomes. This episode is packed with valuable information for dental professionals and anyone interested in holistic oral health and patient education. https://www.anneorice.com/Tune in to learn how we can elevate the field of dental hygiene and improve patient care.00:00 Introduction and Setting the Scene00:09 Challenges in Dental Hygiene Practice01:19 The Importance of Oral Microbiome02:27 Vitamin D and Implant Success03:53 Pre-Surgical Oral Health05:44 Post-Surgical Oral Care07:11 The Role of Nurses in Oral Health11:28 Personal Stories and Experiences23:13 Guilty Pleasures and Reality TV23:51 Salt Lake City: A Unique Experience24:40 Library Adventures and Homelessness26:03 Dog Stories and Veterinary Mishaps26:56 Physical Therapy for Dogs29:28 Speaking Engagements and Professional Experiences33:13 Hygienist Autonomy and Legislative Influence37:07 Global Dental Practices and Independent Hygiene37:55 The Future of Hygienists in Medical Settings39:10 Podcast Reflections and Wrap-Up

Unlocking the Power of Microscopy in Biological Dental Hygiene with Kristen KingJoin us in this exciting episode where we sit down with Kristen King, a renowned functional/biological dental hygienist. Kristen shares her expertise on the game-changing technology of phase contrast microscopes in dental practices. Learn about the significant benefits of using microscopes to both motivate patients and bridge the oral-systemic health link. Kristen also discusses the current political climate in the hygiene world, the importance of patient education, and much more.Kristen, the founder of Dental Reveal, helps train dental offices on how to effectively implement and use microscopes for better patient outcomes. This episode is packed with valuable insights and practical advice for anyone interested in holistic oral health. 📌 Key Takeaways: - The importance of microscopes for detecting live cells and biofilm in real-time.- How microscopes can motivate patients toward better oral health practices.- The role of biological hygiene in promoting a preventive, whole-health approach.- The current political landscape in the dental hygiene field.- Resources for further training and support in microscopy.💡 Resources Mentioned: - IABDM (International Academy of Biological Dentistry & Medicine): [Website](https://iabdm.org)- IAOMT (International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology): [Website](https://iaomt.org)- AAOSH (American Academy for Oral Systemic Health): [Website](https://aaosh.org)- Dewitt Wilkerson: [Website](https://dewittwilkercenterprises.com)- Janet's Hope for Health: [Website](https://janetshopeforhealth.com)✨ About Our Guest: Kristen King is a passionate biological dental hygienist who specializes in teaching other dental professionals about the benefits and applications of phase contrast microscopes. She provides continued support and training through her company, Dental Reveal. https://dentalreveal.com📲 Don't forget to like, subscribe, and check out more of our podcast episodes and resources! 🔍 Hashtags: #FunctionalDentistry #BiologicalHygiene #OralSystemicHealth #MicroscopeDentistry #PatientEducation00:00 Welcome and Introduction00:25 The Importance of Microscopes in Dental Hygiene02:14 Real-Life Experiences with Microscopes03:53 Microscopes as Motivational Tools04:45 Educational Insights and Patient Engagement10:12 Nutritional Conversations and Biofilm Control12:13 The Paradigm Shift in Dental Hygiene19:21 Kristen's Services and Final Thoughts

In this enlightening episode of 'Functional Roots,' hosts Amanda and Heather, both passionate holistic dental hygienists, welcome special guest Stacy Weissman. Stacy, a registered dental hygienist and myofunctional therapist, discusses the intersections between oral health, nutrition, and overall wellness. With over 20 years of experience and a strong focus on functional health, Stacy shares her journey and insights on the role of dental professionals in whole-body wellness. Key topics include nutritional counseling, the impact of airway health on systemic conditions, the role of salivary testing, mineral assessments, and the challenges and benefits of functional care within a dental practice. This episode offers valuable information for dental professionals, wellness enthusiasts, and anyone interested in taking a more natural approach to health.