Let’s talk hormones. Not in a trendy, wellness-influencer kind of way. But in a clinical, peer-reviewed, evidence-based way. Because what we’re seeing chairside . . . it’s not random. The research is clear: estrogen, progesterone, cortisol, thyroid hormones, insulin, and testosterone all directly influence connective tissue integrity, bone metabolism, vascular response, immune function, inflammation, and […]

The other day, I was talking with a team member about staying structured while traveling—and honestly, this topic hits close to home for me. After lecturing in Hawaii (five hours behind my local time zone), I headed straight to Denver (two hours behind my local time zone). Yes, it felt wild to go to bed […]

Amber Auger explains how adjusting your attitude can help avoid burnout, and it can also help you get things done. Article originally posted on RDHMag “It’s me, hi, I’m the problem, it’s me!” I found myself singing along to Taylor Swift’s “Anti-Hero” and relating it to the dental field. I thought about all the times […]

A Sustainable Approach for Dental Hygienists Balancing work, life, and self‑care isn’t about discovering some perfect formula—it’s about creating rhythms that protect your energy, your health, and your relationships over time. For so many clinicians and caring professionals, the real challenge is learning to care for yourself with the same thoughtfulness you give your patients […]

Amber Auger, MPH, RDH, presents a case study on scaling and root planing with glycine-based air polishing. Article originally posted on RDHMag There’s been a shift from traditional rubber cup polishing to air polishing technology. This is due not only to time management, patient comfort, and stain removal, but also to the evidence-based research on […]

Most patients think gum disease is about brushing harder. But that could not be further from the truth. What’s important is how we are removing the bacteria in the mouth. The bacteria is far more systemic—and one of the biggest hidden drivers of periodontal inflammation is adrenal stress. Chronic stress doesn’t just drain your energy. […]

There’s no need to feel stagnant in your career. You can take steps to prevent this from happening, including attending CE and conferences. Article originally published on RDHMag Question: I’ve been a hygienist for five years, and I’ve reached a place where I feel stagnant in my career. How can I make sure that I […]

If you work in dentistry, you already know: the way your morning starts often determines how the entire day goes. A rushed morning leads to rushed appointments. A regulated, grounded morning leads to clearer thinking, better patient care, and more emotional resilience. Clinical success isn’t just about what happens chairside. It starts the moment your […]

Amber Auger, RDH, offers suggestions for a stress-free introduction to x-rays for pediatric patients. Article originally published on RDHMag The x-ray is positioned for a pediatric patient. Courtesy of Dentsply Sirona. When I first graduated from hygiene school, I worked full-time in a busy pediatric office. Our “open bay” layout, which included four dental chairs […]

One of the most common challenges in dental practice isn’t clinical—it’s communication. You may have a patient who clearly needs treatment, but somehow the plan doesn’t get accepted. The solution? Case acceptance scripting. When done right, it helps patients understand the value of treatment, builds trust, and increases compliance—all without feeling pushy. 1. Why Scripting […]