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Dental Assistant Nation

Dental Assistant Nation

Written by: Dental Assistant Nation
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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.All rights reserved Economics
Episodes
  • Episode 444: Every Dental Assistant Needs Infection Control Training (Here's Why)

    Episode 444: Every Dental Assistant Needs Infection Control Training (Here's Why)
    Jul 13 2026
    Infection control is the most important responsibility in every dental practice, yet it is also one of the most misunderstood. Are dental teams truly protecting their patients, or are outdated habits putting safety at risk without anyone realizing it? In this conversation, Tija Hunter, CDA, EFDA, CDIA, CDSO, MADAA joins Kevin Henry to discuss why infection control should always come before productivity, scheduling, or practice growth. They explore the growing challenge of training new dental assistants, the spread of misinformation in dentistry, and why proper education is essential for keeping both patients and dental teams safe. Tija explains how certification in dental infection prevention builds confidence, strengthens careers, and helps establish consistent standards across the profession. The discussion also covers common misconceptions about sterilization, the importance of documentation, understanding state regulations, and why continuous education is one of the best investments any dental assistant can make. Whether you are new to dentistry or an experienced professional, this episode highlights why infection control remains the foundation of quality patient care. Connect with Tija Hunter Email: tijaefda@gmail.com DANB Website: https://danb.org/ ADS Website: https://www.myads.org/ ------------------- Dental assistants play a powerful role in whether patients move forward with treatment. You are a key part of the patient journey, and having the right financial options can make all the difference. CareCredit is a health and wellness credit card that offers flexible financing options, so patients can pay over time for the care they want or need, subject to credit approval. When money isn’t the obstacle, patients say yes. Want to make CareCredit part of your practice’s offerings and strengthen case acceptance? Email me at kevin@kevinspeaksdental.com and let’s make it happen for your team.
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    14 mins
  • Episode 443: ADAA President on the Future of Dental Assisting

    Episode 443: ADAA President on the Future of Dental Assisting
    Jul 6 2026
    Dental assisting is more than just a job. In this conversation, ADAA President Erin Hendricks shares why she believes it is a lifelong career that deserves greater recognition, stronger standards, and better opportunities for every dental assistant. Drawing from nearly four decades of experience, Erin discusses her journey from the United States Air Force to becoming President of the American Dental Assistants Association. She explains why national certification and licensing could transform the profession by making it easier for dental assistants to work across state lines while strengthening career growth and professional recognition. The discussion also covers pay, career advancement, the importance of advocacy, and why every dental assistant needs a voice in shaping the future of the profession. Whether you are just starting your career or have years of experience, this episode offers valuable insights into where dental assisting is headed and how you can be part of its future. Connect with Erin! ADAA Website: https://adaausa.org/ ------------------- Dental assistants play a powerful role in whether patients move forward with treatment. You are a key part of the patient journey, and having the right financial options can make all the difference. CareCredit is a health and wellness credit card that offers flexible financing options, so patients can pay over time for the care they want or need, subject to credit approval. When money isn’t the obstacle, patients say yes. Want to make CareCredit part of your practice’s offerings and strengthen case acceptance? Email me at kevin@kevinspeaksdental.com and let’s make it happen for your team.
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    16 mins
  • Episode 442: Dental Assistants in Oregon Can Now Give Local Anesthesia!

    Episode 442: Dental Assistants in Oregon Can Now Give Local Anesthesia!
    Jun 29 2026
    Could dental assistants soon administer local anesthesia in more states? Oregon is leading the way with one of the most progressive changes in dental assisting, and it could shape the future of the profession across the country. In this episode of the Dental Assistant Nation Podcast, Kevin Henry is joined by Tina Clarke, Atia Black, and Tony Garcia to discuss Oregon's new Local Anesthesia Function certification for dental assistants. They explain the education, training, and certification process required to perform this advanced function, why patient safety remains the top priority, and how expanding responsibilities can improve workflow, reduce burnout, and create new career opportunities. The conversation also explores whether Oregon's model could inspire similar changes in other states and where dental assistants can find reliable information about their own state's requirements. Whether you are an experienced dental assistant, a student, or part of the dental team, this episode offers valuable insight into one of the profession's most important developments. DANB Website: https://www.danb.org/ Connect with Tony Garcia Email: vipservice@danb.org Connect with Tina Clarke Email: tina@teachertinardh.com Website: https://www.teachertinardh.com/ ------------------- Dental assistants play a powerful role in whether patients move forward with treatment. You are a key part of the patient journey, and having the right financial options can make all the difference. CareCredit is a health and wellness credit card that offers flexible financing options, so patients can pay over time for the care they want or need, subject to credit approval. When money isn’t the obstacle, patients say yes. Want to make CareCredit part of your practice’s offerings and strengthen case acceptance? Email me at kevin@kevinspeaksdental.com and let’s make it happen for your team.
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    17 mins
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