
Hosted by Brittany Glauz, BSDH, RDHAP · EN
Where prevention actually makes sense. The Brush with Britt Podcast explores the powerful connection between oral health and overall health, from medical-dental integration and interprofessional collaboration to burnout, career growth, and the real-life experiences shaping the future of prevention and whole-body wellness.

This week on Brush with Britt, I’m joined by the one and only Shelby RDH — yes, that Shelby from TikTok who has been serving up relatable RDH content and making perio cool again. 🦷✨We’re diving into what it’s really like being a full-time perio hygienist — the good, the bad, and the why-did-I-choose-this moments. Shelby shares her journey from oral surgery to specializing in perio, the unique challenges (hello, complex cases 👀🪥), and the wins that make it all worth it.We talk patient transformations, navigating burnout, and the reality of working with specialists. Plus… we get real about perio referrals, 12mm pockets 📏, and the new technology we’d love to practice with.🎧 Listen in for:Shelby’s day-in-the-life as a perio hygienistTips for thriving in a specialty setting without losing your sanityWhy perio doesn’t have to be scary — for you or your patients.Grab your coffee , adjust that loupes light , and let’s talk gum health. Shelby Wagenman brings 12 years of experience in dentistry, starting with a strong foundation in oral surgery. After graduating from dental hygiene school in 2022, she spent a year in general dentistry before finding her home in periodontics, where she’s honed her skills in soft tissue management and implants.Having lived and worked in five different states, Shelby has practiced in a variety of settings, from a dental school and private practices to a mobile unit for the National Guard and volunteer clinics. This diverse background has given her a well-rounded perspective on patient care, and she’s passionate about sharing her knowledge and experiences to inspire and support other dental professionals.Connect with Shelby: Email: shelbywagenman@yahoo.comTiktok: @Shelby_RDHInstagram: @shelbyy.rdhFollow me for more!Social media: @BrushwithBrittWant to have me on your podcast?Want to be a guest on my podcast?Email me!! 💌: BrushwithBritt@gmail.comDisclaimer: The thoughts and opinions shared by guests on the Brush with Britt Podcast are their own and don’t represent the views of Brittany Glauz. Everything we discuss here is meant to inform, inspire, and entertain. Always connect with a licensed healthcare provider for any personal health concerns or decisions. Refer and Earn! https://bettermouth.tv/brushwithbritt BetterMouth.TVReady to make patient education easier? Try your first month FREE at bettermouth.tv/brushwithbritt

In this episode, I’m joined by the one and only Amber Lovatos, also known as The Latina RDH—an outspoken advocate, content creator, and powerhouse hygienist who’s built an online brand rooted in passion, purpose, and transparency.Together, we’re getting into the real stuff about being a dental hygienist and content creator:😬 The not-so-glamorous side of content creation—burnout, criticism, and constantly feeling the pressure to show up online📦 Why we don’t accept “free product” as payment and how we advocate for creators (and professionals) to know their worth💸 The truth about brand deals and sponsorships—and how to navigate them🧠 Using your platform for GOOD—why impact should always come before influence🤖 Buying followers and gaming the algorithm: let’s have an honest talk about what’s happening behind the scene🧾 The business side of it all—from forming an LLC to filing taxes, this isn’t just a hobby anymore—it’s a business.This episode is part pep talk, part wake-up call, and 100% real. Whether you're a new grad trying to build your presence or a seasoned RDH feeling the pressure to stay relevant, this conversation is for YOU.Amber shares her journey from starting out on social media to becoming one of the most recognizable faces in the dental creator space; without losing her voice, her values, or her why. We talk about the emotional weight of being visible, the behind-the-scenes politics of the industry, and how to navigate brand partnerships with confidence and clarity.At the end of the day, we’re more than just our likes, our follower count, or the latest freebie in the mail. We’re professionals, educators, leaders—and we’re allowed to make noise, take up space, and demand better.So plug in those headphones, grab your iced matcha or a protein bar between patients, and hit play on this honest convo with Amber Lovatos. You don’t want to miss it.Connect with Amber: @thelatinardhamlovatos@gmail.com https://www.dentalhygienespark.com/Amber Lovatos, RDH, BSDH, is a clinician, educator, author, and champion for public health issues, she inspires industry colleagues with unique stories that include triumph over abuse and discovering her identity as “The Latina RDH.” Celebrated as her family’s first college graduate, Amber holds a bachelor’s degree in dental hygiene from The University of Texas School of Dentistry She now hosts A Cuento De Dos Higienistas podcast. Amber is recipient of numerous national and state awards and academic scholarships including being named 2021’s Dimensions of Dental Hygiene Six Dental Hygienists You Want to Know & 2022 Sunstar Award of Distinction recipient. Amber is the co-author of Smiles Por Vida a Spanish & Spanglish not for profit children’s dental book. Amber is also the founder of Latin RDH, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering the Latin dental hygiene community.Follow me for more!Social media: @BrushwithBrittWant to have me on your podcast?Want to be a guest on my podcast?Email me!! 💌: BrushwithBritt@gmail.comDisclaimer: The thoughts and opinions shared by guests on the Brush with Britt Podcast are their own and don’t represent the views of Brittany Glauz. Everything we discuss here is meant to inform, inspire, and entertain. Always connect with a licensed healthcare provi BetterMouth.TVReady to make patient education easier? Try your first month FREE at bettermouth.tv/brushwithbritt

In this episode of the BrushwithBritt Podcast, I sit down with Derik Sven 🦷 to unpack what autonomy really means for dental hygienists in 2025 (and beyond).🎓 Whether you're a new grad hygienist or a seasoned hygienist dreaming of making a difference, this convo will help you:✅ Understand your power and potential in patient care✅ See how autonomy impacts the future of our profession✅ Learn small steps you can take right now to practice with more confidence✅ Get inspired to be part of the movement changing dental hygiene for good 🌟💡 Why does this matter? Learning about autonomy helps you advocate for yourself and your patients, give the care you know is needed, and build a career you’re proud of, without burnout or limitations.If you’ve ever felt stuck or unsure of your place in this field, this episode will light a fire in you 🔥 and remind you that you can create change.🎧 Grab your coffee, pop in your headphones, and hit play! Let’s shape the future of prevention together 🩵Derik J. Sven, MBA, MPH, RDH, CDT, FADHA, has nearly two decades of experience as a board- certified lab tech and restorative hygienist. He holds undergraduate degrees in dental hygiene and health care administration, as well as master’s degrees in public health and business administration. He’s currently pursuing his doctorate in health science at George Washington University School of Medicine in Washington, DC, where his research focuses on advancing the autonomy of dental hygienists and the broad integration of dental therapists into the health- care system. He’s an inaugural fellow of the ADHA and president-elect of Virginia's chapter.Connect with Derik: Email: derik@dentistrywithderik.com dentistrywithderik.com Follow me for more!Social media: @BrushwithBrittWant to have me on your podcast?Want to be a guest on my podcast?Email me!! 💌: BrushwithBritt@gmail.comRecommended reading: "The case for dental hygienists’ autonomy, part I: Defining the paradigm" https://www.rdhmag.com/career-profession/alternative-practice/article/55273454/the-case-for-dental-hygienists-autonomy-part-i-defining-the-paradigmDisclaimer: The Brush with Britt podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of dentistry, medicine, or other health-care services. No provider–patient relationship is formed, and the content is not a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Listeners should always seek the guidance of their licensed health-care providers for any questions or concerns. The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Brittany Glauz, (Brush with Britt).

Get ready to dive deep into the world of dental waterline maintenance with none other than Amanda Hill BSDH, RDH CDIPC, educator, speaker, and infection control queen! 👑💧In this episode of Brush with Britt, we’re flushing out the truth behind those sneaky biofilms, the importance of regular testing, and what every hygienist (and dental office!) should be doing to keep their waterlines safe and squeaky clean. Amanda breaks it all down with her signature blend of science, humor, and solutions you can actually use.Whether you’re new to infection control or think you’ve got it down, this episode will leave you laughing, learning, and definitely rethinking what’s flowing through those lines. 🦷🚿Spoiler: Yes, you really do need to test regularly.Tune in and let's talk dirty water—the clean way.Amanda Hill, BSDH, RDH, CDIPC, is an enthusiastic speaker, innovative consultant, and award-winning author. A sought-after thought leader contributing invaluable and inspiring insights into the current trends in dentistry. Affectionately known as the Waterline Warrior, she brings over 25 years of clinical dental hygiene and education to dentistry. Recipient of ADS’s Emerging Infection Control Leader award and an active participant with the advisory board for RDH magazine, Dentistry IQ, and ADS’s Infection Control In Practice Editorial Review Board, Amanda strives to make topics in dentistry accurate, accessible, and fun!Connect with Amanda! amandahillrdh@gmail.comFollow me for more!Social media: @BrushwithBrittWant to have me on your podcast?Want to be a guest on my podcast?Email me!! 💌: BrushwithBritt@gmail.comDisclaimer: The thoughts and opinions shared by guests on the Brush with Britt Podcast are their own and don’t represent the views of Brittany Glauz. Everything we discuss here is meant to inform, inspire, and entertain. Always connect with a licensed healthcare provider for any personal health concerns or decisions.

Send a textReady to step into the op solo for the first time? 😬💉This week, I'm joined by Sade Gammage, a passionate new grad who’s been practicing dental hygiene since May 2023 🦷. A proud community college graduate, Sade entered the field with a mission to bring diversity, empathy, and patience to every patient interaction. Her lifelong passion for dentistry shines through in everything she does, and in this episode, she shares a fresh perspective on what it’s really like stepping into the op as a brand-new RDH. Sade and I break down what really goes down your first day on the job; no instructors, no safety net, and a full schedule waiting 👀.We get into:🗓️ Time constraints and how to survive a packed schedule😳 First-day awkwardness and tips for confidence⚖️ Ethical dilemmas and trusting your gut🧳 The truth about temping as a new grad💬 Real talk, relatable advice, and laughs along the wayWhether your first day is coming up or you're in the thick of it, this one’s for you 💪🎧Connect with Sadé: Instagram: Sadé V. GammageTikTok: @sadev.rdhEmail: sadegammagerdh@gmail.comFollow me for more!Social media: @BrushwithBrittWant to have me on your podcast?Want to be a guest on my podcast?Email me!! 💌: BrushwithBritt@gmail.comSupport the show