The Aligned Hygienist is your essential guide to thriving in the dental profession with purpose, passion, and a powerful sense of alignment. Join Caitlin Parsons, Registered Dental Hygienist turned Certified Yoga Therapist, Ergonomic Consultant, and wellness advocate, as she shares her insights and brings together inspiring voices from across the dental field. In each episode, Caitlin and her guests dive into today's dental professionals' real-life challenges and opportunities, offering acti ...
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59. From Diagnosis to Advocacy: Dental Sleep Health w/ Kristen Geist
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In this episode of The Aligned Hygienist, I chat with Kristen Geist, a dental professional whose journey through airway health has transformed her approach to patient care. Diagnosed with upper airway resistance syndrome herself, Kristen shares how her personal experiences inspired her to become an advocate for sleep apnea awareness and the importa…
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58. Building Strong Foundations Through Education and Onboarding w/ AnnMarie DePalma
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In this episode of The Aligned Hygienist, I sit down with AnnMarie DePalma, a seasoned dental professional and educator known for her advocacy around dental hygiene onboarding and team-based continuing education. AnnMarie shares her journey from clinical practice to becoming a sought-after coach for dental teams, highlighting her insights on the im…
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57. Transforming Dental Practices with Compassion and Alignment w/ Lily Cortes-Pona
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In this episode of The Aligned Hygienist, I sit down with Lily, a dental coach who started her journey in the industry as a dental assistant – and her story is anything but typical. What began with a spur-of-the-moment job offer during a root canal turned into a fulfilling career in practice management. Lily shares how she made the transition from …
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56. Transform Your Dental Practice with Ergonomic Consulting
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In this episode of The Aligned Hygienist podcast, we’re diving into a topic that’s crucial for every dental practice: ergonomics. As dental professionals, we face unique physical challenges every day—static postures, repetitive movements, and less-than-ideal workspace setups. But did you know that these issues can lead to chronic pain, reduced prod…
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55. My Journey Overcoming Carpal Tunnel Syndrome w/ Yoga Therapy and Ergonomics
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In this episode of The Aligned Hygienist podcast, I open up about my personal battle with carpal tunnel syndrome—a journey that began while I was working at the front desk of a dental office before becoming a licensed dental hygienist. I share how the pain crept in slowly, how it intensified to the point where it affected everyday tasks like openin…
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54. Ergonomic Innovations, Empowerment and Education w/ Linda Miller
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In this episode of The Aligned Hygienist, I sit down with Linda Miller, the founder of PDT (Paradise Dental Technologies), at RDH Under One Roof 2024. Linda shares her inspiring journey to launching PDT, where she combines her passion for ergonomic instruments with a mission to empower dental professionals. We discuss the importance of ergonomics i…
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53. Curiosity Unleashed: Fueling Passion + Professional Growth w/ Amanda Hill
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Welcome back to another episode of The Aligned Hygienist! This week, I chatted with Amanda Hill, a keynote speaker and dental hygiene educator, at RDH Under One Roof 2024. In this episode, Amanda shares her journey to becoming a mega-session speaker and how embracing curiosity has fueled her personal and professional growth. We explore the concept …
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52. Mindset Shifts + Ergonomic Loupes w/ Crystal Kingsbury and Andau Medical
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Welcome back to another episode of The Aligned Hygienist! This week, I talked with Crystal Kingsbury, a dental hygienist turned sales rep for Andau Medical, known for their innovative ergonomic loupes, while at RDH Under One Roof 2024. In this episode, Crystal shares her inspiring journey from clinical dentistry to the sales world, offering valuabl…
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51. Finding Ergonomic Excellence for Dental Pro's
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In this solo episode of "The Aligned Hygienist Podcast," we explore ergonomic excellence in dentistry. Discover practical strategies to prevent work-related injuries and enhance your overall well-being as a dental hygienist. Learn about common musculoskeletal issues in the field and how to address them through proper posture, equipment usage, and w…
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In this solo episode of The Aligned Hygienist Podcast, Caitlin Parsons, a practicing dental hygienist of 15 years, chronic pain survivor, yoga therapist, ergonomics expert, and founder of The Aligned Hygienist, shares the importance of incorporating chairside stretches into your daily routine. Caitlin offers practical stretches that can be easily p…
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49. Saddle Up for Success: Choosing the Perfect Stool for Dental Pros
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Are you interested in learning more about saddle stools, their benefits, and how to find the right one? If that's you, this episode is definitely for you! In this episode, I discuss saddle stools and what you need to know when selecting a saddle stool for you. I review the differences between a cheaper saddle stool vs. a saddle stool made for denta…
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48. Mastering Anxious Patients w/ Dr. Moorhead
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Welcome back to another episode of The Aligned Hygienist! This week, I’m thrilled to be joined by Dr. William Moorhead, also known as Dr. Checklists. In this episode, we delve into his insights on managing fearful patients—a topic close to both of our hearts as dental professionals. Dr. Moorhead shares his journey from being an anxious patient hims…
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47. Breathe Easy: Stress Management for Dental Professionals
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In this episode, I dive into the importance of stress management for dental professionals. I share one of the most powerful tools for managing stress--your breath. I discuss how the breath and how you breathe affect your nervous system and, in turn, your stress response. In this episode, I share AND explore Box Breathing with you, an easy breathing…
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In this episode, I delve into one of the most accessible and cost-effective methods to enhance your ergonomics. By utilizing photos and videos, you can revolutionize your posture and ergonomics, gaining a deeper understanding of your habits and posture. This episode shares various ways to use photography to master your ergonomics, alleviate pain, a…
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45. Beating Burnout w/ Shivani Barto + THE ALIGN RETREAT!
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In this episode, you'll hear: The definition of burnout, how it shows up, and what you need to know as a dental professional The difference between chronic stress and burnout Tangible tools and practices to support stress and beat burnout Introducing... The Align Retreat! Calling all Women in Dentistry--Are you ready to get away? (Details below) Th…
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If you're struggling with ergonomics and pain and want additional support, please email me at: Hello@TheAlignedHygienist.com I would love to see how I can support you! CONNECT W/ CAITLIN: Find Caitlin on Instagram (@thealignedhygienist) Connect with Caitlin on LinkedIn Check out The Aligned Hygienist Website (www.thealignedhygienist.com)…
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Ep 41. Navigating the Seasons of Life w/ Caitlin's Story
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Welcome back to another season of The Aligned Hygienist Podcast! Caitlin returns for Season 2 by sharing where she's been, her recent move, and why she took a long break from the podcast. Caitlin weaves her personal story with lessons she's learned along the way that serve as reminders for us as we navigate life's ups and downs. Disclaimer: This ep…
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Are you struggling with your ergonomics and posture, or experiencing pain? You'll want to tune into this episode, where Caitlin dives deep into 5 no-no moves when it comes to your ergonomics. This episode is applicable to both dental clinicians and desk workers. Get ready to be inspired to take action on your ergonomics this week at work! In this e…
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In this episode, you'll hear: What ergonomics is and what you need to pay attention to Common risk factors for pain and MSDs in dentistry, and how to reduce your risk Practical tips and ideas for better ergonomics and overall well-being Your personal invitation to HygieneWell RESOURCES: For hygienists who are interested in HygieneWell, learn more h…
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Infection Control & Safe Team Culture w/ Michelle Strange
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On this episode of The Aligned Hygienist podcast, I talk with the amazing Michelle Strange, RDH. Today's podcast talks about infection control and the importance of understanding infection prevention and incorporating it into offices with a safe team culture to protect ourselves and our patients. About Michelle: Michelle Strange, MSDH, RDH, has mor…
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Wellness Wednesday w/ Caitlin | Hand and Wrist
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Welcome to the first Wellness Wednesday! On this episode, Caitlin talks about hand and wrist pain for dental professionals. Whether you have hand/wrist pain, discomfort, and tension, or you want to prevent pain, you don't want to miss this episode. Caitlin reviews tools, resources, ergonomic tips, and products to help protect your most valuable ass…
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Burnout, Hygiene Shortage & CE w/ Britt Glauz, AKA Brush with Britt
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On this episode, Britt and I talk about the hygienist shortage including stress, burnout, and other challenges hygienists face. We discuss the importance of continuing education and immersing yourself in a community of dental professionals to continue to learn, grow, and keep your passion for dentistry ignited. Britt Glauz is a California-based den…
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Taking Care of YOU and Ergo Loupes w/ Kaitlyn Melody
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In this episode, I talk with Kaitlyn Melody about all things practitioner self-care, ergonomic loupes, and building a community of dental support for your journey. Guest Bio: Kaitlyn Melody is a Registered Dental hygienist, Sales Rep for LumaDent, and has a strong interest in ergonomics. She's a back up plan fanatic, has a passion for helping other…
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On this episode, I talk with Cindy Purdy about all things ergonomics, including awareness, creating change, signs vs symptoms of disease, practical things we can do to alleviate or prevent pain, and the Thrive! Ergonomic and Wellness Summit. Cindy Purdy is a Registered Dental Hygienist and Certified Ergonomic Assessment Specialist (CEAS) who specia…
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Emotional Intelligence & Team Growth w/ Corinne Jameson-Kuehl of Custom Dental Solutions.
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In this episode, I talk with Cori Jameson-Kuehl of Custom Dental Solutions about all things emotional intelligence, personal growth, and personality tests for team growth. Guest Bio: Corinne Jameson-Kuehl, RDH, BS has been involved in the business of dentistry for over 20 years. She is an experienced dental business owner with background experience…
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In this episode of The Aligned Hygienist podcast, I chat with Joffree Bunleang, a hygienist and hygiene consultant. We discuss challenges, tips, and insights for hygienists and offices to create better systems, protocols, and team culture. In this episode, we discuss: Joffree’s journey as a hygienist to becoming a hygiene consultant The challenges …
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Hygiene Growth + Career Coaching w/ Kim Augustus
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Welcome back to another episode on The Aligned Hygienist Podcast. In this episode, I chat with Kimberly Augustus on hygiene growth and career coaching. We talk about: - The gap between what you learn in school & real-world dentistry - Why getting support is helping - How you can continue to grow in your career - Surrounding yourself with the right …
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High-Level Hygiene, Self-Care & Reflection, and HygieneIntrapreneur w/ Elaine Rodriguez
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Welcome to another episode of The Aligned Hygienist Podcast! This week I chat with Elaine Rodriguez, owner & founder of Dental Laser Integrations and HygieneIntrapreneur. We talk about what it means to be a high-performing hygienist and how to continuously thrive and grow in the dental industry. In this episode we discuss: - What the hygiene intrap…
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Stress and Burnout w/ Kari Carter-Cherilus
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If you're struggling with ergonomics and pain and want additional support, please email me at: Hello@TheAlignedHygienist.com I would love to see how I can support you! CONNECT W/ CAITLIN: Find Caitlin on Instagram (@thealignedhygienist) Connect with Caitlin on LinkedIn Check out The Aligned Hygienist Website (www.thealignedhygienist.com)…
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Interested in learning more about ergonomic instruments or how to create better efficiency systems in your office? This episode is for you! I got to chat with Brittany Gray, a CDA of 23 years, turned Product and Efficiency Consultant with Zirc Dental. Ready to Marie Condo Your Office? We discuss the importance of creating systems in the op with the…
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Getting Eco-Friendly w/ Lynda Sherman and Get Mouthy
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I had so much fun chatting with Lynda Sherman on this week's episode. In this episode, we talk about environmentally friendly dental products for our patients, and how, as dental professionals, we can make really simple changes in our day-to-day product usage to reduce our waste in the office. Lynda's passionate about reducing waste and our intake …
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Mental Health & Being Human w/ Bethany Montoya
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Ever feel like you're struggling alone? This is a special episode with Bethany Montoya you won't want to miss. We talk about the importance of mental health, being human and taking care of yourself in dentistry. Bethany's journey as a hygienist, working in a sleep medicine practice, her passion for writing in dentistry, and the importance of growin…
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Becoming a Healthcare Hygienist w/ Melissa Obrotka
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Welcome Melissa Obrotka to the show today. On this episode, we talk about the health of dental hygiene, and what it means to embrace being a Healthcare Hygienist. Melissa shares her story of working in the dental industry for over 25 years, and we talk about minimally invasive therapies, and specifically, Guided Biofilm Therapy, or GBT, by EMS. Mel…
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Creating the Triple Win w/ Tiffany Wuebben, The Hygienepreneur
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On this week's episode, Caitlin talks with Tiffany Cavazos, a dental hygienist and founder of The Hygienepreneur. Caitlin and Tiffany talk about creating a thriving hygiene practice, and truly embodying the triple win: patient, hygienist, and dentist/office. Learn new tools and get empowered on this episode of The Aligned Hygienist with Tiffany! Ti…
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Get to the Root Cause of TMD w/ Dr. Karen-Ann Gordon
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Caitlin talks with Dr. Karen-Ann Gordon, RDH, and a chiropractic physician. We talk about all things TMD. Karen-Ann shares her whole-body perspective approach to help ourselves, our families, and our patients overcome TMD. Our whole body is connected; learn how you can relieve TMD symptoms by getting to the root cause of the issue. Learn more, do b…
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Transitioning to the Dental Practice & Uplevel Standard of Care w/ Kevin Lopez, RDH
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On this episode of The Aligned Hygienist podcast, Caitlin chats with Kevin Lopez. Kevin is a newly graduated RDH who's passionate about uplifting patient care and the dental industry. We talk about navigating the dental world as a new grad, best tips and practices for providing the standard of care & finding employment, and we finish by talking abo…
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Self-Care, Personal Development & Alignment w/ Chloe Rowsome
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On this episode of The Aligned Hygienist podcast, I talk with Chloe Rowsome, a dental hygienist and mindset coach for millennial women. We talk about how self-awareness, self-reflection, and self-care can play a powerful role in becoming a better clinician, leader, and version of yourself. How do you know if you're in alignment? Tune in to this wee…
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Transitioning from Hygiene School to Practice w/ Astrida Curtis
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On this episode of The Aligned Hygienist podcast, Caitlin has Astrida Curtis back on the podcast to talk about how new hygienist graduates (students + RDHs) can navigate the transition through interviewing, temping, resume building, conquering the hour appointment, ergonomics, and more. Every student RDH and new RDH grad must listen! Astrida Curtis…
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Welcome back to another Wellness Wednesday on The Aligned Hygienist Podcast. In this short episode, Caitlin talks about loupes: to loupe or not to loupe? Caitlin breaks down the difference between traditional loupes and ergonomic loupes, the pros/cons, and why you should consider checking out ergonomic loupes when you're ready—they're a game-change…
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Oral Cancer, HPV, and The Cotten Method w/ Susan Cotten
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On this episode of The Aligned Hygienist, Caitlin talks with Susan Cotten about all things oral cancer screenings for dental professionals and dental teams. Susan is an educator, speaker, writer, and consultant, and the founder of The Cotten Method; an OCS method for dental practitioners. In this episode, she shares the WHY + the HOW behind screeni…
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Wellness Wednesday w/ Caitlin | 3 Ergo Tips
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On this weeks Wellness Wednesday episode, Caitlin breaks down basic ergonomics tips and recommendations for those that are new on the ergonomics journey or want to return to the basics as a reminder! Links to Share: To join The Aligned Hygienist 12-week group coaching program for RDHs, click here: https://thealignedhygienist.com/hygienists/ If you'…
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Values, Self-Care & Team Success w/ The Mint Door (Dr. Laura Schwindt & Dr. Karen Tindall)
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On this episode of the podcast, Caitlin talks with Dr. Laura Schwindt and Dr. Karen Tindall of The Mint Door. We talk about values, carrying extra weight around in the world, taking care of ourselves, and well-being as it relates to the whole-person and whole-practice success. Dr. Karen Tindall and Dr. Laura Schwindt combine their love of people, t…
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