In this episode of A Tale of Two Hygienists, co-hosts David Torres and Jessica Atkinson sit down with Joffree Bunleang to unpack one of the most challenging realities in professional advocacy—what happens when legislation doesn't go the way you hoped?

The conversation centers around Oral Preventive Assistants (OPAs) and the evolving landscape of dental practice. Joffree brings clarity to what OPAs are, why they're being introduced in various regions, and how their presence impacts dental hygienists and the broader dental team.

Key topics discussed include:

Understanding OPAs and their intended role within dental practices

The surprising truth about the hygienist perspective on change and professional identity

The real impact OPAs may have on workflow, patient care, and team dynamics

Practical ways hygienists can work with OPAs in everyday clinical settings

How to respond constructively when advocacy efforts don't achieve the desired outcome

Rather than framing OPAs as a threat, this episode challenges listeners to consider how collaboration, leadership, and proactive engagement can strengthen the profession. Joffree offers thoughtful insight into how hygienists can continue advocating for themselves while also building effective working relationships with Oral Preventive Assistants.

This episode is a must-listen for hygienists navigating legislative changes and seeking productive ways to move forward—together.

Call to Action

Empower yourself as a dental hygienist. Advocate for your profession, stay informed about legislative developments, and focus on collaboration. Learn how to work alongside Oral Preventive Assistants in ways that support patient care, professional growth, and team success.

Resources:

Email: joffree.bunleang@hygieneelevated.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joffreebunleang/

"What if OPAs became the strength we didn't see coming?"

https://www.rdhmag.com/career-profession/article/55344645/what-if-opas-became-the-strength-we-didnt-see-coming

Legislation impacts your daily practice more than most clinicians realize. In this episode, we sit down with Derik J. Sven to break down what truly drives change in dental hygiene policy — and what doesn't.

Derik shares insight into the realities behind dental care standards, the ongoing fight for hygienist autonomy, and the complex supervision structures that shape scope of practice across the country. He also explains why legal expertise often carries significant influence in regulatory conversations and how business, public health, and law intersect in advancing the profession.

In This Episode We Cover:

The political and structural forces behind dental care standards

The ongoing battle for dental hygienist autonomy

Supervision requirements and why they matter

Why attorneys often influence dental policy decisions

Lesser-known factors that can directly affect your career

About the Guest

Derik J. Sven began his career as a certified dental technician before transitioning into clinical dental hygiene. He earned degrees in Dental Hygiene and Health Care Administration, followed by a Master of Public Health and a Master of Business Administration.

He is currently pursuing doctoral research at George Washington University, focusing on dental therapy advancement and hygienist autonomy, while also completing a Master's in Health Care Law.

Derik is actively involved in the American Dental Hygienists' Association, where he was inducted into the inaugural class of ADHA Fellows in 2023 and serves as President-Elect of Virginia's Dental Hygienists' Association.

This episode offers a practical foundation for understanding how legislation truly moves — and what it means for the future of dental hygiene.

Resources:

derik@dentistrywithderik.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/derikjsven/

Tooth sensitivity can make everyday things—like drinking cold water or even getting a routine cleaning—uncomfortable for patients. In this TIPisode, Dr. Marc Geissberger shares his experience beta testing ReminGel, a professional-strength remineralizing gel from PerioProtect designed to reduce sensitivity and support enamel health. Marc Geissberger DDS, MA shares how patients in his practice used the gel with PerioProtect trays for just 15 minutes a day, with many reporting dramatic reductions in sensitivity after only one week.

If you treat patients who struggle with sensitivity, this TIPisode highlights a promising option that may improve comfort, hygiene visits, and overall patient care.

This TIPisode is sponsored by PerioProtect. Learn more at PerioProtect.com