Author: Sherri Merritt

In today’s world of dental care, excellence isn’t just a solo pursuit, it’s a team effort!  When dentists, hygienists, assistants, and administrative staff unite under a shared vision, something remarkable happens! Every patient interaction becomes smoother, safer, and more supportive. Welcome to the era of collaborative precision, where teamwork elevates practice quality from functional to phenomenal. Why Teamwork Matters in Dentistry Think of a dental practice like a finely tuned

Oral cancer may not get the same headlines as other types of cancer, but it is far more common, and far more dangerous, than many people realize.  According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, about 54,000 Americans will be diagnosed with oral or oropharyngeal cancer this year, and nearly 10,000 will die from it.  What makes this statistic even more alarming is that many of these cases could have been detected

Working as a dental assistant means being a key part of a patient’s experience in the dental chair, from the first greeting to the final instruction after a procedure. This role becomes even more important when caring for patients with special needs. Whether due to physical disabilities, developmental conditions, cognitive impairments, or sensory challenges, these patients often require additional understanding, patience, and customized care. With the right mindset and preparation,

Working in dentistry can be incredibly rewarding, but it’s also physically demanding. Whether you’re a dentist, hygienist, dental assistant, or administrative team member, the day-to-day tasks of dental care can take a serious toll on your body if you’re not proactive about your health. Long hours of standing or sitting in awkward positions, repetitive motions, high stress levels, and constant focus on patient care can all contribute to chronic pain,

If you’ve noticed more people sporting straighter smiles without a hint of metal, you’re not imagining it. The popularity of clear aligners has skyrocketed in recent years, and in 2025, they are more advanced, accessible, and appealing than ever before. Whether you’re a patient considering your options or a dental professional helping guide treatment, understanding the latest in clear aligner technology, and how it compares to traditional braces, is essential.

Working in a dental practice means interacting with a wide range of personalities. Most patients are polite and appreciative, but occasionally, dental professionals encounter individuals who are rude, dismissive, or disrespectful (“irreverent”) patients. These patients can disrupt the flow of the day, create tension among staff, and make it harder to deliver quality care. However, handling them with professionalism, empathy, and firm boundaries is key to maintaining a respectful and