90. The Truth About Alcohol and Oral Health

In this powerful and honest episode, we dive deep into the connection between alcohol consumption and oral health, shedding light on a topic often overlooked in the operatory. Joined by Stephanie Botts, RDH, BSDH, CEAS, a passionate advocate for dental ergonomics and wellness, we explore how alcohol affects our mouths, minds, and lives both personally and professionally.🔎 What We Cover:How alcohol impacts oral health, including dry mouth, plaque development, and the elevated risk of oral cancer and caries.How and when to start the conversation with your patients, without judgment, especially during medical history review or when noticing oral indicators.The strong link between alcohol and oral cancer, and how dental hygienists can play a key role in early detection and patient education.I share a little about my own journey with sober curiosity, the shift toward a lifestyle that prioritizes clarity and prevention, and how it's influenced my professional practice.Stephanie opens up about her work with substance use disorder, sharing how dental professionals can better understand, approach, and support patients navigating addiction.Why prevention starts with us, the importance of dental professionals checking in on their own habits and health.🧠 Key Takeaway:Alcohol is normalized in our society, but understanding its impact, especially as healthcare providers, empowers us to care better for our patients and ourselves. This episode blends clinical insight with real-life reflection to open the door to meaningful, preventative conversations.Stephanie Botts Bio: Ms. Stephanie Botts has been a clinical dental hygienist for over 15 years. She is a Certified Ergonomics Assessment Specialist providing both in-office and virtual ergonomics consulting and coaching to dental professionals through her company, Polished Posture. She also provides CE to dental and dental hygiene associations on the topic of ergonomics. Her experience as a clinical dental hygienist and ergonomics expert has allowed her to recognize the unique challenges of practicing pain-free in the dental setting. Stephanie believes that by learning effective strategies to optimize proper ergonomics both inside and outside the operatory, dental professionals can practice pain-free and ensure career longevity.Links: www.polishedposture.netIG: @steph.polishedpostureFollow me for more!Social media: @BrushwithBrittWant to have me on your podcast?Want to be a guest on my podcast?Email me!! 💌: [email protected]: 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. BetterMouth.TVReady to make patient education easier? Try your first month FREE at bettermouth.tv/brushwithbritt