Build Your Flow: One Hygienist's Journey to Evidence-Based, Whole-Patient Care

Hygiene Elevated Conversations Innovation — Olivia & RosseHost Olivia interviews Rosse, a Brooklyn-based dental hygienist, about her career journey and clinical approach. Rose shares how she got her start in dentistry through a high school volunteering program at her childhood dentist's office, then attended City Tech for her hygiene degree. Over 15 years in practice — spanning private offices and a DSO — she's developed a passion for evidence-based, wellness-focused hygiene.Rose walks through her systematic patient workflow: thorough assessments (medical history, airway screening, saliva testing), caries risk management, and OHI tailored to each patient. She highlights her top clinical interests — oral-systemic connection, airway dentistry, and salivary testing — and explains how she uses tools like air polishing/airflow systems, lasers, and antimicrobials. She also discusses the value of working alongside COIs-trained dentists, which pushed her to elevate her standard of care.The episode closes with Rose's three pieces of advice for new grads: find a mentor, build a financial plan early, and know your worth.