Episode Details

In this episode, Alyssa Aberle shares her powerful personal journey through a patient diagnosis, surgery, and tongue reconstruction, offering a perspective that deeply resonates with dental professionals. The conversation emphasizes the critical role hygienists play in early detection of oral cancer and why cutting corners is never an option when it comes to patient care.

Alyssa, along with David and Jessica, dives into practical strategies for oral cancer screenings, including how to communicate findings with confidence and compassion. They also discuss when and how to refer patients to specialists, ensuring the best possible outcomes. A key highlight is the discussion around effective screening scripts and the importance of the 10–14 day rule in monitoring suspicious lesions.

What We Talked About:

Alyssa's personal experience with her patients diagnosis, surgery, and tongue reconstruction

The responsibility of dental professionals to thoroughly screen for oral cancer

Why you should never cut corners during exams

How to confidently refer patients and choose the right specialist

Verbiage and scripts that build trust during oral cancer screenings

Understanding and applying the 10–14 day rule

Call to Action:

This episode is designed to empower dental hygienists to take ownership of their role in patient care. By listening, you'll gain the confidence, language, and clinical mindset needed to perform thorough screenings and advocate for your patients' health.

Resources and Links:

Connect with Alyssa: linktr.ee/alyssardh