Did you know hand-foot-and-mouth disease can knock an adult out for a week?
Kevin Henry welcomes infectious disease and compliance expert Joyce Weeks of Dental Ed for a timely conversation on keeping dental teams safe as school is back in session and community bugs resurface. Joyce shares her journey from HIV vaccine research to teaching dental professionals about OSHA and infection control, and why understanding the “why” behind safety protocols makes all the difference.
She explains how easily illnesses like hand-foot-and-mouth or measles can spread through carriers who don’t even show symptoms, and why dental teams must remain vigilant long after the COVID era. From simple handwashing habits at home to choosing the right level of mask in the operatory, Joyce makes clear how small actions can protect not only dental assistants but also their families, patients, and communities.
The discussion dives into the reality of what happens when a visibly sick patient shows up for treatment and how regulations differ by state. Joyce highlights the ethical and safety challenges of balancing production goals with protecting vulnerable people, and offers practical ways teams can respond without fearmongering. Through it all, she emphasizes that vigilance isn’t about overreacting, but about working together to safeguard health inside and outside the office.
Connect with Joyce
Website: https://www.dentaledinc.com/
—--------------------------------------------
Hey friends—cool news! The Dental Assistant Nation Podcast was featured on Feedspot’s Top 100 Dental Podcasts and their Top Dental Assistant Podcasts list. Huge thanks to you for listening, subscribing, and supporting the show. Couldn’t have done it without you. Go check it out—we’re listed alongside some amazing shows!
100 Best Dental Podcasts - https://podcast.feedspot.com/dental_podcasts/
4 Best Dental Assistant Podcasts - https://podcast.feedspot.com/dental_assistant_podcasts/
—--------------------------------------------
Attention Dental Leaders!
I'm thrilled to speak at the 2025 AADOM Conference in Round Rock, TX – AADOM's 20th anniversary celebration! Join me for my sessions:
➡️ Wednesday, Sept 3 "DPLN Leadership Meeting" - Learn how to maximize publicity for your DPLN
➡️ Saturday, Sept 6 "Simple Steps to Help You Become an Author " - We'll dive into how you can formulate a plan for your best article and how to find your voice as an industry leader.
Early bird pricing ends 3/31! Don't wait—secure your spot now and be part of the biggest dental management event of the year! Plus, lock in your stay on-site at the Kalahari Resort before rooms fill up!
📅 September 4-6, 2025
📍 Kalahari Resort, Round Rock, TX
Register now at aadomconference.com🔗