Episode 879

879: Katrina Sanders Asks: Are You Smarter Than a Periodontist? – Katrina Sanders

Published on: 25th April, 2025

Hygienists and periodontists have different roles in a practice. But that doesn't mean hygienists aren't as smart! In this episode of Clinical Edge Fridays, Kirk Behrendt shares their recent Master Class by Katrina Sanders, The Dental WINEgenist, to test your knowledge and skills in diagnosing various cases. Are you smarter than a periodontist? To find out, listen to Episode 879 of The Best Practices Show!

Learn More About Katrina:

More Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:

Episode Resources:

Main Takeaways:

  • Periodontal disease has been on the rise in recent decades.
  • Understand and master each segment of the ADPIE process of care.
  • Become a partner with patients in preventing and managing inflammation.
  • Hygienists play a critical role in reducing the number of adults with periodontitis.

Snippets:

0:00 Introduction.

2:22 Katrina’s background and upcoming course.

6:47 The prevalence of periodontitis.

10:44 The current landscape of periodontitis.

15:50 Be a partner in prevention and inflammation management.

17:33 More about Katrina.

18:30 Course objectives.

20:39 ADPIE: The steps in the dental process of care.

22:47 The assessment phase.

25:59 Fear Factor: Perio charting.

33:49 Hands-free perio charting software.

38:36 How much pain are we causing for patients?

41:16 Early stages of disease are not seen radiographically.

42:25 Gathering an appropriate diagnosis.

44:33 Stages of periodontal disease.

50:33 Grades of periodontal disease.

56:27 Strategies for patient communication.

56:43 Family Feud: Why patients decline perio treatment.

1:00:08 The importance of patient communication.

1:01:45 Survivor: Implementation.

1:10:09 The Newlywed Game: How well do you know your patients?

1:17:06 Are you smarter than a periodontist: What do you know about Perio Tray therapy?

1:23:45 Why are periodontists opposed to Perio Protect?

1:24:56 Perio Protect, explained.

1:32:33 Are you smarter than a periodontist: Diagnosing case examples.

1:39:32 Are you REALLY smarter than a periodontist: Diagnosing case examples.

1:53:47 Perio Protect for diabetic cases.

1:55:03 Case example: Two months of Perio Protect therapy for a diabetic patient.

1:57:20 Case example: Type 2 diabetic.

2:00:53 Conclusion.

2:03:24 Q&A: If the grading can be modified, how about the staging?

Katrina M. Sanders RDH, BSDH, M.Ed, RF Bio:

In the ever-changing world of dental science where research, technology, and techniques for patient care are constantly evolving, dental professionals look to continuing education to provide insight, deliver actionable steps, empower, and create a dramatic impact within their clinical practice.

With wit, charm, and a dash of humor, Katrina Sanders enchants dental professionals with her course deliverables, insightful content, and delightful inspiration. Her message of empowerment rings mighty throughout her lectures and stirs a deep sense of motivation amongst course participants.

Katrina is the Clinical Liaison for AZPerio, the country's largest periodontal practice. She performs clinically, working alongside Diplomates to the American Board of Periodontology in the surgical operatory. Katrina perfected techniques during L.A.N.A.P. surgery, suture placement, IV therapy, and blood draws. She instructs on collaborative professionalism and standard-of-care protocols while delivering education through hygiene boot camps and study clubs. 



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About the Podcast

The Best Practices Show with Kirk Behrendt
Elevate Your Dental Practice: Insights & Strategies from Industry Leaders
Welcome to The Best Practices Show, hosted by Kirk Behrendt, founder of ACT Dental (https://www.actdental.com/) and a leader in dental practice coaching. This podcast is your gateway to discovering the hidden gems and tactics used by the most successful dental practices worldwide.

At ACT Dental, we have meticulously curated strategies that have consistently proven effective in elevating dental practices. Our podcast, The Best Practices Show, extends our commitment to sharing this wealth of knowledge. Each episode features interviews with renowned dental professionals and industry leaders who have made significant strides in their practices. They share their experiences, insights, and the challenges they've overcome, offering a unique perspective that you won't find anywhere else.

Why should you listen to The Best Practices Show? Whether you're a seasoned dentist, a new practice owner, or somewhere in between, this podcast is tailored to inspire and educate. Our goal is not just to provide you with information but to transform the way you think about and run your dental practice. We delve into topics ranging from advanced clinical techniques and practice management to leadership skills and personal growth.

Kirk Behrendt, a respected figure in the dental community, brings his vast experience and infectious enthusiasm to each episode, making complex topics both understandable and engaging. As the CEO of ACT Dental, Kirk has helped countless dental practices thrive by focusing on holistic development - professionally, personally, and within their community.

Our commitment to authenticity and practical advice sets The Best Practices Show apart. We don't just talk about theories; we dive into real-life applications you can implement immediately in your practice. Our community-centric approach means we're always listening to our audience and constantly evolving our content to meet your needs.

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Kirk Behrendt