In this episode, Brittny sits down with the incredible team from Ashburn Children’s Dentistry, a pioneering pediatric dental practice known for its whole-body, airway-centered approach to oral health.

Together, we explore what true prevention looks like—starting as early as pregnancy and infancy. From supporting expectant moms and evaluating infant feeding patterns, to guiding toddlers and young children through healthy oral development, this conversation connects the dots between airway, function, and long-term wellness.

You’ll learn how early oral habits shape craniofacial growth, why airway and myofunctional screenings belong in every pediatric exam, and how collaboration between hygienists, dentists, and therapists is changing the future of children’s health.

This is a must-listen for parents, providers, and anyone passionate about redefining “kids’ dentistry” through the lens of growth, function, and whole-body balance.

Tune in to hear:

• How airway-centered care begins before birth
• Signs of oral dysfunction in infants and toddlers
• The dentist–therapist collaboration that’s transforming care
• Practical advice for parents and clinicians alike

Website:

https://www.kidzsmile.com/

IG: @ashburnchildrensdentistry

From living with orofacial pain to becoming a leading voice in TMJ and complex pain therapy, Vita Zhylyak’s journey is as inspiring as it is transformative. In this episode, we dive deep into:

-Vita’s personal story and the spark behind her “Unlocking Jaw Secrets” course
-Her clinical philosophy for navigating intricate diagnoses like TMJD, Eagle Syndrome, Trigeminal Neuralgia, POTS, and MCAS, 
-Key insights into assessing chronic facial pain—and spotting what others often miss
-The vital role of posture, breathwork, and nervous system regulation in effective TMJ care
-How she customizes therapy far beyond the typical “exercise protocol”
-Clinical pearls for working with post-surgical patients and collaborative care boundaries

If you’re a myofunctional therapist, dental professional, or simply fascinated by the complexities of orofacial pain, this episode is packed with knowledge, compassion, and practical strategies. Tune in and discover how deeper understanding and whole-body integration can transform patient outcomes—and your clinical practice.

Shownotes:

CES Ultra: Helps with TMD, Vagus Nerve stimulant, Tinnitus etc.

https://www.cesultra.com

Book how to read faces and on Chinese Medicine: WTF? Why the face. Dr Todd Fisher:

https://wtfwhytheface.com/product/wtf-why-the-face-a-practical-guide-to-understanding-health-and-personality-through-facial-diagnosis/

Doterra oils:

https://link.doterra.com/TrvWpR

The Voice, The Tongue & The Airway with Jessica Luffey

In this fascinating episode, I sit down with Jessica Luffey (CSOM, MM)—a Certified Specialist in Orofacial Myology and professional operatic soprano—to explore the profound connection between vocal performance, orofacial myology, and airway health.

Raised in a dental family and trained in elite vocal performance, Jessica has pioneered groundbreaking insights into how tongue ties, craniofacial function, and myofunctional therapy impact singers at the highest level. With extensive training under experts like Dr. Soroush Zaghi and Dr. Richard Baxter, her work has transformed the way vocalists—from Grammy-winning artists to opera stars—understand and optimize their instrument: the body.

🔹 How does tongue posture affect vocal resonance?
🔹 Can myofunctional therapy improve vocal performance and endurance?
🔹 What should singers and vocal coaches know about tongue ties and airway health?

Jessica brings her unique expertise and research to the table, bridging the gap between voice science, dental health, and elite singing technique. Whether you’re a dental professional, myofunctional therapist, or vocal artist, this episode is packed with game-changing insights!

🎧 Tune in now and join us for this one-of-a-kind conversation on the power of the tongue—on and off the stage!

In today's episode, Brittny talks with Dr. Richard Baxter of the Alabama Tongue-Tie Center. Dr. Baxter is also the author of the bestselling book, Tongue-Tied: How a Tiny String Under the Tongue Impacts Nursing, Speech, Feeding, and More. Beginning with his own personal story, Dr. Baxter is passionate about educating parents and health practitioners about the effects a tongue-tie can have throughout the lifespan.

Book:
Tongue-Tied: How a Tiny String Under the Tongue Impacts Nursing, Speech, Feeding, and More
https://www.amazon.com/Tongue-Tied-String-Impacts-Nursing-Feeding/dp/1732508208

Website:
https://tonguetieal.com/

In today's episode, Brittny talks with Dr. Yuri May of Natural Dentistry located in Farmington, CT. This is a special one as Brittny and Dr. May have been working collaboratively on cases since 2016. Dr. May dives in to the fundamentals of holistic dentistry and how soon his role changed after dental school. Dr. May stresses the importance of myofunctional therapy as an adjunct to the work he performs in office.

Visit:
https://naturaldentistrycenter.com/

Brittny can attest to the beautiful work and commitment to the patient at Natural Dentistry!

Part Two of the MUST hear episode with Dr. David McIntosh!

In today's episode, Brittny discusses all things TMD with Timothy King and Sarah Beach, what a dynamic duo! Together, they give us insight into their course, FAST AND FUNCTIONAL, which offers a functional approach to TMD while also integrating myofunctional therapy exercises for treatment. They discuss the topic of pain, and the new science in musculoskeletal pain, that none of us were taught if we studied our disciplines more than five years ago. Listen to learn how to manage pain in the myofunctional therapy or dental client.

Link to register for the webinar June 11th @8pm EST
https://www.fastandfunctional.com/webinar-omt-tmd/
Website:
http://www.fastandfunctional.com/tmd-online/

In today's episode, Brittny has the pleasure of speaking with the brilliant- Dr. David McIntosh. Dr. McIntosh is a pediatric ENT with a particular interest in airway obstruction, facial and dental development, and its relationship to ENT airway problems, and middle ear disease. He is the founder of one of the largest ENT services in Australia and runs the largest education service in the world for dentists and doctors on ENT. Dr. McIntosh breaks it down CLEARLY and uses the most fantastic analogies that will leave you thinking, "WOW, that makes so much sense." Thank you Dr. McIntosh for this FABULOUS interview!

Book:
“Snored to Death”

In today's episode, Brittny and Lois Laynee talk about cranial nerve dysfunction and how to re-create normal function. Lois is a dynamic pioneer and passionate lecturer in the fields of Education, Sleep, Scar Release Healing, Cranio Facial Neuro development, and much more. Lois shares with the audience what Restorative Breathing and Lois Breathing exactly are and how 3-5 minutes daily can make a HUGE impact! 

Every dysfunction starts with an interruption or alteration within these connections and once activated and integrated, sleep is restored, pain and anxiety can be reduced, movement is fluid and breathing is effortless!  This integration can be achieved in all stages of life to sleep, breathe, move and thrive!  The possibilities are truly endless!!!

Lois is just brilliant and her passion she shares about cranial nerves is contagious! This is a MUST listen to episode, you won't regret it !

In today's episode, Brittny and Diane Bahr dive into infant feeding and TOTs. Diane is a visionary with a mission. For almost 40 years, she has treated children and adults with feeding, motor speech, and mouth function problems. Diane is the author of the textbook, Oral Motor Assessment and Treatment: Ages and Stages, and two parent-professional books, Feed Your Baby and Toddler Right: Early Eating and Drinking Skills Encourage the Best Development and Nobody Ever Told Me (or My Mother) That! Everything from Bottles and Breathing to Healthy Speech Development.

Book: “Motor Skills Acquisition in the First Year: An Illustrated Guide to Normal Development” by Lois Bly

Website: agesandstages.net

Article by David McIntosh: http://www.agesandstages.net/blog.php?link=blhKJUMxJUMyWlB4JTAzJTFCWSVCNyVBMFMlMjglOUElQUUlMUFmJUQ2JTIxJUU2JUJCJTkxJUFGJTBFJTg1OCUzRlMlRjclQzE=

Article about open cup drinking by:  Silveira et al. article: http://www.scielo.br/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S0034-89102013000100006&lng=en&nrm=iso&tlng=en

In today’s episode, Brittny discusses airway orthodontics with Dr. Greg Campi. They go into detail about different treatment options and help from birth to mature adult. Dr. Campi stresses how myofunctional therapy can help in all stages of growth and development.

Shownotes:
Books: 
“Mikey and The Dragons” and “Way of the Warrior Kid” by Jocko Willink 
“Why we Sleep” by Matthew Walker
 “Baby-led Weaning” by Gill Rapley, PhD and Tracey Murkett

Website: www.orthodonticwellness.com

In today's episode, Brittny discusses with Dr. Casey his journey into TOTs. Dr. Casey is a pediatric dentist and is the founder of the Tampa Tongue-Tie Center. He is passionate and focused on growing his center to help treat infants, adolescents, and adults with tethered oral tissues. Brittny asks Dr. Casey about the hard work he put in to make his dream a reality. Must see episode and true entrepreneurship!

In today's episode, Brittny speaks with Julia Worrall, The Sleep RN, about all things SLEEP! We learn how she made the shift in her nursing career to sleep medicine as she shares her personal story of being a patient with sleep apnea. Julia created an International Airway Advocate program for The Foundation of Airway Health. It is her mission to get the knowledge she has out to the masses, both the dental and medical world. 

In this episode, we welcome Dr. Piya Gandhi, DDS, a board-certified pediatric dentist and founder of West U Pediatric Dentistry. Dr. Gandhi is dedicated to helping children establish a strong foundation for oral and airway health, emphasizing early intervention and collaborative care.

Join us as we explore the vital connection between pediatric dentistry, myofunctional therapy, and airway development. Dr. Gandhi shares her expertise on topics such as tongue ties, mouth breathing, and how early identification of airway issues can lead to long-term health benefits.

Whether you're a dental professional, parent, or someone passionate about overall wellness, this conversation sheds light on the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to pediatric care.

Tune in now for an insightful discussion on shaping healthier futures!

https://westupediatricdentistry.com

https://tanglewoodpediatricdentistry.com

In today's episode, Brittny speaks with one of her very own mentors and trainers, Sandra Holztman. Sandra dives into how she entered the world of Orofacial Myology and how the Myo Manual came to be born. Sandra's organization, Neo-Health, is well known for the support they offer even after a therapist graduates (Brittny can attest to that). It was through Sandra's organization that Brittny became a QOM (Qualified Orofacial Myologist). We hear about orofacial myology through an SLPs eyes. Sandra discusses the distinct difference between orofacial myology and speech pathology. Listen to Sandra, a leading pioneer, reveal what she contributes her success to. You don't want to miss this one!

In today's episode, Brittny brings on a special friend of hers and colleague, Karese Laguerre, to introduce their very own program geared to RDHs starting off as OMTs: #TeamMyo Business!

In this episode, Brittny interviews sleep and TMJ specialist, Dr. Michael Gelb. They discuss the relationship between sleep and TMJ. Dr. Gelb shares information about his ACG System which is the first fully integrated day and night oral appliance. Listen to find out tips for better quality sleep and learn how dental practices are on the forefront of educating patients on the importance of whole body wellness.

Role of Oral Devices in Managing Sleep-disordered Breathing Patients https://www.prosthodontics.org/assets/1/7/16.Role_of_Oral_Devices_in_Managing_Sleep-disordered_Breathing_Patients.pdf

https://www.juvabite.com/

In this episode, Brittny discusses TOTs and laser procedures with Dr. Lawrence Kotlow. Dr. Kotlow specializes in pediatric dentistry and is well known for his concern and understanding of mother's who wish to breastfeed. He is an internationally known expert on the diagnosis and treatment of ankyloglossia also known as tongue-tie. Dr. Kotlow sees infants as early as a day after birth. His techniques using laser surgery eliminate the need to place infants in the operating room or the need for drugs for treatment.

Brittny discusses with Liz Turner, DMD the depth of how attached the mouth and body are. Dr. Turner reveals it wasn't until the birth of her son a few years ago that her world changed. He was born tongue tied and it was impacting his feeding. Since she wasn't having pain and her son was gaining weight, she was told... "It's just a mild tie, it will stretch, it's no big deal." A mom knows her baby, and after five weeks she was able to get his lip and tongue tie treated with a laser (by a dentist). Three days later her father-in-law, with untreated sleep apnea and tongue-tie, had a heart attack. He was in a medically induced coma for six days. Dr. Turner realized that dentists are not just "teeth doctors," but really have incredible insight into how healthy someone is (or has the potential to be!). Dr. Turner believes, as dentists, she and her colleagues have the  responsibility to screen their patients for airway dysfunction.

Dr. Siegel is a board certified, dual degree MD, DDS, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon. Dr. Siegel has over 25 years of experience as an oral and maxillofacial surgeon and has devoted the past 18 years to treatment of issues related to tethered oral tissues. He has performed over 30,000 tethered oral tissue surgical procedures to date. Dr. Siegel is internationally recognized as a pioneering laser TOTs surgeon. In today's episode, Brittny discusses with Dr. Siegel the impact a tethered oral tissue can have on feeding, speech, craniofacial development, airway, sleep, etc.

World's leading authority on the Buteyko Breathing method. Patrick believes in the Buteyko method being a method of treatment for individuals who have diagnosis of asthma and chronic rhinosinusitus. In this episode, Brittny discusses with Patrick the importance of nasal breathing, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Listen as Patrick dives into personal and clinical experiences and the impact the shift from mouth to exclusively nasal breathing can have on one's life.

In this episode, Brittny discusses with Dr. Mary Bourke, the many benefits of the myomunchee. Dr. Burke is a chiropractor with a special interest area in pediatric growth and development. She is the daughter of dentist, Kevin Bourke, pioneer of Myo Munchee. One of her key professional goals with both chiropractic care and as CEO of Myo Australia, manufacturers of the Myo Munchee, is to spread the word about the benefits of chewing and the denaturing effects of long term pacifier use.

https://myomunchee.com/

Article by March 7, 2016
by Licia Coceani Paskay, MS, CCC-SLP
https://www.oralhealthgroup.com/features/1003919890/

Karese, like many parents, suffered in silence while her children struggled with the symptoms of undiagnosed sleep and breathing issues. One visit to a pediatric dentist changed the trajectory of their lives. Already a registered dental hygienist, Karese, trained with Sandra Holtzman, Lois Laynee and Sarah Hornsby to establish her orofacial myology knowledge. With this initial training and numerous others, in a few short years she has not only resolved all her children's issues, but helped hundreds of patients, children and adults alike, discover how great life can be functioning on full. Her private practice, The Myo Spot is now a leader in the quest for myofunctional awareness and public education. Her latest published book, Accomplished, delves into how to sleep better, eliminate burnout, and execute goals. Karese's mission is to transform and positively impact as many households as possible through dynamic breath, brain and body work. 

 Joy Moeller, BS, RDH is a dental hygienist, formerly an associate professor at Indiana University, who has worked as a myofunctional therapist for many years and currently has a private practice in Pacific Palisades and Beverly Hills. 

Joy is founding lecturer with the Academy of Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy (AOMT). Joy wrote a chapter in Sleep Medicine Clinics, a chapter in Sleep Disorders in Pediatric Dentistry, published in 2019 and a children’s book on tongue position as well as many published studies and other chapters in textbooks. She is currently on the board of the American Academy of Physiologic Medicine and Dentistry (AAPMD), a multi-disciplinary medical and dental group interested in airway problems, where she received a life-time achievement award March of 2015. 

In this episode, I sit down with Rebecka Clark, RDH, LMT, CSOM, CMLDT, CH-ONC, a leading expert in orofacial rehabilitation who is revolutionizing the way we approach muscle function, movement, and recovery. With a unique background in dental hygiene, massage therapy, myofunctional therapy, and intraoral massage, Rebecka emphasizes the critical role of muscle rehabilitation in optimizing oral and overall health.

Join us as we explore her integrative approach, the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, and how expanding the role of dental hygienists in hospitals, home health, and rehabilitation can transform patient outcomes. Whether you’re a healthcare provider or simply curious about the connection between movement, breath, and function, this episode is packed with valuable insights!

Websites:

https://www.healthcarehygienists.org/orofacial-recovery-specialist-waitlist

https://www.allimeden.com/meetus

https://www.orofacialrecovery.org/about

https://www.instagram.com/the_niche_therapist

Welcome to the “I spy with my myo eye” podcast. I am your host Brittny Sciarra.

I am a certified orofacial myologist, registered dental hygienist, and life long learner.

You ask, we’ll answer -By collaborating with true pioneers in specialties associated with the MYO world and listening to personal stories from some of our very own patients! Join me on this journey as we dive into the life altering world of tethered oral tissues and airway space. Let’s do this thing!

In this episode, I sit down with airway orthodontist, Dr. Michael K. DeLuke, DDS, to explore the crucial link between orthodontics and airway health. We dive into how orthodontic treatments can impact breathing, sleep quality, and overall well-being especially in children. Dr. DeLuke shares insights on recognizing early signs of airway issues, the importance of a collaborative approach with myofunctional therapy, and the latest advancements in airway-focused orthodontic care. Whether you're a healthcare professional, a parent, or simply curious about optimizing health through proper breathing, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways you won't want to miss! If you don't already, follow Dr. DeLuke's show the DOC Podcast!

Websites:
https://theorthocoach.com/

In today's episode, Brittny chats with her colleague, Dave Henrichsen,  an oral myofunctional therapist in the Seattle area who has built a successful practice focusing on mouth breathing, tongue thrust, sleep apnea, tongue tie, TMJ pain and other myofunctional concerns. Over the last several years his strong desire to provide quality care to his patients has built a fire in him to help grow other myofunctional therapists to help them to also become excellent in their field and grow their practices. He has successfully launched and grown his own myofunctional therapy practice and has coached many other therapists as they have started and grown their own practices. He brings with him passion for success, a blueprint for business systems, an enthusiasm that is infectious, and a positive outlook on life that can help guide others through a mindset shift that empowers growth both of individual lives and their businesses.

Find Dave:
www.myodave.com

In today's episode, Brittny chats with Dr. Neel Bulchandani, DC, a holistic chiropractor, bodyworker, movement teacher, podcaster, and philosopher. He utilizes systems thinking in a field he developed called Integrative Airway & Feeding Chiropractic. He launched an intuitive movement practice in 2017 called Movintuit. He began teaching other bodyworkers and birth workers his holistic approach to aiding in the freeing of tethered oral tissues in 2021, and in 2022, he launched a technique called Stomatognathic Oscillatory Fascial Touch Technique (S.o.f.t. Technique).  He's often a go-to provider for pre- and post-op bodywork for patients undergoing frenectomies and frenuloplasties. He has helped many moms breastfeed with more ease, less pain, and more success by utilizing his knowledge of freeing tension associated with oral ties. Dr. Neel also sees many children and adults who suffer from issues related to tethered oral tissues: feeding, airway, digestion, sleep, and TMJ issues.

In addition to his patient care, Dr. Neel offers virtual healing map sessions as well as consults for practices and teams. He has begun helping practices establish a solid infrastructure for guided releases, or for those more involved in palate expansion and/or jaw surgeries, he offers guidance on how to implement a broad range of bodywork modalities and advises on syntax and appropriateness of the overall gameplan. He also has recently launched a podcast on the topic of embodied embryology called Embryoloji. 

Webinar:
https://drneel.myflodesk.com/floorofthemouth

Instagram: drneelbulchandani

Site: www.neelbulchandani.com

In today's episode, Brittny chats with Dr. Claire Stagg, DDS, MS, FAACP. Dr.  Stagg shares that the teeth and mouth are profoundly connected with the health of the whole body, and vice versa. She has a holistic, integrative, and comprehensive dental philosophy. Her practice, Smile Professionals, was the first on the Space Coast to provide safe mercury-free dentistry. She is the founder of Health Connections Dentistry  and author of two books, “Captain IFBI” - a children’s book encouraging good oral hygiene habits. The second, “Smile, It’s All Connected! Whole Health Through Balance”, is a very thorough whole family reference, for all ages, detailing any connection of the mouth possible to the rest of the body.

 Learn more on HealthConnectionsDentistry.com

In today's episode, Brittny chats with Julie Flygare, JD. Julie serves as President & CEO of Project Sleep. Believing in the value of sleep, Project Sleep aims to improve public health by educating individuals about the importance of sleep health, sleep equity, and sleep disorders. Project Sleep educates and empowers individuals using events, campaigns, and programs to bring people together and talk about sleep as a pillar of health. Julie is also an internationally recognized patient-perspective leader, an accomplished advocate, and the award-winning author of Wide Awake and Dreaming: A Memoir of Narcolepsy. 

Links:
Project Sleep
https://project-sleep.com/

Sleep Helpline
https://project-sleep.com/helpline

In today's episode, Brittny chats with the fabulous Dr. Michelle Weddle, DDS, FAGD, D-ABDSM. Dr. Weddle  is highly trained in Dental Sleep Medicine and Sleep Apnea Management, TMJ Treatment and Management, and focuses on the reconstruction of the worn bite and dental occlusion (jaw mechanics).

Brittny and Dr. Weddle discuss topics like why SDB is more difficult to diagnose in children and TMD treatment and management, not only in the adult population, but in pediatrics as well. Listen to learn how Dr. Weddle has grown her airway team and the emphasis she has on the importance of a supporting community.

Find Dr. Weddle:
https://www.sleepandtmjwellness.com/
https://www.greatsmilesnj.com/njsleep/
https://asappathway.com

In today's episode, Brittny chats with Chad Wooters, MBA, Director of Operations and Coaching at Awaken2Sleep. Chad has coached hundreds of dentists and teams nationwide and is the architect behind the Sleep Hero Network online academy. Using his experience, Chad coaches dental practices to build successful Dental Sleep Medicine practices. As someone who struggles with Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), he is deeply passionate about raising awareness of this health concern. As a national speaker and educator, Chad's mission is to equip others with tools to ensure success for all stakeholders.

Website: https://awaken2sleep.com/

In this episode, I’m joined by airway-centered dentist and Toothpillow co-founder Dr. Kalli Hale to unpack one of the biggest misconceptions in pediatric airway care:

➡️ That a guidance appliance alone can "fix" the problem.
We dive into the truth about the Toothpillow model—what it is, what it’s not, and why true, lasting growth requires more than just passive tools.
Dr. Hale shares:
-Why myofunctional therapy is an essential part of guided growth
-The difference between muscle-based shaping and true skeletal expansion
-How early intervention can support natural development—when done the right way
-What parents and providers often misunderstand about the role of appliances
-How the Toothpillow team integrates therapy, appliance support, and provider collaboration to get real results

Whether you’re confused about guidance appliances, skeptical about virtual care, or simply curious how myo and dental work can come together before problems arise—this episode will give you clarity.

🎧 Listen now and learn more at toothpillow.com

In today's episode, Brittny chats with practicing dental hygiene, Amber Auger, MPH, RDH. Amber has a mission to elevate the standard of care to determine the root cause of oral diseases, this includes screening every patient for airway disorders. With over 20 years of experience, Amber specializes in creating practical systems to implement the latest oral science. Amber is actively mentoring and educating fellow dental hygienists in their careers and in personal and career growth through her Thrive in the Op®  on-demand course curriculum and weekly live coaching sessions. Amber is also the owner of the Functional RDH® certification that provides hands-on and classroom lectures to identify the root cause of dental dysbiosis and ways in which to restore whole-body health based on the latest oral science. 

Amber can be reached at amberaugerrdh@gmail.com.
Website: https://amberauger.com/

In today's episode Brittny and her partner, Joann Amoroso, discuss all things MYO. Joann is co-founder of MyoAir and a pioneering expert in orofacial myofunctional therapy. Joann has really taken MyoAir to the next level with locations in Vero Beach and Melbourne, along with virtual services in New York. Myoair serves as a beacon for comprehensive therapeutic solutions with a holistic and individualized approach to patient care. Joann and Brittny dive into conferences you don't want to miss, pros and cons of entrepreneurship, the transition from RDH to myo, and more.

Website:
www.myoair.com
IG handle: @myoair

In today's episode, Brittny chats with Dr. Kevin Goles, who has immersed himself in dental sleep medicine since the beginning of his career and is recognized as an expert in the field. He focused his research during his dental residency on Obstructive Sleep Apnea and its substantial negative effects on one’s health and quality of life. He has become one the most experienced clinicians with Vivos by starting and completing the most cases in the country. Another field he has vast experience in is the use of lasers in Sleep Dentistry and TMJ disorders. He is a Clinical Instructor for Fotona Medical Lasers as he has completed thousands of Nightlase treatments. He travels internationally to teach other dental offices about the techniques and use of the Fotona Lightwalker.

Dr. Goles pay credit to myofunctional therapy and reports that myofunctional therpay adds a 55% improvement in sleep apnea cases. Dr. Goles also discusses the importance of counterbalancing forces intra-orally and how important it is that the tongue wins the war against the lips and the cheeks.

Website: https://breathingandsleepcenter.com/team/dr-kevin-goles/

In today's episode, Brittny chats with Lisa Paladino, MS, CNM, IBCLC. Lisa is a midwife and IBCLC, but her career began in nursing. Lisa worked for 28 years at Staten Island University Hospital before establishing her private practice in 2015. At the Hospital, she co-founded and coordinated the Breastfeeding Initiative and worked in collaboration with the NYC Department of Health on efforts toward achieving the “Baby Friendly” designation. Currently, Lisa offers courses for parents and professionals on the topic of breastfeeding and tongue tie. She produces the weekly show, the “Tongue Tie Experts Podcast", and provides education to parents and professionals, through the Tongue Tie Experts brand on Facebook and Instagram. She is the author of the book, “It Shouldn’t Hurt to Nurse Your Baby: Healing the Six Most Common Causes of Nipple Pain” She loves to lecture and educate the world on the importance of breastfeeding for the health of infants and the developing airway. 


Website:
https://www.tonguetieexperts.net/

Instagram: @tonguetieexperts

In today's episode, Brittny has the pleasure of chatting with the CEO of FroggyMouth, Guillaume Fellus. Guillaume is the son of the inventor, Dr. Patrick Fellus. In today's episode, Brittny and Guillaume discuss the story behind the invention and the concepts behind FroggyMouth. FroggyMouth is the first anoetic swallowing rehabilitation device. It aids in cessation of an atypical swallow and allows secondary swallowing to take place. The device works by preventing the lips from sealing allowing functional re-education to occur.

Website:
https://www.froggymouth.com/e1/en/

Yale YouTube Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=25yRcC50Zakhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o-G4NTL6Jcg

Video with complementary exercises using the FroggyMouth appliance: https://youtu.be/TKox0_Axu5E?si=-QcPWuT4QhbItru8 

The book “Neurosciences and Swallowing Rehabilitation. FroggyMouth: An Anoetic Approach”:https://www.froggymouth.com/e1/produit/en-neurosciences-and-swallowing-rehabilitation-froggymouth-an-anoetic-approach/ 

In today's episode, Brittny chats with the wonderful Dr. Muhammad who is an airway and cosmetic dentist with over 10 years of expertise in clear aligner therapy. Dr. Muhammad and Brittny talk MYO, expansion, TMD/orthotic therapy, tongue-ties, and another new modality Dr. Muhammad has in her toolbox, photobiomodulation and Oralase with her Fotona Light Walker laser.

Dr. Muhammmad  holds certificates from the leading institutions in the Airway dentistry field: Vivos Institute, The Breathe Institute, Airway Health Solutions, Myoaligner, Synergy Academy, Fotona, and The Air Institute. 

Find Dr. Muhammad on Instagram

@brooklynoakdental
 

In today's episode, Brittny chats with Anders Olmanson, CEO and founder of REMastered Sleep. Anders is a passionate medical innovator who aspires to make being healthy easy. He invented REMplenish, a myofunctional therapy water bottle that makes myo easy to integrate into daily routine. During his four years as a mechanical engineer at Medtronic, Anders earned his MS in Medical Device Innovation from the University of Minnesota. Anders also spent 9 months studying health systems throughout Asia and Africa in order to learn novel approaches to healthcare innovation around the world. A new junior size nozzle will be released this October for ages 4-9. Pre-orders are available now!

https://remasteredsleep.com/

In today's episode, Brittny chats with the fabulous Angie Lehman, RDH, COM®. Angie is an IAOM Certified Orofacial Myologist (COM) who has been exclusively practicing Orofacial Myology since 2012 in York, Pennsylvania. She runs one of America’s most successful and well-known private practices, Oral Myofunctional Therapy of York. Angie is a highly sought-after educator for medical, dental and allied health professionals and she is passionate to encourage all health disciplines to work collaboratively and to better understand oral function and craniofacial development and to incorporate therapy into their specific areas of care. In today's episode, Angie and Brittny discuss the importance of thinking outside the box as a Myofunctional clinician and how we may be getting it    wrong putting ALL the emphasis on the tongue alone!

Find Angie:
https://omtofyork.com/
https://angielehman.thinkific.com/

In today's episode, Brittny chats with the inspiring Sarah Sweeney, M.ED, CCC-SLP of Sunshine Speech Therapy. Sarah is a board certified Speech-Language Pathologist, feeding specialist, and orofacial myologist. She founded Sunshine Speech Therapy in 2019, a private practice centered on providing speech, feeding, and myofunctional therapy to patients across the lifespan. Sarah’s passion for myofunctional therapy began when she had a client whose craniofacial development and tongue tie were impeding his ability to speak and she knew she had to get to the root of the problem to help him. She then discovered that her own child’s picky eating and sleep disordered breathing were caused by an orofacial myofunctional disorder! Sarah enjoys putting the “fun” in myofunctional therapy and pours her heart into making therapy effective and joyful.

Website:
https://sunshinespeechandmyo.com/
IG:  @sarahdoesmyo

In today's episode, Brittny and Dr. Recine talk about how their worlds collide and complement one another. Vincenzo shares how learning about airway has impacted the way he practices and views his patients. Brittny and Vincenzo discuss tongue-tie protocols along with oral appliance protocols in Vincenzo's practice. Listen to learn how partnering with a PT in your local area can have a profound impact on your patient's outcomes!

Find Dr. Recine:
https://www.prime-physio.net/
Instagram: @_primephysio

From Burnout to Balance: Nervous System Tools Every Hygienist Needs

Stress is more than just part of the job—it’s living in our bodies, shaping our breath, and impacting our well-being far beyond the operatory. In this episode, I sit down with a fellow dental hygienist, Heather DeJonge who’s turned her personal stress journey into a passion for nervous system regulation.

We dive into what stress really looks like in clinical care, how to recognize the signs of dysregulation, and what tools you can start using—right now—to shift from survival mode to a state of calm, focus, and presence. From breathwork to somatic movement and cognitive reframes, this episode is packed with practical strategies that actually fit into your day.

If you’ve ever ended a hygiene day with tight shoulders, a clenched jaw, or a sense of emotional exhaustion… this conversation is for you.

https://www.instagram.com/the_relaxed_hygienist/

In today's episode, Brittny chats with the fabulous Dr. Jasmine Elmore for the SECOND TIME on the podcast. After practicing pediatric dentistry at the highest level, Dr. Elmore had a career transition inspired by debilitating shoulder pain and a visit to a very special Physical Therapist. Where other PTs failed to provide relief of her symptoms, a friend’s referral led her to someone with a deep understanding of chronic pain, stress, poor sleep, and whole-body connection. Dr. Elmore is here to chat ALL things SOMA, Splint Orthodontic Myofunctional Appliance.

Dr Joe Da Cruz, a functional dentist in Australia, created this appliance that he has successfully used for decades to treat TMD, sleep issues, poor posture, neurological disorders, headaches, and a host of other issues. As the primary U.S. provider for the SOMA appliance, Dr. Elmore has a new practice that focuses on stress reduction, cranial balance, and resolving Dental Distress Syndrome (as defined by Dr AC Fonder).

Instagram:
@sleepwithsoma
@rich_sleep

Articles:

1 - https://www.townsendletter.com/e-letter-1g-soma-tension-headaches-and-sympathetic-nervous-system/

2 - https://drjohndiamond.com/what-interests-you/two-dentists-and-their-appliances/

In today's episode, Brittny chats with her colleague, Annmarie DeMarco OTR/L. This is an episode you do NOT want to miss! So many nuggets of valuable information. Annmarie shares with us her specialty which is retained primitive reflexes. Annmarie and Brittny discuss the crossover they see between their client population and how working collaboratively can truly transform their clients lives. Annmarie shares her own research she has done with her own clients suspecting that almost 80% of the children in her clinic also have an underlying airway/sleep issue or is suspected to have an airway/sleep issue. Retained primitive reflexes are not just seen in children. They can also present in adults. Traumatic live events or illnesses can also cause primitive reflexes to become unintegrated throughout the lifespan.

Show notes:
Link between torticollis and ATNR reflex
Link between C-section births and spinal Galant reflex
Link between difficulty crossing the midline and ATNR and STNR reflex
Link between difficulty with balance and Tonic Labyrinthine Reflex

Book discussed: Disconnected Kids

Annmarie did NOT recommend the Bumbo to facilitate better movement.

In today's episode, Brittny chats with Dr. Dr. Loria Nahatis, DDS,  a board-certified pediatric dentist who has been in the pediatric dental field for over 25 years.
She is co-founder of Beyond Pediatric Dentistry in Dallas, and her focus in
pediatric dentistry is optimal craniofacial health, growth, and development.
She has realized from personal experience that if a child’s craniofacial
growth is off-track, it affects their ability to breathe, sleep and thrive.
Dr. Loria is the first recipient of the Dr. Soroush Zaghi Award for application
of evidence-based protocols to the community at the AAPMD’s
Collaboration Cures 2021.

Something Brittny knows her myofunctional therapist colleagues will absolutely LOVE hearing is Dr. Loria discusses the use of myofunctional appliances and describes them as training wheels for myofunctional therapy. What a great analogy, they do NOT replace myofunctional therapy as some providers might believe and/or practice.

Want to find out more about Dr. Loria and her practice, visit...
https://beyondpediatricdentistry.com/

In today's episode, Brittny chats with Dr. Perry Nickelston, DC, NKT, FMS, SFMA of  Stop Chasing Pain, LLC. Dr. Perry aka ‘The Lymph Doc’ is a Chiropractic Physician with a primary focus on treating chronic pain and inflammation via the lymphatic and vascular systems. He is a international speaker and educator of the self-care MOJO series-Lymphatic Mojo, Blood Flow Mojo, Tongue Mojo, Glymphatic Mojo, Visceral Mojo, Vagus Nerve Mojo, Primal Movement Mojo.

Dr. Perry is an expert in movement assessment and diagnosis. Certified and trained as a Functional Movement Specialist (FMS) and Selective Functional Movement Assessment Specialist (SFMA). He uses programs designed to find sources of non-painful dysfunction so your site of pain improves.

After healing from a severe back injury and autoimmune disease he decided to dedicate himself to offering these self-care approaches to others. Designer of the Body Ecosystem Hierarchy is a self-treatment program whose sole purpose is to empower you to regain control of your life from chronic pain.

In today's episode, Brittny chats with the GOAT of pediatric airway dentistry. Dr. Kevin Boyd is a board certified Pediatric Dentist in Chicago who holds an M.Sc. degree in Human Nutrition and Dietetics. He lectures
worldwide on the topics of Early Childhood Malocclusion (under age 72 months), pediatric sleep-breathing hygiene and Evolutionary Oral Medicine/Darwinian Dentistry. He is collaboratively exploring a hypothetical relationship between changed dietary practices since the Industrial Revolution and diminished human dentofacial development. Brittny and Dr. Boyd discuss early intervention, the appliances Dr. Boyd prefers, and how he addresses not only transverse growth but anterior-posterior growth as well. Dr. Boyd discusses the importance of myofunctional therapy and addresses his thought process behind knowing when he has expanded enough. It's all in the TONGUE!

Shownotes:
Expanders Discussed:
Fixed Hyrax with Catwires

Biobloc Stage 1- no acrylic, tongue can rest in palate

Reverse Pull headgear not just on Class 3

Biobloc Stage 3 to bring mandible forward

Uses Bogue Index for primary dentition, gingival margin of 2nd  deciduous   molar to 2nd deciduous molar

Books:
"Free to Learn" Peter Gray
"Hunt, Gather, Parent" by Michaeleen Doucleff