Getting to know the new co-hosts: Jessica Atkinson + David Torres
Jessica and David talk identity shifts, defining success beyond titles, and the habits that help them stay grounded—plus what they want to learn with the community.
Welcome to Episode 522 of A Tale of Two Hygienists —a “getting to know you” conversation with new co-hosts Jessica Atkinson and David Torres.
Jessica brings a deck of conversation cards (the “Tumbler Deck”) and David brings his own questions, and together they trade stories about how they define success, why education and prevention matter so much in their work, and what they’re personally trying to cultivate in 2026—from learning an instrument to building habits that actually stick.
Along the way, they talk candidly about early-career expectations vs. present-day priorities, the realities of financial planning in dental hygiene, and the kind of community they hope to build with listeners. This episode is also an open invitation: what do you want to know about your co-hosts, and what topics should the show tackle next?
Jessica Atkinson, MEd, BSDH, RDH, is the COO of Hygiene Edge and an assistant professor of dental hygiene at Utah Tech University. She has been in the dental field for 23 years with experience in the front office, dental assisting, hygiene, and education. Jessica has presented nationally and internationally, is the recipient of the St. George Area Chamber of Commerce Element Award and the Utah Tech College of Health Sciences Outstanding Service Award, is a past president of the Utah Dental Hygienists’ Association, and a member of the ADHA.
DavidTorres, CRDH, cohost of A Tale of Two Hygienists, is an experienced dental hygienist with over a decade of clinical expertise, specializing in patient education, preventive care, and the integration of modern dental technologies. Known for his passion for teaching, campus recruiting, and coaching, David is dedicated to elevating patient experiences while helping dental professionals improve efficiency, workflow, and long-term success.
