Toothpaste: The Most Power Prescription We Don’t Have To Write with Melissa Calhoun! **Bonus**

Episode Summary: In this special bonus episode brought to you in partnership with TheraBreath, Andrew Johnston sits down with Melissa Calhoun for an in-depth discussion about all things toothpaste—why it’s more than just a routine product, how active ingredients play a crucial role, and why switching up your toothpaste based on patient needs really matters. They dive…
Nov. 9, 2025
2 min read
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Episode Summary:
In this special bonus episode brought to you in partnership with TheraBreath, Andrew Johnston sits down with Melissa Calhoun for an in-depth discussion about all things toothpaste—why it’s more than just a routine product, how active ingredients play a crucial role, and why switching up your toothpaste based on patient needs really matters. They dive into the evidence-based approach to oral hygiene recommendations, spotlighting TheraBreath’s new line of toothpastes and what sets them apart.

What You’ll Learn:

  • Why toothpaste is a “powerful prescription” we don’t need to write

  • The importance of asking patients about what toothpaste they use

  • Key active ingredients in toothpaste and how they help with sensitivity, caries, and overall oral health

  • Why flavors matter and the growing trend for milder toothpastes

    Melissa Calhoun’s dental hygiene education and professional background

     

  • A deep dive into TheraBreath’s new toothpaste lineup: Healthy Gums, Deep Clean, and Whitening

  • How TheraBreath products pair well together and why they’re beneficial for a wide range of patients

Mentioned in this episode:

  • TheraBreath’s widely loved mouth rinses and new toothpaste formulas

  • Free sample program: Visit hygienesquad.com/therabreath to sign up for samples for your office

  • CE resources on toothpaste ingredients from Church & Dwight

Special Thanks:
Thanks to TheraBreath for making this episode possible. Big shoutout to Melissa Calhoun for sharing her expertise and passion for oral health.

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About the Author

Andrew Johnston, RDH

Andrew Johnston, RDH

Andrew Johnston, RDH, is your everyday hygienist who is passionate about sharing education and knowledge to others. Practicing in Washington State since 2009, Andrew enjoys utilizing his full scope of practice through traditional and restorative procedures on any given day—still working in the operatory 40-plus hours each week. In 2015, he started the wildly popular dental hygiene podcast A Tale of Two Hygienists with his cofounder Michelle Strange. Because of the podcast's success, they were able to begin a new chapter in dental audio content with The Dental Podcast Network, which consists of 10 short-format shows on different dental topics airing each day of the work week.

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