The Dentalpreneur Podcast w/ Dr. Mark Costes 2472: Why Every Dental Office Should Use a Microscope
Mar 24, 2026
Kristen King, a registered dental hygienist and founder of Dental Reveal with nearly 30 years’ clinical experience, trains teams to use phase contrast microscopy. She explains how visualizing live oral biofilm reframes hygiene into healthcare. Short segments cover microscopy workflow, what you can see under the scope, business impact on case acceptance, training and ROI, and collaborating with physicians.
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Microscope Makes Oral-Systemic Risk Tangible
- Phase contrast microscopy makes the oral-systemic link tangible by letting patients see live oral biofilm and pathogens chairside.
- Kristen King says visualizing spirochetes and anaerobes instantly shifts patient perception and increases case acceptance during hygiene visits.
Collect Slide Before Probing Or Rinsing
- Do the plaque sample and microscope review before probing, rinses, or any disruption so you see the biofilm intact.
- Kristen instructs prepping slides in the operatory and telling patients not to brush before the visit to avoid 'disposing of the evidence.'
Require Phase Contrast Scope With Camera And Screen
- Use a phase contrast microscope with a camera and attached screen so you can capture live video and show it to the seated patient.
- Kristen recommends Wi‑Fi or corded camera output to a laptop, tablet, or wall screen for a seamless patient tour.
