PRIVATE REVIEW · Website draft for practice review
Dr. Shawn BurlDENTISTRY · BIRMINGHAM
THE FLOSS BOSS • WJLD

Healthy smiles.
Real conversations.

Dr. Burl brings practical oral-health education and community conversation to the airwaves.

Call (205) 254-8555 ↗Explore our care →
SHAWN YVETTE BURL, DDS, MPH139 3RD AVENUE WEST · BIRMINGHAM(205) 254-8555
KEEP THE CONVERSATION GOING

Listen. Learn. Come back for more.

Join Dr. Shawn Burl and Albertina Burl McWilliams for The Floss Boss. The show schedule supplied by the team is Sunday at 3:30 p.m. Central. Confirm current programming with the station.

Listen through WJLD ↗

The station stream carries WJLD programming; The Floss Boss airs during its scheduled broadcast.

Coming to YouTube: The Floss Boss animated show

We’re planning an animated series to bring dental-health conversations to life in a new format. Episodes and the official YouTube channel will be shared here when ready.

Call to suggest a topic or ask about the show →
Dr. Shawn Burl speaking into a microphone during a WJLD radio-show conversation.WJLD · THE FLOSS BOSS
MEET YOUR HOST · DR. SHAWN BURL

Real questions.
Healthier smiles.

Step inside The Floss Boss: dental health, family stories and conversations that connect our community.

Discover what the show is about Click to open the show overview

Dental education beyond the treatment chair.

Dr. Shawn Burl and co-host Albertina Burl McWilliams bring approachable oral-health conversations to WJLD. The show explores everyday dental questions, preventive care, family wellness and the concerns people bring to the dentist.

Its story is personal: Thomas Burl, Dr. Burl’s late brother and a military veteran, inspired the original show and helped shape the practice’s commitment to veterans.

Explore last year’s episode topics below, listen through WJLD during the scheduled broadcast, or call the office to suggest a question or community story.

Browse the episode topics ↓Listen through WJLD ↗
2025 SHOW TOPIC LIBRARY

A year of conversations. More reasons to tune in.

Browse 52 episode guides from last year’s program materials. These are topic previews; on-demand audio recordings are not yet available here.

52 topics

Winter · Episode 1Why Oral Health Matters for Everyone

Questions explored in this episode guide:

  • What diseases are connected to poor dental health, and why should we care?
  • How does oral health affect our heart, diabetes, and even pregnancy?

Topic guide · Recording not yet available

Winter · Episode 2The History of Dentistry and Medical Contributions

Questions explored in this episode guide:

  • Who were the pioneers in dental care?
  • How have dental schools contributed to access and innovation?

Topic guide · Recording not yet available

Winter · Episode 3Dental Insurance, FSA, and End-of-Year Benefits

Questions explored in this episode guide:

  • Why is dental insurance separate from health insurance?
  • How can families afford consistent care?

Topic guide · Recording not yet available

Winter · Episode 4What’s Causing Your Toothaches in Cold Weather?

Questions explored in this episode guide:

  • Why do some people feel more tooth pain in the winter?
  • What can you do to stop cold weather tooth pain?

Topic guide · Recording not yet available

Winter · Episode 5Dental Resolutions: Start the Year With a Smile

Questions explored in this episode guide:

  • What dental goals should people set for the new year?
  • How do habits influence long-term oral health?

Topic guide · Recording not yet available

Winter · Episode 6Diabetes, Dry Mouth, and Cold Weather Links

Questions explored in this episode guide:

  • Why does diabetes affect oral health?
  • How does dry mouth become worse in winter?

Topic guide · Recording not yet available

Winter · Episode 7Fear of the Dentist: Breaking the Cycle

Questions explored in this episode guide:

  • Why do people avoid going to the dentist?
  • How can dentists help patients feel more comfortable?

Topic guide · Recording not yet available

Winter · Episode 8The Truth About Tooth Loss

Questions explored in this episode guide:

  • What causes adult tooth loss?
  • How does losing teeth impact overall health?

Topic guide · Recording not yet available

Winter · Episode 9Oral Health and High Blood Pressure

Questions explored in this episode guide:

  • How does gum disease relate to high blood pressure?
  • What can patients do to manage both conditions better?

Topic guide · Recording not yet available

Winter · Episode 10Bad Breath and Tongue Cleaning Basics

Questions explored in this episode guide:

  • What causes persistent bad breath?
  • How can people keep their breath fresh daily?

Topic guide · Recording not yet available

Winter · Episode 11Seniors, Winter Dental Issues, and Denture Fit

Questions explored in this episode guide:

  • What dental issues affect seniors in colder months?
  • How can seniors protect their dental health during winter?

Topic guide · Recording not yet available

Winter · Episode 12Fluoride Facts: Why It Matters in Cold Months

Questions explored in this episode guide:

  • What role does fluoride play in oral health?
  • Why is fluoride especially important during the winter?

Topic guide · Recording not yet available

Spring · Episode 13Spring Allergies and Gum Inflammation

Questions explored in this episode guide:

  • How can allergies affect oral health?
  • How can people protect their mouth during allergy season?

Topic guide · Recording not yet available

Spring · Episode 14Kids’ Teeth — Start Young, Stay Healthy

Questions explored in this episode guide:

  • When should children first see a dentist?
  • How can parents encourage good dental habits in kids?

Topic guide · Recording not yet available

Spring · Episode 15Baby Teeth, Pacifiers, and Thumb Sucking

Questions explored in this episode guide:

  • Why are baby teeth important even though they fall out?
  • What’s the impact of prolonged pacifier or thumb use?

Topic guide · Recording not yet available

Spring · Episode 16Women, Pregnancy, and Dental Health

Questions explored in this episode guide:

  • How does pregnancy affect oral health?
  • What should expectant mothers do for healthy teeth?

Topic guide · Recording not yet available

Spring · Episode 17What to Know About Dental Cleanings

Questions explored in this episode guide:

  • Why are regular dental cleanings important?
  • How often should people get their teeth cleaned?

Topic guide · Recording not yet available

Spring · Episode 18Nutrition for Strong Teeth This Spring

Questions explored in this episode guide:

  • What foods help build healthy teeth and gums?
  • What foods and drinks weaken your teeth?

Topic guide · Recording not yet available

Spring · Episode 19Dental Deserts and Community Access

Questions explored in this episode guide:

  • What is a dental desert?
  • What are some ways to improve access?

Topic guide · Recording not yet available

Spring · Episode 20Braces and Invisalign for Adults and Teens

Questions explored in this episode guide:

  • What are the benefits of orthodontic treatment?
  • What are the differences between braces and Invisalign?

Topic guide · Recording not yet available

Spring · Episode 21Meharry Legacy Spotlight and Dental Careers

Questions explored in this episode guide:

  • Why are dental careers important to promote?
  • What dental careers can students pursue?

Topic guide · Recording not yet available

Spring · Episode 22Church and School-Based Dental Programs

Questions explored in this episode guide:

  • Why are schools and churches great places for dental outreach?
  • What types of dental programs work well in these settings?

Topic guide · Recording not yet available

Spring · Episode 23My Gums Are Bleeding — Now What?

Questions explored in this episode guide:

  • What causes gums to bleed?
  • How should you respond to bleeding gums?

Topic guide · Recording not yet available

Spring · Episode 24What’s in Your Mouthwash? Choose Wisely

Questions explored in this episode guide:

  • What should you look for in a mouthwash?
  • Are all mouthwashes safe for daily use?

Topic guide · Recording not yet available

Summer · Episode 25Summer Sugar — Juice, Soda, and Tooth Decay

Questions explored in this episode guide:

  • How does sugar affect your teeth?
  • What are smart ways to reduce sugar damage?

Topic guide · Recording not yet available

Summer · Episode 26Oral Cancer in Men and Women

Questions explored in this episode guide:

  • What are the signs of oral cancer?
  • Who is at higher risk for oral cancer?

Topic guide · Recording not yet available

Summer · Episode 27Mouthguards and Summer Sports Safety

Questions explored in this episode guide:

  • Why are mouthguards important in sports?
  • How do you choose the right mouthguard?

Topic guide · Recording not yet available

Summer · Episode 28Whitening Your Teeth the Safe Way

Questions explored in this episode guide:

  • What are safe whitening methods?
  • What should you avoid when whitening teeth?

Topic guide · Recording not yet available

Summer · Episode 29Cracked and Chipped Teeth — Poolside Accidents

Questions explored in this episode guide:

  • What causes teeth to chip or crack in summer?
  • How are cracked or chipped teeth treated?

Topic guide · Recording not yet available

Summer · Episode 30Electric vs Manual — Best Toothbrushes for Travel

Questions explored in this episode guide:

  • What are the pros of electric toothbrushes?
  • Why might someone choose a manual toothbrush?

Topic guide · Recording not yet available

Summer · Episode 31Smoking, Vaping, and Summer Habits

Questions explored in this episode guide:

  • How do smoking and vaping harm oral health?
  • What can help people quit tobacco or vaping?

Topic guide · Recording not yet available

Summer · Episode 32Night Grinding and Travel Stress

Questions explored in this episode guide:

  • Why do people grind their teeth more during travel or stress?
  • How can you manage or prevent teeth grinding?

Topic guide · Recording not yet available

Summer · Episode 33Cosmetic Dentistry and Confidence

Questions explored in this episode guide:

  • How does improving your smile affect confidence?
  • What cosmetic dental options are available?

Topic guide · Recording not yet available

Summer · Episode 34Braces in the Summer — Pros and Cons

Questions explored in this episode guide:

  • Why is summer a good time to get braces?
  • What are challenges of starting braces in summer?

Topic guide · Recording not yet available

Summer · Episode 35Are Those TikTok Dental Trends Safe?

Questions explored in this episode guide:

  • What dental trends should people avoid?
  • Why are these trends risky?

Topic guide · Recording not yet available

Summer · Episode 36Teens, Summer Jobs, and Dental Benefits

Questions explored in this episode guide:

  • What should teens know about dental care on the job?
  • How can part-time work support dental health?

Topic guide · Recording not yet available

Summer · Episode 37Is That TikTok Dental Trend Safe?

Questions explored in this episode guide:

  • What are the signs a trend is not safe?
  • How can you verify if a trend is dental-safe?

Topic guide · Recording not yet available

Summer · Episode 38Pregnant and Bleeding Gums

Questions explored in this episode guide:

  • Why do gums bleed more during pregnancy?
  • What helps manage bleeding gums during pregnancy?

Topic guide · Recording not yet available

Summer · Episode 39Dental PTSD in Adults

Questions explored in this episode guide:

  • What causes fear or anxiety about the dentist?
  • How can adults overcome dental trauma?

Topic guide · Recording not yet available

Summer · Episode 40Root Canals vs Extractions

Questions explored in this episode guide:

  • When is a root canal better than extraction?
  • When might extraction be the better choice?

Topic guide · Recording not yet available

Fall · Episode 41HIV, Medications, and Oral Health

Questions explored in this episode guide:

  • How does HIV affect oral health?
  • What oral care tips help people with HIV?

Topic guide · Recording not yet available

Fall · Episode 42The Link Between Depression and Dental Neglect

Questions explored in this episode guide:

  • How can depression impact oral health?
  • How can mental health and dental care support each other?

Topic guide · Recording not yet available

Fall · Episode 43Oral Piercings and Long-Term Damage

Questions explored in this episode guide:

  • What are the risks of oral piercings?
  • How can someone care for a mouth piercing?

Topic guide · Recording not yet available

Fall · Episode 44The Cost of Waiting to Get Dental Work Done

Questions explored in this episode guide:

  • What happens when dental issues are delayed?
  • How can patients prevent treatment delays?

Topic guide · Recording not yet available

Fall · Episode 45Seniors and Medicare Dental Coverage

Questions explored in this episode guide:

  • Does Medicare cover dental care?
  • What are options for affordable care for seniors?

Topic guide · Recording not yet available

Fall · Episode 46Preparing for Open Enrollment

Questions explored in this episode guide:

  • What should people look for in dental plans?
  • How can families get the most from their benefits?

Topic guide · Recording not yet available

Fall · Episode 47Oil Pulling, Herbs, and Holistic Dentistry

Questions explored in this episode guide:

  • What is oil pulling and does it work?
  • What are safe holistic dental practices?

Topic guide · Recording not yet available

Fall · Episode 48The Power of a Smile

Questions explored in this episode guide:

  • How does smiling affect health and relationships?
  • How can dental care support a healthy smile?

Topic guide · Recording not yet available

Fall · Episode 49Health Equity in Oral Care

Questions explored in this episode guide:

  • What are common barriers to dental care?
  • What solutions support greater equity?

Topic guide · Recording not yet available

Fall · Episode 50Dental Innovation — What’s Coming in 2026

Questions explored in this episode guide:

  • What new technologies are emerging in dentistry?
  • How can patients benefit from innovation?

Topic guide · Recording not yet available

Fall · Episode 51Giving Back Through Dental Days

Questions explored in this episode guide:

  • What are dental days or free clinic events?
  • How can people get involved or support them?

Topic guide · Recording not yet available

Fall · Episode 52Looking Ahead — Setting New Dental Goals

Questions explored in this episode guide:

  • What makes a good dental goal for the new year?
  • How can people stay accountable to their goals?

Topic guide · Recording not yet available

THE FLOSS BOSS · SHOW WEBSITE

FlossBossClub.com

The dedicated web address for The Floss Boss show, with Dr. Shawn Burl and co-host Albertina Burl McWilliams.

Healthy teeth. Healthy gums. Healthy life.

Our mission is to educate the public about proper dental care, oral health and the importance of taking care of your smile.

Broadcast: Sundays at 3:30 p.m. Central on WJLD AM 1400, with FM simulcasts on 104.1 and 94.1.

Want to share your story, ask a question or learn more about dental health? Call the office to ask about joining the conversation and confirm current broadcast details.

FlossBossClub.com is the designated address for the show’s website. Domain connection and availability are pending verification.

IN LOVING MEMORY · THOMAS BURL

The inspiration behind a lasting commitment.

Thomas Burl, Dr. Shawn Burl’s late brother and a military veteran, inspired the original radio show and helped shape the practice’s dedication to serving veterans.

These photographs preserve moments from the WJLD studio, where family, dental education and community conversation came together. Thomas’s influence remains part of The Floss Boss story and the purpose behind the practice’s veterans outreach.

We honor his memory by continuing the conversation and helping veterans and their families better understand their dental-care options.

Explore our commitment to veterans →

Have something to share?

Community members, veterans, educators and nonprofit leaders can call to suggest a dental-health question, community story or guest idea.

Call (205) 254-8555 ↗

Ask the office about the current schedule and participation process. This is the office telephone, not a live studio call-in line. Calling does not guarantee an on-air appearance.

CONVERSATION STARTERS

What’s on your mind?

Everyday gum care · Understanding dentures · Healthy habits for children · Veteran referral questions · Common dental myths

Explore the dental health guide →
PRACTICE & RADIO LEADERSHIP
Albertina Burl McWilliams wearing a white coat embroidered with her name and Office Manager title over navy scrubs.

Albertina Burl McWilliams

Office Manager & Co-owner, A Dentist
Co-host & Co-owner, The Floss Boss

Albertina Burl McWilliams serves as Office Manager and co-owner of A Dentist. She also joins Dr. Burl as co-host and co-owner of The Floss Boss radio show on WJLD.

Support the conversation.

Help bring accessible dental education to Birmingham communities through radio, learning materials and future animation.

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Keep learning between broadcasts.

Go beyond an episode topic with practical dental-health articles you can read or listen to.

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