Viva Learning Podcasts | DentalTalk™

What we do for a living is a physically demanding profession. We're performing extremely detailed tasks that require high precision and clear visibility. And doing this over and over again, throughout the course of the day, can be traumatic to our bodies. So it's imperative that we are aware of our body position and the patient's position in the chair so that we minimize wear and tear on our musculoskeletal system. That means developing and maintaining good ergonomic habits. To tell us about this is our guest, Katrina Klein. Katrina is a registered dental hygienist for 16 years, national speaker, author, competitive bodybuilder and certified personal trainer. She's the founder of ErgoFitLife, where ergonomics and fitness are a lifestyle to prevent, reduce or eliminate pain. Thanks to our episode sponsors: VOCO America - https://www.voco.dental/us/ Shining 3D- https://www.shining3ddental.com/ GUM - https://www.sunstargum.com/us-en/

Joining us today is Dr. Robert Convissar, a general dentist who has performed thousands of oral cancer exams and hundreds of biopsies. He will share his approach to screening, his clinical insights, and some valuable tips that can dramatically improve our ability to detect oral cancer at its earliest, most treatable stages. Dr. Convissar has authored over twenty peer-reviewed papers and 7 laser textbooks. He has delivered close to 400 continuing education programs worldwide.

In this episode we'll learn about peri-implantitis and how a simple procedure using a silver impregnated plug can effectively prevent it from progressing into an implant failure. Our guest is Larry Clark, a well-respected dental researcher who has been involved in the dental industry for over 25 years. Thanks to our episode sponsor: NSK America - https://www.nskdental.com/

In today's episode, we'll explore the three key pillars of a successful dental practice: People, Processes, and Production. We'll discuss why a strong team culture is the foundation of any thriving practice—one that values good character, accountability, and collaboration. Our guest is Dr. David Rice, the founder of igniteDDS. He is a popular speaker and writer, editorial director of DentistryIQ and leads a team-centered restorative and implant practice in East Amherst, New York. To learn more about Dr. Rice visit ignitedds.com.

So picture this: you're in your operatory in the middle of a restorative case on a Friday afternoon and your staff member comes in and says your 10 yo patient Johnnie, just fell off of his skateboard and knocked out his upper right central incisor. The Mother is pretty stressed out and she's waiting for you to come to the phone. So the question is, as a GP, are you prepared to handle this case in the best possible way? In this episode we'll review the basics on how to handle the avulsed permanent tooth with complete apex formation. In a future podcast, I'll talk about avulsion of permanent teeth that have incomplete apex formation. Thanks to our episode sponsors: BISCO - https://www.bisco.com/ Solventum - https://www.solventum.com/en-us/home/oral-care/

In this episode, we'll break down what to look for when purchasing a CBCT machine—and why the features a salesman highlights may not be the most important factors to consider. While we'll focus primarily on how CBCT enhances implant procedures, the reality is that this technology benefits nearly every aspect of dentistry, improving outcomes across a wide range of treatments. If you've ever wondered whether CBCT is the missing piece in your practice, stay tuned—we've got the insights to help you make the right decision. Our guest is Dr. Steven Vorholt, a board certified dental implant specialist who practices in Santa Barbara, California. He has taught over 1,000 dentists place their first implants and thousands more through lectures, webinars, and podcasts. He is the host of The Full Arch Podcast.

Our dental instruments, especially when it comes to our hygiene department, are the backbone of our practice, but when they start to lose their edge, the question arises: should you retip, sharpen, replace them, or even switch to sharpen-free instruments? Each option has its pros and cons, and making the right decision can significantly impact your practice's efficiency, budget, and patient care quality. To help us make the right decision when it comes to our instrument maintenance is Emily Boge. Emily blends her extensive experience in dental hygiene and dental assisting with a dual Doctorate in Education and Organizational Leadership to provide education to entry level and licensed dental practitioners. Thanks to our episode sponsors: Septodont USA - https://www.septodontusa.com/ VOCO America - https://www.voco.dental/us/ GUM - https://www.sunstargum.com/us-en/

From protective liners and indirect pulp caps that help shield the pulp from further damage, to direct pulp caps aimed at maintaining vitality, to pulpotomies and pulpectomies when deeper intervention is necessary—each approach plays a key role in managing pulpal health. So, how do we determine the best course of action? To tell us all about it is our guest is Dr. Carla Cohn. She is a general dentist, devoted solely to the practice of dentistry for children. She owns and operates Kids Sleep Dentistry Winnipeg, a private practice at Western Surgery Centre in Canada. Dr. Cohn has recently founded Lit Smile Academy, a continuing dental education company. With extensive teaching experience and numerous publications, she is recognized internationally for her contributions to continuing dental education.

In this episode you will hear first-hand what silver diamine fluoride can do and why every dentist should consider using it on posterior teeth that are infected with dental caries. Our guest is Dr. John Frachella, a pediatric dentist (now treating adults and children) with 50 years experience in the delivery of dental services in public and private settings. He's worked in private practices across the country and for a decade was on staff at OHSU Dental School. He currently lectures at NYU Dental School for the largest dental residency program in the US. Thanks to our episode sponsors: NSK America - https://www.nskdental.com/ Centrix Dental - https://www.centrixdental.com/

Our guest today, Dr. Sara Kuckhoff, is a general dentist from Michigan who has been out of dental school for six years. She has fully embraced the mindset of continuous growth. She'll share her journey, how she pursues her passions, and why that pursuit has helped her not only enjoy her profession but also feel more confident and fulfilled as both a person and a dentist. Whether you're a new dentist just starting or a seasoned professional looking for fresh inspiration, this episode will remind you why setting goals, staying engaged, and keeping an open mind to learning can make all the difference in your career.

When faced with extensive decay or structural compromise in a primary tooth, full coverage restorations are often the go-to solution. But which material is best—traditional stainless steel or newer options like resin-based and zirconia? And what about those gray areas where we could opt for either full coverage or direct restorative techniques? To tell us all about it is our guest, Dr. Carla Cohn. She owns and operates Kids Sleep Dentistry Winnipeg, a private practice at Western Surgery Centre in Canada. She is the founder of Lit Smile Academy, a CE company that focuses on pediatric dentistry for the GP. In fact, she has an upcoming hands-on program in Vancouver on June 7th, 2025. You can get all the details at litsmileacademy.com. Thanks to our episode sponsors: Solventum - https://www.solventum.com/en-us/home/oral-care/ BISCO - https://www.bisco.com/

What does it mean for dental hygienists to take charge of the operatory? Traditionally seen as supporting roles, hygienists have focused on cleaning teeth and patient education. But our guest today believes they can do much more—enhancing case acceptance, improving clinical outcomes, and elevating overall patient care. Her mission is to empower hygienists to lead, take ownership of their role, and contribute beyond their clinical duties. Dr. Kelly Tanner is a reg dental hygienist who holds a Ph.D. in Business and Leadership. Her website is nextleveldentalhygiene.com.

As dental professionals, we often focus on the well-being of our patients, but it's equally important to prioritize our own health. The demands of a dental career—long hours, awkward postures, and repetitive movements can take a toll on our bodies, leading to chronic pain and injuries that can significantly impact our ability to work effectively. In this episode we'll address simple things we can do to minimize the risk of injuries so that we can continue to work optimally and pain-free, thereby enjoying good health and fitness throughout our lives and professional career. Our guest is Katrina Klein, an expert in ergonomics. She is a dental hygienist, author, speaker, educator and competitive bodybuilder. Her company is Ergofitlife. Thanks to our episode sponsors: VOCO America - https://www.voco.dental/us/ Shining 3D- https://www.shining3ddental.com/

To fully harness the remarkable technology of the intraoral scanner, it's important for us to understand the clinical best practices that are directly tied to capturing precise digital impressions. This includes scan technique, bur selection, prep design, tissue management and so forth. So today, we're sitting down with Dr. Chris Pescatore to fill us in on some key clinical techniques that he's learned over the past 30 years. Dr. Pescatore is a general dentist who has been a pioneer in digital dentistry since the early '90s, and has seen it all when it comes to creating aesthetic restorations. He maintains a full-time practice dedicated exclusively to aesthetic restorative dentistry in Danville, California. Thanks to our episode sponsors: BISCO - https://www.bisco.com/ Solventum - https://www.solventum.com/en-us/home/oral-care/

Beyond keeping your patients safe, a solid infection control protocol is also a powerful tool for retaining your top employees. This is especially important in a time when we're all dealing with a shortage of hygienists and dental assistants. So we'll be talking about this as well what to expect from an OSHA inspection and how best to respond to one. Joining us today is Dr. Karson Carpenter, a dentist and CEO and founder of Compliance Training Partners. Thanks to our episode sponsors: GC America - https://www.gc.dental/ NSK America - https://www.nskdental.com/

Practicing high-quality dentistry with premium materials is a cornerstone of building an extraordinary dental practice. But there's another crucial element—one so vital that without it, reaching the level of extraordinary is nearly impossible. This key component has been foundational for some of the greatest companies in existence today. To tell us all about it is our guest Dr. Ankur Gupta. Thanks to our episode sponsors: VOCO America - https://www.voco.dental/us/ Centrix Dental - https://www.centrixdental.com/

By pursuing specialized training in treating sleep disorders, Dr. Patterson has carved out a unique niche in her practice. Not only does she receive referrals from other general dentists, but she's also become a go-to resource for healthcare providers in the medical community that are dealing with patients with sleep disorders. We're excited to have Dr. Patterson on the show to share her journey—a journey that shows how following your passion through continued learning can lead to a fulfilling and dynamic dental career. Thanks to our episode sponsors: Solventum - https://www.solventum.com/en-us/home/oral-care/ BISCO - https://www.bisco.com/

Today we'll be talking to Dr. Howard Glazer. a knowledgeable, candid and entertaining dentist who has been practicing for 50 years! We'll touch on the high points of provisional materials, tissue retraction, lasers, handpieces, curing lights, and patient management tools. Dr. Howard Glazer is a Fellow and past president of the Academy of General Dentistry, an internationally known clinician, educator and author He publishes a bi-monthly column in Dental Economics entitled “I Have It…You Need It!” where he shares his opinion and experiences on materials, products and techniques that will make your day easier, more productive and rewarding. He maintains a general practice in Fort Lee, NJ.

Dr. Dean Elledge, a seasoned dentist based in Kansas City, found himself at a crossroads in his career. While many might have settled into routine, Dr. Elledge wanted something more—something that would reignite his excitement every morning. His dream? To become the director of a residency program. However, there was no such opportunity available near his home in Kansas City. But when he learned about an opening for the position at Wichita State University, nearly 200 miles away from his home, he didn't let distance deter him. His decision to chase his dream has not only transformed his career but also given him a renewed sense of purpose. Yes, sacrifices may be required, but when the payoff is fulfillment and purpose, the journey is well worth it.

There's more to an IOS than just taking an impression. Our guest today, Dr. Chris Pescatore, believes that the dentist should use the scanner strategically in the first visit. As he explains, it builds trust and becomes the foundation for a successful dentist-patient relationship. Dr. Pescatore, is a general dentist with over 30 years of experience. He has been a pioneer in digital dentistry since the early '90s and has seen it all when it comes to creating aesthetic restorations. Thanks to our episode sponsors: Solventum - https://www.solventum.com/en-us/home/oral-care/ BISCO - https://www.bisco.com/

Our guest, Dr. Susan McMahon, has mastered how to leverage 3D printing technology in her practice. She'll share how 3D printing has made her provisionals exceptional and how it has transformed her indirect restorative workflow. Dr. McMahon has been honored as a Top U.S. Dentist more than 20 times and has been voted by her peers as a Top Pittsburgh Dentist every year for over two decades.

Part of the strategy of a successful practice, as our guest points out, is to get the patient to become part of the conversation. This of course helps with case acceptance and patient satisfaction. We'll be talking about the importance of cusp protection in our restorations and why it's so important to consider a crown versus composite restorative. We'll also discuss how the standardization of dental materials within a given practice helps improve efficiency and productivity. Dr. Derse is a mentor at the Kois Center in Seattle, WA and has lectured internationally on cosmetics, restorative dentistry, aligner therapy, and case presentation and acceptance.

Imagine this scenario: a dentist's office, recently purchased by a new owner, finds itself facing a surprise OSHA inspection due to a disgruntled employee. With the previous owner neglecting OSHA regulations and the new owner strapped for time in the transition, the practice is now grappling with the repercussions of non-compliance. Our guest, Dr. Karson Carpenter, dentist and President of Compliance Dental Partners, will tell us what actually happened and how to best manage this kind of situation. Thanks to our episode sponsors: BISCO - https://www.bisco.com/ Solventum - https://www.3m.com/clarity-aligners-flex/

Today we'll be discussing the benefits of 3D printing, and how it simplifies office workflow, increases efficiency, and allows dentists to provide the highest quality care to their patients. We will also detail the different applications 3D printing can be used for, as well as the specific steps involved. Our guest is Dr. Julia Latham, a general dentist and partner in a 5-doctor, 16-operatory practice in Stratford, Connecticut. She has completed many postdoctoral courses in orthodontics and is an Invisalign platinum provider.

In this episode, we'll be talking to an ergonomic expert about today's modern dental chair. We'll be addressing questions like, what makes a dental chair ergonomic and what are the key things to consider when looking to purchase a new dental chair. Our guest is Katrina Klein. Katrina is a registered dental hygienist for 16 years, national speaker, author, competitive bodybuilder and certified personal trainer. She's the founder of ErgoFitLife, where ergonomics and fitness are a lifestyle to prevent, reduce or eliminate pain.

We'll be talking about the 3D printer itself as well as the materials that go into them. So if you thinking about incorporating 3D printing into your practice stay tuned for a very interesting episode. Our guest is Dr. Jeffrey Horowitz, a seasoned clinician and educator who is passionate about dentists seeing themselves as Oral and Facial Health Care Physicians rather than tooth mechanics.

3D Printing. We keep hearing about this new technology but what does it actually do for our practice? What does it take to implement this into our practice so we can start printing models, occlusal guards, surgical splints, aligners, provisionals, retainers and even inlays and onlays? To talk about how 3D printing and how it has been a game changer for her practice is guest Dr. Susan McMahon. McMahon has devoted her professional career to the pursuit of advanced technologies in cosmetic and minimally invasive dentistry. She frequently lectures across the United States and abroad on minimally invasive dentistry, technology and conservative, undetectable cosmetic dentistry. Thanks to our episode sponsors: SciCan - https://www.scican.com/us/ GC America - https://www.gc.dental/

Our final podcast for 2024! All of us who are doing endo have one main goal in mind, and that's to save the tooth. But in many cases, it's impossible to reach lateral, accessory and small constricted canals with our disinfectant solution, such as sodium hypochlorite. This means we often leave active microbes in these areas that can eventually lead to an endodontic failure. So the question is, is there something we can do in our procedure that can solve this problem? The answer is yes! It has to do with a new technology that is relatively inexpensive and very easy to use. This technology is based on high frequency conduction and it is extremely effective in helping to disinfect tiny accessory canals that would otherwise go untreated. To tell us all about is our guest Dr. Bruno Azevedo. Dr. Azevedo is a board certified oral and maxillofacial radiologist, Endodontist and arguably the best teacher and educator on the topic of CBCT in dentistry.

When it comes to endodontic irrigation, what are the main principles we should be adhering to? And based on these principles, are we performing endodontic irrigation in a way that will bring us the best clinical outcome. To tell us all about it is our guest Dr. Allen Nasseh. Dr Nasseh is a world respected endodontist who currently practices endo and lives in Boston Mass. He is a senior faculty member at the Harvard School of Dental Medicine and can be found online at YouTube.com/@AANasseh. Thanks to our episode sponsors: BISCO - https://www.bisco.com/ J. Morita - https://www.morita.com/usa/

Crafting beautiful veneers isn't just about technical skill—it's about ensuring that every step of the process leads to a result that your patient will love. So, how do we achieve that? Stay tuned as we break down strategies and tips for mastering this process to give every patient a confident, beautiful smile they'll love! Our guest is Dr. Dimple Desai, founder of Luminous Smiles of Newport Beach, a boutique dental practice dedicated to enhancing patients' smiles. As an Accredited Member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, she belongs to a distinguished group of professionals worldwide. Her contributions to dentistry include publications in prestigious dental journals and international speaking engagements, leveraging her expertise to advance the field.

According to our guest, Dr Stephanie Vondrak, if you want to make sure your restorative work is going to last, you need to know about the entire occlusal system, and that includes the TMJ. So Dr. Vondrak sought out CE courses taught by TMJ experts which have given her not only the ability to understand and diagnose TMJ disorders, but to actually treat them. She starts with protective therapy and then if necessary, proceeds with corrective therapy. Treating TMJ disorders in house is not for every GP, but, understanding the options for your patients is certainly the responsibility of the general dentist. Dr Vondrak owns and operates a private practice in Elkhorn, Nebraska. She has pursued over 600 hours of post-doctorate education in TMD, occlusion, orthodontics, and sleep apnea including the Pankey Institute, the Schuster Center, and the American Academy of Craniofacial Pain. Thanks to our episode sponsors: Ivoclar - https://www.ivoclarusa.com/finder/makeitemax/index.php 3M - https://www.3m.com/clarity-aligners-flex/

In this episode, we'll be talking about a new dental approach to an old problem, and that's Oral Human papillomavirus, commonly referred to as HPV. Why is this virus so dangerous and how can we as dental professionals help save lives by screening for this insidious virus? To answer these questions and more, is our guest, Dr Mohammad Kamal. Dr Kamal completed his Pathology training at Harbor UCLA Medical Center in California, serving as a chief resident. He completed subspecialty fellowship training in Gastrointestinal and Liver Pathology at UCLA and he is board certified in Anatomic Pathology. Dr. Kamal served as Medical Director of LabCorp's Dianon Laboratory and as Chief Medical Officer for PLUS Diagnostics. Thanks to our episode sponsors: NSK America - https://www.nskdental.com/ Ivoclar - https://www.ivoclarusa.com/finder/makeitemax/index.php

As dental professionals and practice owners we have a lot to think about and manage in order to keep everything running smoothly at the office. But there is one thing that is probably not top of mind... and that's workplace violence. The odds of a violent incident unfolding in our practice is relatively low. But if it happens, the question is, are you prepared? So we invited Mary Govoni, RDH, CDA, MBA, to talk to us about workplace violence in the dental setting and what we can do as dental professionals to best protect our team members and patients. How do we identify the risks, de-escalate a potential violent interaction and ultimately decide, in the case of a deadly threat, whether to run, hide or fight. OSHA link: https://www.osha.gov/etools/evacuation-plans-procedures/eap/ Thanks to our episode sponsors: GC America - https://www.gc.dental/ DENTALEZ - https://www.dentalez.com/

To help manage post-op sensitivity and recurrent decay in composite restorative dentistry, we do have options in our selection of composite resin materials. Is your composite material bioactive? Does it actively participate in the oral ecosystem, helping to reduce post-op sensitivity and acid producing microbes at the tooth-composite interface? To tell us more about it is our guest, Dr Neville Hatfield. Dr. Hatfield graduated Magna Cum Laude from Boston University School of Dental Medicine. He completed a GPR at the Manhattan Veterans Affairs Hospital, where he provided comprehensive prosthetic and surgical treatment to military veterans. He currently practices in New Jersey.

Today we'll be discussing how 3D facial scanning and 3D printing can offer the clinician tremendous advantages to aid in the diagnosis, design, and fabrication of full-arch dentistry. We will also discuss how to best transition your practice into the world of digital dentistry. No question, prices have come down and according to our guest today a dentist can now equip an office with a full suite of digital technology for $25,000. We'll discuss the future of digital dentistry and how AI will play a part in everything we do as clinicians. Thanks to our episode sponsors: Shining 3D- https://www.shining3ddental.com/ SciCan - https://www.scican.com/us/

We all know that full arch implant cases can be difficult. More specifically the bite registration can be difficult to establish because we don't have reference of teeth to set the vertical dimension of occlusion. Is there any digital method to solve this problem? Well, there is! Dr. Philippe Nuytens, a well-respected prosthodontist, will explain how a simple idea crossed his mind that encouraged him to develop and commercialize a novel scan body system for intraoral scanners. The system makes it easy and fast for the dentist to quickly and reliably establish VDO and immediately scan the mouth. Each scan body incorporates an adjustable bite screw (CAPS). This episode addresses this new and exciting VDO tool. You can learn more at Viva Learning through Dr. Nuyten's webinar and at https://www.dynamicabutment.com/

Today we'll be talking to a dentist who knows a lot about full arch rehabilitation. He's here to share some of his tips and tricks. He's a young ambitious dentist who has taken full advantage of digital technology which has brought him predictable success with his full arch rehab cases. His practice is fully digital and he absolutely loves practicing in this fast evolving digital revolution. His name is Dr. Danny Domingue, a General Dentist in Lafayette, Louisiana with a private practice dedicated to implant dentistry.

Today we'll be taking a clinical journey through the delivery of a zirconia crown. We'll talk about the scan, marking our margins, working with the lab, choosing the right kind of zirconia and the tools and techniques for seating, adjusting and polishing our zirconia crown. Our guest is Dr. Marty Jablow, known as America's Dental Technology Coach.

One of the most valuable steps a new dentist can take is finding a mentor—someone who's been in the field for 25 years or more and has learned through experience, including their own mistakes. A mentor offers the chance to see what lies ahead, helping you avoid getting caught up in the moment and make well-thought-out decisions about the kind of practice you want to build and the investments you'll need to make. Today, we're sitting down with Dr. Chris Pescatore, a general dentist with over 30 years of experience. He has been a pioneer in digital dentistry since the early '90s and has seen it all when it comes to creating aesthetic restorations. As you listen to Dr. Pescatore's insights, we hope you gain invaluable advice to help guide you as you embark on your own dental career.

In today's episode, we're exploring a common challenge faced by dental practices: the limitations imposed by dental insurance on billing frequency for CT scans. But what if there's a solution lying in plain sight? What if dentists, as medical specialists, could leverage a different avenue to bill for these essential scans, not only unlocking a significant financial opportunity but also enhancing patient care and well-being? Our guest today is Kandra Sellers, a RDH with over 25 years in the dental industry. She is widely considered one of the most passionate and respected dental coaches. She is an educator in the field of oral systemic health, as well as founder and CEO of TIPS Medical Billing. Thanks to our episode sponsors: DENTALEZ - https://www.dentalez.com/ J. Morita - https://www.morita.com/usa/

In addition to her successful dental practice in Pittsburgh PA, Dr. Susan McMahon has embraced a leadership role as one of the most sought after speakers in the dental profession. And with her success, she is a strong advocate for women dentists to take center stage in their field. In this episode we'll talk about how women can make their way to the podium and balance their career between being a clinician and an educator. Thanks to our episode sponsors: 3M - https://www.3m.com/clarity-aligners-flex/ BISCO - https://www.bisco.com/

Obstructive sleep apnea, commonly referred to as OSA, affects 25% of adults yet 80% of cases go undiagnosed. And we know that sleep-related breathing disorders can cause havoc on a patient's oral and systemic health. And with so many patients having OSA, dentists have an amazing opportunity to treat these patients that are already patients of record. In this episode, we'll hear from two experts on the best way to start the journey of dental sleep medicine, helping patients on their path to good oral and systemic health while boosting revenue for the practice.

There's no question there's been an ongoing buzz and growing interest among dental professionals in, what is being referred to as, Wellness Dentistry. So what exactly is Wellness Dentistry? And why would a dentist consider positioning his or her practice around it? To answer these questions and more is our guest Dr Mohammad Kamal. Dr Kamal completed his Pathology training at Harbor UCLA Medical Center in California, serving as a chief resident. He completed subspecialty fellowship training in Gastrointestinal and Liver Pathology at UCLA and he is board certified in Anatomic Pathology. Dr. Kamal served as Medical Director of LabCorp's Dianon Laboratory and as Chief Medical Officer for PLUS Diagnostics. Thanks to our episode sponsors: Ivoclar - https://www.ivoclar.com/ NSK America - https://www.nskdental.com/

Not all masks are created equal, and understanding the risks of using sub-par masks is vital for both safety and liability. In a dental practice, where high-aerosol procedures are routine, using the wrong mask or a sub-par mask may not only put your staff and patients at risk of exposure to harmful particles but also open your practice to serious legal consequences. With us today is our guest, Dr. Sheri Doniger. She is a sought after speaker, KOL and expert on the topic of infection control and prevention.

Today we'll be talking about a variety of perio related topics that GPs should be aware of. How do we determine the frequency of our re-care appointments? How do we get the highest compliance from our patients? Is there a secret sauce for getting predictable success with our perio cases? To tell us more about it is our guest Dr. Steven Milman. Dr. Milman received his dental degree from Baylor College of Dentistry in Dallas, Texas. He completed his Periodontal residency at the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio. He was a researcher in periodontal microbiology and was a full time periodontist in his private practice in Round Rock and Austin, Texas for 36 years. Thanks to our episode sponsors: GC America - https://www.gc.dental/ SciCan - https://www.scican.com/us/

So how do we elevate our practice and what does elevating our practice do for our career, business and patients. It actually does quite a lot. For one, it helps with employee retention. A recent poll showed that the number one reason why a dental hygienist leaves a dental practice is because the practice is not innovative, it's doing the same ol same ol and they feel they are stuck in a rut, not learning anything new. nor are they trying new techniques and products. Also part of our episode today is talking about incorporating diagnostics into our practice. Instead of rushing through the medical history and moving right to our scaling, root planing and prophies, we should dedicate time to diagnostic testing, getting to the root cause of the problem. As our guest Amanda Hill will explain, diagnostic testing is a game-changer for the practice and not only builds trust between the practice and the patient, but also drives revenue to a whole new level.

Overall, we're doing less endo surgery than in the past. So why is this happening and what are we doing instead? When do we actually need to do endo surgery and how successful are endo surgical procedures? To tell us more about trends, techniques and success rates of endodontic surgeries these days is our guest Dr. Allen Nasseh. Dr. Nasseh received his DDS from Northwestern and his specialty certificate in Endodontics from Harvard, where is has been a senior clinical faculty member and lecturer for the past 28 years. He lives and practices endodontics in Downtown Boston. You can also find him online at youtube.com/@aanasseh. Thanks to our episode sponsors: J. Morita - https://www.morita.com/usa/ DENTALEZ - https://www.dentalez.com/

A fee-for-service practice doesn't have to be this pie-in-the-sky far reaching goal - it is attainable with the right mindset, good communication and keeping your eye on the prize. To tell us more about it is our guest Dr. Lauren Rainey. Dr. Rainey works as a general dentist and currently teaches a broad array of subjects to dentists in the US & Canada. Thanks to our episode sponsors: BISCO - https://www.bisco.com/ 3M - https://www.3m.com/clarity-aligners-flex/

To tell us the importance of having preventative protocol in a dental practice and all the nuances around building the optimal caries prevention toolbox are our guests today, Danielle Avila and Laura Bettencourt. They are both RDHs with over 15 years of hygiene experience. They are co-founders of L'Diamante Dental Coaching, helping hygienists gain confidence and shine in their careers.

Have you ever thought about practicing dentistry in a rural area? In this episode, we'll take a closer look at what it means to practice dentistry in rural America. Our guest is Dr. Scott Benjamin, who is in private practice in rural upstate NY for over 40 years. Dr. Benjamin has faculty appointments at several universities, is the Chairman of the ADA Standards Committee Working Group on Dental Lasers and is a Past-President of the Academy of Laser Dentistry. He currently serves on the editorial review board for several prestigious dental journals. Thanks to our episode sponsors: NSK America - https://www.nskdental.com/ GC America - https://www.gc.dental/

So the question is, if you're willing to try some new dental products (different from what you've been using for years) how do you know which one is best for you, your team members and your patients? To help us put this all in perspective, we'll be talking with Emily Boge. Emily is a RDH, speaker and writer with a dual Doctorate in Education and Organizational Leadership. She's a champion for innovation, influencing manufacturers to prioritize practitioner input into product development.