The Dental Hacks Podcast

This throwback episode was originally recorded live from the main stage at Voices of Dentistry 2022 where the original Dental Hacks—Dr. Alan Mead and Dr. Jason Lipscomb—reunite for a hilarious and nostalgic session. The duo kicks things off by catching up on life since their "breakup" and going head-to-head in a competition to determine who has endured the worst patient horror story of the pandemic era. Later in the show, the classic Brain Trust format returns as Dr. Mark Costes and Dr. Justin Moody join the stage for a round of "Ask Us Anything." The panel covers a wide range of topics, including their surprising hobbies outside of dentistry, pandemic takeaways, and critical advice regarding practice startups versus acquisitions for the next generation of dentists. Join the Very Dental Facebook Group using one of these passwords: Timmerman, Bioclear, Hornbrook, Gary, McWethy, Papa Randy, or Lipscomb!  The Very Dental Podcast network is and will remain free to download. If you'd like to support the shows yo

In this classic episode Dr. Mike DiTolla returns to the show to break down the clinical realities of working with zirconia. After sharing a humorous and humbling story about his recent shoulder surgery and the universality of missed nerve blocks, Mike shifts focus to the material science of modern dentistry. He details the specific use cases for full-strength versus translucent zirconia, explains why he treats cement margins like narrow Class V restorations, and offers precise protocols for adjusting and polishing without damaging the ceramic. From the "Lipscomb Scale" of removal difficulty to the critical importance of decontamination after try-in, this conversation offers practical, universal solutions for simplifying the zirconia workflow. Join the Very Dental Facebook Group using one of these passwords: Timmerman, Bioclear, Hornbrook, Gary, McWethy, Papa Randy, or Lipscomb!  The Very Dental Podcast network is and will remain free to download. If you'd like to support the shows you love at Very Dental th

This classic Dental Hacks episode features a long-form interview with Dr. Rella Christensen of TRAC Research (formerly CRA). The discussion covers the history of independent product evaluation, the challenges of maintaining objectivity in dental research, and significant findings regarding restorative materials and caries management. The original interview had really poor sound quality but a little help from an Adobe AI filter really cleared it up. This interview was worth another listen, I think! Key Interview Highlights 1. The Origins and Ethics of TRAC Research History: The organization began in 1976 (founded by Gordon Christensen) with the goal of collecting subjective data from clinicians to create objective "Consumer Reports" style rankings for dentistry. Unbiased Stance: Dr. Christensen emphasized that TRAC is a non-profit foundation that accepts no funding from manufacturers. If a company refuses to provide a product for testing (often fearing a negative review), TRAC purchases it on the open mark

It's New Year's Eve Eve! Zach and Kevin return to close out the year with returning guests Dr. Gary Holtzclaw and Dr. Erin Elliott. In this final episode of 2025, the crew trades stories about their most memorable (and traumatic) New Year's Eve experiences—including a high school snowball fight that went terribly wrong and an intense dental school dodgeball tournament. Later, the conversation shifts from parties to protocols as the group discusses the major clinical and business changes they implemented in their practices this year. From AI integration and staffing shake-ups to battles with corporate CEOs and the rise of "Google Review extortion," they cover the highs and lows of practicing dentistry in 2025. Join the Very Clinical Facebook group!  Join the Very Dental Facebook Group using one of these passwords: Timmerman, Bioclear, Hornbrook, Gary, McWethy, Papa Randy, or Lipscomb!  The Very Dental Podcast network is and will remain free to download. If you'd like to support the shows you love at Very Den

In this candid episode, Alan announces he is taking a hiatus from recording new content for the Very Dental Podcast Network. Feeling momentarily "tapped out" after nearly 12 years of podcasting, Alan reflects on the evolution of the medium and his desire to avoid becoming repetitive. Starting in January, the show will move to a weekly Friday release schedule featuring remastered "Greatest Hits" episodes, beginning with a classic 2015 interview with Dr. Rella Christensen. While he plans to step back from the microphone for a bit, he will continue to produce episodes for hosts Kevin and Zach and intends to record at the upcoming Voice of Dentistry and Chicago Midwinter meetings. Alan concludes by asking the audience for feedback on future formats, including potential co-hosts or narrative storytelling. Message me on Facebook or email me if you've got thoughts.  Some links from the show: Voices of Dentistry Go check out Bioclear from courses to gear to matrices, you can get 15% off your order with code: Very

In this throwback Dental Hacks episode, I am joined by Dr. Jason Lipscomb to welcome two absolute legends in dental education: Dr. Frank Spear and Dr. Gregg Kinzer. This interview was originally released back in 2018 and it marked the first time Jason, Frank, and Gregg sat down together on the podcast, delivering a conversation packed with history, philosophy, and actionable practice management advice. The conversation traces the evolution of dental continuing education, moving from Frank's early days of disjointed lectures to the structured, curriculum-based approach of the Spear Center today. The group discusses the dynamics of Frank and Gregg's successful 20-year partnership, emphasizing the importance of shared vision over finding a "clone." They provide deep insights into patient communication, specifically how to filter new patients using the "Emergency Room vs. Mayo Clinic" analogy and how to re-engage long-time patients in comprehensive care without making them feel neglected. Finally, they cover the

Join hosts Zach and Kevin for the annual Very Clinical holiday wrap-up! This week, they welcome back the recurring year-end duo, Dr. Erin Elliott and Dr. Gary Holtzclaw. It is officially a tradition as Erin and Gary join the guys to break down how they are spending the holidays and what has changed in their lives over the last twelve months. In this festive episode, the group shares their unique Christmas traditions, ranging from Icelandic rice pudding games to seafood feasts and tongue-in-cheek "virgin sacrifices." Beyond the holiday cheer, they dive into significant life updates. Kevin discusses the transition of selling his practice to become an associate and his growing obsession with pickleball. Erin shares the joys of empty nesting and her quest to visit every NFL stadium. Gary reveals why he deleted his social media accounts to reclaim his attention span and his commitment to taking real vacations, while Zach opens up about the realities of taking over full ownership of his family practice. It is a can

In this holiday edition, Alan starts off feeling the weight of the Winter Solstice and a bit of "podcasting burnout," questioning whether an audio veteran needs to pivot to video to stay relevant. However, he refuses to stay in a funk. Alan shares his real-time strategy for getting his head straight for the holidays, including a change of recording venue, hacking his own social media algorithms to remove toxicity, and finally getting back to the gym. He also shares updates on his practice's workflow, his renewed passion for Bioclear, and why you need to be in Arizona this January. Some links from the show: Voices of Dentistry Go check out Bioclear from courses to gear to matrices, you can get 15% off your order with code: VeryDental8TON Crazy Dental: Get free shipping with code: VeryDentalShip Net32: Check out great pricing at net32.com/verydental Relevance Online Marketing: Mention "Very Dental" to get your setup fee waived. dr.mike on lemon water  Join the Very Dental Facebook Group using one

This throwback Dental Hacks episode features one of Alan and Jason's classic airway discussions with Dr. Jeff Rouse. This was recorded at the 2018 DS World held in Orlando. Dr. Rouse elaborated on the Seattle Protocol and the essential approach to airway management in dentistry. Jeff broke down the differences between airway issues and sleep apnea, emphasizing the importance of nasal breathing and the role of night guards. He also addresses screening techniques using high-resolution pulse oximetry and cardiopulmonary coupling and the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration involving ENT specialists and orthodontists.  Some links from the show: Jeff's links: Spear Education The Seattle Protocol Links from the show: Al's article in the November issue of Dental Economics: "7 tips to make anterior composites more predictable, profitable and fun"   Go Hack Yourself: Jason: Mindnode 5 Alan: Foamies by Piksters Join the Very Dental Facebook Group using one of these passwords: Timmerman, Bioclear, Hornb

Kevin and Alan are joined again by Dr. Dhaval Patel to discuss the significant shifts occurring in digital dentistry, moving beyond the traditional CEREC workflow. Dhaval explains that his highly popular online group, "Keep CERECing," was recently renamed "Keep CAD/CAMing" after he consulted with Dentsply Sirona's legal team regarding trademark usage, which prompted him to broaden the group's scope. This change has led to a natural expansion in technology focus, now encompassing the wider CAD/CAM landscape including 3D printing and 5-axis milling. Dhaval details how he uses 3D printing for models, surgical guides, and night guards, and leverages a 5-axis mill for larger, multi-unit cases and zirconia restorations, highlighting the cost efficiency and ability to run large jobs overnight. The conversation also explores the rise of dedicated, outsourced digital designers and the potential for artificial intelligence (AI) to handle design in the near future. Some links from the show: Keep CADCAMing Facebook gro

Alan explores the state of prevention in dentistry, inspired by his constant sense of smelling periodontitis everywhere. He argues that while the profession talks a good game about prevention, its core focus remains surgical intervention. Alan stresses that the success of dental health hinges on the 363 days of patient home care outside the office, yet dentists often fail to properly educate patients on effective techniques beyond generic instructions to "brush and floss." Drawing on insights from hygiene experts, he calls for a radical shift to front-load prevention—moving past a reliance on periodic exams to actively equipping patients with the customized tools and knowledge needed for effective, daily self-care. Some links from the show: Michelle Strange's Instagram Join the Very Dental Facebook Group using one of these passwords: Timmerman, Bioclear, Hornbrook, Gary, McWethy, Papa Randy, or Lipscomb! The Very Dental Podcast Network is and will remain free; please support the people who support us! Cr

AI is in the conversation all the time these days. Most people are convinced that the productivity gains that AI promises are all to the good, but is that really true? Alan is joined again by Dr. Gary Holtzclaw for a conversation that needs to be had. The conversation includes the role of AI in dentistry, skepticism towards new technologies, the evolution of social media, and the impact of sports betting on the integrity of sports. They explore the benefits and potential threats of AI, the changing landscape of social media interactions, and the implications of gambling in sports. The conversation highlights the need for critical thinking in the face of overwhelming information and the importance of maintaining integrity in both technology and sports. Join the Very Dental Facebook Group using one of these passwords: Timmerman, Bioclear, Hornbrook, Gary, McWethy, Papa Randy, or Lipscomb!  The Very Dental Podcast network is and will remain free to download. If you'd like to support the shows you love at Very

On the Very Clinical podcast we're suckers for a good story, and our guest, Dr. Dhaval Patel tells one of the best ones we've ever heard!  Kevin and Alan (sorry, no Zach this episode, he's busy mourning the record of his Kansas City Chiefs) welcome Dr. Dhaval Patel to the show. Our plan was to talk about his journey into CAD-CAM dentistry and don't worry, we get there. But he tells the story of how he became a dentist in the US after his training in India and the story is AMAZING. Let's just say that Dhaval has taught us that you need to ask for the things that you want.  Following this amazing story, Dr. Patel recounts his unexpected introduction to CEREC technology in 2006, starting with a dust-collecting Red Cam unit at his Pacific Dental Services office. Despite initial skepticism from colleagues about "shitty crowns," a half-day training session with Dr. Bob Conrad ignited his passion for the technology, leading him to fully embrace it, become an owner-doctor, an early adopter of the Omnicam, a renowned

In this episode of the Very Dental Student Podcast, host Mohamed Abo-Basha and Dr. Alan Mead discuss his journey through the fall semester of his D4 year. We discuss Mo's recent experiences with dental boards and externships as he approaches graduation. Mo shares that the dental boards have recently changed, moving away from live patient exams to mannequin-based clinical testing (Prosthodontics, Endodontics, Periodontics already completed, Operative to follow) and computer-based written boards. He expresses that this change is a positive step ethically. Clinically, Mo is nearing completion of his requirements, only needing a few more Scaling and Root Planing (SRP) cases. He also details his externships, which provided valuable experience in high-volume operative and extraction procedures at a low-fee clinic and a mobile unit, significantly boosting his speed and confidence in procedures like administering anesthesia and performing quick, effective patient exams. Looking ahead, his final semester will primaril

Alan is joined once again by Dr. Martin Mendelson to talk about about his new book, 'One Move Makes All the Difference.' They discuss the journey of writing the book, the importance of taking actionable steps, and how to overcome overwhelm in both personal and professional life. Martin shares insights on marketing strategies, the future of dental practice ownership, and the role of coaching in personal development. The conversation also touches on the innovative use of AI in audiobook production and the significance of personal stories in inspiring others. Some links from the show: "One Move Makes All the Difference" by Dr. Martin Mendelson Metamorphosis Coaching Join the Very Dental Facebook Group using one of these passwords: Timmerman, Bioclear, Hornbrook, Gary, McWethy, Papa Randy, or Lipscomb!  The Very Dental Podcast network is and will remain free to download. If you'd like to support the shows you love at Very Dental then show a little love to the people that support us! I'm a big fan of the Bio

In this throwback episode of the Very Clinical Podcast, hosts Zach and Kevin are joined by Dr. Nate Lawson to dive into the evolving world of 3D printing in dentistry. They touch on a variety of topics including the current state of 3D printed crowns, bonding protocols, practical applications in night guards and dentures, and market trends. They also discuss the economic and technological benefits and challenges of integrating 3D printing in a dental practice.  Some links from the show: Wendy's on Twitter The Qualified Captain on Instagram Kevin's Facebook dentinaltube Instagram Join the Very Clinical Facebook group!  Join the Very Dental Facebook Group using one of these passwords: Timmerman, Bioclear, Hornbrook, Gary, McWethy, Papa Randy, or Lipscomb!  The Very Dental Podcast network is and will remain free to download. If you'd like to support the shows you love at Very Dental then show a little love to the people that support us! I'm a big fan of the Bioclear Method! I think you should give it a try

Alan opens the episode by discussing his experiences teaching his two sons, particularly his youngest, Jacob, how to drive. This experience, which he finds unnerving and anxiety-producing, has highlighted how much of his own driving is now automatic "muscle memory" that he struggles to verbalize. He notes the beginner's mindset—or lack thereof, particularly in confident teenage boys—and how new drivers often don't realize what they don't know, struggling with basic things like staying in the lane. Alan draws a parallel between his son's learner's permit and a new dental license, reflecting on his own lack of clinical experience after graduating dental school in 1997 with a minimal number of completed procedures. He suggests that a new dentist's license is essentially a "learner's permit," and advises both new practitioners and experienced dentists approaching new techniques (like his recent Bioclear review) to embrace humility and the beginner's mindset to learn effectively without existing biases. Join the 

This episode features host Alan welcoming back guest Dr. David Clark, the founder of the Bioclear Method, for an insightful and entertaining discussion. The main focus is the launch of the new Tooth and Surface Specific (TSS) matrix system, which David describes as a "game-changer" that significantly simplifies complex composite restorations, particularly for teeth with normal papillae. They also cover the rising value of Bioclear procedures, with David sharing a story of a patient who expected to pay $10,000 per tooth for comprehensive treatment. Finally, they dive into a "King of the Nerds" conversation about the use of operating microscopes in dentistry, drawing parallels to the early resistance faced by a pioneering neurosurgeon, and discussing the challenge of using high magnification on an unstable patient—like a scene from the movie Twister. Some links from the show: Bioclear TSS (Tooth and Specific Surface) matrices Bioclear Learning Center Join the Very Dental Facebook Group using one of these p

In this episode of the Very Clinical Podcast, hosts Zach and Kevin welcome back special guest Dr. Frank Clayton for a deep-dive conversation sharing essential advice on navigating a dental career from its beginning stages to retirement. The discussion kicks off with lighthearted banter about alternative dream careers—Zach as a baseball play-by-play announcer, Kevin as a morning radio host, and Frank as a game show host. For the early career dentist (Years 1–7), Frank advises working for a couple of years, then investing heavily in CE to establish a clinical niche (like his focus on form, function, and aesthetics), and, most critically, living well below one's means while investing consistently with a dental-specific financial planner—advice that Kevin reinforces by telling listeners to "gamble on yourself." During the middle-game grind (Years 10–25), Frank recommends shedding unhappy or unprofitable procedures to embrace the "boring" but profitable, repetitive work, while utilizing advanced tax-sheltering str

Alan reflects on his self-described "average" skill level as a dentist and explores how adopting prescriptive, systematic approaches can help practitioners in the middle of the bell curve achieve consistently excellent patient outcomes. Inspired by his recent experience at a Bioclear course, he argues that a systemized methodology, like the one taught by Bioclear, is often more reliable than relying on individual "superhero" hand skills or talents. Dr. Mead shares how the course's emphasis on a specific, step-by-step process—from using warmed composite and specific matrices to post-operative polishing—resulted in universally great outcomes for all attendees, regardless of baseline skill. He strongly recommends that fellow dentists, particularly those who struggle with consistency or implementation after CE, consider adopting systems and maximizing magnification (like using a microscope or high-power loops) to elevate their practice. Finally, he encourages listeners to try a piece of the system, specifically t