The Dental Hacks Podcast

Zach and Kevin welcome Alan back to the show by commiserating over those moments where you look at your schedule and wonder why you (or your past self) agreed to a specific procedure. Kevin's #16 Crown Prep: Kevin recounts the dread of seeing a crown prep on a third molar (#16) at 8:00 AM. Despite the technical difficulty and the "Is this a joke?" feeling, it ended up being successful with a rubber dam. Zach's "Self-Extracting" Molars: Zach shares a cautionary tale from his early career working with his father. He attempted to crown a second molar that was tilted so far distally it was practically trying to extract itself. The result? A lost contact, a lost crown, and eventually, a lost patient. The Bioclear Pivot: Alan discusses a recent case where he planned a crown on #15 but found decay so deep it was near the crest. He pivoted to a side-by-side Bioclear composite, which was harder and more time-consuming but ultimately the right clinical choice. Categorizing the "Resurrected" Patient The main th

Alan discusses his "whirlwind" travel plans for the Chicago Midwinter Meeting, reviews the new Bioclear TSS Matrix system, and shares his first impressions of the remarkably small Shining 3D Elf scanner. Key Highlights The Chicago Midwinter Strategy Alan is opting for a surgical strike on Chicago this year: The Schedule: Working Thursday, driving to Indiana, hitting the McCormick Center all day Friday for recording, and driving back Friday night. The Goal: Maximizing "content in the can" by recording with attendees and exhibitors without the expense of a multi-day hotel stay. Connect: If you're at McCormick Place on Friday the 20th, reach out via Facebook to say hello. Product Spotlight: Bioclear TSS Matrices Alan breaks down the new Tooth Surface Specific (TSS) matrix system from Bioclear. The Workflow: Labeled by tooth number (6–11) and surface (mesial/distal), making it "assistant-proof." Performance: Stiffer than previous iterations with better gingival control and less "over-bulking," signif

In this episode of the Group Function podcast, host Alan Mead sits down with Dr. Alex Kantor and Dr. Eric Applesies from the Just a Couple of Dentists podcast to unpack the "regular ass dentist" experience of buying, starting, running and selling dental practices! Fresh off their presentation at the 2026 Voices of Dentistry conference, the Eric and Alex (a married couple of dentists) dive into the logistics of optimizing a practice for sale, emphasizing that maximum value is built in the 18 to 24 months before a transition by tightening systems and improving hygiene "show rates." The conversation balances technical advice on EBITDA and overhead reduction with a candid—and occasionally spicy—critique of the post-COVID hygiene labor market, ultimately highlighting how dentists can prepare their businesses for a successful handoff to either a private buyer or a DSO. In their session and conversation with Alan, Dr. Alex Cantor and Dr. Eric Applesies highlighted several key levers to pull when prepping a practice

In this episode Alan sits down with Dr. Abe Hoellrich in Scottsdale, Arizona, during the Voices of Dentistry conference! Abe's practice focuses on sedation dentistry in Columbus, Ohio. He offers an insider's perspective on the "turf battles" surrounding anesthesia privileges, weighing the tensions between general dentists, oral surgeons, and medical doctors. The discussion highlights the nuances of patient safety versus access to care, with Abe arguing for the superior safety of reversible IV sedation compared to oral methods and emphasizing the need for stringent training to preserve the future of dental sedation. 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 and I

In this episode of the Very Clinical podcast, Zach and Kevin explore the evolution of social media within the dental profession, tracing the landscape from the early days of message boards like Dentaltown to the current era of Facebook groups, Reddit, and X. The hosts reflect on their personal experiences as digital observers and participants, discussing the culture of online communities—ranging from the valuable exchange of clinical tips to the unfortunate prevalence of "dunking" and trolling. They wrap up the conversation by sharing their favorite positive resources for dental content, including specific Instagram accounts and YouTube channels that offer genuine educational value. Join the Very Clinical Facebook group!  Join the Very Dental Facebook Group using one of these passwords: Timmerman, Bioclear, Hornbrook, Gary, McWethy, Crazy, 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 litt

Recorded live from VoD 2026 in Gilbert, Arizona Alan is joined by Jay Glazer from Crazy Dental to tackle the rising costs of running a dental practice. Together, they dismantle the outdated model of relying on sales reps and "special" pricing lists, advocating instead for the transparency and efficiency of online ordering. Jay shares his philosophy on overhead control using the "14-dollar milkshake" analogy, illustrating how small savings on supplies can compound into massive wealth over time. Tune in to learn how to ditch the donuts, stop overpaying for the same products, and utilize exclusive promo codes to slash your overhead immediately. Some links from the show: Crazy Dental use VERYSHIP for free shipping or VERYDENTAL10 for 10% off of your first order! 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

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