The Dental Hacks Podcast

In this episode of The Very Dental Brain Trust Alan is joined by Dr. Lance Timmerman, Dr. Gary Holtzclaw, and Dr. Randy Houska to tackle a series of challenging dental scenarios. From addressing patient complaints and negotiating treatment plans, to managing new technology implementation and handling tricky diagnoses, the group shares their wealth of experience and practical wisdom. Join them as they exchange stories, strategies, and a few laughs while navigating the complexities of dental practice management. Join the Very Dental Facebook group using the password "Timmerman," Hornbrook" or "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! Crazy Dental has the lowest price for dental supplies anywhere! You can always use coupon: VERYSHIP on Crazy Dental for free shipping on your orders! Remember...Crazy Dental supports the Very Dental Podc

Alan had a chance to sit down with Dr. Maggie Augustyn live at the Chicago Midwinter meeting for a candid conversation that spans her journey from Poland to practicing in the Chicago suburbs, the unique perspectives of Eastern European immigrants, and the realities of speaking in the dental world. They delve into the emotional toll and vulnerability involved in sharing personal stories on topics like addiction and mental wellness, the challenges introverts face in high-energy environments, and the often-underappreciated (and underpaid) role of wellness speakers at dental conferences. The discussion also touches on the impact of social media comparison, the evolution of dental meetings, and coping mechanisms for the daily demands of dentistry. Some links from the show: Maggie's website Maggie's podcast Join the Very Dental Facebook group using the password "Timmerman," Hornbrook" or "McWethy," "Papa Randy" or "Lipscomb!" The Very Dental Podcast network is and will remain free to download. If you’d like to

This throwback episode features Dr. Kris Aadland joining Kevin and Zach from the Voices of Dentistry 2023 event in Scottsdale, Arizona! They discuss the myth that in-house CAD/CAM crowns are inferior to lab crowns, with Kris sharing insights from her extensive experience. The conversation covers various aspects of dental technology, including the efficiency of using multiple milling machines, digital designs, and standard operating procedures (SOPs) for running a smooth dental practice. Additionally Kris offers practical tips on using dental tools like dry shields and isolites to enhance productivity in the face of staffing shortages. Some links from the show: The Pathway (where Kris teaches) Dryshield Isolite Optragate Join the Very Dental Facebook group using the password "Timmerman," Hornbrook" or "McWethy," "Papa Randy" or "Lipscomb!" Very Clinical is brought to you by Zirc Dental Products, Inc., your trusted partner in dental efficiency and organization. The Very Clinical Corner segment features Kate R

The patient experience in medicine sucks. Alan, having recently endured a couple of medical horror stories himself, passionately advocates for a different approach in dentistry. He urges dentists to focus on enhancing the patient experience through empathy and clear communication, noting that even simple texts can make a significant difference. Furthermore, Alan emphasizes the importance of transparent financial discussions, believing these efforts can make dental practices shine and foster genuine patient trust. Join the Very Dental Facebook group using the password "Timmerman," Hornbrook" or "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! -- Crazy Dental has everything you need from cotton rolls to equipment and everything in between and the best prices you’ll find anywhere! If you head over to verydentalpodcast.com/crazy and use coupon

Recorded live at the Chicago Midwinter meeting in February 2025, this episode features Alan in conversation with Dr. Jason Goodchild from Premier Dental. Jason provides an in-depth look at three innovative new products designed to enhance everyday restorative dentistry. They discuss Veneer Now, an injectable matrix system for creating predictable and aesthetic anterior composite restorations like veneers and Class IVs with minimal finishing. Next, the conversation shifts to the new TSZ Tech ZX burs, engineered with super coarse diamonds, enhanced bonding, and leveling technology for significantly faster and more efficient zirconia crown removal and adjustment. Finally, Jason introduces Buffer Pro, a groundbreaking single-use, carpule-by-carpule local anesthetic buffering device, designed to make injections work faster, be less painful, and offer impressive shelf stability, addressing common frustrations with previous buffering systems Some links from the show: Premier Dental Veneer Now TSZtech ZX burs Buf

Today's throwback episode features an in person interview with Dr. Brian Baliwas...the one and only @sfdentalnerd!  Zach and Kevin were asking about dental myths and Brian delivered! The discussion navigated through occlusion myths and explores contemporary approaches to occlusion. Brian shares insights from his education at the Kois Center, advocating for an 'outside in' approach to checking occlusion. The conversation further delves into the importance of orthodontics in setting up a stable bite for long-term restorative success. Brian also touches upon practical tips to avoid issues with veneers and crowns, emphasizing the significance of clearing the pathway for a more functional bite. Some links from the show: Brian's Instagram handle Kois Center Join the Very Dental Facebook group using the password "Timmerman," Hornbrook" or "McWethy," "Papa Randy" or "Lipscomb!" Very Clinical is brought to you by Zirc Dental Products, Inc., your trusted partner in dental efficiency and organization. The Very Clinic

In this episode of The Brain Trust, Alan has a great conversation with Dr. Sam Low and Michael Kaelberer of Vakker Dental to discuss advanced dental hygiene technologies and their integration into contemporary dental practices. Dr. Low, a seasoned veteran in dental education, sheds light on the transition from traditional methods to innovative techniques like air polishing and piezoelectric scaling, initially popularized in Europe and now making headway in the U.S. Michael Kaelberer introduces Vakker Dental's collaboration with Woodpecker, a company known for offering high-quality yet affordable dental equipment. The conversation addresses the impact of these technologies on efficiency, patient care, and operational costs, especially amid the ongoing shortage of dental hygienists. Some links from the show: Woodpecker PT-B from Vakker Dental Woodpecker DTE D600 LED ultrasonic (Al's new endo ultrasonic) Vakker Dental Dr. Sam Low's website Join the Very Dental Facebook group using the password "Timmerman," H

Alan had a chance to sit down with Dr. Matt Burton for a fascinating discussion about his journey from a practicing dentist to a dental inventor. Dr. Burton shares the "aha!" moment that led to the creation of his split wedge concept (now part of Garrison's Quad Matrix system), the challenges of starting his own company, and the eventual partnership with Garrison Dental Solutions. He offers insights into the mindset of an inventor, the realities of bringing a product to market, and advice for other dentists with innovative ideas. The conversation also touches on Dr. Burton's farming background, his passion for composite restorations, and includes a spontaneous guest appearance by Dr. August de Oliveira! Some links from the show: Garrison Dental Solutions Garrison Quad Matrix with split wedges Burton Bands Join the Very Dental Facebook group using the password "Timmerman," Hornbrook" or "McWethy," "Papa Randy" or "Lipscomb!" The Very Dental Podcast network is and will remain free to download. If you’d like

In this throwback episode, Dr. Melissa Zettler talks about photography and how it has affected her clinical dentistry and marketing. This interview happened a few years before she received her AACD Fellowship (just last month!) and give you a peek into what it takes to photograph AACD cases!  Melissa and the guys explore different types of dental cameras, techniques for capturing high-quality images, and the use of photography for patient communication and marketing. Melissa also provides detailed information on the type of equipment she uses and shares valuable tips for capturing the best shots. Kevin emphasizes the fundamental role of photography in dental practice, while the group discusses the challenges and best practices for photographing dental cases.  Join the Very Dental Facebook group using the password "Timmerman," Hornbrook" or "McWethy," "Papa Randy" or "Lipscomb!" Very Clinical is brought to you by Zirc Dental Products, Inc., your trusted partner in dental efficiency and organization. The Very C

This throwback episode of the Alan Mead Experiences features a conversation with Dr. Dawn Grimes about the stuff that we let in to our brains. The discussion delves into Alan's recent transition to a three-day clinical week, the challenges of staffing, and the surprising mental toll of early mornings and long days. This leads to a deeper exploration of how the content consumed during commutes—particularly "outrage media"—can impact one's mindset, and Alan's experiment with silent, mindful morning drives. They touch upon managing anxiety, the power of being present, the significance of remembering names in personal and professional interactions, and the importance of consciously choosing one's reactions to life's daily irritants. Join the Very Dental Facebook group using the password "Timmerman," Hornbrook" or "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 peopl

Alan is joined by the incomparable Dr. Pam Maragliano-Muniz for an in person conversation recorded at the Chicago Midwinter meeting! They discuss Pam's journey from being a dental hygienist to a prosthodontist, her insights on maintaining patient care continuity and navigating the challenges faced by dental professionals, including staffing issues and the impact of COVID-19. They delve into the importance of in-person meetings, the value of creating a mission for the practice, and how Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT) has transformed her dental practice. Join them for an engaging and informative discussion filled with personal anecdotes and professional insights. Some links from the show: Dental Economics Guided Biofilm Therapy Pam's office website Join the Very Dental Facebook group using the password "Timmerman," Hornbrook" or "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

In this throwback episode, Kevin and Zach are joined by their one time co-host Dr. Mac Jones to tackle the listener-requested topic of night guards and bite guards. The guys dive into their vastly different philosophies and approaches to fabricating and prescribing occlusal guards. Kevin represents the "pro" side, detailing his workflow involving sleep tests and NTI appliances. Mac takes a more skeptical stance, outlining his "Top 10" reasons why night guards are often problematic in his practice, leading him to make very few. Zach falls somewhere in the middle, making several types of guards in-house but struggling with patient acceptance despite lower fees. They discuss different guard designs, lab vs. in-house fabrication, costs, patient communication challenges, managing acute TMJ pain, and when to refer. Join the Very Dental Facebook group using the password "Timmerman," Hornbrook" or "McWethy," "Papa Randy" or "Lipscomb!" Very Clinical is brought to you by Zirc Dental Products, Inc., your trusted partne

One of the best things about the Dental Hacks podcast was our Brain Trust segment! Several Very Dental people sitting around talking shop. And now...it's back! Alan is joined by OG Brain Trust members Dr. Dawn Grimes, Dr. Frank Clayton and Dr. Melissa Zettler to discuss the evolution of their careers in dentistry. They delve into their early experiences in dental school, transitioning to practice ownership, and the challenges of hiring and mentoring new dentists. The conversation touches on the impact of social media on the dental profession, the complexities of associate expectations, and the unique relationships built with long-term patients. Being a "seasoned" practitioner give you some insights that these younger dentists don't really understand. As much as you might not want to hear it...you've got to pay some dues! Join the Very Dental Facebook group using the password "Timmerman," Hornbrook" or "McWethy," "Papa Randy" or "Lipscomb!" The Very Dental Podcast network is and will remain free to download.

In this in-person episode recorded at GoldenDent in Roseville, Michigan, Alan once again sits down with the visionary Dr. Richard Golden. Following up on their previous conversation about Dr. Golden's journey as a dentist and multiple practice owner, this discussion dives deep into his passion for training dentists to thrive in the real world. Dr. Golden shares his perspective on the gaps in traditional dental school training, particularly concerning business acumen and clinical efficiency. He found that many new dentists, while clinically skilled, lacked the understanding of how to perform procedures in a time-effective manner that ensures practice profitability without sacrificing quality of care. Some links from the show: GoldenDent Physics Forceps GoldenDent Live Patient CE! Join the Very Dental Facebook group using the password "Timmerman," Hornbrook" or "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 lo

Kevin and Zach welcome back Scott Shrader to talk digital dentistry and specifically about Medit scanners and software. Both Zach and Al are current Medit users so the episode is a great one if you're new to scanning or want to incorporate digital dentistry into your workflow even more! 3D Dentist Approach: While courses often involve scanners, 3D Dentist is largely scanner-agnostic, focusing on techniques. Importance of Training & Support: Scott emphasizes the critical role of knowledgeable support and hands-on training (like that provided by 3D Tech/3D Dentist) when integrating technology, contrasting it with less specialized support from large suppliers. Support is ongoing for products purchased through them. Medit Overview: A South Korean company celebrating 25 years (mostly lab scanners, ~7 years for intraoral). Medit's Value Proposition: No annual fees, free software, and free software upgrades are key differentiators. Medit Link Software Suite (The "Apps"): A powerful, free suite accessible even

Alan is joined by Dr. Ara Nazarian an in person recording at GoldenDent in Roseville, MI! Ara teaches extraction and grafting techniques featuring the Physics Forceps that were developed by the one and only Dr. Richard Golden! Ara took a couple minutes away from teaching to fill me in on the experience you'll get taking their course. I can't wait until I can get back down to take it!  Some links from the show: Physics Forceps GoldenDent hands on CE Join the Very Dental Facebook group using the password "Timmerman," Hornbrook" or "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! -- Crazy Dental has everything you need from cotton rolls to equipment and everything in between and the best prices you’ll find anywhere! If you head over to verydentalpodcast.com/crazy and use coupon code “VERYDENTAL10” you’ll get another 10% off your order! Go s

In this episode of the Very Dental Podcast Alan interviews Dr. Richard Golden of GoldenDent in Roseville, Michigan. Dr. Golden is known for developing the "Physics Forceps" and GoldenDent provides extensive hands-on training in extractions, grafting, and implant placement, utilizing local facilities like Wayne County Community College for live patient courses! Dr. Golden shares the fascinating history of his father's dental practice in Detroit during the 1940s, the impact of legislation on dental advertising, and the introduction of dental insurance in the 1970s. He explains how these changes influenced the industry and his decision to open multiple dental offices. Dr. Golden also delves into his efforts to create a training center for new dentists, emphasizing the importance of efficient practice and the challenges of managing numerous locations. This episode offers a comprehensive look at the evolution of dental practices and the business of dentistry. Some links from the show: GoldenDent Physics Forceps

Kevin and Zach, along with Alan welcome Scott Shrader from 3D Dentists to the podcast! Scott shares his journey from general sales into dental implant and equipment sales. Now part of the 3D Dentist team, Scott focuses on partnerships and the technology division, guiding dentists through the complexities of selecting and implementing digital tools like scanners, printers, and software. The conversation dives into the practicalities of bringing new digital technology into a dental practice. Key themes include overcoming the fear of rapid obsolescence (highlighting how software updates extend hardware life), the importance of having a clear implementation plan to avoid team frustration, and tailoring the approach—whether it's adopting 3D printing, in-house design software like Exocad, or outsourcing—to fit the specific practice's goals, volume, and team capabilities. Some links from the show: 3D Dentists If you decide to look in to CareStack, be sure to let them know that you heard about them on the podcast!

Recorded amidst the sounds of spring on the dock in his pond, Alan dives deep into his experience shifting from a 4-day to a 3-day clinical work week two years ago. Alan breaks down the motivations, the schedule change specifics, and offers a candid list of pros and cons he's observed over the past two years. Join the Very Dental Facebook group using the password "Timmerman," Hornbrook" or "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! -- Crazy Dental has everything you need from cotton rolls to equipment and everything in between and the best prices you’ll find anywhere! If you head over to verydentalpodcast.com/crazy and use coupon code “VERYDENTAL10” you’ll get another 10% off your order! Go save yourself some money and support the show all at the same time! -- The Wonderist Agency is basically a one stop shop for marketing your pract

Alan is once again joined by the incomparable Dr. Russell Schafer!  This time Al and Russ are in person in the fishbowl at the Chicago Midwinter dental meeting! The two of them chat about Chicago weather, what they're looking forward to seeing at the meeting and most importantly...Russ wants you to buy his practice! If you've ever wanted to experience life as a dentist in the Big Easy, today is your lucky day! Some links from the show: Russell's courses: Digitaldentistry.rsvpify.com dcgdental.com Russell's FB (buy his practice!) Join the Very Dental Facebook group using the password "Timmerman," Hornbrook" or "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! -- Crazy Dental has everything you need from cotton rolls to equipment and everything in between and the best prices you’ll find anywhere! If you head over to verydentalpodcast.com