Can composite really outperform ceramic in the right case?

Do you know when to choose an inlay over an onlay?

What makes occlusal veneers so effective — even at just 0.6 mm thickness?

After years of anticipation, Dr. Pascal Magne finally joins Jaz Gulati on the podcast for an episode packed with adhesive dentistry gold. They dive deep into occlusal veneers, material selection, and why indirect composite may be the best-kept secret for worn, root-filled molars.

They also unpack the full bonding protocol step-by-step—from air abrasion and IDS to silane application and cementation with preheated composite. Whether you’re doing full rehabs or composite repairs, this episode is your go-to guide for smarter biomimetic dentistry.

Protrusive Dental Pearl: After applying silane, don’t just let it evaporate—let it react for 30 seconds, then air dry, and crucially, use a heat source (like a hairdryer) for 60 seconds to activate it properly and achieve optimal bond strength. This enhances the effectiveness of silane and significantly improves the bond strength of indirect restorations like composite or lithium disilicate.

Key Takeaways:

Need to Read it? Check out the Full Episode Transcript below!

Highlights of this episode:

Referenced Studies – all below are available to download on Protrusive Vault in Protrusive Guidance

Keep the learning going with Magne Education

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t miss A Geeky Discussion on Adhesive Onlays – that’s PDP161!

This episode is eligible for 1.25 CE credit via the quiz on Protrusive Guidance. 

This episode meets GDC Outcomes B and C.

AGD Subject Code: 250 OPERATIVE (RESTORATIVE)DENTISTRY (Indirect restorations)

Aim: To provide clinicians with evidence-based guidance on occlusal veneer indications, material selection, and conservative restorative protocols—emphasizing the role of adhesive techniques and biomimetic principles in long-term success.

Dentists will be able to –

1. Differentiate between inlays, onlays, and occlusal veneers, and select the most conservative option suitable for each clinical scenario

2. Make informed decisions on material selection based on occlusal anatomy, antagonist material, and long-term clinical performance.

3. Assess the biomechanical behavior of composite vs ceramic materials, including their effect on stress distribution and enamel wear

What is the number 1 communication advice for Dentists?

Are you confident in discussing treatment fees with your patients?

Do you struggle with communicating your worth without feeling awkward?

How do you shift your mindset to charge what you’re truly worth without feeling guilty (a money mindset issue)?

In this enlightening conversation, Jaz opens up about his own struggles with money mindset and how he overcame them to confidently charge for his dental services.

Joined by dental student Naveed Bhatti, they explore the challenges of pricing treatments, offering empathetic solutions to patients, and using the power of visualization to boost confidence in fee discussions.

They also dive into the importance of being transparent with fees, managing discounts, and recognizing your true value as a dental professional. Whether you’re new to the field or have years of experience, these strategies will help you navigate the financial side of dentistry with ease and confidence.

Key Takeaways

Need to Read it? Check out the Full Episode Transcript below!

Highlights of this episode:

Support Nav’s YouTube channel, The StuDent

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t miss out on Think Comprehensive – Communication Gems with Zak Kara – PDP010!

This episode is eligible for 1 CE credit via the quiz on Protrusive Guidance. 

This episode meets GDC Outcome B.

AGD Subject Code: 550 PRACTICE MANAGEMENT AND HUMAN RELATIONS

Aim:

To enhance dental professionals’ communication skills by exploring effective strategies for patient interaction, treatment planning, and fee discussions—ultimately building trust, improving patient outcomes, and boosting confidence in everyday clinical practice.

Dentists will be able to –

1. Recognize the importance of active listening and body language in patient communication.

2. Explain treatment options using patient-centered language and analogies that promote understanding and buy-in.

3. Discuss treatment fees with clarity and conviction, addressing money mindset barriers and building perceived value.

Are ergonomic loupes and fancy chairs really worth the investment?

Is back pain an inevitable part of being a dentist—or can it be prevented?

Are you setting yourself up for a long, pain-free career in dentistry?

What’s the number one thing you should be doing right now to protect your body for the long haul?

Dr. Sam Cope is back, and he’s not just any dentist—he started as a physiotherapist before training in dentistry. That means when it comes to musculoskeletal health, posture, and career longevity, Sam knows his stuff. In this episode, Jaz and Sam revisit the crucial topic of back pain in dentistry and dive even deeper into what actually works to keep you practicing pain-free.

So, if you clicked on this because you’re worried about back pain, take this as your sign—your future self will thank you.

Protrusive Dental Pearl:  Motion is lotion. Staying active prevents back pain and keeps your career strong. If you’re not making time for exercise, it’s time to rethink your habits. Knowing isn’t enough—action is what matters. Prioritize your health now.

Key Take-Away:

Need to Read it? Check out the Full Episode Transcript below!

Highlights of this episode:

This episode is eligible for 1 CE credit via the quiz below. 

This episode meets GDC Outcomes A and C.

AGD Subject Code: 130 ELECTIVES (149 Multi-disciplinary topics)

Aim:

To highlight the importance of ergonomics and physical well-being in dentistry. To share strategies for preventing occupational strain and burnout.

Dentists will be able to –

1. Assess the role of ergonomic loupes, chairs, and posture in reducing strain and improving long-term musculoskeletal health.

2. Understand the significance of muscle conditioning over posture correction.

3. Incorporate exercise routines to manage physical strain during long procedures.

If you enjoyed this episode, you won’t want to miss Got Your Back – Physios and Dentists – PDP025!

#PDPMainEpisodes #BeyondDentistry #CareerDevelopment

Are “contact lens veneers” just fake news?

Why is the traditional 0.7mm prep approach outdated?

Are you truly preserving enamel in your veneer preparations?

Should you ever bond veneers to root dentin or cementum after crown lengthening?

Why is the Galip Gürel technique the gold standard for minimal prep veneers?

Dr. David Bloom joins Jaz for an insightful episode, sharing his 36 years of experience in cosmetic and restorative dentistry. With over two decades in the same practice, he’s seen what works—and what leads to failure—when it comes to veneers.

We also cover the key steps in mock-ups, planning, and veneer preparation.

Protrusive Dental Pearl:  Always Wax Up for 10: When planning veneers, start with a 10-unit wax-up (even if the patient initially wants 4 or 6). This allows them to visualize their full smile with a mock-up, compare different options, and make an informed decision. It’s not about upselling – most patients will appreciate the fuller look.

Key Take-aways:

Need to Read it? Check out the Full Episode Transcript below!

Highlights of this episode:

Need expert guidance on veneers and smile design?

Join Intaglio Mentoring and connect with top mentors for real-time case support and level up your Dentistry. Dr David Bloom is also a mentor on Intaglio.

Watch this space for David’s new educational website coming soon – he teaches Veneers hands-on too.

If you loved this episode, make sure to watch How to Temporise Veneers Step by Step FULL GUIDE – PDP214

This episode is eligible for 1 CE credit via the quiz on Protrusive Guidance. 

This episode meets GDC Outcomes B and C.

AGD Subject Code: 780 ESTHETICS/COSMETICDENTISTRY (Tooth colored restorations)

#PDPMainEpisodes #AdhesiveDentistry

Aim:

To provide an in-depth understanding of minimal preparation veneers, focusing on enamel preservation, diagnostic workflows, patient communication, and clinical techniques to enhance the longevity, function, and esthetics of veneer restorations.

Dentists will be able to –

2. Use visual try-ins effectively to enhance patient understanding and involvement in treatment decisions.

3. Understand long-term maintenance, including managing black triangles, embrasure shaping, and repairs.

CORE CPD ALERT! 🚨

How dare I veer away from our beloved clinical topics to talk about… decontamination!?! 😱

Have you ever wondered how you should be disinfecting occlusal mirrors without getting them scratched?

Should we be using PTFE inside the pulp chamber if it’s not been autoclaved?

What are the most common decontamination mistakes that we make day in and day out that are so easy to fix?

In this episode, Jaz sits down with Decon Pete, the go-to expert for all things dental decontamination, to drive into the nitty-gritty of keeping your practice squeaky clean (and compliant!). He shares practical tips to make your decontamination process safer, smoother, and stress-free.

Common decon mistakes, PPE slip-ups, distilled vs. RO water, HTM guidelines vs. manufacturer guidelines – this episode will help you feel more confident in decontamination and up your infection control game.

How to reach Decon Pete:

The Protrusive Dental Pearl: Pete’s Expert Recommendation on Cleaning your Loupes

Need to Read it? Check out the Full Episode Transcript below!

Key takeaways:

Highlights for this episode:
00:00 – Intro
03:52 – Protrusive Dental Pearl: Pete’s top tips for cleaning your loupes
06:02 – Introducing Decon Pete: Pete’s background in dental decontamination
12:40 – Manual cleaning and PPE errors
17:51 – Washer Disinfector
27:06 – Instrument Transportation
30:08 – Guidance vs. Manufacturer Instruction
36:05 – PTFE Tape: Sterilization and best practices
41:06 – Occlusal Mirror Care
48:18 – Distilled vs. RO Water
56:37 – Water for Ceramics
57:22 – Outro

This episode is eligible for 1 CE credit via the quiz on Protrusive Guidance.

This episode meets GDC outcomes B and C. This is a GDC Recommended CPD Topic – 5 Hours of Disinfection and Decontamination every 5 year Cycle.

AGD Subject Code: 550 Practice Management and Human Relations.

Dentists will be able to:

If you loved this episode, be sure to check out this one: PDP018 (Don’t Get Sued)

Is Work-Life Balance a Myth?

How do you find the right balance between your professional responsibilities and personal life?

Can you truly have it all…without sacrificing your health or family time?

In this episode, Jaz and Emma Hutchison, ‘the Protrusive Student’, dive into the real challenges of balancing parenthood, clinical dentistry, and LIFE! Jaz shares his strategies for managing these demands, revealing that while perfect balance might not exist, navigating life’s seasons with intention can make all the difference.

If you’ve ever struggled with finding your own balance, this episode is packed with key takeaways for dentists at every stage of their careers.

Need to Read it? Check out the Full Episode Transcript below!

Highlights of this episode:

Key Takeaways:

This episode is not eligible for CPD/CE points, but never fear, there are hundreds of hours of CPD waiting for you on the Ultimate Education Plan, including Premium clinical workthroughs and Masterclasses.

If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to watch Stress in Dentistry 2024 – Life Changing Decisions – IC048

Your apex locator isn’t giving you a zero reading. Your file is stuck. You’re wondering—have you ledged? Or could something else be at play?

In this must-listen follow-up episode, Dr. Samuel Johnson returns to tackle the biggest endodontic dilemmas left unanswered from part one. If you haven’t checked that out yet, go back and listen—it’s packed with insights on working lengths, apex locators, and even the role of consent in endodontics.

Now, in part two, we go deeper. We’re talking blockages, ledges, portals of exit, and the mysterious phenomenon of file gripping. Plus, Dr. Johnson takes on your burning questions from the Protrusive community—like how he responds to biological dentists claiming root canals should be avoided entirely. (Yep, we’re addressing that controversy head-on!)

Protrusive Dental Pearl: For a more visual learning experience, dive into the Pre-Endo Build-Up on Protrusive Guidance and see Jaz and Samuel’s insights in action.

Sonic Pro Ultrasonic Bath – 10% OFF with coupon code ‘protrusive10’

Improve your Bond Strengths – purchase while stocks last: Sonic Pro Discount

Key Takeaway:

Need to Read it? Check out the Full Episode Transcript below!

Highlight of this Episode:

As promised, here are the ESE Guidelines on managing cracked teeth.

Watch and learn from Dr. Samuel Johnson on Instagram and YouTube!

Don’t miss the first part of this series: PDP216 – Working Lengths and Troubleshooting Apex Locators

#PDPMainEpisodes #EndoRestorative #BreadandButterDentistry

This episode is eligible for 0.75 CE credit via the quiz on Protrusive Guidance. 

This episode meets GDC Outcomes B and C.

AGD Subject Code: 070 ENDODONTICS (Emerging concepts, techniques, therapies and technology)

This episode aimed to provide deeper insights into troubleshooting endodontic challenges, particularly when files fail to reach working length. It explores common pitfalls, advanced techniques, and expert strategies to improve clinical outcomes in root canal treatments.

Dentists will be able to –

1. Recognize common endodontic challenges and strategies to navigate them effectively.

2. Evaluate the role of master apical files and resolve common dilemmas in achieving optimal shaping.

3. Identify frequent errors in urgent cases and improve treatment approaches.

‘Mentorship is more important than courses’ – said lots of wise Dentists, and I think they’re right!

Do you have a mentor guiding you in your dental career?

How do you know if you’re making the right clinical decisions?

In this episode, Jaz is joined by Damian Panchal and Shivani Sadani to discuss the power of mentorship in dentistry. They explore why having a mentor can accelerate your growth, boost your confidence, and help you navigate complex cases with ease.

They also introduce Intaglio, a brand-new platform designed to connect dentists with experienced mentors—so you can get real-time guidance, solve cases faster, and elevate your practice like never before.

Listen in to learn why mentorship might be the best investment you make in your career.

Key Takeaways:

Need to Read it? Check out the Full Episode Transcript below!

Highlights of this episode:

This episode is not eligible for CPD/CE points, but never fear, there are hundreds of hours of CPD waiting for you on the Ultimate Education Plan, including Premium clinical workthroughs and Masterclasses.

What makes apex locators reliable—or completely misleading?

How do you determine the true working length of a root canal?

Why is relying solely on radiographs for endo success a risky move?

Dr. Samuel Johnson joins Jaz for a game-changing episode that will make you rethink everything you know about endodontics. In this first part of a two-part special, they dive into the nuances of apex locators, the difference between the radiographic apex and apical constriction, and why our radiographs might be lying to us.

They also explore the power of glide path files, how to improve your endodontics workflow, and an incredible way to consent patients—something that extends beyond just root canals. Because mastering endodontics isn’t just about technique—it’s about communication, precision, and making the right calls for long-term success.

Stay tuned for Part 2, where we go even deeper into endo essentials!

Protrusive Dental Pearl:  Buy a small whiteboard and marker for patient communication. Draw details, highlight the treatment plans, and list pros, cons, and fees. This builds trust, improves consent, and makes treatment clearer. Snap a photo and upload it to the patient’s records.

https://amzn.to/3DzUJfn

Key Takeaway:

Need to Read it? Check out the Full Episode Transcript below!

Highlights of this Episode:

Watch and learn from Dr. Samuel Johnson on Instagram and YouTube!

If you loved this episode, be sure to watch Elective Endodontics? It’s all about Communication – PDP202

#PDPMainEpisodes #EndoRestorative #BreadandButterDentistry

This episode is eligible for 0.75 CE credit via the quiz on Protrusive Guidance. 

This episode meets GDC Outcomes B and C.

AGD Subject Code: 070 ENDODONTICS (Emerging concepts, techniques, therapies and technology)

This episode aimed to enhance clinicians’ understanding of endodontic diagnostics and workflow, focusing on apex locators, working length determination, and effective patient communication. By refining these skills, practitioners can improve treatment accuracy, efficiency, and patient outcomes.

Dentists will be able to –

1. Differentiate between the radiographic apex and the apical constriction and understand why radiographs alone can be misleading.

2. Evaluate the reliability of apex locators and recognize factors that affect their accuracy.

3. Apply the use of glide path files to improve efficiency and reduce treatment time in root canal procedures.

Join the Protrusive Guidance App to get access to masterclasses, premium videos, and exclusive Q&As with experts. Head over to protrusive.co.uk/ultimate to sign up and take your endodontic skills to the next level.

If you found this episode valuable, subscribe to our YouTube channel, leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts, and share it with your colleagues. We appreciate your support!

Are you confident in managing patients on bisphosphonates or biologics?

Which medications increase the risk of medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ)?

How do you decide when to extract a tooth and when to refer to a specialist?

In this episode, Jaz is joined by oral surgery consultant Dr. Pippa Cullingham to explore the complexities of MRONJ. They break down the key risk factors, share expert advice on when to proceed with extractions, and discuss the latest guidelines for managing patients at risk.

They also discuss the importance of early assessment – by identifying at-risk teeth early, you can help prevent serious complications and ensure the best outcome for your patients.

Protrusive Dental Pearl: it is so important to assess patients before they start taking high-risk medications like bisphosphonates or biologics, using radiographs to identify potential issues. Extractions should ideally be done before medication starts to avoid complications, as MRONJ risk increases once treatment begins.

Key Takeaways:

Need to Read it? Check out the Full Episode Transcript below!

Highlights of this episode:

For the best approach to managing MRONJ, check the SDCEP Guidelines and the American White Paper.

This episode is eligible for 0.5 CE credits via the quiz on Protrusive Guidance. 

This episode meets GDC Outcomes B and C.

AGD Subject Code: 730 ORAL MEDICINE, ORAL DIAGNOSIS, ORAL PATHOLOGY (Diagnosis, management and treatment of oral pathologies)

Dentists will be able to –

1. Be aware of the medications that increase the risk of MRONJ.

2. Learn how to assess the risk of MRONJ in patients, particularly before starting high-risk medications.

3. Understand when to proceed with extractions and when to refer patients to specialists for management.

If you liked this episode, check out PDP206 – White Patches