What began as frustration with dangerous misinformation on social media has transformed Professor Markus Blatz into one of dentistry's most trusted voices, reaching nearly a quarter of a million clinicians worldwide. In this first episode of our two-part series with Dentsply Sirona—celebrating their support of the new ADA NSW Digital Training Centre—Dr Dominic Aouad, immediate past president of ADA NSW, sits down with this internationally renowned educator and researcher to explore the fundamentals of evidence-based digital dentistry.

As Chair of Preventative and Restorative Sciences at the University of Pennsylvania and founder of their CAD/CAM Ceramic Centre, Professor Blatz has dedicated his career to advancing evidence-based dentistry through both rigorous research and accessible education. In this wide-ranging conversation, he shares insights on the evolution of digital dentistry, from his early adoption of CAD/CAM technologies in the 2000s to today's AI-enhanced workflows.

Professor Blatz explains the fundamental principles of material science that every clinician should understand, demystifies bonding protocols for high-strength ceramics like zirconia, and presents compelling clinical data showing 98% success rates after 15 years for properly bonded zirconia restorations. The discussion covers essential topics including minimally invasive dentistry, the advantages of partial coverage restorations, proper digital scanning techniques, and the often-misunderstood science of resin-bonded bridges.

Addressing common misconceptions—such as the belief that digital technology alone makes you a better dentist—Professor Blatz emphasises that understanding the 'why' behind protocols is more important than simply following steps. He explains why it's never too late to adopt digital technologies and how to integrate them effectively into practice, making this episode particularly relevant for both early-career dentists and experienced practitioners.

The conversation also explores patient-centred decision-making, the role of AI in diagnostics and treatment planning, and why preserving natural teeth should remain our primary objective—including thoughtful reconsideration of implant placement timing in younger patients. Professor Blatz's passion for teaching and commitment to evidence-based practice shine through as he encourages practitioners to become lifelong learners who understand not just what to do, but why we do it.

Whether you're just beginning to explore digital dentistry or looking to deepen your understanding of adhesive techniques and material science, this episode offers invaluable guidance from one of the field's most respected educators—made possible through the ADA NSW Digital Training Centre, where Australian dental professionals can now access hands-on training with cutting-edge digital technologies.

Interviewer(s): Dr Dominic Aouad
Interviewee(s): Professor Markus Blatz
Related Course/Event/Links: Dentsply Sirona

Join us for Part 2, where Dr Aouad continues the conversation with Dr Wolf-Dieter Perlitz about how cloud-based and connected technologies will shape the future of daily practice.

The Dental Practitioner is brought to you by the Australian Dental Association NSW. Find resources, episodes, and more at adansw.com.au.

If you want to stay up to date with the latest developments in dentistry, check out our upcoming CPD courses at adansw.com.au/cpd.

Join Dr Vicki Rozos, ADA NSW Head of Advisory Services, as she speaks with Shane Morgan, Partner at Cutcher & Neale Accounting and Financial Services, about the complex and increasingly scrutinised area of compassionate release of superannuation for dental treatment. With withdrawals for dental procedures skyrocketing, serious concerns about practitioner conduct in this space have been raised by dentistry’s governing bodies.

This essential episode explores the legislative framework governing compassionate superannuation release, including what conditions must be met for patients to access their retirement funds early. 

Shane explains the significant tax implications and long-term financial consequences for patients who withdraw super before retirement, whilst Dr Rozos discusses the professional and ethical obligations dentists must uphold when treating patients who choose this funding option.

The episode covers ADA Federal’s comprehensive guidelines released in September 2025, including the crucial checklist for practitioners. It emphasises the importance of comprehensive treatment planning, informed consent, and prioritising patients' best interests—regardless of how treatment is funded.

Whether you’re an experienced practitioner or early in your career, this episode provides vital guidance on navigating this high-risk area whilst protecting both your patients’ welfare and your professional standing.

Interviewer(s): Dr Vicki Rozos
Interviewee(s): Shane Morgan
Related Course/Event/Links: AHPRA Resource, ADA Release

The Dental Practitioner is brought to you by the Australian Dental Association NSW. Find resources, episodes, and more at adansw.com.au.

If you want to stay up to date with the latest developments in dentistry, check out our upcoming CPD courses at adansw.com.au/cpd.

Join Claire Schifter, ADA NSW CPD Manager, as she delves into the revolutionary impact of AI radiologic technology in dental practices with Dr David Lee, an ADA NSW member dentist and an early adopter of Pearl AI, and Mackenzie Harris from Gamma Tech, Pearl's Australian distributor. Discover how this game-changing technology is transforming patient care by enhancing diagnostic accuracy, improving communication, and raising clinical standards. Dr Lee shares his honest insights about implementing AI in his practice, including how it has helped detect previously missed conditions and fostered greater patient engagement. From standardising diagnoses across multiple practitioners to enabling earlier detection of oral health issues, this episode explores how artificial intelligence is reshaping modern dentistry while keeping patient care at the forefront.

Interviewer(s): Claire Schifter
Interviewee(s): Dr David Lee, Makenzie Harris
Related Course/Event/Links: Try Second Opinion® software (AU/NZ)
FocusOn Guide:  Artificial Intelligence Applications in Dentistry

The Dental Practitioner is brought to you by the Australian Dental Association NSW. Find resources, episodes, and more at adansw.com.au.

If you want to stay up to date with the latest developments in dentistry, check out our upcoming CPD courses at adansw.com.au/cpd.

Join Dr Patrick Meaney and periodontist Rob Fell as they unravel the mystery of cementum tears, a lesser-known dental condition that can mimic endodontic problems. Discover how this emerging issue challenges traditional diagnosis and treatment approaches, and learn about the latest techniques for identifying and managing these perplexing cases.

Host: Dr Patrick Meaney
Guest: Dr Robb Fell

The Dental Practitioner is brought to you by the Australian Dental Association NSW. Find resources, episodes, and more at adansw.com.au.

If you want to stay up to date with the latest developments in dentistry, check out our upcoming CPD courses at adansw.com.au/cpd.

In this wide-ranging conversation, Dr Patrick Meaney chats with Dr Murray Thomas about how Scope relates to factors like state regulations on medications, adopting new technologies like implants, specialties contributing research, and the Board's "Know Your Scope" resources. Throughout, Murray emphasizes the need for professionals to take a reflective, principled approach to responsibly expanding their scope through training, mentorship, and proper policies. The discussion clarifies dentists navigating questions around 'scope of practice' amid the changing landscape of dentistry.

This episode is proudly brought to you by Guild Insurance, which has been protecting Australian dentists for over 23 years. ADA NSW Membership combined with your Guild Professional Indemnity policy means you can be part of something bigger. Visit adansw.com.au/benefits to find out more.

Host: Dr Patrick Meaney
Guest: Dr Murray Thomas
Related Links: Know Your Scope

The Dental Practitioner is brought to you by the Australian Dental Association NSW. Find resources, episodes, and more at adansw.com.au.

If you want to stay up to date with the latest developments in dentistry, check out our upcoming CPD courses at adansw.com.au/cpd.

In this timely episode, Dr Dominic Aouad sits down with Shane Morgan, an experienced accountant with a deep understanding of finance in the dental sector, to delve into the critical aspects of tax planning that dentists should consider as the 2023-24 financial year draws to a close. Shane shares his wealth of knowledge and experience, providing invaluable insights and strategies to help dentists navigate taxation, superannuation, and financial structuring. Whether you're an employed dentist, a contractor, or a practice owner, this episode is a must-listen, offering practical advice and inspiration to help you make informed decisions and secure your financial future.

This episode is proudly brought to you by Guild Insurance, which has been protecting Australian dentists for over 23 years. ADA NSW Membership combined with your Guild Professional Indemnity policy means you can be part of something bigger. Visit adansw.com.au/benefits to find out more.

Host: Dr Dominc Aouad
Guests: Shane Morgan, Cutcher & Neale
Related Links: Cutcher & Neale

The Dental Practitioner is brought to you by the Australian Dental Association NSW. Find resources, episodes, and more at adansw.com.au.

If you want to stay up to date with the latest developments in dentistry, check out our upcoming CPD courses at adansw.com.au/cpd.

• Volunteer at a clinic run by the charity.
• Volunteer at their practice and see patients referred by the charity.

The Dental Practitioner is brought to you by the Australian Dental Association NSW. Find resources, episodes, and more at adansw.com.au.

If you want to stay up to date with the latest developments in dentistry, check out our upcoming CPD courses at adansw.com.au/cpd.

Dr Jodie Olivier, Vice President of ADA NSW and Chair of the Advocacy Committee, addressed the Country Women's Association of NSW. She spoke about the ADA's commitment to addressing the challenges and issues related to meeting the oral health needs of older Australians in NSW.

Related links: Select Committee Report, ADA Advocacy Page

The Dental Practitioner is brought to you by the Australian Dental Association NSW. Find resources, episodes, and more at adansw.com.au.

If you want to stay up to date with the latest developments in dentistry, check out our upcoming CPD courses at adansw.com.au/cpd.

Have you ever wondered how the Advisory Services team make stressful experiences manageable for ADA NSW member practitioners who are facing complaints or claims? What are the critical aspects of consent and record-keeping that often fly under the radar? And just how important are good records in safeguarding both patients and practitioners?

In this episode, the Peer Advisors share key takeaways and practical tips for practitioners, making it a must-listen for anyone in the dental field. The team covers everything from dealing with patient management, practice setup, and retirement planning to expert advice on interacting with private health insurers. The ADA NSW Advisory Services team is always here to help.

This episode is proudly brought to you by Guild Insurance, which has been protecting Australian dentists for over 23 years. ADA NSW Membership combined with your Guild Professional Indemnity policy means you can be part of something bigger. Visit adansw.com.au/benefits to find out more.

Interviewer(s): Dr Sarah Jones
Interviewee(s): Dr Vicki Rozos, Dr Jacqueline Hope-Allan, Dr Martin Nash
Related Course/Event/Links: ADA NSW Advisory Services

The Dental Practitioner is brought to you by the Australian Dental Association NSW. Find resources, episodes, and more at adansw.com.au.

If you want to stay up to date with the latest developments in dentistry, check out our upcoming CPD courses at adansw.com.au/cpd.

In this episode, Dr Michael Jonas from ADA NSW will be discussing the implementation and benefits of teledentistry, which is the use of technology to provide dental consultations and services remotely, with Dr Kathleen Matthews from the Murrumbidgee Local Health District and Dr Jad Clarke, a pediatric dentist based in Sydney who works in both the private and public sectors. Jed and Kathleen discuss various aspects of tele dentistry, including its applications, patient satisfaction, value in reducing access barriers, and the tools required for its implementation. They also touch on its potential challenges, such as limitations in dealing with specific patient groups and the importance of data security and privacy in teledentistry. Overall, the conversation highlights the positive impact of tele dentistry on patient care and access to dental services, particularly in remote or underserved areas.
 
Interviewer(s): Dr Michael Jonas
Interviewee(s): Dr Kathleen Matthews, Dr Jad Clarke
Related Course/Event/Links: ADA Teledentistry References 

The Dental Practitioner is brought to you by the Australian Dental Association NSW. Find resources, episodes, and more at adansw.com.au.

If you want to stay up to date with the latest developments in dentistry, check out our upcoming CPD courses at adansw.com.au/cpd.