Does successful implant dentistry depend more on the tools you use or the brain behind them? This riveting debate between two masters of full arch implant restoration showcases fundamentally different approaches to achieving predictable success.

Dr. Damon champions freehand surgery with unwavering confidence, arguing that true mastery comes from maintaining complete anatomical awareness and adaptability. "Your brain is the guide," he asserts, explaining how this approach allows surgeons to pivot instantly when encountering unexpected challenges during surgery. His patients thank him for removing the burden of guided surgery, appreciating both the clinical flexibility and reduced costs.

Meanwhile, Dr. Stanley applies engineering optimization principles to implant dentistry, challenging conventional wisdom about stability, torque, and surgical planning. "The idea of undersizing an osteotomy meaning that you made the hole smaller means that when you put the thread in, it's going to compress the bone more," he explains, unveiling how guided surgery creates predictable stability even in challenging bone quality. His revolutionary perspective on torque—demonstrating how a zero-torque implant can have 100% stability—forces listeners to question fundamental assumptions about implant success.

Both doctors present compelling evidence for their methods, sharing illuminating clinical examples and practice management insights. Whether discussing pterygoid implants, stackable guides, or the globalization of digital dentistry, this conversation transcends mere technique to explore the philosophy behind predictable outcomes. For practitioners weighing efficiency against flexibility, or considering the true definition of implant stability, this episode delivers paradigm-shifting perspectives.

What's your approach to full arch implants? Have you found your perfect balance between planning and adaptability? Share your experiences and continue the conversation!

The debate of pterygoid and zygomatic implants takes center stage as two masters of implant dentistry present dramatically different philosophies on full arch restoration. Dr. Robert Stanley, a dual-trained PhD engineer and dentist, maintains that 99% of patients can be successfully treated without remote anchorage techniques when proper prosthetic principles are applied. Meanwhile, Dr. Damon reveals he incorporates pterygoid implants in virtually all his cases, citing biomechanical advantages and superior outcomes.

This riveting discussion dives deep into the engineering principles that govern implant success. Dr. Stanley introduces the concept of "truss systems" that explains why tilted implants work in full arch configurations despite contradicting single-tooth biomechanics. He emphasizes how proper prosthetic design—utilizing adequate vertical height, strong zirconia materials, and limited cantilevers—can achieve excellent long-term outcomes without resorting to specialized techniques.

Dr. Damon counters with compelling arguments for pterygoid implants, noting their ability to eliminate cantilevers completely while anchoring into dense cortical bone of the pyramidal process with longer implants. His philosophy that "the best zygoma is the one you never have to do" highlights how pterygoids can often help clinicians avoid more complex procedures.

Both experts share concerns about inexperienced practitioners attempting advanced techniques without proper training, noting an alarming trend of recent graduates jumping directly into complex full arch cases. Their contrasting approaches demonstrate that in implant dentistry, understanding fundamental principles allows for multiple pathways to success based on individual patient needs rather than dogmatic adherence to a single technique.

Whether you're just beginning your implant journey or looking to refine your approach to complex cases, this episode provides invaluable insights from two different yet equally successful perspectives in modern implant dentistry. What will you take from this debate to enhance your own practice?

What happens when a determined dental student ignores early academic struggles to become an expert in full arch dentistry? Meet Dr. Drew Phillips, our guest with an extraordinary journey through the dental world beginning from his roots in the Dental College of Georgia. In this episode of the Fixed Podcast, Dr. Phillips takes us through his transition from aspiring surgeon to a leading figure in implant dentistry, sharing how the influence of his father's medical career and a remarkable performance on the dental admissions test paved his path. 

Join us as I recount my own experiences in a General Practice Residency, highlighting the intense pressures of performing under professional scrutiny and the critical lessons learned about surgical visibility. From Salt Lake City's sedation dentistry to the complex world of advanced implant cases, our discussion uncovers the thrilling, yet challenging, leap from residency to specialized surgical fields. With anecdotes of managing unexpected complications, like being left to tackle a double arch case solo, the episode emphasizes the importance of understanding prosthetic aspects before advancing in implant surgery.

Together with Dr. Phillips, we explore the intricate decision-making process in implant placement, discussing the nuances of sinus positioning, implant types, and the strategic use of cantilevers. Listen in to discover our favorite dental instruments and the invaluable insights gained from international courses with experts worldwide, including a memorable training experience in Brazil. This episode promises an enlightening look into the dynamic and rewarding world of implant dentistry, offering both seasoned professionals and aspiring dentists a glimpse into the complexities and satisfactions of the field.

Unlock the secrets to navigating the complex world of implant dentistry and bisphosphonate medications, especially as they pertain to postmenopausal women's health. Engage with our insightful discussions on the AOMS position paper and its implications for preventing osteonecrosis of the jaws. We'll guide you through the nuances of educating dental residents on managing patients taking bisphosphonates, while revisiting the Women's Health Initiative study and unraveling its misinterpretations that led to a surge in bisphosphonate use. 

Join our guest, Dr. Rutkowski, as we explore the intricacies of bisphosphonate-induced osteonecrosis, focusing on drug absorption and potency variations between oral and IV administrations. We highlight the importance of considering dosage, duration, and oral health, and provide a deeper understanding of treatment protocols, including the use of serum CTX and NTX tests and strategic drug holidays. Dr. Rutkowski shares enlightening perspectives on managing dental implants in patients on bisphosphonates and monoclonal antibodies, alongside critical insights for pre- and post-surgery care, including vitamin D supplementation and collaboration with oncologists for radiation therapy cases.

Discover the transformative power of the Waterpik Sonic in maintaining oral health, as illustrated by heartwarming anecdotes from Dr. Rutkowski. Hear about the impact of innovative programs like Jacksonville University's Comprehensive Oral Implantology Program, offering remote residency opportunities. As we close this episode, we celebrate the camaraderie and collective wisdom within the implantology community, with gratitude for the experts who generously share their knowledge, advancing our understanding and enriching patient care.

Unlock the secrets of modern implant dentistry with Dr. James Rutkowski, the visionary director of Jacksonville University's Comprehensive Oral Implantology Residency Program. Dr. Rutkowski takes us on an extraordinary journey from his early career as a pharmacist to becoming a trailblazer in implant dentistry. With stories of placing his first implant back in 1983 using makeshift tools, his narrative is both inspiring and enlightening for anyone passionate about advancing in the field. Discover how his dedication to education and innovation has shaped a residency program that is setting new standards in dental education.

Immerse yourself in the transformative power of a residency program that weaves together the complexities of pharmacology and implant dentistry. This unique curriculum offers a holistic approach, equipping residents with the skills needed to navigate the intricacies of real-world clinical settings. By integrating diagnosis, surgical placement, prosthetic restoration, and maintenance, the program prepares dentists like Soren and Tyler to tackle complex cases with confidence. Residents also benefit from hands-on training and the opportunity to earn a stipend, ensuring both financial stability and comprehensive education.

Explore the myriad benefits of this pioneering residency model, which blends academic rigor with practical experience. Dr. Rutkowski and his team have redefined dental education by emphasizing community, collaboration, and continuous learning. With access to a network of clinics across the U.S., residents gain invaluable experience while patients receive affordable care. This innovative approach not only enhances the residents' skills but also supports their professional growth, offering an enticing alternative to traditional dental education paths. Join us for an engaging discussion that promises to expand your understanding of what it truly means to excel in implant dentistry today.

Unlock the secrets of advanced implant dentistry with insights from Dr. Soren Paape, Dr. Tyler Tolbert, and Dr. Simon Oh. This episode promises to enhance your understanding of the PATZI protocol for six implants and the strategic use of pterygoid implants in the maxilla. We'll discuss the complexities of adapting these techniques to individual patient needs, including nerve lateralization and the critical importance of informed consent. Prepare to gain a comprehensive view of the procedural and financial nuances of advanced implant practices.

Explore the balancing act of treating traveling patients, where we unravel the intricacies of strategic pricing, recovery timelines, and managing expectations. The conversation extends to the ripple effect of influencer marketing in dentistry, particularly how platforms like TikTok are reshaping patient awareness and expectations. Discover how prominent social media personalities impact the perception of dental procedures, fueling curiosity and demand for innovative treatments, and learn how this digital landscape can be both a boon and a challenge for practitioners.

Finally, join us in celebrating the incredible work of ORCA, an organization making strides in global dental care. Listen as Dr. Oh shares ORCA's mission to provide dental services to underserved populations, highlighting their pioneering efforts in Guatemala and upcoming plans for expansion. From revolutionary techniques to opportunities for professional involvement, this episode shines a light on how ORCA is paving the way for accessible dental care worldwide. Get inspired by stories of transformation and the ethical considerations driving these life-changing initiatives.

Dr. Simon, an esteemed expert in implant dentistry, particularly Full Arch procedures, joins us to unravel his captivating journey from a conventional dentist to a revolutionary implant surgeon. He shares his experiences in trauma surgery and how a passion for transformative dentistry led to a focus on full arch implants, reviving his career and offering life-changing solutions for orally compromised patients.

Venture with us into the dynamic world of Full Arch dentistry as we explore both the advancements and challenges facing dental professionals today. Dr. Simon highlights the growing importance of mastering complex cases, underscoring the necessity of continuous learning in a field where the potential of AI is becoming increasingly significant. We discuss innovative implant techniques, including zygomatic and pterygoid implants, emphasizing the balance between surgical precision and personal experience in optimizing patient outcomes.

Our conversation takes an insightful turn into the technical aspects of sinus reconstruction and the innovative strategies that are shaping the future of implant dentistry. From creating sinus windows to managing sinus complications, Dr. Simon details his hands-on training experiences that have honed his expertise. We also explore the promising future of materials like Tetranite, which could revolutionize current practices and improve surgical predictability. Join us for an episode that promises to enlighten and inspire dental professionals and enthusiasts alike.