Alan is joined by the one and only Dr. Brian Baliwas. You might know him better as @sfdentalnerd on Instagram, where he is probably the most entertaining dental follow on the platform!

Alan and Brian have a lively discussion about the frustrations of dental insurance, the perils of planned obsolescence in dental equipment, and the importance of transparency in dentistry. They delve into the surprisingly efficient insurance model used for Dr. Baliwas's dog, Xylo and contrast it with the often opaque and frustrating world of human dental insurance. 

The conversation also touches on the challenges of running a fee-for-service practice, the hidden costs of dental procedures, and the value of patient communication.

Key Takeaways:

• Dental insurance vs. pet insurance: Dr. Baliwas highlights the stark differences between the transparent and efficient claims process for his dog's insurance and the confusing world of human dental insurance. This raises questions about the role of employers, transparency, and the overall value of dental insurance plans.
• Planned obsolescence: The conversation explores the frustrating trend of planned obsolescence in dental equipment, with examples like air polishers and intraoral scanners. Dr. Baliwas shares his experience of repairing his own equipment due to a lack of available parts and discusses the push towards subscription models for dental technology.
• Fee-for-service dentistry: Brian discusses the benefits and challenges of running a fee-for-service practice, emphasizing the importance of accurate cost analysis and transparent patient communication.
• The value of hygiene: Brian and Alan discuss patient perceptions of dental hygiene and the importance of comprehensive exams in a preventive dental model. They also touch on the use of air polishers and guided biofilm therapy.
• The importance of company support: When choosing dental products and equipment Brian stresses the importance of excellent company support and customer service rather than simply focusing on the "best" brand names.

Some links from the show:

• @sfdentalnerd: Dr. Brian Baliwas's Instagram handle
• Healthy Paws: Pet insurance company
• EMS Airflow
• iTero Element: Intraoral scanner mentioned in the context of planned obsolescence
• Medit i700
• "Buy Now" Documentary

Episode Index:

• 01:26 The Role of Social Media in Dentistry

• 02:39 Emergency Dentistry and Zylo's Insurance

• 05:35 Transparency in Dental and Medical Insurance

• 19:18 In-Network vs. Out-of-Network Dental Practices

• 27:25 The Role of Hygiene in Dentistry

• 28:54 Patient Perception vs. Clinical Reality

• 29:48 Innovative Hygiene Tools and Techniques

• 31:52 The Cost and Maintenance of Dental Equipment

• 34:10 Subscription Models and Planned Obsolescence

• 37:47 The Value of Customer Support

• 42:08 Disposable vs. Durable Dental Tools

• 47:42 The Frustration of Warranties and Repairs

• 52:22 Leveraging Social Media for Dental 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/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 practice and your brand. From logo redesign to a full service marketing plan, the folks at Wonderist have you covered! Go check them out at verydentalpodcast.com/wonderist!

--

Enova Illumination makes the very best in loupes and headlights, including their new ergonomic angled prism loupes! They also distribute loupe mounted cameras and even the amazing line of Zumax microscopes! If you want to help out the podcast while upping your magnification and headlight game, you need to head over to verydentalpodcast.com/enova to see their whole line of products!

--

CAD-Ray offers the best service on a wide variety of digital scanners, printers, mills and even  their very own browser based design software, Clinux! CAD-Ray has been a huge supporter of the Very Dental Podcast Network and I can tell you that you’ll get no better service on everything digital dentistry than the folks from CAD-Ray. Go check them out at verydentalpodcast.com/CADRay!

 

Today's throwback episode features Dr. Nate Lawson as he returns to the Very Clinical Podcast to discuss partial coverage restorations with Kevin and Zach. They debate the merits of onlays versus crowns, discuss different preparation designs and temporization techniques, and explore the use of new materials like Emax and zirconia. Tune in to learn about the advantages and disadvantages of partial coverage restorations and how they can be used to provide optimal patient care.

• Key Takeaways:
  • Onlays can be a good alternative to crowns in certain situations.
  • Proper preparation design and temporization are crucial for successful onlays.
  • New materials and techniques are making onlays easier and more predictable.
• Some Links from the Show:
  • Dr. Nate Lawson's Instagram
  • Marcus Blatz's Instagram
  • Steve Schiffenhaus's Instagram
  • Ivoclar Telio Onlay temporization material 
  • Nate Lawson's website
  • Tempocem ID
  • Temrex TNE
  • 3M Relyx Universal

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 practice and your brand. From logo redesign to a full service marketing plan, the folks at Wonderist have you covered! Go check them out at verydentalpodcast.com/wonderist!

--

Enova Illumination makes the very best in loupes and headlights, including their new ergonomic angled prism loupes! They also distribute loupe mounted cameras and even the amazing line of Zumax microscopes! If you want to help out the podcast while upping your magnification and headlight game, you need to head over to verydentalpodcast.com/enova to see their whole line of products!

--

CAD-Ray offers the best service on a wide variety of digital scanners, printers, mills and even  their very own browser based design software, Clinux! CAD-Ray has been a huge supporter of the Very Dental Podcast Network and I can tell you that you’ll get no better service on everything digital dentistry than the folks from CAD-Ray. Go check them out at verydentalpodcast.com/CADRay!

 

Would you like to discover how to overcome creative inertia and tedious tasks with the help of technology? Al explores how he's using Artificial Intelligence and how it can be used to enhance creativity and productivity for dentists and other professionals. He shares his personal experiences using AI for podcast editing, email composition, student study guides, and even generating clinical notes. 

Key Takeaways:

• AI tools like Google Gemini and Descript can significantly enhance productivity and creativity.
• AI can help with a wide range of tasks, from podcast editing to generating clinical notes.
• Using specific prompts is crucial for getting the best results from AI.
• While AI offers numerous benefits, it's important to be mindful of potential downsides and ethical considerations.

Some Links From the Show:

• Very Dental Facebook Group
• Google Gemini
• Descript

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 practice and your brand. From logo redesign to a full service marketing plan, the folks at Wonderist have you covered! Go check them out at verydentalpodcast.com/wonderist!

--

Enova Illumination makes the very best in loupes and headlights, including their new ergonomic angled prism loupes! They also distribute loupe mounted cameras and even the amazing line of Zumax microscopes! If you want to help out the podcast while upping your magnification and headlight game, you need to head over to verydentalpodcast.com/enova to see their whole line of products!

--

CAD-Ray offers the best service on a wide variety of digital scanners, printers, mills and even  their very own browser based design software, Clinux! CAD-Ray has been a huge supporter of the Very Dental Podcast Network and I can tell you that you’ll get no better service on everything digital dentistry than the folks from CAD-Ray. Go check them out at verydentalpodcast.com/CADRay!

 

Alan welcomes back Dr. Melissa Seibert to talk about caries removal. While academics and researchers don't find the idea of incomplete caries removal controversial, many clinicians just can't get their head around it! Melissa drops a LOT of knowledge on us in this episode!

Key takeaways:

• Selective caries removal is a well-substantiated approach to caries management that involves removing only the infected dentin while leaving affected dentin behind. This can help to preserve healthy tooth structure and avoid pulpal exposure.
• Magnification and light are essential for accurate caries diagnosis. Melissa emphasizes the importance of "sharp eyes and a dull explorer."
• Radiographs are crucial for monitoring caries progression and making informed decisions about treatment.
• SDF can be a valuable tool for arresting caries in both children and adults.
• Sealants, especially glass ionomer sealants, can be effective in preventing caries, but proper isolation is essential.
• The sandwich technique is an older technique that is not as commonly used today.
• Vital pulp therapy is a topic that will be explored in a future episode.

Some links from the show:

• Elevated GP: theelevatedgp.com - Melissa's website with on-demand dental content and a journal club.
• Bioclear
• GC Fuji Triage

Episode Index:

• 02:02 The Birth of Elevated GP

• 05:28 Selective Caries Removal Debate

• 08:31 Approaches to Caries Removal

• 14:35 The Importance of Magnification and Light

• 21:23 Exploring Conservative Options: SDF in Adults

• 21:49 Challenges and Considerations with SDF

• 23:00 Sealants: Best Practices and Controversies

• 27:25 Selective Caries Removal: Techniques and Opinions

• 29:58 Bonding and Margins: Ensuring Success

• 37:25 The Role of Silver Diamine Fluoride in Caries Excavation

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 practice and your brand. From logo redesign to a full service marketing plan, the folks at Wonderist have you covered! Go check them out at verydentalpodcast.com/wonderist!

--

Enova Illumination makes the very best in loupes and headlights, including their new ergonomic angled prism loupes! They also distribute loupe mounted cameras and even the amazing line of Zumax microscopes! If you want to help out the podcast while upping your magnification and headlight game, you need to head over to verydentalpodcast.com/enova to see their whole line of products!

--

CAD-Ray offers the best service on a wide variety of digital scanners, printers, mills and even  their very own browser based design software, Clinux! CAD-Ray has been a huge supporter of the Very Dental Podcast Network and I can tell you that you’ll get no better service on everything digital dentistry than the folks from CAD-Ray. Go check them out at verydentalpodcast.com/CADRay!

 

In this throwback episode of the Very Clinical podcast Zach and Kevin talk about verbal skills and patient communication. 

Show Topics:

• Office Holiday Parties: The hosts discuss their plans for their office holiday parties, including venue selection, gift exchanges, and timing. Kevin shares an amusing anecdote about a past party location mishap.
• Verbal Skills in Dentistry: Zach and Kevin delve into how their communication skills have evolved over their careers. They emphasize the importance of confidence and clarity when presenting treatment options to patients.
• Rubber Dam Use: A discussion on the benefits of rubber dam use and how to overcome patient objections.
• Case Acceptance: The hosts share strategies for improving case acceptance for crowns, scaling and root planing, and implants, highlighting the importance of visual aids like intraoral cameras and x-rays.
• Managing Patient Expectations: Zach and Kevin talk about the importance of setting realistic expectations for patients, particularly regarding post-operative pain and healing after extractions.
• The Importance of Repetition: The hosts acknowledge the necessity of repeating instructions and information to patients, even if it feels mundane.

Key Takeaways:

• Confidence and proficiency in dental procedures translate to better communication with patients.
• Present treatment options with clarity and avoid overwhelming patients with choices.
• Visual aids such as intraoral photos and x-rays significantly improve case acceptance.
• Manage patient expectations by clearly explaining procedures and post-operative care.
• Repetition is crucial for patient understanding, even if it feels repetitive.

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 practice and your brand. From logo redesign to a full service marketing plan, the folks at Wonderist have you covered! Go check them out at verydentalpodcast.com/wonderist!

--

Enova Illumination makes the very best in loupes and headlights, including their new ergonomic angled prism loupes! They also distribute loupe mounted cameras and even the amazing line of Zumax microscopes! If you want to help out the podcast while upping your magnification and headlight game, you need to head over to verydentalpodcast.com/enova to see their whole line of products!

--

CAD-Ray offers the best service on a wide variety of digital scanners, printers, mills and even  their very own browser based design software, Clinux! CAD-Ray has been a huge supporter of the Very Dental Podcast Network and I can tell you that you’ll get no better service on everything digital dentistry than the folks from CAD-Ray. Go check them out at verydentalpodcast.com/CADRay!

 

Alan is back after a month of exciting crossovers on the Very Dental Podcast Network! He dives into his holiday craziness (tuba concerts galore!), reflects on consumerism and making thoughtful purchases, and shares valuable advice on navigating dental technology decisions. Plus, he gives a shout-out to Precision Dental Lab (his awesome lab tech neighbor)!

Key Takeaways:

• Support is Key: When investing in dental technology, prioritize companies with excellent customer service and support.
• Don't Rush: Waiting to purchase technology can be beneficial. Prices may drop, and newer, better versions often come out quickly.
• Simplify Decisions: Gather information and seek advice to eliminate choices and make your decision-making process easier.
• Value Your Lab Tech: Consider your lab tech's preferences and expertise when making technology choices that impact them.

Some links from the show:

• Crossroads Village & Huckleberry Railroad
• Tuba Christmas
• Grand Rapids Tuba Christmas Event
• Buy Now: The Shopping Conspiracy (Netflix Documentary)
• Dr. Brian Baliwas' Instagram Page (@sfdentalnerd)
• CAD-Ray
• Zirc Dental Products
• Cosmedent
• Microcopy

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 practice and your brand. From logo redesign to a full service marketing plan, the folks at Wonderist have you covered! Go check them out at verydentalpodcast.com/wonderist!

--

Enova Illumination makes the very best in loupes and headlights, including their new ergonomic angled prism loupes! They also distribute loupe mounted cameras and even the amazing line of Zumax microscopes! If you want to help out the podcast while upping your magnification and headlight game, you need to head over to verydentalpodcast.com/enova to see their whole line of products!

--

CAD-Ray offers the best service on a wide variety of digital scanners, printers, mills and even  their very own browser based design software, Clinux! CAD-Ray has been a huge supporter of the Very Dental Podcast Network and I can tell you that you’ll get no better service on everything digital dentistry than the folks from CAD-Ray. Go check them out at verydentalpodcast.com/CADRay!

 

In this episode Alan catches up with Dr. Mike Mansell, who recently retired from the Army after a 24-year career in military dentistry. The conversation covers a range of topics, from their initial meeting at a dental course, to Dr. Mansell's transition to civilian dental practice. Dr. Mansell shares his experiences and insights on the differences between military and civilian dentistry, the challenges of switching roles, and the importance of having a family support system during dental school. They also discuss the impact of debt from dental school, the evolving role of technology in dentistry, and the influences of social media on modern dental practices.    Episode Index:

• 01:10 Mike's Military Dental Journey

• 05:07 The Impact of Family During Dental School

• 13:57 Transitioning from Military to Civilian Dentistry

• 19:15 Advanced Dental Technology in the Military

• 27:46 Military Scholarships and Dental School Costs

• 29:31 The Reality of Dental School Debt

• 39:44 The All-on-Four Procedure Debate

• 45:37 The Importance of Dental Fundamentals

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 practice and your brand. From logo redesign to a full service marketing plan, the folks at Wonderist have you covered! Go check them out at verydentalpodcast.com/wonderist!

--

Enova Illumination makes the very best in loupes and headlights, including their new ergonomic angled prism loupes! They also distribute loupe mounted cameras and even the amazing line of Zumax microscopes! If you want to help out the podcast while upping your magnification and headlight game, you need to head over to verydentalpodcast.com/enova to see their whole line of products!

--

CAD-Ray offers the best service on a wide variety of digital scanners, printers, mills and even  their very own browser based design software, Clinux! CAD-Ray has been a huge supporter of the Very Dental Podcast Network and I can tell you that you’ll get no better service on everything digital dentistry than the folks from CAD-Ray. Go check them out at verydentalpodcast.com/CADRay!

 

The crossover content keeps on coming! Kevin and Zack welcome Mo back to talk about how to manage tissue for that beautiful crown prep you're doing!    They discuss various tissue management techniques crucial for successful crown prep appointments. They emphasize the importance of using cord, paste, and other tools to manage tissue effectively. They also touch upon the potential use of lasers, electrosurge units, and the controversial deep margin elevation technique. This is a comprehensive guide for dental students and dentists looking to enhance their tissue management skills!   Some links from the show:

• Safco Hemotrac

Episode Index: 

• 05:50 Tissue Management Techniques

• 19:00 Deep Margin Elevation and Biological Width

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 practice and your brand. From logo redesign to a full service marketing plan, the folks at Wonderist have you covered! Go check them out at verydentalpodcast.com/wonderist!

--

Enova Illumination makes the very best in loupes and headlights, including their new ergonomic angled prism loupes! They also distribute loupe mounted cameras and even the amazing line of Zumax microscopes! If you want to help out the podcast while upping your magnification and headlight game, you need to head over to verydentalpodcast.com/enova to see their whole line of products!

--

CAD-Ray offers the best service on a wide variety of digital scanners, printers, mills and even  their very own browser based design software, Clinux! CAD-Ray has been a huge supporter of the Very Dental Podcast Network and I can tell you that you’ll get no better service on everything digital dentistry than the folks from CAD-Ray. Go check them out at verydentalpodcast.com/CADRay!

 

Mohamed continues the epic crossover event with the Very Clinical guys, Zach and Kevin. Today they talk about the quintessential dental appointment...crown preps! 

They discuss their personal experiences with crown preparation, from the early days in dental school to modern practices in their dental careers. They compare techniques, materials used, and share anecdotes about challenging cases and instructors. The hosts elaborate on their current methods, including the digital tools and anesthetic procedures they use, and close with a discussion on how they handle build-ups and tissue management.   Episode Index: 

• 01:58 Dental School Stories: Least Favorite Instructors

• 06:31 Dental School Stories: Crazy Instructor Tales

• 08:23 Discussing Crown Procedures

• 17:23 Pre-Op Alginate and Custom Trays and Rubber Base

• 21:17 Transition to Modern Techniques

• 25:39 Challenges in Crown Procedures

Alan welcomes back Dr. Martin Mendelsohn to the podcast for a conversation about getting out of your own way.   The discussion revolves around the importance of coaching, dealing with limiting beliefs, effective delegation, managing time and tasks, and the value of perspective in overcoming personal and professional challenges. Dr. Mendelsohn shares insights from his experiences, upcoming keynote lectures, and a new course designed to help dental professionals master leadership skills.   It turns out that Martin has written a book, too! We talk a little bit about the creative process involved with book writing, course creating and keynote addresses!   Some links from the show:

• Martin's new course, "Leadership Mastery" (first module is FREE!)
• Martin's website

Episode Index:

• 01:12 The Power of Coaching

• 08:56 Understanding Limiting Beliefs

• 18:49 Time Management and Delegation

• 22:50 Understanding Individual Differences in Task Execution

• 23:28 The Importance of Communication in Delegation

• 29:18 Navigating Difficult Conversations with Team Members

• 32:17 Developing Emotional Intelligence and Neuroplasticity

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 practice and your brand. From logo redesign to a full service marketing plan, the folks at Wonderist have you covered! Go check them out at verydentalpodcast.com/wonderist!

--

Enova Illumination makes the very best in loupes and headlights, including their new ergonomic angled prism loupes! They also distribute loupe mounted cameras and even the amazing line of Zumax microscopes! If you want to help out the podcast while upping your magnification and headlight game, you need to head over to verydentalpodcast.com/enova to see their whole line of products!

--

CAD-Ray offers the best service on a wide variety of digital scanners, printers, mills and even  their very own browser based design software, Clinux! CAD-Ray has been a huge supporter of the Very Dental Podcast Network and I can tell you that you’ll get no better service on everything digital dentistry than the folks from CAD-Ray. Go check them out at verydentalpodcast.com/CADRay!