Latest episode of Elvis on the Dental Fuel Podcast.

In the ever-evolving world of dentistry, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) is paving the way for significant advancements in efficiency and patient care. In our latest podcast episode, we had the pleasure of speaking with the innovative minds behind Dentscape AI, a company that is transforming the dental lab landscape.

Dentscape AI is not just another tech startup; it’s a groundbreaking solution designed specifically for dental labs. With their AI agent, dental technicians can now generate up to 100 crowns in just 10 minutes! This remarkable feat is achieved by simplifying workflows and reducing the workload of dental professionals, allowing them to focus on more complex tasks that require human creativity and expertise.

The conversation began with the introduction of the Dentscape team, including co-founders Bill Cho and Dr. Sylvie Liu. Sylvie, a practicing dentist and lecturer in digital dentistry, shared her journey from traditional dentistry to entrepreneurship. Her passion for the artistry of dentistry led her to seek innovative solutions that would not only enhance her practice but also address the pressing challenges faced by dental labs. Bill explained the three key pillars that support their AI model: high-quality data, advanced algorithms, and robust computing power. By partnering with large dental labs, Dentscape AI ensures that their models are trained on real-world data, allowing for accuracy and reliability in crown design. As Ryan Axelson, another key member of the Dentscape team, pointed out, their goal is to provide tools that empower technicians, allowing them to enhance their workflow and ultimately improve patient care.

Special Guests: Bill Chou, Dr. Sylvie Liu, and Ryan Axelson.

Latest episode of Elvis on the Dental Fuel Podcast.

Attend the 99th Annual Cal-Lab Meeting Feb 20 & 21 at the Swissôtel in Chicago. (Connected to the Hyatt and Lab Day)

This week we had the privilege of sitting down with the dynamic team from Amann Girrbach. We kicked off the conversation with CEO Keith Clements, who shared his remarkable journey to AG. With over 20 years of experience in the dental sector, Keith transitioned from semi-retirement to leading Amann Girrbach, emphasizing the importance of a strong distribution model, highlighting the company's commitment to building trust with their dealer partners.

Director of Operations Nick Pizzo followed up with insights into his extensive background in supply chain and logistics. After spending over a decade with Amazon, Nick brings to the company unmatched customer service experience.

Industry veteran Maurice "Mo" Whitlock, who has been with AG for nearly a decade, brought a wealth of knowledge to the discussion. He emphasized the importance of customer experience with the motto "The relationship to me starts after the sale." This sentiment resonates deeply in a market where service can make or break a company’s reputation.

Throughout the episode, the team discussed the innovative changes they are implementing to enhance customer service. From remote repairs utilizing high-resolution cameras to a focus on technician training, AG is setting new standards in the dental milling space. Keith shared their vision of creating a customer-centric approach, all while celebrating every mill install they do.

This episode is not just about the products; it's about the passion and commitment behind them.

Special Guests: Keith Clements, Maurice “Mo” Whitlock, CDT, and Nick Pizzo.

Elvis on the Dental Fuel Podcast.

Attend the 99th Annual Cal-Lab Meeting Feb 20 & 21 at the Swissôtel in Chicago. (Connected to the Hyatt and Lab Day)

This week we had the pleasure of speaking with Ryan McEachern, the Director of Technical Support and Installations at Zubler USA. As a second-generation dental technician, Ryan has a wealth of experience and knowledge in the dental industry, having started his career in a large lab in California. His journey led him to Zubler, where he plays a crucial role in bringing innovative products to the market.

Zubler USA is known for its high-quality dental equipment, including advanced milling machines and ceramic ovens. Ryan shared insights into how these products are designed to improve efficiency and quality in dental labs. One of the standout features of their ceramic oven, the VARIO 230, is its ability to provide even heating and cooling, which is essential for ensuring the integrity of dental materials. This technology allows dental technicians to produce better results while minimizing the risk of fractures in their work.

Another exciting aspect of the conversation was the discussion around zirconia materials. Ryan revealed that Zubler's 3:45 zirconia can be centered in just four hours, making it one of the fastest options available in the industry. This innovation not only saves time but also enhances productivity in dental labs, allowing technicians to meet the demands of their patients more effectively.

Customer service is a core value at Zubler USA, and Ryan emphasized the importance of being an extension of their customers. By providing top-notch support and training, Zubler ensures that dental technicians have the resources they need to succeed. This commitment to customer satisfaction sets Zubler apart in a competitive market.

Special Guest: Ryan McEachern .

Attend the 99th Annual Cal-Lab Meeting Feb 20 & 21 at the Swissôtel in Chicago. (Connected to the Hyatt and Lab Day)

This week we had the pleasure of speaking with Jim Thacker, the owner of Utah Valley Dental Lab, who shared his inspiring journey from finance to dental lab ownership.

Jim began his career in finance, working at Wells Fargo before marrying into a family that owned a dental lab. Initially brought in to handle the business side of things, Jim quickly became immersed in the world of dental aesthetics. Over the years, he has transformed Utah Valley Dental Lab from a small local lab into a thriving business with 123 employees, 40 of whom are also owners. This unique employee ownership model fosters a strong sense of collaboration and commitment among the staff, ensuring that everyone has a vested interest in the lab's success.

One of the most fascinating aspects of Jim's approach is his focus on high-end aesthetics and the importance of peer referrals in growing the business. He emphasizes that there’s nothing more effective than word-of-mouth marketing in the dental industry. By building strong relationships with their clients, Jim and his team have established Utah Valley Dental Lab as a go-to resource for aesthetic and implant dentistry. He believes in the importance of kindness and fostering a culture where employees feel valued and invested in their work. Jim Thacker's insights into running a successful dental lab highlight the significance of employee ownership, relationship building, and a focus on aesthetics in the dental industry.

Special Guest: Jim Thacker.

Attend the 99th Annual Cal-Lab Meeting Feb 20 & 21 at the Swissôtel in Chicago. (Connected to the Hyatt and Lab Day)

This episode delves into the fascinating world of dental burs with Nick Nocito from SS White Dental. As the oldest rotary company, SS White has been at the forefront of dental innovation since 1844. Nick shares insights into the history of burs, the importance of using the right tools for crown prep, and his mission to reduce remakes in dental labs. We talk about the intricate process of manufacturing burs and the critical role they play in achieving optimal dental outcomes.

With Nick's expertise and the high-quality products from SS White, you have a chance to help your doctors get you better preps and have better burs in the lab.

Reach out today to get the preps you deserve! https://www.sswhitedental.com/contact

Special Guest: Nick Nocito.

Attend the 99th Annual Cal-Lab Meeting Feb 20 & 21 at the Swissôtel in Chicago. (Connected to the Hyatt and Lab Day)

We had the pleasure of sitting down with Jonny Jakson, a name synonymous with innovation in dental technology. Known affectionately as "Jonny Exocad," Jonny's journey is a testament to the power of family, passion, and the relentless pursuit of excellence in the dental lab industry.

Johnny's story begins in a family deeply rooted in dental technology. His uncle, a successful dental lab owner, became a pivotal mentor, inspiring Jonny to dive headfirst into the world of dental technology. From a young age, Johnny was exposed to the world of digital dentistry.

One of the standout aspects of Johnny's career is his dedication to education and empowering the next generation of dental technicians. Johnny shares his insights on the versatility of Exocad, emphasizing its ability to create any prosthetic imaginable. His commitment to educating others on using this powerful tool is evident, as he offers training and support to both labs and clinicians, ensuring they can maximize the software's potential.

Evolve: https://evolvedentistry.com/

EZ Ref iOS implant location: https://evolvedentistry.com/product/ez-ref/

Special Guest: Jonny Jakson.

In the ever-evolving world of dental technology, staying ahead of the curve is crucial for professionals looking to provide the best care for their patients. That's why we're excited to bring you an insightful conversation from our latest podcast episode featuring two industry leaders from Ivoclar, John Isherwood and Pat Coon. As we gear up for the highly anticipated LMT Lab Day Chicago 2025, this episode is a must-listen for anyone in the dental field.

Ivoclar, a global leader in dental materials and technology, is celebrating 20 years of Emax, a revolutionary product that has transformed the industry. John Isherwood, who has been with Ivoclar for 27 years, shares his journey from the world of sports PR to becoming a key figure in dental communications. His passion for the industry is evident as he discusses the importance of creating memorable experiences for customers and the impact of Emax on dental practices worldwide.

Meanwhile, Pat Coon, a senior field digital consultant at Ivoclar, delves into the advancements in digital dentures. With a background in the Air Force as a dental assistant and lab technician, Pat has witnessed the transition from analog to digital firsthand. He shares his insights on the evolution of digital dentistry and the growing adoption of digital dentures, particularly in the U.S. and Canada.

This episode also offers a sneak peek into what Ivoclar has in store for LMT Lab Day Chicago 2025. With a lineup of 19 programs and 21 thought leaders, attendees can expect a wealth of knowledge and inspiration. From intimate learning sessions to grand ballroom lectures, Ivoclar is committed to providing an exceptional educational experience for dental professionals.

Register TODAY for LMT Lab Day Chicago Feb 20-22, 2025: https://lmtmag.com/lmtlabday

Special Guests: John Isherwood and Patrick Coon, CDT, TE.

In the ever-evolving world of dental technology, staying ahead of the curve is essential for both practitioners and patients. This week we talk with Dr. Nilo Hernandez and Johnny O., who are making waves in the industry with their groundbreaking SiOS system. This innovative approach promises to revolutionize the way full arch dentistry is performed, offering a more efficient and precise method that benefits both dental professionals and their patients.

Dr. Nilo Hernandez, a seasoned implantologist with over 35 years of experience, and Johnny O., a dental technician with a wealth of digital expertise, have joined forces to address the challenges faced in full arch dentistry. Their collaboration led to the development of the SiOS system, a digital workflow designed to streamline the process and eliminate common issues encountered during implant procedures.

The SiOS system stands out for its ability to adapt to any implant system and surgical workflow, thanks to its unique use of beacons or matchmakers. These elements allow for precise placement and alignment, ensuring a better than printed full arch in just a few hours. This means that dental professionals can now offer their patients a more predictable and less invasive experience, with reduced chair time and improved outcomes.

Dr. Hernandez and Johnny O. shared their journey from the initial concept to the fully realized SiOS system. They discussed the challenges they faced, such as the need for a digital solution that could work in both guided and non-guided environments. Their perseverance and dedication to problem-solving led to a system that not only meets these needs but also elevates the standard of care in implant dentistry.

Join them for the January 15th webinar: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_I6hPu7hSRxW3cZBD95qleg#/registration

Special Guests: Dr. Nilo Hernandez and John Orfanidis CDT.

The end of the year is almost here! The holiday rush is almost over. HANG IN THERE!

The journey to finding one's true calling can be as intricate as the work itself. For Carmel Vickers-Wall, a clinical dental technician from the UK, this journey began at the tender age of 16. Initially stepping into the dental field as a nurse, Carmel's path has been marked by a series of pivotal decisions that have led her to a fulfilling career that beautifully marries her artistic talents with her passion for patient care.

In our latest podcast episode, Carmel shares her story, offering listeners an inside look into the world of dental technology and the unique role of a clinical dental technician. From her early days of doodling horror-themed art in school to contemplating a career in law, Carmel's path was anything but straightforward. It was a chance suggestion from her dentist that set her on a course towards the dental field, where she discovered a passion for helping patients and a love for the artistry involved in crafting dentures.

Carmel's journey is a testament to the power of meeting the right people and making the right choices. Her decision to pursue an apprenticeship as a dental nurse allowed her to gain invaluable experience and insight into the dental world, ultimately leading her to the realization that her true passion lay in dental technology. The transition wasn't easy, but Carmel's determination and artistic flair have set her apart in the field.

In the episode, Carmel discusses the importance of proper impressions and patient communication, sharing tips and tricks that can benefit both dental professionals and patients alike. Her emphasis on setting realistic expectations and her dedication to patient care are evident in every aspect of her work.

Special Guest: Carmel Vickers-Wall.

Usually, dental technicians frown upon dentists that do their own work. I mean, we get it, but we still want to do the work for you. But some dentists go as far as turning it into a 15 person lab doing work for other dentists. That we can get behind, because at that point they are creating careers for dental technicians. Dr. Donny Domingue followed an uncle to become a dentist. Wanting to do more with implants, he did a residency in New York that allowed him to place many. Once he found his home again in Lafayette, LA, Dr. Domingue started working with labs for his implant restorations. He found that he needed to educate many labs on the proper way to make a custom abutment. That's when he started doing his own. It wasn't long before he was doing them for other dentist and opened Louisiana Dental Implant Lab. It was after training a bunch of engineers to be dental technician that Dr. Domingue developed the Vortex screw to help him with his own full arch cases.

Learn more about the Vortex screw:

Advanced Guided Surgery Course – January 2025 with Dr. Danny Domingue and Cory Glenn

Special Guest: Dr. Daniel Domingue.