Protrusive Dental Podcast

Are you still using long-term provisionals just to test OVD? Is an occlusal splint really the best way to assess vertical dimension? Could raising the OVD actually harm your patient? Dr. Lukasz Lassmann joins Jaz and Mahmoud Ibrahim  this AES special episode to challenge conventional thinking around occlusion, vertical dimension, and full mouth rehab. Lukasz shares his unique perspective as a clinician, educator, and researcher, bringing clarity to a topic that often feels murky and divided. They explore real-world questions like managing asymptomatic clicks before ortho, why occlusion alone won’t “cure” bruxism, and the number one reason not to raise the vertical without proper understanding. Plus, Lukasz drops an incredible airway assessment tip at the end of the episode! Protrusive Dental Pearl: Use a comprehensive TMD history-taking form to effectively triage patients into urgent (red), moderate (amber), or low-risk (green) categories—this allows you to prioritize care appropriately and build rapport by focusing on examination rather than data collection during the appointment. https://youtu.be/ZhIoUxdMMsg Watch PDP225 on Youtube Download the form: protrusive.co.uk/tmdhistory Download the Patient History Evaluation Form Need to Read it? Check out the Full Episode Transcript below! Takeaways Understanding red flags in TMD patients is essential. Patient history is vital for effective treatment. Phonetics can be unpredictable in dental rehabilitation. Diet and sleep significantly affect TMD management. Gut health is linked to chronic pain conditions. Communication with patients is key to successful outcomes. Bruxism may not be solely caused by occlusion issues. Palpating the lateral pterygoid is often ineffective and painful. Equilibration and centric relation are controversial topics in dentistry. Increasing vertical dimension can exacerbate sleep apnea. Holistic approaches are essential in diagnosing and treating TMD. Not all patients with TMD have malocclusion or attrition. Sleep apnea is increasingly common in younger, slimmer patients. Polygraphy is a useful diagnostic tool for sleep apnea. DISE (drug-induced sleep endoscopy) is a valuable diagnostic procedure. Highlights of this episode: 02:48  Protrusive Dental Pearl 04:37 Lukasz Lassman's Journey and Philosophy 08:11 Debunking Myths About Vertical Dimension 12:10 Patients in the Red Zone 23:15 The Role of Diet and Lifestyle in Facial Pain 31:38 Adapting to New Restorative Methods 34:41 Phonetic Challenges in Dentistry 39:02 The Role of Occlusion in Bruxism 41:18 Palpating Lateral Pterygoid Muscle 43:27 Centric Relation vs. Equilibration Debate 50:07 OVD Red Flag: Airway 01:03:27 Conclusion and Future Events Studies Mentioned:Gut Bless Your Pain—Roles of the Gut Microbiota, Sleep, and Melatonin in Chronic Orofacial Pain and Depression Randomised controlled trial on testing an increased vertical dimension of occlusion prior to restorative treatment of tooth wear 📅 Upcoming Talks & Courses AES Annual Meeting 2026: The Evolution of Oral Physician - February 18-19, 2026 Lassmann Education: SummerCamp 2025 If you loved this episode, be sure to watch Myth Busting Occlusion and TMJ – PDP022 #PDPMainEpisodes #OcclusionTMDandSplints 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: 180 OCCLUSION (Occlusal therapy) Aim: To enhance clinical understanding of occlusal principles, vertical dimension management, and red flag indicators that impact prosthodontic and TMD treatment, based on current best evidence and insights from Dr. Lukasz Lassmann.  Dentists will be able to - 1. Identify common myths and misconceptions about vertical dimension increase and temporization. 2. Recognize red flag patient presentations that are not suitabl...

Rustom Moopen is a general dentist with a keen focus on digital dentistry, particularly in 3D printing and milling. He dives into the pros and cons of investing in these technologies, discussing their durability, cost-effectiveness, and long-term ROI. The conversation highlights how milling and printing serve different purposes, with insights on workflow improvements, patient satisfaction, and the importance of mentorship in mastering these methods. Moopen also emphasizes the evolving landscape of dental practices with technology, reshaping how dentists approach patient care.

“Jaz, I don't know which course to take?” “Should I do Aspire Academy, Kois, Chris Orr or Paul Tipton?” (all great courses and legends by the way!) Of course its confusing - there are now more ‘Level 7 Diplomas’ than Dentists! There are also lots of biased testimonials - surely they can't ALL be the ‘best course I ever did?’, right? So just HOW do you choose the right postgraduate program to elevate your skills?  What mindset helps new grads thrive, especially when they’re feeling stuck? This episode shares Lakshmi's decision making as she opted for the RipeGlobal Fellowship. Lakshmi’s journey is a perfect example of how the right mindset and a strategic approach to education can transform your dental career. Jaz and Lakshmi discuss her experience of choosing the right course, enrolling in the Ripe Global Restorative Fellowship, and the challenges she faced along the way.   They also talk through the importance of ongoing learning, the impact of mentorship, and how Lakshmi’s mindset shift helped her grow as a dentist. Whether you’re a new grad or seasoned dentist looking to upskill, Lakshmi’s story will inspire you to take control of your career growth and make the most of every opportunity. https://youtu.be/waC_kQJhcio Watch IC059 on Youtube Book a free video consultation with the RipeGlobal Team to see if this course is right for you: protrusive.co.uk/RGdiscount This is an affiliate link that gets you 20% OFF if you enrol - but you first need to discover if it's the right course for you (it involves treating a manikin in your own clinic!) Need to Read it? Check out the Full Episode Transcript below! Key Takeaways: Hands-on experience is crucial for building confidence in clinical skills. Finding the right practice is important for professional growth. Investing in continuing education is vital for skill enhancement. Mentorship plays a vital role in navigating early career challenges. A supportive team can significantly impact a dentist's experience. Understanding one's learning style is key to effective training. Practical learning enhances engagement and application in real scenarios. Balancing time commitments is essential for managing a demanding course load. Choosing a course that aligns with one's career goals is vital for success. Maintaining a passion for one's work contributes to success. It's important to reflect on personal growth and set achievable goals. The journey in dentistry is not linear; expect ups and downs. Highlights for this episode: 02:29 Lakshmi's Journey and Dental School Experience 06:45 First Year as a Dentist 12:01 Finding the Right Practice 19:49 Considering Advanced Courses 25:36 Choosing RIPE Global Fellowship 29:21 Lakshmi's Hands-On Experience with Ripe Global 37:40 Challenges and Growth in the Fellowship 42:37 Balancing Life and Professional Growth 52:57 Mentorship and Personal Development 54:41  Future Aspirations and Final Reflections This is a non-clinical episode without CPD. For CPD or CE credits, visit the Protrusive Guidance app—hundreds of hours and mini-courses await! Stay up-to-date with Dr. Lakshmi's valuable content and expert advice! Follow her on Instagram! If you loved this episode, be sure to check out another epic episode - Non-Clinical Growth for the Busy Dentist (Your Health, Relationships, and Business) – IC023 #InterferenceCast #CareerDevelopment #BreadandButterDentistry Click below for full episode transcript: Jaz's Introduction: Hello, Protruserati. I'm Jaz Gulati, and welcome to the introduction of the Introduction, I guess. I think this episode deserved an extra bit right at the beginning to let you know what's in store for you by listening to this episode. Look, the number one question I've been asked for years and years and years is, which course should I do? Jaz's Introduction:What's the best course you went on?

Which imaging techniques should you prioritize for TMD patients? Does a panoramic radiograph hold any value?  When should you consider taking a CBCT of the joints instead? How about an MRI scan for the TMJ? Dr. Dania Tamimi joins Jaz for the first AES 2026 Takeover episode, diving deep into the complexities of TMD diagnosis and TMJ Imaging. They break down the key imaging techniques, how to use them effectively, and the importance of accurate reports in patient care. They also discuss key strategies for making sense of MRIs and CBCTs, highlighting how the quality of reports can significantly impact patient care and diagnosis. Understanding these concepts early can make all the difference in effectively managing TMD cases. https://youtu.be/NBCdqhs5oNY Watch PDP223 on Youtube Protrusive Dental Pearl: Don’t lose touch with the magic of in-person learning — balance online education with attending live conferences to connect with peers, meet mentors, and experience the true essence of dentistry! Join us in Chicago AES 2026 where Jaz and Mahmoud will also be speaking among superstars such as Jeff Rouse and Lukasz Lassmann! Need to Read it? Check out the Full Episode Transcript below! Key Takeaways: Imaging should follow clinical diagnosis → not replace it. Every imaging modality answers different questions; choose wisely. TMJ disorders affect more than the jaw → they influence face, airway, growth, posture. Think beyond replacing teeth → treatment should serve function, not just fill space. Avoid “satisfaction of search error” → finding one problem shouldn’t stop broader evaluation. Highlights of this episode: 02:52  Protrusive Dental Pearl 06:01 Meet Dr. Dania Tamimi 09:04 Understanding TMJ Imaging 16:00 TMJ Soft Tissue Anatomy  21:04 The Miracle Joint: TMJ Self-Repair 24:26 The Role of Imaging in TMJ Diagnosis 28:15 Acquiring Panoramic Images 39:35 Guidelines for Using Different Imaging Techniques 41:26 Case Study: Misdiagnosis and Its Consequences 45:46 Balancing Clinical Diagnosis and Imaging 50:17 Role of Imaging in Orthodontics 53:18 The Importance of Accurate MRI Reporting 58:27 Final Thoughts on Imaging and Diagnosis 01:00:54 Upcoming Events and Learning Opportunities 📅 Upcoming Talks & Courses by Dr. Tamimi 🔔 AES 2026 Conference (Chicago): Topic: “Telling the Story of Your Patient Through Imaging” Focus: Understanding patterns in imaging and how they reveal the patient’s full clinical picture 💻 “How to Read a Cone Beam CT” Virtual Course (Concord Seminars) If you enjoyed this episode, don't miss out on [Spear Education] Piper Classification and TMJ Imaging with Dr. McKee – PDP080. This episode is eligible for 1 CE credit via the quiz on Protrusive Guidance.  This episode meets GDC Outcomes A, B, and C. AGD Subject Code: 730 ORAL MEDICINE, ORAL DIAGNOSIS, ORAL PATHOLOGY (Imaging techniques) Aim: To enhance clinicians’ understanding of TMJ imaging modalities, improve diagnostic reasoning, and empower dental professionals to make evidence-based imaging decisions for temporomandibular joint disorders. Dentists will be able to - 1. Differentiate between panoramic radiography, cone beam CT (CBCT), and MRI for TMJ evaluation. 2. Identify the appropriate imaging modality based on specific TMJ diagnoses (e.g., soft tissue vs. hard tissue pathology). 3. Recognize the risks of under- and over-imaging and apply a diagnostic question-driven approach to imaging selection. #PDPMainEpisodes #OcclusionTMDandSplints #OralSurgeryandOralMedicine Click below for full episode transcript: Teaser: We do need to make sure that our teeth are in an orthopedically stable situation. And you should never trust what you see in the mouth 'cause the teeth may fit beautifully. But if the condyles aren't seated properly in the fossa, then it's like basically having a house built on quicksand.

Why do some patients struggle with anesthesia, requiring multiple cartridges just to get numb? Could your TMD patients have an underlying systemic condition that’s been missed? Are you overlooking the signs of a connective tissue disorder? https://youtu.be/gaoJKPTV_Z0 Watch PDP222 on Youtube ”When you can’t connect the issue, think connective tissue!” Dr. Audrey Kershaw joins Jaz for a fascinating deep dive into the world of connective tissue disorders and their hidden impact on dentistry. Together, they explore how hypermobility, unexplained joint issues, and even a history of spontaneous injuries could be key indicators of an underlying disorder. They also break down why dentists play a crucial role in screening and identifying these conditions, ensuring better patient outcomes and a more holistic approach to care. Because sometimes, when things don’t seem connected… they actually are. Protrusive Dental Pearl: Don't just take a "relevant" medical history—take a comprehensive one! Encourage patients to share all health issues, even those they don’t think relate to dentistry. You might uncover important clues about conditions like connective tissue disorders or sleep-disordered breathing, leading to better care and stronger patient trust. Need to Read it? Check out the Full Episode Transcript below! Key Take-aways Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome is often misunderstood and underdiagnosed. Patients with connective tissue disorders often face skepticism from healthcare providers. POTS is a common condition associated with EDS that affects blood pressure regulation. Many TMD patients may have undiagnosed connective tissue disorders. Awareness and education about EDS are crucial for better patient outcomes. The healthcare system can be challenging for patients seeking diagnoses. Research on local anesthetic effectiveness in EDS patients is lacking. Personal experiences can help in understanding and diagnosing connective tissue disorders. Collaboration between healthcare professionals is essential for patient care. Genetic testing is crucial for diagnosing rare types of Ehlers-Danlos. Dental professionals should be aware of the signs of connective tissue disorders. Diagnosis can empower patients to understand their health better. Holistic care is vital in managing symptoms associated with EDS and TMD. Medical histories should be seen as relevant in dental practice. Highlights of this episode: 02:17 Protrusive Dental Pearl 04:21  Dr. Audrey Kershaw's Journey and Insights 09:45 Personal Experiences and Professional Observations 11:55 Diagnosis and Management of Connective Tissue Disorders 13:31 POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome) 15:30 Understanding Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) 24:55 Hypermobile EDS and the Need for Awareness 27:53 International Consortium of EDS GP Checklist 28:34 Genetic Testing and Red Flags 31:44 The Role of Dentists in Identifying EDS 40:32 Journey to Diagnosis 43:47 The Value of a Diagnosis 48:43 Dental Implications of EDS 55:00 Final Thoughts and Resources "If you know one case of EDS, you only know one. Every case is different. Many are severely debilitated, unable to work or carry out daily tasks, often denying their struggles after years of being dismissed." - Dr. Audrey Kershaw Promised Resources Podcast Recommendation: Linda Blustein’s Podcast (about POTS and connective tissue disorders) Specialists & Research: Dr. Alan Hakim – A specialist in Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) research based in London. Norris Lab (U.S.) – Researching genetic markers for hEDS Local Anesthesia Information Resources for Screening & Diagnosis:  Diagnostic Criteria for Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos SyndromeDownload 5-part-questionnaire-for-hypermobilityDownload Symptomatic Joint-Hypermobility GuideDownload Red Flag PatientsDownload

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. https://youtu.be/WTsF1mD-nTo Watch PDP221 on Youtube 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: Occlusal veneers can be as thin as 0.6 mm. Indirect composite is often a superior choice for restorations. Proper bonding protocols are crucial for successful restorations. Focusing on strengths rather than weaknesses is key in dentistry. Conservative approaches in dentistry can preserve tooth structure. The vital tooth is always preferable to a non-vital tooth. Composite resin has wear properties similar to enamel. Occlusal veneers provide excellent protection for compromised teeth. Porcelain veneers have long-term durability compared to composites. The evolution of composite materials has led to better options for restorations. Zirconia is strong but difficult to adjust and bond effectively. Immediate dentin sealing is crucial for successful bonding and patient comfort. The Dahl principle allows for minimal preparation in certain cases. Composites can be as effective as ceramics when used correctly. Understanding the properties of materials is essential for successful restorations. Thin occlusal veneers can be successfully bonded with proper techniques. Need to Read it? Check out the Full Episode Transcript below! Highlights of this episode: 0:00 Introduction 02:52 Protrusive Dental Pearl 04:42 Dr. Pascal Magne on His Current Focus 10:16 Understanding Cusp Coverage and Material Choices 15:48 Conservative Approaches in Dentistry 23:16 Unsupported Enamel: Can it Still be Reinforced? 28:05 Occlusal Veneers Indications 37:00 Material Selection: Composite vs Ceramic 01:24:42 Outro Referenced Studies - all below are available to download on Protrusive Vault in Protrusive Guidance Effect of immediate dentine sealing on the aging and fracture strength of lithium disilicate inlays and overlays  Short-fiber Reinforced MOD Restorations of Molars with Severely Undermined Cusps  Ultrathin CAD-CAM glass ceramic and composite resin occlusal veneers for the treatment of severe dental erosion  Strains in the marginal ridge during occlusal loading  Antagonist Enamel Wears More Than Ceramic Inlays  Outcomes of resin-bonded attachments for removable dental prostheses Performance of ceramic laminate veneers with immediate dentine sealing  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,

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)? https://youtu.be/vapDrnVqHRw 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 Communication is crucial in dentistry, often more than clinical skills. Active listening is essential; avoid interrupting patients. Nervous patients may talk excessively; guide the conversation gently. Patients may withhold information due to fear or anxiety. It's important to make treatment recommendations based on patient needs. Asking open-ended questions can help gather more information. Experience builds confidence in patient interactions. Being authentic while adapting to patients is key. Patients can sense when a dentist is confident or insincere. Building rapport leads to better patient relationships. Kindness is essential in patient interactions. Patients often reflect the values of their dentists. Effective communication can bridge the gap between jargon and patient understanding. Long-term relationships with patients enhance trust and satisfaction. Discussing fees requires confidence and transparency. Visualization techniques can improve communication skills. Empathy is important, but it should not compromise business integrity. Need to Read it? Check out the Full Episode Transcript below! Highlights of this episode: 01:46 Introducing Naveed Bhatti and His Journey 02:53 The Importance of Communication in Dentistry (Do’s and Don’ts) 08:13 Handling Nervous and Quiet Patients 10:51 Dealing with Patients Who Don't Tell the Whole Truth 14:35 Making Treatment Recommendations 17:56 Asking the Right Questions 21:36 Balancing Professionalism and Personal Connection 25:49 Handling Difficult Patients  31:38 Effective Communication with Patients 35:05 Discussing Treatment Fees with Confidence 40:25 The Power of Visualization in Dentistry 48:56 Concluding Thoughts and Future Plans 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. Click below for full episode transcript: Teaser: If you ask seven dentists, you'll get 12 opinions. You see what I mean? Right. So firstly, okay,

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. https://youtu.be/lUC45aLXZKk Watch PDP220 on Youtube 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: Posture and back pain have no direct correlation. Apprenticeships provide invaluable experience and learning opportunities. Investing time in learning and shadowing can accelerate career growth. Ergonomic tools can enhance comfort but should be tailored to individual needs. Mental health is crucial for dentists, and seeking help is a sign of strength. The human body can adapt to various postures with training. Choosing a specialization should align with personal interests and strengths. Preventative measures in ergonomics can improve career longevity. Continuous learning and adaptation are essential in the dental field. Choosing the right dental chair is crucial for comfort. Preventative strategies for back pain include regular exercise. Need to Read it? Check out the Full Episode Transcript below! Highlights of this episode: 02:05  Protrusive Dental Pearl 04:26 Sam's Journey from Physio to Dentist 10:33 The Value of Apprenticeships and Mentorship 16:24 Niching in Dentistry 22:30 Ergonomics in Dentistry: Loupes and Chairs 27:03 Choosing the Right Chair for Your Comfort 29:54 Top Tips for Dentists to Prevent Back Pain  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 Click below for full episode transcript: Jaz's Introduction: Over 270 episodes ago, I had on Dr. Sam Cope when he was a a baby dentist, and he's unique because he's a physio who trained to then become a dentist. Back then, we discussed about back pain and dentistry and how to prevent it, and we talk a bit more about those themes today. Are ergo loops worth it? Jaz's Introduction:Are those posh Bambach kind of chairs. Are they worth it? What's the number one advice to have a career with longevity and good health from a back pain perspective and as a physio come dentist, what does Sam do? What are the things that he practices? Because he's a bit like when Christiano Ronaldo rejoined Manchester United. He was like a, he was a big deal, right? He is the goat. He's the greatest of all time.

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? https://youtu.be/5BEFD1XaZtE Watch PDP219 on Youtube 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: Health and diagnosis are foundational in cosmetic dentistry. Visual try-ins are crucial for patient engagement and satisfaction. Minimally invasive techniques are preferred for cosmetic procedures. Communication with patients about their options is essential. Bonding to enamel is more reliable than bonding to dentin. Permission statements help in guiding patient expectations. The transition from veneers to crowns should be carefully considered. Staining is not the primary concern when bonding to dentin. A change in surface texture is key in modern dental preparations. Visual aids are crucial in helping patients understand their treatment options. The Gurel technique emphasizes minimal preparation for veneers. Effective communication with patients can enhance their treatment experience. Understanding occlusion is fundamental in aesthetic dentistry. Veneer thickness should be as minimal as possible for aesthetic results. Patient involvement in the design process is essential. Cementation techniques can vary based on gingival health. Maintaining a facial path of insertion is important for aesthetic outcomes. Building a good relationship with lab technicians is key to successful restorations. Need to Read it? Check out the Full Episode Transcript below! Highlights of this episode: 02:56  Protrusive Dental Pearl 04:15 Interview with Dr. David Bloom: Journey and Expertise 11:54 The Importance of Enamel in Veneer Longevity 13:46 Prepless Cases and Visual Try-Ins 18:54  Permission Statement 22:24 Visual Try-Ins Protocol 25:13 Decision-Making: Veneers vs. Crowns 28:35 Bonding to Root Dentine and Long-Term Outcomes 33:34 Opening Embrasures: Techniques and Tips 35:19 Visual Try-Ins and Patient Communication 38:50 Wax-up in Occlusion 41:25 The Gurel Technique Explained 47:09 Black Triangles  49:40 Guidelines for First Veneer Case 54:10 Contact Lens Veneers 56:18 Cementation Preferences and Techniques 01:00:15 Final Thoughts and Educational Resources 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,

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: Facebook group: IPC Support by Decon Pete - a private space for dental teams to ask decontamination-related questions. Website for practice support and consulting: www.deconpete.co.uk https://youtu.be/013WuXzWE3g Watch PDP218 on Youtube The Protrusive Dental Pearl: Pete’s Expert Recommendation on Cleaning your Loupes Ideally, loupes should be disinfected between every patient, but at the very least, at the end of each clinical session Avoid submerging loupes in any liquid - instead, use distilled water and a microfiber cloth or cotton buds for frames and nose pads For lenses, use 70% isopropyl alcohol wipes - no acetone or bleach! If you’re using a visor with your loupes, you won’t need to clean them as often Need to Read it? Check out the Full Episode Transcript below! Key takeaways: Decontamination is essential for patient safety in dental practices. Using proper protective equipment is crucial for staff safety. Transporting instruments safely is a key aspect of decontamination. Manufacturer guidance should always take precedence over general guidelines. Policies must be relevant to the specific practice. Manufacturer's guidance should always be followed. Disinfecting instruments is crucial for patient safety. Water quality impacts the effectiveness of dental procedures. Distilled water should be used quickly after opening. Reverse osmosis water is more sustainable for practices. Proper storage of instruments prevents contamination. Highlights for this episode:00:00 – Intro03:52 – Protrusive Dental Pearl: Pete’s top tips for cleaning your loupes06:02 – Introducing Decon Pete: Pete’s background in dental decontamination12:40 – Manual cleaning and PPE errors17:51 – Washer Disinfector27:06 – Instrument Transportation30:08 – Guidance vs. Manufacturer Instruction36:05 – PTFE Tape: Sterilization and best practices41:06 – Occlusal Mirror Care48:18 – Distilled vs. RO Water56:37 – Water for Ceramics57:22 – 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: Identify common decontamination errors and implement strategies to enhance infection control standards Appreciate the appropriate methods for cleaning and maintaining dental equipment Apply best practices for instrument handling, including proper PPE use, safe transportation, and effective sterilisation protocols If you loved this episode, be sure to check out this one: PDP018 (Don’t Get Sued) Click below for full episode transcript: Teaser: Manual cleaning instruments just with surgical gloves on. And I see so many practices doing that and it offers them no protection whatsoever. You don't need to use sterile gauze. Teaser:If you've got sterile gauze in, great. But yeah,