Everyday Oral Surgery

Managing and growing a multi-office practice is no small feat. Today, we’re joined by returning guest, Dr. Roger Levin, Founder and CEO of Levin Group, to take a closer look at how to do it right with 10 tips for success in a multi-location setup. Dr. Levin begins by explaining the challenges of having a large and varied referral base. Then, we discover what oral surgeons can learn from orthodontists, marketing recommendations for multi-office practices, tracking and analysis difficulties, and debunking common cost and money-related myths. We also assess the best practices for communication, the importance of partner and stakeholder agreement, the necessity of consistent management performance analysis, and the importance of having adequate and efficient systems in place across multiple locations. Plus, Dr. Levin shares his thoughts on the curse of high IQ, what we can do to overcome it, and how the career stage of individual doctors affects the entire multi-office setup. Tune in for practical strategies to strengthen and scale your multi-location practice!Key Points From This Episode:The challenges of having a large and varied referral base. Orthodontics as a leading economic indicator, and why this matters for oral surgeons.  Marketing recommendations for multi-office practices. Why tracking and analysis get more difficult with more than two locations. Overheads, debunking common money-related myths, and the role of office managers.Best practices for improving communication in a multi-office setup.How agreeing with partners and stakeholders influences a practice’s effectiveness.Management performance analysis: staying on top of your KPIs. The importance of having efficient systems in place.Unpacking the curse of high IQ and how to avoid this particular pitfall. Reasons to pay attention to the career stages of each doctor at every location. The inevitability of failure and how to quickly realign.Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Dr. Roger Levin on LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-levin-69ab744/ Levin Group, Inc. — https://levingroup.com/ Levin Group, Inc. on YouTube — https://www.youtube.com/@LevinGroupInc American Association of Orthodontists — https://education.aaoinfo.org/ How The Mighty Fall — https://www.jimcollins.com/books/how-the-mighty-fall.html Everyday Oral Surgery Website — https://www.everydayoralsurgery.com/ Everyday Oral Surgery on Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/everydayoralsurgery/ Everyday Oral Surgery on Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/EverydayOralSurgery/Dr. Grant Stucki Email — grantstucki@gmail.comDr. Grant Stucki Phone — 720-441-6059

What would you do if your patient suddenly lost consciousness or went into cardiac arrest mid-procedure? In this high-stakes episode of Everyday Oral Surgery, Dr. Grant Stucki is joined by Drs. Andrew Jenzer and Elisa Hannan for a practical and insightful deep dive into managing medical emergencies in the office-based surgical setting. From syncope and seizures to bronchospasm, laryngospasm, and myocardial infarction (MI), they break down real-world scenarios, emergency algorithms, medication protocols, and critical decision points like when to activate emergency medical services (EMS). They also discuss nuances in pharmacology, airway management, and board prep strategies that can help you become a safer and more prepared surgeon. Whether you’re a resident studying for boards or a seasoned practitioner looking to refine your emergency response, this conversation is packed with actionable guidance and clinical advice. Tune in to sharpen your skills and ensure you're ready when every second counts!Key Points From This Episode:Why board prep should include emergency scenarios.Knowing when and why to activate EMS.Guidelines for managing vasovagal syncope effectively.Signs and symptoms for identifying high-risk patients for syncope.Tips for recognizing and treating bronchospasm.Pros and cons of IV versus IM epinephrine for emergencies.Breaking laryngospasm with proper technique and preventing it during sedation.Strategies for managing seizures and airway support.Differentiating seizure-like activity and the importance of ABCDEFG.Practical lessons from real-life seizure emergency stories.Understanding MI symptoms and ONAM updates.Why drugs like nitroglycerin and morphine require caution.Managing intraoperative hypo/hypertension and drug choices based on heart rate.Variable approaches to the three levels of hypoglycemia.How doing mock cases and boards makes you a better surgeon.Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Dr. Andrew Jenzer — https://surgery.duke.edu/profile/andrew-clark-jenzerDr. Andrew Jenzer Email — andrew.jenzer@gmail.com Dr. Elisa Hannan — https://www.avonomfs.com/elisa-b-hannan-dmd-mdAvon Oral, Facial, and Dental Implant Surgery — https://www.avonomfs.com/Dr. Elisa Hannan on LinkedIn —https://www.linkedin.com/in/elisa-hannan-66ba1530a/ Dr. Elisa Hannan Email — ebhannan@gmail.com St. Louis Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Review — https://stlomfsreview.com/ Oral Board Review for Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery: A Study Guide for the Oral Boards — https://www.amazon.com/dp/3030488799 AAOMS Office Anesthesia Evaluation Manual — https://members.aaoms.org/PersonifyEbusiness/AAOMSStore/Product-Details/productId/1525502Everyday Oral Surgery Website — https://www.everydayoralsurgery.com/ Everyday Oral Surgery on Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/everydayoralsurgery/ Everyday Oral Surgery on Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/EverydayOralSurgery/Dr. Grant Stucki Email —

Persistent dental pain without a clear cause can be one of the most frustrating challenges in oral surgery. In this episode, Dr. Hayley Vatcher, an Oral Medicine Specialist at Charleston Oral and Facial Surgery, unpacks the complexities of atypical odontalgia, also known as phantom tooth pain, persistent idiopathic dentoalveolar pain (PIDP), or persistent dentoalveolar pain disorder (PDPD). She explains how this neuropathic condition is often misdiagnosed, leading to unnecessary dental procedures, and emphasizes the importance of identifying its characteristic features, such as constant, localized pain that persists despite normal imaging and testing. Dr. Vatcher walks through her diagnostic approach, treatment options, which range from tricyclic antidepressants to localized Botox injections, and how harnessing the power of neuroplasticity can help break the pain cycle. Tune in to learn how understanding this underrecognized condition can change outcomes and restore trust for patients living with chronic oral pain!Key Points From This Episode:Exciting updates and announcements: upcoming book club and Everyday Oral Surgery blog.Today’s guest and topic: Dr. Hayley Vatcher discusses atypical odontalgia (AO).Additional terms for AO: persistent idiopathic dentoalveolar pain (PIDP) or persistent dentoalveolar pain disorder (PDPD).The definition of AO, PIDP, and PDPD: chronic oral pain without an identifiable cause.Why PIDP doesn’t respond to conventional dental treatments.How misdiagnosis of PIDP can lead to unnecessary procedures.Typical PIDP symptoms: constant, localized pain in one region of the mouth.Diagnosing PIDP: ruling out other causes like sinus issues, TMD, or trigeminal neuralgia.First-line treatment options, including tricyclic antidepressants and anticonvulsants.The high success rate of localized Botox injections for targeted relief.Other treatment options, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and meditation.Benefits of topical compound rinses as a conservative treatment.Why Dr. Vatcher doesn’t recommend extractions and irreversible procedures for PIDP.Anatomy features and demographics that make you more likely to experience PIDP.Dr. Vatcher’s guide to using Botox treatment for PIDP patients.A breakdown of PIDP as a neuropathic pain condition.The important role of neuroplasticity in long-term pain relief and breaking the pain cycle.Helping patients feel heard and validated through proper diagnosis.Lifestyle tips for PIDP: anti-inflammatory diet, exercise, TMD-friendly foods, and more.Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Dr. Hayley Vatcher — https://www.charlestonoralandfacialsurgery.com/hayley-vatcherDr. Hayley Vatcher on LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/hvatcher/ Dr. Hayley Vatcher on Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/dr.hayleyvatcher/Dr. Hayley Vatcher Email — hvatcher@gmail.comCharleston Oral and Facial Surgery — https://www.charlestonoralandfacialsurgery.com/ Everyday Oral Surgery Blog — https://everydayoralsurgery.blog/ The Dichotomy of Leadership — https://www.amazon.com/Dichotomy-Leadership-Balancing-Challenges-Ownership/dp/1250195772Bell’s Oral and Facial Pain 7th Edition — http

What do you need to do to become a good surgeon? According to today’s guest, it’s all about having a good skill set, understanding anatomy, and planning ahead. Dr. Shahrokh Bagheri is an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon working in Atlanta, Georgia. In this episode, he joins us to discuss his tips for having a successful career as an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, from the three most essential skills to have and core qualities to develop, to leveraging technology to better support your patients, and more. We discuss some advice for succeeding as a private surgeon, building a good surgical skill set, and working with other clinicians to achieve the best possible outcomes. Tune in for a detailed discussion about the pillars of a successful career in oral surgery and how to focus on your skills and qualities to best support your patients!Key Points From This Episode:How AI has changed the OMS space in the past year. Essential skills and core qualities of being a good surgeon.How Dr. Bagheri is leveraging technology to better support his patients.Recommendations for surgeons and decision-making tips.Considerations for becoming a private surgeon.Keys to success in private practice.Perspectives on what builds a surgical skill set. Learning to become a good surgeon in order to navigate any issue.Why it’s so important to work with other clinicians.Dr. Bagheri’s recommendation to diagnose a patient before proceeding.Being mindful of the future as you build your practice and support your patients.The book that Dr. Bagheri wrote in the past year. Why he loved Gladiator 2 so much.His advice for ending your day to find peace. Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Dr. Shahrokh Bagheri — https://drsbagheri.com/ Dr. Shahrokh Bagheri on Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/bagheriomfs/ Clinical Review of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery — https://www.amazon.com/Clinical-Review-Oral-Maxillofacial-Surgery/dp/0323171265  The Current Economic Landscape of Oral Surgery — https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-current-economic-landscape-of-oral-surgery-and/id1535284898?i=1000664569102 Everyday Oral Surgery Website — https://www.everydayoralsurgery.com/ Everyday Oral Surgery on Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/everydayoralsurgery/ Everyday Oral Surgery on Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/EverydayOralSurgery/Dr. Grant Stucki Email — grantstucki@gmail.comDr. Grant Stucki Phone — 720-441-6059

As the country experiences strange financial anomalies only prevalent in economic downturns, we’ve decided to show you how to prepare for the worst while still expecting to turn a profit and grow your dental practice. We are joined once again by Dr. Roger Levin, Founder of Levin Group – the leading practice management and marketing consulting firm in dentistry – and he begins today’s conversation with his thoughts on the current economic climate and how economic downturns have affected dentistry historically. Then, we discuss what dentists and surgeons should be hyper-aware of at this time of financial uncertainty, why uncertainty is the only guarantee, how financial pressure affects the way practices operate, and the undeniable importance of paying careful attention to your referral marketing program. We also unpack the three stages of success, what fee-for-service practices should be focusing on, how referral marketing helps boost ROI, and the upside of being optimistic amidst a recession. To end, Dr. Levin examines patient financing options, the correlation between staffing and economic turmoil, the dangers of cutting all expenses as a knee-jerk reaction (especially those that pertain to practice efficiency and staff morale), and why he’s willing to fully reimburse your purchase if you don’t like the books he recommends. Key Points From This Episode:Dr. Roger Levin explains how previous economic downturns have affected dentistry.Why uncertainty reigns in the current economic climate. What dentists and oral surgeons should expect and look out for during these uncertain times. How the economy affects practice behavior and protocols – more work for general dentists.Why surgeons need to maximize their referral marketing potential to stay ahead.The three stages: Achieving success, maintaining success, and protecting success. How fee-for-service practices fare in economic turmoil, and what they should be focusing on.  Strengthening relationships with referral doctors and how referral marketing boosts ROI. The upsides of recession and the role of optimism in succeeding in uncertain times. Unpacking doctor and patient behavior in economic unrest and how to avoid common pitfalls.    A quick look at patient financing options. How staffing and financial instability correlate. The dangers of the knee-jerk reaction to immediately cut all expenses; production vs profit. Dr. Levin’s recommended books, and why he’s willing to reimburse unsatisfactory purchases.Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Dr. Roger Levin on LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-levin-69ab744/ Levin Group, Inc. — https://levingroup.com/ Levin Group, Inc. on YouTube — https://www.youtube.com/@LevinGroupInc American Association of Orthodontists — https://education.aaoinfo.org/ Conquering Crisis — https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/217182453-conquering-crisisThe 5 Types of Wealth — https://www.the5typesofwealth.com/  Kingmaker — https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/203956642-kingmaker Everyday Oral Surgery Website — https://www.everydayoralsurgery.com/ Everyday Oral Surgery on Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/everydayoralsurgery/ 

What leads skilled doctors to make dangerous mistakes in OMS sedation, and what can we do to work towards putting a stop to it? In this episode, Dr. Steve Yun, a board-certified M.D. and dental anesthesiologist from Southern California, sheds light on the most high-risk sedative used in oral and maxillofacial surgery (OMS). If you want to better understand the risks, challenges, and how to improve safety in sedation practices, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. As they delve into the conversation, you’ll hear three real-life examples of OMS sedation cases gone wrong, including the tragic story of six-year-old Caleb Sears. Dr. Yun unpacks the research on ketamine, the fine print found on every manufacturer’s box, and what’s really happening when it’s used as a rescue sedative. They also discuss the safest places for the sedation provider to be during any procedure, how Caleb’s Law has reshaped sedation and anesthesia practices in California, and Dr. Yun shares details of the upcoming Snow & Sedation Conference in 2026. For all this and more, start listening now!Key Points From This Episode:Background, training, and current practice setup for Dr. Steve Yun.We dive into a discussion on the most dangerous sedatives in OMS sedation.Dr. Yun shares the first real-life practical example of an OMS sedation case.Case number two of a real-life OMS sedation case: losing the airway.The last example: the case of Caleb Sears, the death of a six-year-old boy.The most dangerous sedative in OMS sedation: Ketamine.Rethinking the effects of ketamine. Dr. Yun shares some research regarding the use and effects of ketamine.We look at the drug manufacturer's instructions on a box of ketamine: the small print.What’s happening when you use ketamine as a rescue sedative.Dr. Yun shares his tennis analogy: the safest places for you to be during sedation. How Caleb’s Law affects the practice of OMS sedation and anesthesia in California.Last words from Dr. Yun: Snow & Sedation Conference.Rapid-fire answers from Dr. Steve Yun.Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Dr. Steve Yun, M.D. — https://www.dentalanesthesiamd.com/ Dr. Steve Yun, M.D. Email — yunsteve@gmail.com Premier Sedation — http://www.premiersedation.com Dental Board of California — https://www.dbc.ca.gov/ Snow & Sedation Conference 2026 — https://snowandsedation.com/ ‘The effect of low-dose ketamine on fentanyl-induced respiratory depression’ — https://associationofanaesthetists-publications.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1046/j.1365-2044.1998.00519.x ‘Association of ketamine use during procedural sedation with oxygen desaturation and healthcare utilisation: a multicentre retrospective hospital registry study’ — https://www.bjanaesthesia.org/article/S0007-0912(24)00204-6/abstract ‘Rethinking ketamine as a panacea: adverse effects on oxygenation and postoperative outcomes’ — https://www.bjanaesthesia.org/article/S0007-0912(23)00747-X/pdf  UCLA Dentistry — https://dentistry.ucla.edu/ Caleb’s Law — http://www.calebslaw.org/ James —

How can residents shape the future of oral and maxillofacial surgery? In this episode, Drs. Jai Kumar Mediratta and Jeremy Figueroa-Ortiz join Dr. Grant Stucki to share how the Resident Organization of the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (ROAAOMS) gives residents a powerful voice within the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (AAOMS). They discuss the organization's work in advocating for residents’ needs, expanding mentorship opportunities, promoting diversity, and supporting wellness while going through the challenges of training. You’ll also find out how initiatives like Day on the Hill, scholarship programs, and mentorship networks are helping to connect residents, influence legislation, and strengthen the specialty’s future. Tune in to learn how early involvement with ROAAOMS can open doors, build lasting relationships, and make a real impact in oral surgery!Key Points From This Episode:Introducing Drs. Jai Kumar Mediratta and Jeremy Figueroa-Ortiz.An overview of ROAAOMS and its role within AAOMS.Ways that ROAAOMS advocates for resident needs, mentorship, and wellness.The importance of resident representation at AAOMS leadership meetings.ROAAOMS subcommittees: driving advocacy, education, wellness, and outreach.How residents and students can get involved through program liaisons and social media.Initiatives at ROAAOMS to introduce dental students to oral surgery.The role of mentorship in supporting underrepresented and diverse dental students.How promoting diversity strengthens the OMS specialty.Supporting resident wellness and burnout prevention at ROAAOMS.Mentorship programs that help residents navigate career development.How ROAAOMS promotes scholarships and conference participation.The impact of Day on the Hill and other legislative advocacy efforts.Building community, leadership skills, and lifelong connections through ROAAOMS.An overview of upcoming conferences and events.Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Dr. Jai Kumar Mediratta on LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaikumarmediratta/Dr. Jai Kumar Mediratta on Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/jaikumarmediratta.dds.md/Dr. Jai Kumar Mediratta Email — jai.kumar.mediratta@gmail.comDr. Jeremy Figueroa-Ortiz — https://medschool.umich.edu/profile/jeremy-figueroa-ortiz-md-dmdDr. Jeremy Figueroa-Ortiz Email — jxfo@med.umich.edu The Resident Organization of the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (ROAAOMS) — https://aaoms.org/education-meetings/academics/oms-residents/ROAAOMS LinkTree — https://linktr.ee/roaaomsROAAOMS on Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/roaaoms/ROAAOMS on Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/ROAAOMS/Day on the Hill — https://aaoms.org/education-meetings/meetings/day-on-the-hill/Everyday Oral Surgery Website — https://www.everydayoralsurgery.com/ Everyday Oral Surgery on Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/everydayoralsurgery/ Everyday Oral Surgery on Facebook — https://ww

Dr. Tom Stone, CEO of Dr. Talk, and Dr. Vic Martel, a notable general dentistry consultant from Florida, share insights on transforming dental practices through effective communication and education. They discuss how Dr. Talk streamlines referrals and fosters loyalty among general practitioners by simplifying complex procedures. The duo emphasizes the importance of mentorship, trust-based relationships, and leveraging technology for growth. Additionally, they explore the evolving landscape of dental education, advocating for year-round, scalable learning opportunities.

Dr. Roger Levin, Founder and CEO of Levin Group, shares invaluable insights into advancing a surgical career. He outlines the four-level framework crucial for oral surgeons, emphasizing the pitfalls of Level 3, where many find themselves overworked. Dr. Levin illuminates how effective delegation and strong leadership can pave the way to Level 4, which promises greater efficiency and satisfaction. He also discusses the significance of proper office management and the hidden costs of inadequate marketing—essential knowledge for any aspiring or current surgeon.

The oral board exams for oral surgeons are an inevitability that can be quite daunting. But what if we told you that it doesn’t have to be as difficult as it seems? Today, on Everyday Oral Surgery, Drs. Ben Palla, Sebastian Graca, and Steven Licht are here to discuss how to prepare for the oral board exam. In this discussion, you’ll hear all about the Oral Comprehensive Exam (OCE), a breakdown of the three sections within it, what the test costs in total, and much more! We delve into some excellent study materials, resources, and courses before discussing the power of working in study groups when preparing for board exams. Our guests even share their top study tips and tell us why you should aim to become board-certified. Finally, they share their favorite books and top parenting tips. Thanks for tuning in! Key Points From This Episode:Welcoming our guests, Drs. Ben Palla, Sebastian Graca, and Steven Licht. Ben tells us how you can fast-track taking the Oral Comprehensive Exam (OCE).Steven breaks down the three sections in the OCE exam. The total cost of doing the test, what is included, and what isn’t included. Sebastian shares his favorite study materials and some tips on how he prepared. The power and importance of group studying for these exams. Some courses you can take to help you prepare for board exams and the cost of them. Ben tells us about the course he is going to offer for oral surgery residents. Sebastian shares some of his best study tips for anyone preparing for their boards. The benefits of being board-certified and the dangers of not being board-certified. Our guests answer some rapid-fire questions to close off. Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Dr. Ben Palla on LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjamin-palla-a563a4112/ Dr. Ben Palla Email Address — bpalla12@gmail.com Dr. Ben Palla on Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/benpalla/ Dr. Sebastian Graca on LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/sebastian-graca-dmd-ab710a73/ Dr. Steven Licht on LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/steven-licht-dmd-45763564/ Dr. Steven Licht on Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/steven.licht/ Oral Board Review for Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery — https://www.amazon.com/Oral-Board-Review-Maxillofacial-Surgery/dp/3030488799 Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Review — https://www.amazon.com/Oral-Maxillofacial-Surgery-Review-Study-ebook/dp/B07ZQ8958L The White Papers — https://aaoms.org/publications/position-papers/white-papers/ Oral Surgery Fight Club Season 1 Episode 1 — https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ArypHwlBFjg St. Louis Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Review Course — https://stlomfsreview.com/ Nashville Update in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery — https://www.omsreview.com/ Jacksonville Board Review Course — https://jaxboardreviewcourse.com/ How to Win Friends a