Everyday Oral Surgery

Since the pandemic, the way dentists and specialists learn has shifted dramatically from conferences and study clubs to phones, apps, and other content, but not all digital education is created equal. In this episode, Dr. Grant Stucki welcomes back Denver oral and maxillofacial surgeon Dr. Tom Stone to explore how healthcare education has changed, why today’s clinicians expect “consumer-grade” learning experiences, and how drtalk is designed to meet them where they are. Dr. Stone explains why specialist-led education remains one of the most powerful practice builders, how teaching treatment planning can transform the implant revenue cycle, and why traditional in-person events experienced a steep decline even before the COVID-19 pandemic. He also highlights the risks of leveraging non-HIPAA-compliant platforms and the benefits of a mobile-first platform that supports secure case sharing, anonymous Q&A, and ongoing mentorship. Gain insights into how practices are using channels and virtual study clubs to scale education, streamline referral communication, monetize clinical expertise, and more. Tune in now!Key Points From This Episode:Hear how dental and healthcare education have rapidly shifted toward digital platforms.Find out how the drtalk platform stands out from the typical study club approach. Learn about drtalk’s AI-powered referral management and learning hub systems.The limitations and risks of discussions on platforms that are not HIPAA-compliant.Explore the benefits of drtalk’s HIPAA-compliant, real-time, and mobile-first design. Find out how to host a virtual study club using drtalk’s channel-based architecture.Overview of the feedback from users regarding increased engagement and efficiency.How practices have used drtalk to streamline referral management and engagement. Unpack how to host a channel through drtalk’s knowledge monetisation feature.Steps for clinicians and practices to get started and sign up for the drtalk platform. Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Dr. Tom Stone on LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-l-stone-md-dds-facs-9b387718/Dr. Tom Stone Email — tstone5400@gmail.comdrtalk — https://app-v3.drtalk.comEpisode — Refining the Emergency Implant Appointment for an Incredible Patient Experience (with Dr. Tom Stone)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

Can patient care be improved by including nutritional counselling? Dr. Mina Fahmy is an Oral Maxillofacial surgeon practicing in Washington State, and his dual background in medical nutrition and surgery informs his approach to patient care. During this episode, he shares how this combination of expertise shapes his pre-op consultations, and optimizes both clinical outcomes and patient well-being. We talk about protein, hydration and other key diet factors that support the body’s healing. We also discuss where Dr. Fahmy sees nutrition fitting into patient care in the future and touch on the social media channel he is building to educate and empower patients and surgeons. You’ll also hear one power tip from a recent inspiring book that Dr. Fahmy read, learn what motivates him outside the workplace, and more. Thanks for listening! Key Points From This Episode:How Dr. Fahmy’s background in medical nutrition as well as surgery shaped his approach to patient care.Pre-op nutrition and health markers that Dr. Fahmy prioritizes. Understanding the holistic nature of nutrition. Supporting elderly patients with bone and immune issues.Supplements for immune and inflammation support.Post-op recommendations for different categories of patients. The key role of hydration in healing.Incorporating nutrition counselling into consultation.Starting small and being consistent in order to create a lasting impact. Where Dr. Fahmy sees nutrition fitting into patient care in the future. A power tip that he lives by. Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Dr. Mina Fahmy — https://advanceddios.com/about/meet-mina-fahmy/ Dr. Mina Fahmy Email — minadfahmy@gmail.com Outlive — https://www.amazon.com/Outlive-Longevity-Peter-Attia-MD/dp/0593236599/ref=sr_1_1 Save That Face on Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/savethatface/ 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

In a thoughtful solo discussion, Dr. Grant Stucki emphasizes the joy found in giving over receiving. He shares provocative lessons from his residency, including the importance of being a proactive learner. The contrast between altruistic residents and those who take is highlighted, showcasing how a giving mindset enriches personal growth. Dr. Stucki reflects on the profound impact of mentors who prioritize teaching over income. He encourages listeners to embrace service, inviting them to identify someone they can help this month to rediscover purpose.

Dr. Richard Akin, an innovative oral and maxillofacial surgeon from Louisiana, shares his expertise on immediate posterior implants and custom healing abutments. He highlights the evolution of his chairside techniques with bulk-fill composite for better tissue shaping. Akin stresses the importance of soft-tissue management and collaboration with restorative teams to enhance patient outcomes. He also delves into case selection nuances, the significance of wide-platform implants, and shares practical tips on grafting and surgical precision for achieving optimal results.

Dr. Arshad Kaleem, an oral and maxillofacial surgeon with extensive training and experience, dives into the crucial decision-making process for pursuing a fellowship. He emphasizes the importance of passion, finances, and quality of life in shaping one’s career path. Kaleem shares insights from his mission trips to Pakistan and the West Bank, highlighting the challenges of performing complex surgeries with limited resources. He also discusses advances in technology that enhance surgical precision and efficiency, offering valuable advice to young surgeons on finding balance and purpose.

Starting an oral surgery practice can feel like leaping into the unknown, but with the right plan, success is absolutely achievable. In this episode, Dr. Roger Levin, CEO of Levin Group, joins us again to break down the proven steps that help young surgeons launch and grow profitable, referral-driven practices. Dr. Levin shares pragmatic advice on how to break into competitive markets, build referral networks, and create strong brand messaging from day one. He explains how to identify your niche, the power of gift giving, and how to train your team to deliver world-class service. Gain insights into crafting intro letters, the value of delivering handwritten cards, and the art of the follow-up for building your reputation and patient base. Join us to discover how strategy, communication, and positive energy can transform a startup into a thriving oral surgery practice. Tune in now!Key Points From This Episode:Why referral marketing is the make-or-break factor for oral surgery startups. The importance of starting your marketing plan early and how to build a brand identity. Who typically opens new practices and why motivation and timing are essential.How to find your niche and develop cost-effective, relationship-based referral marketing.Unpack the common mistakes surgery startups often make and how to avoid them. Steps for creating an effective marketing campaign and building professional relationships.Explore the foundational marketing materials every startup needs. Learn why relationship building creates long-term and loyal referral partners. Discover the value of engaging with the front desk for building professional relationships.Find out the importance of training your team on how to handle referring doctors. Tips for creating an online presence, getting reviews, and follow-ups with referring offices.Dr. Levin’s final takeaways and why leading with positive energy is vital for success.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/Giftology — https://www.amazon.com/Giftology-Increase-Referrals-Strengthen-Retention/dp/1619614332Everyday 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

Dr. Vic Martel, a Florida-based general dentist and founder of Martel Academy, shares his expertise on comprehensive treatment planning. He emphasizes the importance of seeing the big picture in dentistry and how this approach can enhance patient trust and improve outcomes. Dr. Martel discusses common barriers like time and training that hinder effective planning and stresses the need for better communication between general dentists and specialists. He also touches on his concerns about All-on-X cases and the importance of preserving natural teeth.

In this discussion, Dr. Vic Martel, a Florida-based general dentist and educator, dives deep into comprehensive treatment planning. He highlights the gap in dental education that leaves professionals underprepared. Martel emphasizes the transformation from a reactive approach to a holistic view that considers occlusion, periodontal health, and overall patient needs. He shares insights on building trust with patients and the value of a strong referral network, as well as ways to overcome barriers in treatment planning for better outcomes.

Tori removal may not be the most glamorous procedure, but it’s one that demands skill, patience, and careful preparation. In this episode of Everyday Oral Surgery, host Dr. Grant Stucki welcomes Dr. Richard Akin, an oral and maxillofacial surgeon in Baton Rouge, to explore the nuances of managing these challenging cases. Dr. Akin reflects on lessons learned from early practice with his father, the unique anatomy and patient factors that complicate these cases, and the importance of knowing when removal is truly indicated. He shares practical techniques for both maxillary and mandibular tori, from flap design to instrument choice. Dr. Akin also discusses the realities of insurance coverage and billing, and how reimbursement rarely reflects the complexity of the work. Along the way, he emphasizes patient communication, setting realistic expectations for recovery, and taking the time needed to avoid complications. Tune in to hear insights that can help you refine your approach and set patients up for better outcomes!Key Points From This Episode:An introduction to Dr. Richard Akin, an OMS in Baton Rouge.Dr. Akin’s early training with his father and transition into solo practice.Why tori removal remains a core responsibility of oral surgeons.Indications for removal, from hygiene challenges to painful ulcers.Preparing patients for recovery and setting realistic expectations.Step-by-step techniques for removing maxillary and mandibular tori.Managing thin tissue, closure difficulties, and post-op care.Instrument choices that make tori removal safer and more efficient.Strategies to minimize tearing and ensure proper healing.Recognizing rare complications such as flap necrosis.Why suturing technique and flap care are critical to healing.Dr. Akin’s range of patient stories, from food entrapment to denture challenges.Typical healing timelines and patient resilience after surgery.Insurance coverage and billing realities for tori removal cases.Dr. Akin’s favorite books, hobbies, and daily practices.Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Dr. Richard Akin — https://www.drakin.com/ Dr. Richard Akin on LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/rick-akin-644aa932/Dr. Richard Akin email — rick@drakin.com Dr. Richard Akin Powerpoint — 7 Goldman-Fox Knife — https://www.hufriedygroup.com/en/dental-knives/7-goldman-fox-knife1/2 Orban DE Knife, EverEdge™ — https://www.hufriedygroup.com/en/dental-knives/1-2-orban-periodontal-knife-0Forceps to extract tooth number five — Hearts in Atlantis — https://www.amazon.com/Hearts-in-Atlantis-Stephen-King-audiobook/dp/B0000547DGSurrender — https://www.amazon.com/Surrender-40-Songs-One-Story/dp/B09ZK1XJ4XHidden Potential — https://www.amazon.com/Hidden-Potential-Science-Achieving-Greater/dp/0593653149The Overstory — https://www.amazon.com/Overstory-Novel-Richard-Powers/dp/039335668XBreaking Bad — https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0903747/Better Call Saul —

Some days in oral surgery feel like everything conspires against you. Your back hurts, your schedule is overbooked, and (to top it all off) your favorite assistant called in sick! In this solo episode, Dr. Grant Stucki reflects on how to find joy and purpose in those difficult moments while offering practical ways to shift your mindset. Drawing inspiration from Einstein’s theory of relativity, he compares our attitude to gravity, shaping the emotional space around us and influencing everyone we work with. Through stories from his own practice, he explores how awareness, intention, and small daily choices can transform frustration into focus. He shares simple strategies like identifying your top stressors and writing down what boosts your energy, and offers book recommendations that inspire greater mental strength and positivity. Tune in to reconnect with the purpose and positivity that keep great surgeons going!Key Points From This Episode:A new series exploring lessons from everyday surgical experiences.Announcing Dr. Stucki’s upcoming course on PRF and Exparel in Denver.Today’s topic: How to find joy in surgery and maintain a positive attitude on tough days.Einstein’s theory of relativity as a metaphor for mindset and influence.How our mental “gravity” affects the people and energy around us.A story about Dr. Stucki’s brother and his contagious enthusiasm for surgery.Reflections on how surgeons can become jaded and cynical over time.The impact of negativity on staff, patients, and surgical outcomes.Being intentional about the energy and attitude brought into the workplace.Strategies for maintaining positive energy, including building awareness of triggers.Book Recommendations: On Fire, The Alter Ego Effect, and Can't Hurt Me.Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Enhancing Surgical Outcomes with Platelet Rich Fibrin (PRF) and Exparel in Oral Surgery Course — https://www.collectiveeducationsociety.com/products/courses/prf-and-exparelCollective Education Society — https://www.collectiveeducationsociety.com/Everyday Oral Surgery blog — https://everydayoralsurgery.com/blog/On Fire — https://www.amazon.com/Fire-Choices-Ignite-Radically-Inspired/dp/1501117726The Alter Ego Effect — https://alteregoeffect.com/Can't Hurt Me — https://www.amazon.com/Cant-Hurt-Me-Master-Your/dp/1544512287Everyday 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