The Very Dental Podcast Network

Where did the Kevin Fryer we know and love come from? In today's throwback episode Zach interviews Kevin about why he became a dentist and how his career evolved! Kevin shares his journey in dentistry, from a traumatic childhood injury that sparked his interest in the field to establishing his own practice. He discusses his educational background, initial years doing general dentistry, and the subsequent shifts that led him to embrace advanced procedures like ortho, implants, and sleep apnea treatments. Kevin highlights key influences like Dr. Rick DePaul and Dr. Tarun "T-Bone" Agarwal, and how advancements with CEREC technology and cone beam integration helped him revolutionize his practice. He also covers the importance of continuing education, team involvement, and the financial and emotional rewards from adopting new dental technologies and techniques. The episode concludes with advice for younger dentists on taking similar career paths. Very Clinical is brought to you by Zirc Dental Products, Inc., your trusted partner in dental efficiency and organization. The Very Clinical Corner segment features Kate Reinert, LDA, an experienced dental professional passionate about helping practices achieve clinical excellence.  Connect with Kate Reinert on LinkedIn: Kate Reinert, LDA  Book a call with Kate: Reserve a Call  Ready to upscale your team? Explore Zirc’s solutions today: zirc.com  

Discover the quirky differences between comprehensive exams in dental school and private practice. The hosts tackle the lengthy, cumbersome processes in school versus the streamlined workflows of private settings. They emphasize the value of patient communication, using visual aids like photos to explain diagnoses clearly. The discussion also touches on effective triage of patient needs, as well as tips for managing dental emergencies. With humor and insight, they explore the art of balancing clinical efficiency and compassionate care.

Today Alan chats with Kevin Walburg and Dr. Matt Burton about a game-changing product from Garrison Dental Solutions designed to revolutionize posterior composite restorations: the Quad Matrix System. Tired of wrestling with contacts? This system promises to solve the interproximal contact puzzle once and for all! Matt developed the Quad Matrix's innovative split wedge. Then he teamed up with Garrison Dental Solutions to create a customized ring design to perfectly match the split wedge to create predictable, tight contacts, even in challenging cases! Key takeaways include: Split Wedge Innovation: The unique split wedge design adapts to tissue, making placement easier and more comfortable for the patient. "Axe Head" Driver: The specially designed ring with its "axe head" driver provides exceptional separation force for tight, reliable contacts. Back-to-Back Efficiency: The Quad Matrix streamlines back-to-back restorations, allowing for simultaneous etching, bonding, and filling, saving valuable time. System Synergy: The split wedge and ring are designed to work together, creating a stable and predictable system. Essential Tools: Using the correct ring forceps and matrix bands (dead soft for single restorations, firm for back-to-back) is crucial for optimal results. If you're looking for a way to simplify posterior composites and achieve consistently excellent contacts, this episode is a must-listen! Some links from the show: Garrison Dental Solutions Garrison's Quad Matrix System Picture the Quad Matrix System 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 Dr. Russell Schafer joins Kevin and Zach to talk about his second love in dentistry...pediatrics!  Key Topics & Discussion Points: Early Childhood Exams (Under 5): Importance of parent/caregiver relationship and communication. Lap-to-lap/Knee-to-knee exam technique. Focus on diet (sugar intake) and sleep (snoring). Identifying early signs of demineralization. Goal: Creating a safe dental home. Older Children (5-6 and up): Expectation of tolerating bitewing and PA radiographs. Addressing parent's anxieties and managing expectations. Importance of behavior management with both child and parent. Interproximal Decay: Varying treatment philosophies (aggressive vs. conservative). Stainless steel crowns vs. composite restorations. When to refer to a pediatric dentist. Pulpotomies: Different techniques and materials (Formocresol, Ferric Sulfate, MTA). Discussion on necrotic pulp and treatment options (extraction). Pulpotomies for diagnosis vs. therapy. Nitrous Oxide: Benefits of nitrous oxide for pediatric patients. Dosage and administration techniques. Anesthesia: Choice of anesthetic (Lidocaine vs. Septocaine). Techniques for minimizing discomfort during injections (e.g., shaking, "cold water" analogy). Importance of adequate anesthesia for procedures. Sealants: Concerns about over-prescription and improper technique. Discussion on the effectiveness of sealants. Alternative approach: Occlusal composites. Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF): Use of SDF for caries management. SDF as a "time-buying" strategy. When to use SDF vs. restorative treatment. Very Clinical is brought to you by Zirc Dental Products, Inc., your trusted partner in dental efficiency and organization. The Very Clinical Corner segment features Kate Reinert, LDA, an experienced dental professional passionate about helping practices achieve clinical excellence.  Connect with Kate Reinert on LinkedIn: Kate Reinert, LDA  Book a call with Kate: Reserve a Call  Ready to upscale your team? Explore Zirc’s solutions today: zirc.com  

Alan is joined by Dr. Wade Pilling to talk about the dilemma he often faces as an educator.  "Am I just teaching someone to hurt them (patients)?" --Dr. Wade Pilling The solution to this problem involves excellent education, quality reps and mentorship. Wade and Alan have a really good conversation about some of the concerns that are coming along with the brave new world of full arch implants, DSOs and "sales bros."  Some links from the show: Wade's education website Implant Pathway 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!

It today's episode, Alan has a conversation with Dr. Wade Pilling. Wade is a "big case" guy and a renowned expert in full arch dentistry. Dr. Pilling shares his insights on the importance of mentorship, the changing landscape of dentistry, and the ethical considerations surrounding full arch implant treatment. He also discusses his own journey in dentistry and offers advice to new dentists navigating the complexities of today's dental world. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation about the future of dentistry and the importance of prioritizing patient care above all else. Some links from the show: Wade's education website Implant Pathway Key Takeaways  The Importance of Mentorship: Dr. Pilling emphasizes the crucial role of mentorship in achieving clinical excellence in dentistry, especially for complex procedures like full arch implants. He believes that mentorship fosters a commitment to quality and patient care over financial incentives. The Changing Landscape of Dentistry: Dr. Pilling discusses the challenges faced by new dentists due to high student debt and the increasing prevalence of DSOs. He expresses concern that the focus on money can lead to overtreatment and poor patient outcomes. The Full Arch Challenge: Dr. Pilling cautions against new dentists jumping into full arch implant cases too early in their careers. He stresses the importance of proper diagnosis, treatment planning, and informed consent, especially when it comes to procedures that involve irreversible bone loss. The Value of Experience and Continuing Education: Dr. Pilling shares his own journey of cobbling together training from various sources to become proficient in full arch dentistry. He highlights the need for ongoing learning and collaboration with experienced clinicians. The Future of Dental Education: Dr. Pilling suggests a shift towards a more apprenticeship-based model for dental education, where students gain more clinical experience under the guidance of mentors. Ethical Considerations: Dr. Pilling raises concerns about the marketing practices of some DSOs and the lack of accountability for patient outcomes. He advocates for a patient-centric approach to dentistry, where clinical excellence and informed consent are prioritized. 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 Kevin and Zach discuss the importance of communication and managing patient expectations throughout the Invisalign process, from initial consultation to final results. Key Takeaways: Verbal skills are crucial: Effectively communicating with patients about the Invisalign process, including attachments, IPR ("slenderizing"), and potential refinements, is key to ensuring satisfaction. Manage expectations early: Clearly explain the process, including potential discomfort, dietary changes, and the need for retainers, to avoid surprises and disappointment later. Address objections proactively: Have answers prepared for common concerns like the appearance of attachments, the need for IPR, and the duration of treatment. Use visual aids: Models, photos, or videos can help patients understand the process and visualize the expected outcomes. Don't fight the "mostly satisfied": If an adult patient is happy with their results, even if not perfect, respect their decision and avoid pushing for further refinements. Be prepared for the "never satisfied": Some patients may have unrealistic expectations or hyper-focus on minor imperfections. Patience, clear communication, and gentle guidance are essential. Address noncompliance: Reiterate the importance of wearing aligners as prescribed and address non-compliance directly, but ultimately, patients are responsible for their own choices. Invest in a good Invisalign manager: A dedicated team member can handle patient communication, manage expectations, and provide support throughout the process. Remember the positive: While negative experiences tend to be more memorable, the majority of Invisalign patients are satisfied with their results. Very Clinical is brought to you by Zirc Dental Products, Inc., your trusted partner in dental efficiency and organization. The Very Clinical Corner segment features Kate Reinert, LDA, an experienced dental professional passionate about helping practices achieve clinical excellence.  Connect with Kate Reinert on LinkedIn: Kate Reinert, LDA  Book a call with Kate: Reserve a Call  Ready to upscale your team? Explore Zirc’s solutions today: zirc.com  

In this episode of the Very Dental Student Podcast, Mo talks with Kevin and Zach to discuss endodontic procedures, comparing dental school protocols with real-world practices. They delve into a step-by-step walkthrough of an endo procedure on a premolar, highlighting key differences and offering valuable insights for dental students and new dentists. Key Takeaways: CBCT is Your Friend: While PAs and bitewings are helpful, a CBCT scan provides a 3D view of the canal system, acting as a "GPS" for navigation. This is especially crucial for molars and complex premolars. Begin with the End in Mind: Always consider the final restoration (likely a crown). Take a pre-op impression before starting the endo to simplify temporary crown fabrication. Quadrant Isolation: Isolate more than just the tooth being treated with your rubber dam. This provides better orientation and access for both endo and crown prep. Flat Top that Tooth: Reduce the occlusion and flatten the tooth before accessing the canals. This improves visibility, access, and post-op comfort. Lubricate Early and Often: Use RC Prep on your files before entering the canals to prevent pushing debris apically and to aid in lubrication and chelation. Hypochlorite Timing: Introduce sodium hypochlorite after establishing working length to avoid pushing debris and potentially blocking the canal. Secondary Rinses: Use EDTA or a similar product (like Smear Off) to remove the smear layer created by sodium hypochlorite before obturation. Sealer Coating Technique: Coat the canal walls with sealer by running your files in reverse. This ensures a more thorough and even distribution. Post-Op Comfort: Even if a crown is planned, taking the tooth out of occlusion can improve patient comfort and reduce post-op complications. Posts - Controversial but Sometimes Necessary: While posts are less common today, they can be valuable in certain situations, particularly for premolars and anterior teeth. Crown Prep Under Rubber Dam: While unconventional, prepping crowns under a rubber dam can be done effectively with practice and proper technique. 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!    

"It won't happen to me." --every addict before they realize they have a problem This is an interesting episode. The folks over at the "Everyday Practices Podcast" invited Al to come on their podcast and talk about addiction. Dr. Chad Johnson, Dr. Maggie Augustyn and Regan Robertson join Al to talk about his history with addiction.  Reflections on Addiction: The prevalence of addiction, including process addictions like workaholism, shopping, and smartphone use. The importance of honesty and self-awareness in recovery. What is it like to live with withdrawal symptoms most days? The challenges of staying sober and the importance of support systems. Expressing gratitude for recovery and the opportunity to help others. Acknowledging the potential for transferring addiction to other behaviors (cycling, baking and podcasting for Al) Key Takeaways: Addiction can affect anyone, regardless of profession or background.   Recovery is possible with the right treatment and support. Honesty, self-awareness, and gratitude are crucial for long-term sobriety. It's important to seek help if you're struggling with addiction. Some links from the show: The Everyday Practices Podcast Everyday Practices Podcast episode 11 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!

Buckle up, buttercup, because this is NOT your average episode of Very Clinical! Back in March of 2020, when Dr. Mac Jones was still one of the hosts of the podcast, they guys did a crossover episode with the Working Interferences crew (Dr. Josh Austin and Dr. Lance Timmerman) It was a wild ride of dental advice, shenanigans, and more than a few "colorful" words. Highlights: Special Crossover Episode: Very Clinical meets Working Interferences for the first time ever! The Great Pacifier Debate: A Reddit question about "adult pacifiers" sends the guys down a hilarious rabbit hole of questionable online communities and unexpected discoveries. Crown Prep Hacks: Even with the chaos, we manage to squeeze in some valuable clinical tips for faster and more efficient crown preps. Nostalgia Overload: Relive the glory days of 90s chat rooms (ICQ, anyone?), 80s TV crossovers, and the one true "One Shining Moment" by David Barrett. Very Clinical is brought to you by Zirc Dental Products, Inc., your trusted partner in dental efficiency and organization. The Very Clinical Corner segment features Kate Reinert, LDA, an experienced dental professional passionate about helping practices achieve clinical excellence.  Connect with Kate Reinert on LinkedIn: Kate Reinert, LDA  Book a call with Kate: Reserve a Call  Ready to upscale your team? Explore Zirc’s solutions today: zirc.com