Very Clinical: Amalgam in 2025 with Dr. Kevin Donlan
The Very Dental Podcast Network
In this throwback episode Kevin and Zach are once again joined by Dr. Kevin Donlan to discuss the controversial topic of amalgam in modern dentistry. Is this classic restorative material still relevant in 2025? They delve into the pros and cons, share personal experiences, and debate whether amalgam still has a place in everyday dental practice. Key Takeaways: Amalgam still has a place in dentistry, particularly in situations with challenging isolation. Patient education and clear communication are crucial for material selection. Dental education and practice philosophies have evolved...
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AME: Dentist Side Hustles with Alex and Eric from "Just a Couple of Dentists"
The Very Dental Podcast Network
Alan shares his recent guest appearance on "Just a Couple of Dentists," a podcast hosted by millennial dentists Alex and Eric. They discuss the evolving landscape of dentistry, the rise of side hustles, and the challenges faced by younger dentists. Alan, Alex, and Eric delve into the reasons behind the shift from traditional clinical focus to entrepreneurial ventures, the impact of social media, and the realities of practice ownership. They also play a fun "Kiss, Marry, Kill" game with potential dental side gigs. Some links from the show: Join the using the password "Timmerman,"...
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Very Dental: Embracing AI in Dentistry with Preet Sandhu
The Very Dental Podcast Network
AI is rapidly transforming the dental industry, offering numerous opportunities for efficiency and improved patient care. Alan talked with Preet Sandhu at the recent Chicago Midwinter Dental meeting about some used of AI in dentistry that you may not have thought of. Preet is the CEO of ViralKraft (an honest marketing company) as well as StafGo Health, which focuses on the revenue cycle in the dental office. Preet has extensive background in finance and marketing, including 18 years in corporate finance and experience with healthcare finance. The conversation is a deep dive into how AI...
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Very Clinical: Failures and Last Case Bias with Dr. Kevin Donlin
The Very Dental Podcast Network
This throwback episode features Kevin and Zach talking to Dr. Kevin Donlin about winter sports, clinical failures, "last case bias" and how social media can affect a clinician's treatment plans. Key Takeaways: Last Case Bias: The guys discuss how last case bias can influence treatment decisions, particularly when it comes to new materials and techniques. They emphasize the importance of being honest with oneself about the causes of failures and avoiding making changes based solely on anecdotal evidence. Social Media's Influence on Dentistry: The fellas discuss the potential dangers of...
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AME: Still Pushing the Button
The Very Dental Podcast Network
Alan reflects a bit on a technique he calls "Pushing the Button." He originally wrote about it in a post on the Dental Hacks website and still finds it an effective way to help create interpersonal connections. Key Themes: Patient communication and relationship building The importance of human connection in dentistry Managing challenging patient interactions Personal growth and self-awareness The benefit of being personable. Some links from the show: Join the using the password "Timmerman," Hornbrook" or "McWethy," "Papa Randy" or "Lipscomb!" The Very Dental Podcast network is and...
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Very Dental: I Can See Your Crack From Here with Dr. David Clark
The Very Dental Podcast Network
Alan welcomes Dr. David Clark back to the show. David is the inventor of the Bioclear system and one of the people that really turned Alan on to microscope dentistry. Key Takeaways: Dr. Clark discusses his "Cracked Tooth Lecture" and the controversy surrounding its title. The importance of microscopes in dentistry and how they can help diagnose and treat cracked teeth. The evolution of bioclear and the latest advancements in injection molding composite dentistry. The importance of the gingival third and achieving a perfect margin. Dr. Clark's recent heart attack and the lessons he...
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Very Clinical: Dental Student Questions, Part Deux!
The Very Dental Podcast Network
This week, Kevin and Zach are joined again by Alan and "Dr." Mo, host of the Very Dental Student podcast, to answer more listener questions. They cover a range of topics, including: Mastering Occlusion: Tips and tools for achieving optimal occlusion in restorative procedures, with a focus on fillings and crowns. Managing Patients with a Strong Gag Reflex: Practical strategies for minimizing gagging during procedures, including the use of acupuncture, rubber dams, and patient communication techniques. Diagnosing and Treating Crack Tooth Syndrome: Identifying and addressing cracked teeth, with...
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AME: Chicago Midwinter 2025 Review
The Very Dental Podcast Network
Alan is back from the Chicago Midwinter Dental Meeting and shares his experiences and highlights from the exhibition floor. He discusses new products and technologies, including a new buffering system for anesthetics, AI tools for chart notes, updates from Bioclear, and a "new" microscope from Enova Illumination. He also talks about his experience podcasting at the meeting and his plans for future episodes. Some links from the show: Join the using the password "Timmerman," Hornbrook" or "McWethy," "Papa Randy" or "Lipscomb!" The Very Dental Podcast network is and will remain free to...
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Very Dental: Hands On Implant Training with Dr. Justin Moody
The Very Dental Podcast Network
Alan catches up with Dr. Justin Moody, his friend and business partner. They reminisce about their experiences in dental school and how dentistry has changed over the years. They discuss the importance of hands-on training, especially for new dentists, and the need for critical thinking and humility in implant dentistry. They also touch on the challenges of treating patients with full arch implant cases and the importance of ethical considerations. Key Takeaways: The importance of hands-on training in dentistry, especially for new dentists. The need for critical thinking and humility in...
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Very Clinical: Dental Student Questions!
The Very Dental Podcast Network
Zach and Kevin are joined by the "Very Dental Student" podcast's host, Mohamed and Al to answer some questions that Mo put together from dental students! Managing Cancellations: The hosts debate the best strategies for dealing with frequent cancellations, from strict rescheduling policies to prepayment systems. Restorability vs. Extraction: A nuanced discussion on the factors that influence decisions about saving or extracting teeth, including patient preferences, practitioner skills, and the availability of implant options. Emergency Protocols: Tips for effectively managing dental...
info_outlineIn 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.
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The Very Clinical Corner segment features Kate Reinert, LDA, an experienced dental professional passionate about helping practices achieve clinical excellence.
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