The Very Dental Podcast Network

The Very Dental Podcast network brings you entertaining and relevant conversations with visionaries, clinicians and your friends in the dental space.

Very Dental: Dr. August de Oliveira and the Dumb Radiologist Associate 06/27/2025

Very Dental: Dr. August de Oliveira and the Dumb Radiologist Associate Alan welcomes back long-time friend and fellow 1997 dental school graduate, Dr. August de Oliveira. They take a trip back in time, reminiscing about the early days of the online forum Dentaltown, where Dr. de Oliveira pioneered sharing cases for critique with his "CERECs du Jour" thread. The conversation then fast-forwards to the present, focusing on the technologies impacting dentistry today. Dr. de Oliveira shares his transformative experience with Pearl AI, explaining how it has significantly boosted his practice's production by identifying more same-day dentistry and serving as an invaluable "second set of eyes" on radiographs. They also explore the hype versus reality of augmented reality, the evolution of intraoral scanners, and look ahead to future innovations like dental MRIs and Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT). Some links from the show: Join the using the password "Gary," "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 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 ! -- 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 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 ! /episode/index/show/dentalhacks/id/37162115

Very Clinical: Just the Bevel! A Class IV Revelation with Dr. Clinton Timmerman 06/24/2025

Very Dental Student: The Harland Hustle: Surviving and Thriving in Your First Years of Dentistry 06/23/2025

Very Dental Student: The Harland Hustle: Surviving and Thriving in Your First Years of Dentistry In this episode, Mohamed welcomes back Dr. Kevin Harland, a recent graduate from the OU College of Dentistry, for a candid conversation about the realities of life just two years out of dental school. Dr. Harland shares a powerful personal story about his daughter's health journey, which profoundly reshaped his perspective on his career and life. He then offers invaluable advice for fourth-year dental students, covering everything from tackling board exams and the importance of gaining hands-on clinical experience to the nuances of treatment planning and material selection. Dr. Harland also discusses the benefits of joining a professional study club and shares what motivates him daily as he navigates the challenges and rewards of his growing career. A New Perspective: Dr. Harland opens up about his daughter's recent major surgery and recovery, a life-altering experience that helped him prioritize his family and find a deeper meaning in his work. Board Exam Tips: For fourth-year students, Dr. Harland advises using question banks like Bootcamp for the INBDE and getting comfortable with plastic teeth for the clinical boards, emphasizing that these exams don't define your career. Fourth-Year Focus: He recommends that fourth-year students should start thinking seriously about their desired work environment by shadowing in various practices (DSO, private practice, public health). Clinically, the focus should be on getting comfortable with the handpiece and experimenting with different materials and techniques in the safe environment of the dental school. Clinical Growth: Dr. Harland's biggest areas of growth have been in the efficiency and confidence of his handpiece skills and in the complexities of treatment planning, especially when dealing with difficult cases. Navigating Difficult Conversations: He emphasizes the importance of under-promising and over-delivering, and having honest conversations with patients about the possibility of different treatment outcomes. The Value of Community: Dr. Harland shares his positive experience with a local study club, highlighting the camaraderie and the invaluable access to a collective mind of experienced clinicians. Materials Matter: He discusses his material selection for partial and full crowns, weighing the pros and cons of materials like EMAX, Tetric CAD, and Zirconia based on the clinical situation. Daily Motivation: Dr. Harland finds motivation in providing for his family, the satisfaction of creating excellent restorations, and the positive feedback from patients who recognize his care and dedication. Join the 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 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 ! -- 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 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 ! /episode/index/show/dentalhacks/id/37107440

Very Dental: The Sharpest Take on Burs with Max Roland of Microcopy Dental 06/20/2025

Very Dental: The Sharpest Take on Burs with Max Roland of Microcopy Dental Alan sits down with Max Roland of Microcopy Dental in a live recording from the Chicago Midwinter dental meeting! They dive into the world of dental burs, exploring why a fresh bur is always the best bur. Max shares his journey since joining Microcopy four years ago and discusses their unique, sample-focused marketing that has kept their trade show booths buzzing, even in a post-COVID world. Dr. Mead, a long-time user of Microcopy products, shares his appreciation for the guaranteed sharpness and sterility of single-use burs. The conversation takes a hilarious turn as Alan introduces the concept of a "steel man" argument, brilliantly and humorously defending the use of "mature" (i.e., old and dull) reusable burs. This is a must-listen for any dental professional who's ever faced a less-than-perfect bur. Some links from the show: Join the using the password "Gary," "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 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 ! -- 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 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 ! /episode/index/show/dentalhacks/id/37039420

Very Clinical: Porcelain or Composite Veneers with Dr. Dennis Hartlieb 06/17/2025

Very Dental Student: Rounding Third (Year) and Heading Home with Mohamed Abo-Basha 06/16/2025

Very Dental Student: Rounding Third (Year) and Heading Home with Mohamed Abo-Basha Mohamed and Al have a conversation about the highlights of Mo's third year and what he's looking forward to in his D4 year at OU's School of Dentistry! The conversation provides a reflective look back at Mohamed's third year, covering his clinical experiences, the challenges he faced, and the adjustments in requirements. They delve into the nuances of different procedures, from crown preps to endodontics, and discuss the increasing comfort and skill with anesthesia. The episode also explores the road ahead, including externships, potential job placements, and the consideration of residency programs. Mohamed shares his thoughts on the evolving systems at his school designed to make clinical cases more equitable among students and offers insights into managing patient care efficiently. Join the 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 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 ! -- 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 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 ! /episode/index/show/dentalhacks/id/36939425

Very Dental: Practical CE and Building a Practice You Love with Dr. Graham Forbes 06/13/2025

Very Dental: Practical CE and Building a Practice You Love with Dr. Graham Forbes Alan welcomes back Dr. Graham Forbes to the podcast for an engaging conversation! Graham discusses his journey from being an associate to owning a practice, and how this transition allowed him to implement advanced treatment planning and care practices. They delve into the importance of treatment planning, the effective use of dental microscopes, and the significance of continuous education through specialized courses and meetings. Dr. Forbes also shares his experiences with international dental education and networking at prestigious meetings. The conversation provides an exciting look into his upcoming course on patient-centered dental treatment planning at the Pikos Institute, emphasizing the shift towards practical and immediately applicable dental education. 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 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 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 ! -- 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 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 ! /episode/index/show/dentalhacks/id/36935730

Very Clinical: Essential Tools for Extractions with Dr. Steven Dold 06/10/2025

Brain Trust: What Would You Do? 06/09/2025

Very Dental: From Poland to the Podium with Dr. Maggie Augustyn 06/06/2025

Very Dental: From Poland to the Podium with Dr. Maggie Augustyn Alan had a chance to sit down with Dr. Maggie Augustyn live at the Chicago Midwinter meeting for a candid conversation that spans her journey from Poland to practicing in the Chicago suburbs, the unique perspectives of Eastern European immigrants, and the realities of speaking in the dental world. They delve into the emotional toll and vulnerability involved in sharing personal stories on topics like addiction and mental wellness, the challenges introverts face in high-energy environments, and the often-underappreciated (and underpaid) role of wellness speakers at dental conferences. The discussion also touches on the impact of social media comparison, the evolution of dental meetings, and coping mechanisms for the daily demands of dentistry. 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 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 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 ! -- 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 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 ! /episode/index/show/dentalhacks/id/36810860

Very Clinical: Same Day Anterior Restorations with Dr. Kris Aadland 06/03/2025

AME: The Bar is Set So Low 06/02/2025

AME: The Bar is Set So Low The patient experience in medicine sucks. Alan, having recently endured a couple of medical horror stories himself, passionately advocates for a different approach in dentistry. He urges dentists to focus on enhancing the patient experience through empathy and clear communication, noting that even simple texts can make a significant difference. Furthermore, Alan emphasizes the importance of transparent financial discussions, believing these efforts can make dental practices shine and foster genuine patient trust. Join the 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 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 ! -- 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 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 ! /episode/index/show/dentalhacks/id/36810320

Very Dental: Buffer Like a Pro with Dr. Jason Goodchild 05/30/2025

Very Dental: Buffer Like a Pro with Dr. Jason Goodchild Recorded live at the Chicago Midwinter meeting in February 2025, this episode features Alan in conversation with Dr. Jason Goodchild from Premier Dental. Jason provides an in-depth look at three innovative new products designed to enhance everyday restorative dentistry. They discuss Veneer Now, an injectable matrix system for creating predictable and aesthetic anterior composite restorations like veneers and Class IVs with minimal finishing. Next, the conversation shifts to the new TSZ Tech ZX burs, engineered with super coarse diamonds, enhanced bonding, and leveling technology for significantly faster and more efficient zirconia crown removal and adjustment. Finally, Jason introduces Buffer Pro, a groundbreaking single-use, carpule-by-carpule local anesthetic buffering device, designed to make injections work faster, be less painful, and offer impressive shelf stability, addressing common frustrations with previous buffering systems 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 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 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 ! -- 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 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 ! /episode/index/show/dentalhacks/id/36726850

Very Clinical: Anterior Guidance and Other Occlusion Myths with Dr. Brian Baliwas 05/27/2025

Brain Trust: Hygiene Beyond the Prophy Cup with Dr. Sam Low and Michael Kaelberer 05/26/2025

Very Dental: Splitting the Wedge with Dr. Matt Burton 05/23/2025

Very Dental: Splitting the Wedge with Dr. Matt Burton Alan had a chance to sit down with Dr. Matt Burton for a fascinating discussion about his journey from a practicing dentist to a dental inventor. Dr. Burton shares the "aha!" moment that led to the creation of his split wedge concept (now part of Garrison's Quad Matrix system), the challenges of starting his own company, and the eventual partnership with Garrison Dental Solutions. He offers insights into the mindset of an inventor, the realities of bringing a product to market, and advice for other dentists with innovative ideas. The conversation also touches on Dr. Burton's farming background, his passion for composite restorations, and includes a spontaneous guest appearance by Dr. August de Oliveira! 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 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 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 ! -- 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 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 ! /episode/index/show/dentalhacks/id/36669665

Very Clinical: Dental Photography for Fun and Profit with Dr. Melissa Zettler 05/20/2025

AME: The Outrage Machine with Dr. Dawn Grimes 05/19/2025

AME: The Outrage Machine with Dr. Dawn Grimes This throwback episode of the Alan Mead Experiences features a conversation with Dr. Dawn Grimes about the stuff that we let in to our brains. The discussion delves into Alan's recent transition to a three-day clinical week, the challenges of staffing, and the surprising mental toll of early mornings and long days. This leads to a deeper exploration of how the content consumed during commutes—particularly "outrage media"—can impact one's mindset, and Alan's experiment with silent, mindful morning drives. They touch upon managing anxiety, the power of being present, the significance of remembering names in personal and professional interactions, and the importance of consciously choosing one's reactions to life's daily irritants. Join the 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 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 ! -- 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 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 ! /episode/index/show/dentalhacks/id/36616405

Very Dental: Revolutionize Your Hygiene Department with Dr. Pam Maragliano-Muniz 05/16/2025

Very Dental: Revolutionize Your Hygiene Department with Dr. Pam Maragliano-Muniz Alan is joined by the incomparable Dr. Pam Maragliano-Muniz for an in person conversation recorded at the Chicago Midwinter meeting! They discuss Pam's journey from being a dental hygienist to a prosthodontist, her insights on maintaining patient care continuity and navigating the challenges faced by dental professionals, including staffing issues and the impact of COVID-19. They delve into the importance of in-person meetings, the value of creating a mission for the practice, and how Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT) has transformed her dental practice. Join them for an engaging and informative discussion filled with personal anecdotes and professional insights. 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 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 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 ! -- 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 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 ! /episode/index/show/dentalhacks/id/36547565

Very Clinical: A Love/Hate Relationship with Night Guards 05/13/2025

Brain Trust: You've Got to Pay Your Dues! 05/12/2025

Very Dental: Dr. Richard Golden on Real-World Efficiency and Physics Forceps 05/09/2025

Very Dental: Dr. Richard Golden on Real-World Efficiency and Physics Forceps In this in-person episode recorded at GoldenDent in Roseville, Michigan, Alan once again sits down with the visionary Dr. Richard Golden. Following up on their previous conversation about Dr. Golden's journey as a dentist and multiple practice owner, this discussion dives deep into his passion for training dentists to thrive in the real world. Dr. Golden shares his perspective on the gaps in traditional dental school training, particularly concerning business acumen and clinical efficiency. He found that many new dentists, while clinically skilled, lacked the understanding of how to perform procedures in a time-effective manner that ensures practice profitability without sacrificing quality of care. 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 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 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 ! -- 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 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 ! /episode/index/show/dentalhacks/id/36467525

Very Clinical: Glad We Medit! Scanners and Software with Scott Shrader 05/06/2025

Very Clinical: Glad We Medit! Scanners and Software with Scott Shrader Kevin and Zach welcome back Scott Shrader to talk digital dentistry and specifically about Medit scanners and software. Both Zach and Al are current Medit users so the episode is a great one if you're new to scanning or want to incorporate digital dentistry into your workflow even more! 3D Dentist Approach: While courses often involve scanners, 3D Dentist is largely scanner-agnostic, focusing on techniques. Importance of Training & Support: Scott emphasizes the critical role of knowledgeable support and hands-on training (like that provided by 3D Tech/3D Dentist) when integrating technology, contrasting it with less specialized support from large suppliers. Support is ongoing for products purchased through them. Medit Overview: A South Korean company celebrating 25 years (mostly lab scanners, ~7 years for intraoral). Medit's Value Proposition: No annual fees, free software, and free software upgrades are key differentiators. Medit Link Software Suite (The "Apps"): A powerful, free suite accessible even to non-Medit scanner users (importing STLs). Includes free apps like Model Builder, Crown Design, Night Guard/Bite Splint, Ortho Simulation. Newer, more powerful CAD features (AI Final Crown, Provisional, Inlays/Onlays, Bridge Design) are being introduced with a per-export fee, but the core remains free. AI Crown Design: Discussion on how AI differs from standard proposals (better morphology matching, less tweaking, potential AI margination) vs. algorithms. Practical Scanning Tips & Troubleshooting: Marking margins: Alan does, Zach doesn't – lab preferences vary. Sluggish scanning fixes: Ensure the laptop is plugged in, perform all updates (Windows, graphics drivers, Medit Link), check scanner tip condition (rated for ~100 autoclave cycles, look for degradation/spots). Technique: Dry teeth well, use the white light setting for scanning through blood, proper path/tissue capture (especially around canines). Hardware: i700 vs. i900: The i900 is smaller, lighter, has a larger scan area, multiple tip sizes, and is generally smoother, especially for full arches and scanning through blood. The i900 "Classic" brings back the physical button many users missed. Recommended Medit Apps to Explore: Model Builder & Bite Splint: Great, easy entry points for CAD, good for team delegation (requires printer for output). Ortho Simulation: Automated simulation of tooth movement. Smile Design: Powerful tool using even basic phone photos, creates a shareable before/after slider for patient communication. App Access: Apps run on the scanning computer but can be accessed remotely by logging into your Medit Link account on another computer (requires downloading case files). Integrations: Medit Link integrates with third-party software and platforms (SprintRay Cloud, Exocad, etc.). Some links from the show: If you decide to look in to CareStack, be sure to let them know that you heard about them on the podcast! Join the using the password "Timmerman," Hornbrook" or "McWethy," "Papa Randy" or "Lipscomb!" 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: Book a call with Kate: Ready to upscale your team? Explore Zirc’s solutions today: /episode/index/show/dentalhacks/id/36439510

AME: Live Patient Hands On CE in the Motor City with Dr. Ara Nazarian 05/05/2025

AME: Live Patient Hands On CE in the Motor City with Dr. Ara Nazarian Alan is joined by Dr. Ara Nazarian an in person recording at GoldenDent in Roseville, MI! Ara teaches extraction and grafting techniques featuring the Physics Forceps that were developed by the one and only Dr. Richard Golden! Ara took a couple minutes away from teaching to fill me in on the experience you'll get taking their course. I can't wait until I can get back down to take it! 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 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 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 ! -- 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 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 ! /episode/index/show/dentalhacks/id/36431130

Very Dental: Advertising, Insurance and the Golden Age of Dentistry with Dr. Richard Golden 05/02/2025

Very Dental: Advertising, Insurance and the Golden Age of Dentistry with Dr. Richard Golden In this episode of the Very Dental Podcast Alan interviews Dr. Richard Golden of GoldenDent in Roseville, Michigan. Dr. Golden is known for developing the "Physics Forceps" and GoldenDent provides extensive hands-on training in extractions, grafting, and implant placement, utilizing local facilities like Wayne County Community College for live patient courses! Dr. Golden shares the fascinating history of his father's dental practice in Detroit during the 1940s, the impact of legislation on dental advertising, and the introduction of dental insurance in the 1970s. He explains how these changes influenced the industry and his decision to open multiple dental offices. Dr. Golden also delves into his efforts to create a training center for new dentists, emphasizing the importance of efficient practice and the challenges of managing numerous locations. This episode offers a comprehensive look at the evolution of dental practices and the business of dentistry. 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 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 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 ! -- 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 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 ! /episode/index/show/dentalhacks/id/36348450

Very Clinical: How to Integrate Technology with Scott Shrader 04/29/2025

AME: Two Years on Three Days 04/28/2025

Very Dental: Dr. Russell Schafer is Selling Out! 04/25/2025

Very Dental: Dr. Russell Schafer is Selling Out! Alan is once again joined by the incomparable Dr. Russell Schafer! This time Al and Russ are in person in the fishbowl at the Chicago Midwinter dental meeting! The two of them chat about Chicago weather, what they're looking forward to seeing at the meeting and most importantly...Russ wants you to buy his practice! If you've ever wanted to experience life as a dentist in the Big Easy, today is your lucky day! Some links from the show: Russell's courses: Join the 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 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 ! -- 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 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 ! /episode/index/show/dentalhacks/id/36292360

Very Clinical: Stacking Up the Benefits of CareStack with Jamie Flanagan 04/22/2025

AME: Leftover Scallions 04/21/2025

AME: Leftover Scallions Alan takes a trip down memory lane, revisiting "The Scallion," a satirical dental news project he and colleagues created (inspired by The Onion) back in the Dental Hacks era (circa 2017-2018). In this episode, Alan reads several archived "Scallion" articles, finding they still hold up with humor poking fun at: Aggressive sales reps at dental meetings. Dentists avoiding shop talk at parties. Exaggerated links between periodontal disease and other health issues. Hilariously inaccurate dental stock photography. The shocking revelations that can come with using dental loupes for the first time. Over-the-top (and potentially condescending) marketing advice. The classic "I hate dentists" patient comment. Stubborn dentists arguing online. We don't laugh at the profession enough. This should help! 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 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 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 ! -- 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 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 ! /episode/index/show/dentalhacks/id/36232970

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