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Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Let’s Talk Teeth, Dr. Simon Oh shares his journey into full-arch dentistry, from his early experiences in dental school and oral surgery training into his transition into implant dentistry, business, and leadership. He discusses his role in scaling a dental group to nearly 100 offices and his eventual shift toward building Smart Arches, a DSO focused exclusively on full-arch dentistry. He explains why he focused on fixed full-arch implant rehabilitation, the life-changing impact for patients, and the mindset of getting better daily while building skills early. Dr. Oh discusses how commoditization, marketing pressure, lower margins, and inadequate training may reduce quality in the full-arch space, and outlines his efforts to raise standards through ORCAA, Arch Ed, and Smart Mouth Technologies. He also describes his clinical life across multiple offices, doing surgery four days a week, and his long-term goals including expanding high-complexity craniofacial and cleft care in Guatemala through training programs and a dedicated hospital. Don’t miss this conversation with Dr. Oh as he breaks down the training, ethics, and future direction of full-arch implant care!  00:00 Meet Dr Simon Oh 01:02 From DSO to Full Arch Focus 03:15 Dental School Survival Mode 05:14 Choosing Oral Surgery Training 06:51 Why He Left Residency 10:18 No Plan Business Mindset 14:25 Early Career Extractions and Implants 17:24 Competing With Yourself 24:44 Fighting Commoditization 27:00 Quality vs Lower Costs 31:57 Balancing Clinic and Travel 37:02 Startup Risks and Advice 40:21 Long Term Goals 43:51 Building a Standard of Care 46:00 Career Advice & Closing Remarks Support the show

Send us Fan Mail On this episode of Let’s Talk Teeth, we are joined by Paul Vigario, founder of SurfCT, a company that helps dentists bring their vision for a practice to life through technology, design, branding, and strategies built for growth. Listen in as Paul discusses how his 26 years in healthcare and work with 12,000+ dental and healthcare practices shaped his approach to helping doctors define vision, increase “awareness,” and build brands and systems that let practices work for the owner rather than relying on chairside production. Paul describes Surf CT’s evolution from a dorm-room, hospital-grade IT model to practice growth and scalability, arguing success is fundamental awareness and that business is driven by attention and compliance. He discusses moving beyond trading time for money, leveraging associates and systems, and why practice ownership matters. Don’t miss this conversation with Paul as we explore building extraordinary dental businesses, leveraging systems and AI, and creating real freedom through ownership. 00:00 Welcome and Guest Intro 00:26 Paul’s Background and Mission 02:33 Day to Day and Lifestyle Design 04:50 What Surf CT Does 05:52 Defining Success as Awareness 11:00 Surf CT Origin Story 14:57 From IT to Scalable Practices 17:49 Scaling Mindset and Identity 20:53 Passion and Dental School Model 21:35 Working Less Strategy 24:16 Reverse Engineering Associates 24:38 Attention Compliance Framework 28:16 Escape Operator Trap 30:16 Building Brands Systems 32:42 Freedom Lifestyle Design 35:58 AI Ownership Future 37:42 Industry Size Mindset 40:24 Sequencing Avoiding Traps 44:28 Defining Success Freedom Support the show

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Let’s Talk Teeth, we are joined by Dr. Steve Yusupov. Tune in as Dr. Yusupov shares his path from NYU dental school to a six-year OMFS/MD program at Kings County Hospital/SUNY Downstate, followed by a head and neck oncologic fellowship at the New York Head & Neck Institute. He explains what drew him to oral surgery after seeing major head and neck cases, and how his early associateship in a hospital-based practice shaped his surgical scope and business skills.  Dr. Yusupov describes his journey in launching a de novo oral surgery practice on Long Island, doubling its space and adding an associate, and maintaining full-scope private practice work including orthognathic, TMJ total joint replacements, oncology, and full-arch surgery with prosthetic workflow. He discusses referral building, direct-to-consumer marketing for full-arch, digital dentistry’s impact, pathology referrals, advice on associateships and avoiding rushing into ownership, future growth plans, and closes with guidance to follow your passion and embrace change in dentistry. Don’t miss this conversation exploring full-scope OMS training, practice-building, and the future of full-arch implant care. 00:00 Meet Dr Yusupov 00:37 Training Path to OMS 02:08 Oncology Fellowship and Dream Job 03:56 Perio vs OMS Decision 06:23 Why Head and Neck 08:06 Leaving Associateship 08:46 Building a De Novo Practice 12:15 Full Scope and Full Arch 15:53 Advice for Residents 19:14 Marketing a Referral Practice 21:57 Why Full Arch Is a Unicorn 23:32 How Full Arch Patients Find You 24:49 Restoring Full Arch Confidence 25:38 Digital Workflow Game Changer 27:32 Pathology Referrals and Competition 31:03 Learning Business After Training 35:29 Practice Growth and Hospital Goals 37:45 Wild Trauma Call Case Study 42:21 DSOs and Dentistry’s Future 47:14 Final Advice and Wrap Up Support the show

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Let’s Talk Teeth, we are joined by Dr. James (Jim) Rutkowski, the Program Director of Jacksonville University’s Comprehensive Oral Implantology Program, one of the few programs in the country dedicated specifically to advanced implant training. Dr. Rutkowski shares his unique career journey, from pharmacy school at Duquesne University to dental school at the University of Pittsburgh, followed by private practice in Pennsylvania. He later returned to Duquesne to earn a PhD in Pharmacology, and even establishing a research laboratory within his dental office focused on autogenous growth factors for oral bone regeneration. After decades of clinical practice centered largely on implant surgery and grafting, Dr. Rutkowski retired from clinical dentistry in 2020 and now focuses on education. He gives us an inside look at Jacksonville University’s 2 Year Comprehensive Oral Implantology Program, discussing its origins, structure, didactics, EPAs, IV sedation training, tuition, stipends, and how training sites are matched with residents. Don’t miss this insightful conversation with one of the leaders in implant dentistry as we explore the training, philosophy, and future of oral implantology. 00:00 Meet Dr James Rutkowski 00:34 Transitioning from Pharmacy to Dentistry 01:23 Small Town Practice Move 01:43 PhD Research and Patents 03:03 Implant Focus and Retirement 04:35 Why Dentistry Rewards 06:50 Pharmacology in Modern Care 08:04 Jacksonville Program Origins 09:25 Recruited as Program Director 13:31 Program Overview and Sites 15:27 Training EPAs and Sedation 18:54 Didactics Culture and Flexibility 24:23 Applications Deadlines and Match 28:11 How the Match Works 29:26 Flexibility and New Sites 30:50 Ideal Applicant Profile 33:07 Clinical Progression and EPAs 35:02 Site Consistency and Case Volume 36:59 Mentorship and Practice Management 39:11 Program Outcomes and Recognition 40:17 How Clinics Join the Program 43:31 Stipends Discounts and Director Benefits 48:00 Final Advice and Wrap Up Support the show

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Let’s Talk Teeth, we sit down with Dr. Carlos Parra, Graduate Program Director of Periodontics at Texas A&M. Dr. Parra shares his inspiring journey from completing his undergraduate education and dental training in Spain to pursuing advanced periodontal residency training at Tufts University in Boston, ultimately leading to his current role in Dallas. We dive into his motivations for choosing periodontics and academia, as well as the unique strengths of Texas A&M’s Periodontics Program, including its rigorous clinical training, research opportunities, and admissions process. Dr. Parra also offers valuable advice for dental students at every stage of their journey. Tune in for an insightful conversation filled with personal experiences, career guidance, and a comprehensive look at what it takes to excel in periodontics. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Background 01:36 Choosing a Career in Periodontics 03:21 Deciding to Stay in the US 06:01 Academia vs. Private Practice 07:45 Day-to-Day at Texas A&M 12:40 Program Highlights and Applicant Insights 16:52 Challenges in Candidate Selection 17:47 Future Goals for Texas A&M's Perio Program 18:31 Importance of Research and Clinical Competence 20:59 Diverse Procedures and Training at Texas A&M 29:41 Advice for Aspiring Perio Students 34:15 Final Thoughts and Fun Questions Support the show

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Let’s Talk Teeth, we are joined by Dr. Waleed Zaid, the Fellowship Director of Head and Neck Oncology and Microvascular Surgery at Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, to discuss his journey from dental school in the UAE to leading one of the top OMFS fellowship programs in the United States. Dr. Zaid delves into the nuances and challenges of oral and maxillofacial surgery, emphasizing the importance of passion in the field. He discusses advancements in digital dentistry, robotics, and AI, as well as LSU's unique oral surgery program. Additionally, Dr. Zaid offers invaluable advice for dental students and new graduates on how to stay motivated and absorb as much knowledge as possible. Don't miss this insightful conversation about the future of oral surgery and dental research. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 00:35 Dr. Zaid's Journey into Dentistry 01:41 Choosing Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery 03:15 Training and Experience in the UAE and USA 04:38 Joining LSU and Career Path 06:17 Pursuing a Fellowship in Head and Neck Oncology 10:55 Unique Aspects of LSU's Head and Neck Program 13:55 Challenges and Passion in Oral Surgery 15:38 Evolution of Full Arch Dentistry 17:46 The Role of Digital Dentistry in Modern Surgery 18:16 Nerve Grafting and Patient Expectations 20:24 Advancements in Oral Surgery 21:01 The Future of Robotics and AI in Dentistry 21:28 The Importance of Research in Dentistry 26:36 Innovative Techniques in Oral Surgery 29:33 Final Advice for Dental Students and New Grads Support the show

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Let's Talk Teeth, we are joined by Dr. Samir Singh, an accomplished oral and maxillofacial surgeon from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Dr. Singh shares his journey through dental school at the University of Pittsburgh, his residency at Virginia Commonwealth University, and his practice at North Pittsburgh Oral Surgery since 2016. He discusses his decision-making process between the MD track versus the traditional four-year path, insights into his broad scope of practice, and the impact of mentorship on his career choices. Dr. Singh also talks about the challenges and rewards of keeping an open mind throughout his training, his experience with digital workflows, and the essential role of technology in modern dental practices. Reflecting on his career goals, he emphasizes the importance of leaving a legacy, balancing his professional life with family, and contributing to the next generation through teaching and mentorship. Tune in for a deep dive into oral surgery, professional growth, and the future of dentistry. Stay connected with Dr. Singh via his Instagram @ssingh_dmd_facs and be sure to reach out with any questions you all may have!  00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:42 Dr. Singh's Background and Education 01:12 Choosing the OMS Path 02:23 Residency Experience and Mentorship 04:14 Transition to Private Practice 09:44 Daily Life in Private Practice 15:44 Future of OMS and Personal Goals 25:39 Advice for Dental Students 27:08 Closing Remarks and Contact Information Support the show

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Let’s Talk Teeth, we are joined by Dr. Tony Urbanek, a distinguished oral maxillofacial surgeon with over 40 years of experience in the field and a renowned specialist in TMD treatment. Join us as we discuss his Dr. Tony's unorthodox journey in undergrad, his accelerated progress through dental school, and his groundbreaking research combining dental and medical training at Vanderbilt University. Dr. Tony dives deep into his focus on non-surgical treatment for TMD, explaining the physiology behind the condition and sharing insights about his patented device designed to alleviate TMD symptoms. Feel free to reach out to Dr. Tony at [email protected], and tune into his podcast 'TMD Demystified' on YouTube and Spotify! 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 00:18 Dr. Tony's Educational Journey 00:44 Discovering a Passion for Dentistry 01:29 Challenges and Triumphs in Dental School 02:17 Advanced Studies and Early Career 05:16 Innovative Research and Breakthroughs 07:25 A Distinguished Career in Oral Surgery 09:27 Encouragement for Aspiring Dentists 12:03 The TMJ Journey and Non-Surgical Solutions 17:44 Personal Insights and Final Thoughts 26:10 Unexpected Results in Early Cases 26:36 Understanding the Mechanism of TMD 27:57 Linking TMD to Other Conditions 29:17 Mechanisms of Pain and Inflammation 35:39 Introducing the TMJ Device 45:10 Advice for Dental Students 51:30 Final Thoughts and Contact Information Support the show

Send us Fan Mail In this week's episode of Let's Talk Teeth, we sit down with Dr. Joe Doctora, a successful oral surgeon practicing in Nashville, TN who shares his incredible journey and insights into the field of oral surgery. Dr. Doctora discusses his educational background at Meharry Medical College, his experiences with trauma and pathology during his non-categorical year at the University of Miami, and the persistence required to succeed in his specialty. He also provides valuable advice to dental students, reflects on the challenges and rewards of starting his own practice, and offers his perspective on the future landscape of dentistry. Tune in to hear Dr. Doctora's thoughts on private equity, practice management, and the evolving  landscape of the dental industry. Don't miss out on this insightful conversation! 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 00:42 Journey to Oral Surgery 02:06 Residency Experiences 05:50 Starting a Practice 08:02 Challenges and Growth 12:34 Current Practice and Future Plans 13:34 Adjusting Workflow with Associates 14:36 Deciding to Hire an Associate 15:24 Characteristics of an Ideal Associate 16:23 Future Plans for the Practice 17:23 Private Equity in Dentistry 22:52 Advice for New Dental Practitioners 24:09 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Support the show

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Let’s Talk Teeth, we sit down with Jeff Hand, President of Life Dental Group, a regional DSO based in Oxford, Mississippi. Since its founding in 2018, Life Dental has grown to manage over 15 practices across the Southeast. Jeff shares the story behind that growth, beginning with early partnerships and continuing  to thrive through strategic expansion and culture building. We discuss the challenges that come with scaling, the importance of mentorship for new dentists, and how thoughtful marketing plays a critical role in attracting and retaining patients. Whether you are a dental student, recent graduate, or experienced clinician, this episode offers valuable insight into the business and operational side of dentistry. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:20 Jeff Hand's Background and Life Dental Group 01:06 The Journey of Life Dental Group 02:53 Understanding DSOs and Life Dental's Unique Approach 04:37 Challenges in Scaling and Team Building 06:35 Growth Strategy and Practice Acquisitions 10:34 Employee Retention and Culture 13:09 Advice for New Dentists and Training Programs 18:30 Marketing Strategies for Dental Practices 19:01 The Role of Location and Facilities 19:22 Effective Marketing Techniques 21:09 Introducing Dr. Mike Huggins 23:20 Acquiring and Managing Dental Practices 25:54 Challenges in Practice Transitions 27:51 Future Vision for Life Dental 30:25 Advice for Dental Students 32:38 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Support the show

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Let's Talk Teeth, we welcome Dr. Mohaad Faraj, a skilled prosthodontist with an inspiring journey. Dr. Faraj takes us through his educational background, including his extensive 11-year tenure at the University of Connecticut, where he completed his undergrad, dental school, and prosthodontics training. Now practicing in Lubbock, Texas, Dr. Faraj discusses his current professional endeavors, including working as a contractor at two practices primarily focusing on surgeries, and the exciting process of opening his own practice. He offers insightful advice on choosing the right path in dentistry, the benefits of choosing the right residency program, and tips for new graduates navigating contract negotiations and career planning. Don't miss this engaging and informative conversation! 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:33 Dr. Faraj's Background and Journey to Dentistry 01:22 Choosing Dentistry and Early Career Decisions 03:35 Residency and Specialization in Prosthodontics 05:46 Starting a Practice and Overcoming Challenges 11:39 Surgical Training and Immediate Implants 18:33 The Value of Residency Over CE Courses 19:22 Mentorship and Practical Training in Residency 20:36 Transitioning to Private Practice and Contract Work 22:56 Advice for New Graduates on Employment Contracts 29:50 Immediate Implants: Benefits and Techniques 35:31 Final Advice for Dental Students and New Grads Support the show

Send us Fan Mail After eight years as a successful general dentist, Dr. Sohail Saghezchi made the bold decision to give up his his career as a general dentist to pursue his true calling in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. In this episode, Dr. Saghezchi recounts his unique journey, from living in a one-bedroom apartment in San Francisco to becoming the Program Director of the OMFS Residency Program at UCSF. He shares valuable insights into the rigorous training process, the rewarding nature of oral surgery, and the culture that sets UCSF's OMFS residency program apart. Dr. Saghezchi's inspiring story is a testament to the power of determination and the pursuit of one's true calling.  00:00 Introduction to Dr. Sohail Seghezchi 00:22 Early Education and Career Decisions 01:28 Dental School and Initial Career 02:23 Transition to Oral Maxillofacial Surgery 03:17 Challenges and Achievements in Surgery 06:25 Balancing Career and Personal Life 10:11 Reflections and Future Plans 18:30 The Intensity of Academic Surgery 18:46 Becoming a Program Director 19:39 Resident Experience and Responsibilities 21:20 Selecting the Right Candidates 22:50 Balancing a Dynamic Work Schedule 23:47 Favorite Surgeries and Their Impact 25:25 What Sets UCSF Apart 28:56 Resident Growth and Development 31:09 Yearly Responsibilities of Residents 34:43 Balancing Work and Personal Life 36:03 Final Thoughts and Reflections Support the show

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Let's Talk Teeth, we are joined by Dr. Richard Low, the founder and former CEO of Shared Practices Group. Dr. Low shares his journey, from experiencing academic failures in undergrad to thriving in dental school at Midwestern University in Arizona. He discusses how he financed his education through the Army scholarship and his entrepreneurial spirit, which drove him to start a dental podcast, Shared Practices, while still serving in the Army. Dr. Low goes in to detail on his experiences with Shared Practices, both the successes and the challenges, including the stress and eventual burnout from running multiple practices. He also opens up about his personal transformation, joining a men's group for support and self-improvement, which has led him to start his own group aimed at helping dentists combat burnout and find balance in their lives. Be sure to listen in as Dr. Low shares his insights on dental practice management, mental health, and personal growth!  00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:22 Dr. Richard Low's Dental School Journey 01:06 Choosing Midwestern University 02:05 Experience with the Army Scholarship 03:05 Starting a Podcast in the Army 04:59 Buying and Managing Dental Practices 06:47 Founding Shared Practices 10:31 Metrics for Acquiring a Dental Practice 14:07 Transition to Shared Practices Group 17:23 Advice for Dental Students and Entrepreneurs 22:10 Unconventional Acquisition Models in Dentistry 23:35 Challenges of Full Arch Dentistry 24:43 Stress and Burnout in Dental Practice 27:18 Multi-Specialty Practices: Pros and Cons 29:22 Personal Journey and Mental Health 32:23 Creating a Supportive Community for Dentists 36:01 Future Vision and Advice for Dentists Support the show

Send us Fan Mail In this week's episode of Let's Talk Teeth, we have the pleasure of hosting Dr. Serv Wahan. Listen in as we dive into Dr. Wahan's background, his educational journey from undergrad in Seattle to dental school at Tufts, and his decision to pursue OMFS residency. Dr. Wahan shares how his interest in dentistry was sparked at a young age and his experiences transitioning through various educational stages. He also discusses the intricacies of oral surgery, the balance of work and personal life, and the impact of digital dentistry in his practice. We also explore Dr. Wahan's involvement in his studies, his teaching role at the University of Washington, and his creative outlets like making soap and beginning his own podcast and social media prescence. Tune in to hear insightful discussions on dentistry, mentorship, and the influence of AI in the medical field. Be sure to follow Dr. Wahan on Instagram @drwahan and listen to his podcast @drwahan.experiment!  00:00 Introduction and Guest Background 00:44 Journey to Becoming an Oral Surgeon 01:58 Residency and Specialization Choices 04:05 Private Practice and Industry Changes 10:38 Social Media and Podcasting 18:23 Personal Life and Autism Studies 21:06 Hobbies and Creative Outlets 22:17 Exploring Antioxidant Soaps 23:20 Podcast Goals and Content Creation 23:58 AI in Education and Daily Life 28:20 AI in Dentistry and Medical Fields 32:34 Challenges in Dental Insurance 34:28 Marketing and Referrals in Dentistry 39:04 Mentorship and Career Advice 39:52 Conclusion and Farewell Support the show

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Let's Talk Teeth, Dr. Patrick Anghel, also known as pat.the.dentist, shares his journey from dental school at Detroit Mercy to practicing in Las Vegas. He details his transition from an associate to a practice owner, the challenges faced, and his unexpected pivot into the world of digital marketing. Learn how his passion for both dentistry and business led to the creation of a successful marketing company that helps dentists and dental professionals  increase their outreach. Additionally, he touches on his investment strategies, particularly in cryptocurrency, and gives valuable advice for new dental graduates entering the field. Tune in for insightful discussions on dentistry, business, and the future of marketing in healthcare.  00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 01:26 Dr. Patrick Anghel's Journey to Dentistry 02:57 Dental School Experience and COVID Impact 07:13 Transition to Practice Ownership 08:28 Challenges in Dental Practice Management 12:31 Marketing Strategies for Dental Practices 15:15 Expanding Marketing to Dental Labs 21:43 Utilizing AI in Dental Marketing 22:24 The Current State of AI in Marketing 23:35 SEO and AI: A New Frontier 24:52 The Rise of AI in Search Engines 26:39 Exploring AI for Content Creation 29:10 The Journey into Cryptocurrency 33:11 Balancing Dentistry and Entrepreneurship 38:08 Closing Remarks & Final Advice for Dental Students Support the show