Dentistry Unmasked: A Roundtable Podcast

The systemic cost of “a little bleeding”

This week on Dentistry Unmasked, Pam and Brian sit down with Dr. Mia Geisinger, past president of the American Academy of Periodontology, for a powerful conversation about the undeniable connection between oral inflammation and systemic health. For too long, “a little bleeding” has been minimized or accepted as normal—but Dr. Geisinger makes it clear: bleeding is a sign of inflammation, and inflammation matters. With dozens of systemic illnesses linked to or exacerbated by periodontal inflammation, dental professionals have a critical opportunity to help patients understand that periodontal health is not just about saving teeth—it is about supporting whole-body health. In this episode, Dr. Geisinger breaks down the science, the responsibility, and the opportunity we have as clinicians to collaborate with our patients, improve periodontal outcomes, and reduce the oral inflammatory burden that may contribute to systemic disease. If you have ever struggled to get patients to take bleeding gums seriously, this conversation will give you the language, confidence, and clinical perspective to change the way they see their oral health.Tune in for a compelling episode that reminds us why periodontal health is no longer optional—it is foundational.

The bonding mistakes you don't know you are making

This week on Dentistry Unmasked, Brian and Pam sit down with Dr. Jeff Brucia for a practical, clinically relevant conversation about what it really takes to bond composite predictably. Think you know the difference between an immature bond and a mature bond? This episode may change the way you look at and practice adhesive dentistry. Dr. Brucia breaks down the details that influence bond strength, clinical longevity, and restorative success—from technique sensitivity to the steps that help maximize adhesion and minimize failures. This conversation is packed with tips to help you elevate your outcomes, improve efficiency, and deliver better dentistry. Tune in for a can’t-miss episode that will help you bond smarter, not harder.

From one practice to five: Building a legacy beyond the operatory

What does it take to grow a single dental practice into a thriving multi-location organization—and then step back from the day-to-day to pursue an even bigger mission? In this episode of Dentistry Unmasked, Brian and Pam chat with Dr. Chris Lugo, The Dentrepreneur and a pediatric dentist, educator, and mentor who transformed one practice into five while mastering the art of remote leadership. Armed with both clinical expertise and an MBA, he shares how he built systems, developed teams, and created a scalable business that no longer depended on his physical presence.But his story doesn't stop there. Having achieved professional success, he shifted his focus toward a new purpose: teaching, consulting, mentoring, and helping other dentists reach their full potential. Learn how he leveraged business principles to create freedom, expand his impact, and pursue a vision larger than clinical practice alone.Whether you're dreaming of practice growth, exploring leadership opportunities, or wondering how to create a career with greater purpose and flexibility, this conversation offers valuable insights and inspiration.

Dental Marketing: AI, Algorithms and New Patients

This week on Dentistry Unmasked, Pam and Brian sit down with Stephen Taylor, Marketing Director at Delmain, for a candid conversation about one of the hottest topics in dentistry today: artificial intelligence in dental marketing. Stephen breaks down where AI can truly add value, where it falls short, and how practices can leverage technology without losing the human connection patients still crave. The discussion explores how dental marketing has evolved in the age of social media and reveals the procedures younger patients are increasingly seeking as they navigate the influence of online trends and digital self-image. Stephen also shares practical insights on measuring marketing success, tracking return on investment, and avoiding the common pitfalls that leave dentists guessing whether their marketing dollars are working. If you've ever wondered how to separate marketing hype from reality, this episode delivers actionable advice on building a sustainable growth strategy and partnering with trusted experts to help your practice thrive. The takeaway? Successful dental marketing is too important—and too complex—to go it alone.Tune in for an engaging discussion on AI, patient trends, marketing metrics, and how to make smarter decisions that drive practice growth.

Restorative materials update: What’s new, what works, and what to watch

Are your restorative materials working with or against your bonding protocol? In this episode of Dentistry Unmasked, we take a deep dive into some of the most exciting developments in restorative dentistry with Dr. Nate Lawson, a leading expert in dental materials science. We explore the growing popularity of dual-cure bulk-fill composite resins, including a critical discussion on their compatibility—or incompatibility—with certain bonding agents. Learn the science behind these interactions, how they can impact clinical outcomes, and the practical steps you can take to ensure predictable success. We also examine the latest advancements in 3D-printed dental materials and what emerging research reveals about their performance and future applications in clinical practice. Plus, discover why injection-molded composites continue to generate interest and what current evidence says about their potential advantages. Whether you're placing direct restorations every day or simply want to stay ahead of the rapidly evolving world of dental materials, this episode delivers valuable insights you can apply immediately in practice.
 
Resources:
Instagram: @dentinaltube
 

Sad new grads: How will they ever get paid?

The conversation with Dr. Kessler last week couldn’t be contained. This week Dr. Pam and Dr. Brian continue last week’s discussion with the past president of the American Dental Association, Dr. Brett Kessler, and things heated up.
The very personal nature of dentistry is full display this week as they discuss the future of organized dentistry, what it means to each of them, and the support provided to our colleagues.  Accountability and mentorship can provide a steady compass to creating a meaningful future that helps prevent the drift leading to burnout. It’s a reminder that living intentionally isn’t reserved for moments of crisis or the end of a career; it’s a practice available right now, guided by the simple discipline of knowing where you want to go.

How to become the president of the ADA- part 1

How familiar are you with THE American Dental Association? Do you sometimes feel as though it’s hidden behind a veil? In this episode, Dr. Pam and Dr. Brian sit down with Dr. Brett Kessler, past president of the ADA and get to know the dentist (and human) behind the mask. The conversation is vulnerable, but steady, honest, and quietly courageous, moving through themes of personal reinvention, the discomfort of looking beyond the present moment, and the surprising power of giving yourself permission to dream again. Dr Kessler shares what brought him to the forefront of our profession and what’s possible when you choose to design a life with intention.

Holiday headaches: Plan now or pay later

It might feel early—but according to Brian, if you’re not thinking about the holidays now, you’re already behind. This week on Dentistry Unmasked, Pam and Brian tackle a topic most practices put off until it’s too late: end-of-year planning. From team celebrations to scheduling and budgeting, they break down how a lack of preparation can lead to stress, burnout, and missed opportunities to boost morale when it matters most. They share practical tips to help you plan ahead, stay on budget, and create meaningful celebrations that energize your team instead of overwhelming them. Because done right, the holidays can be a powerful way to close out the year on a high note—for both you and your team. If you want to avoid last-minute chaos and actually enjoy the season this year, this episode will give you the roadmap to start now—and thank yourself later.

The Tooth Fairy upgrades your practice needs

What if the tooth fairy could do more than just leave a dollar under the pillow?  This week on Dentistry Unmasked, Brian and Pam sit down with Oliver Finel, an animator who’s reimagining the tooth fairy experience for today’s tech-savvy kids—and their dental providers. With the tooth fairy already welcomed into more than 90% of U.S. households, Oliver saw an opportunity to turn a beloved tradition into something even more meaningful. He shares how his interactive tooth fairy platform—complete with a real-time tracker, engaging oral health tips, and built-in marketing tools—helps practices connect with young patients in a fun, memorable way. The result? Happier kids, stronger habits, and a creative approach to growing your practice. If you’re looking for a fresh way to engage pediatric patients, reinforce positive behaviors, and stand out in your community, this episode delivers a little magic—with real-world impact.
 
Resources:
https://kikithetoothfairy.co/?srsltid=AfmBOooW4nQUuqSN7JAuQTCBh4S-lD4G4qeWmZK7Bg8ZtmpjBEI9ykqi#meet-kiki

Why patients don’t mind paying full fee in this practice

Ever wondered what it would actually take to drop insurance participation—but weren’t sure how to make it work?
 
This week on Dentistry Unmasked, Pam and Brian sit down with Dr. Brian Edwards, a preventive-focused dentist who has successfully transitioned out of network with all insurance plans while continuing to grow a thriving, patient-centered practice.
 
Dr. Edwards shares how he transformed his dental hygiene department into the foundation of his model of care—delivering comprehensive, individualized treatment that prioritizes prevention, education, and connection. The result? A truly exceptional patient experience that has allowed him to practice fully on his own terms.
 
Even more compelling, he explains how creating this level of trust and value has made insurance participation unnecessary—because patients are willing to invest in care they understand, believe in, and value.
 
If you’ve ever considered moving away from insurance dependency, or want to elevate your hygiene model into a true driver of clinical and financial success, this episode offers a powerful roadmap.
 
Resources:
threetwothreedentistry.com