Dentistry Unmasked: A Roundtable Podcast

Little patients, big teamwork: Mastering referrals and collaboration in kids’ dentistry

In this engaging episode, Brian and Pam chat with Dr. Jeannette MacLean, a board-certified pediatric dentist, as they dive into the power of effective partnerships between general dentists and pediatric specialists to deliver the best possible oral health outcomes for children.

Beyond the Bite: Turning Jaw Pain Relief into Practice Profitability

Millions of patients walk into dental offices each year with jaw tension, headaches, or clenching—classic signs of TMJ disorder—yet most leave without a true solution. For years, dentists have been limited to mouthguards, Botox, or referrals, missing both a clinical and business opportunity hiding in plain sight.In this episode of the Dental Economics podcast, we sit down with Dr. Jonathan Levine, DDS, a cosmetic and restorative dentist who has integrated Emface TMJ, a breakthrough non-invasive technology that uses synchronized radiofrequency and HIFES muscle stimulation to relax and tone facial muscles. Together, we explore how this single innovation is helping dentists bridge function and aesthetics, transforming how they approach patient care and practice profitability.Listeners will learn how the Relaxation protocol targets masseter and temporalis tension to ease TMJ discomfort—while the Toning protocol lifts and firms the cheeks, jawline, and forehead for a more youthful, balanced appearance. Beyond the clinical benefits, Dr. Jonathan Levine shares firsthand how Emface TMJ created a cash-based revenue stream, improved patient retention, and reignited team enthusiasm.The conversation highlights how embracing functional facial wellness positions dental professionals at the forefront of a new category—one that treats pain, enhances confidence, and drives growth without adding insurance complexity or chair time.

The hidden business mistakes costing dentists millions

This week on Dentistry Unmasked, Pam and Brian sit down with Dr. Keith Nicholson—an orthodontist, MBA, and practice transition expert—for a wide-ranging, eye-opening conversation about what dentists aren’t taught in school. From learning business the hard way in private practice to earning an MBA at Wharton, Keith shares powerful insights on practice growth, smart investments, CRM systems, patient experience, and avoiding costly mistakes. With practical takeaways, real-world examples, and a few laughs along the way (yes, even white spot prevention makes an appearance), this episode will change how you think about running—and valuing—your dental practice. Don’t miss it.

Forced to start over with Dr. Ashton Prince!

This week on Dentistry Unmasked, Pam and Brian sit down with Dr. Ashton Prince for a conversation that’s equal parts heartfelt, hilarious, and deeply inspiring. From being forced out of his practice and rebuilding from scratch to leading with positivity through personal and professional adversity, Ashton shares powerful lessons on resilience, patient connection, team culture, and self-assessment. With laugh-out-loud moments, honest reflection, and practical takeaways on communication, leadership, and materials, this is an episode that will make you think, feel, and grow—don’t miss it.

The myth of "having It all" in dentistry with Kirk Behrendt!

Kick off 2026 with a powerful, perspective-shifting episode of Dentistry Unmasked. Pam and Brian sit down with Kirk Behrendt, a lifelong student of the business of dentistry, to unpack what it really takes to build a profitable practice and a fulfilling life. From burnout, coaching, and leadership to redefining success, work-life balance, and why “time is the new rich,” this candid conversation challenges old narratives and offers hope, clarity, and practical insight for dentists at every stage of their career. If you’re ready to rethink success and design a practice that supports the life you want, this is a must-listen.

Licking eyeballs and diastemas with Dr. Brian Novy!

This week on Dentistry Unmasked, a new era begins. Pam officially welcomes Dr. Brian Novy as her new co-host, and the conversation is anything but ordinary. From surprising, lesser-known facts about Brian to laugh-out-loud detours (including old wives’ tales for removing eyelashes!), this episode blends insight, humor, and chemistry you can feel. It’s a fresh start, a fun listen, and a true milestone for the podcast. Welcome to Dentistry Unmasked 2026—you won’t want to miss this one.

The one where everything changes...

As we turn the page on a new year, Dentistry Unmasked turns a chapter of its own. One co-host says farewell, a new one is introduced, and the conversation is filled with laughs, emotion, and memories worth revisiting. Don’t miss this unforgettable episode of endings and beginnings.

When composite beats ceramic (and when it doesn’t) with Art Volker!

Composite or ceramic? Lithium disilicate or zirconia? This week on Dentistry Unmasked, Dr. Art Volker challenges the idea that conservative dentistry and prosthodontics are at odds. Pam and David dive deep into material selection, clinical decision-making, and how exceptional dentistry can be achieved conservatively—without compromise. A must-listen for anyone who wants clarity, confidence, and better outcomes.

Practical CE that sticks: Why only 4% implement and how you can succeed

This week, David Rice and Pam Maragliano are joined by the multi-talented Dr. Karla Soto, a third-generation dentist with nearly 20 years of clinical experience and educational leadership. Recorded on a Friday when everyone is finally at home, the conversation takes a laid-back but inspiring look at dentistry careers, lifelong learning, and what it takes to stay passionate and innovative in the dental field. This episode is sponsored by Ivoclar. 
Key Topics Covered
1. Dr. Karla Soto’s journey & philosophy
Transition from residency to joining her mother's startup practice in Boca Raton, Florida as a young mom
Passion for comprehensive, patient-focused dentistry, and why she became “addicted” to continuing education
Emphasis on saying “yes” to new opportunities and immersing fully into each experience
2. The power of continuing education (CE)
Discussion on how the right CE can ignite passion, confidence, and new skills, especially when surrounded by like-minded peers
Both Dr. Karla Soto and Dr. Pam Maragliano reflect on the formative impact of early mentors and immersive CE experiences.
The challenge is that only about 4% of dentists actually implement advanced CE learnings in daily practice.
3. Making education practical (and bringing your team)
Pam and Dr. Soto and  stress the importance of practical, real-world workshops, and learning side-by-side with team members.
Examples of how having your “ride or die” implementer (office manager or assistant) makes integration more successful.
4. Favorite tools & techniques
Full digital workflow for consults, patient engagement, and clinical procedures
Love for certain products: Ultradent Optrasculpt, OptiGate, Variolink cements, Ivoclar products, and Emax for ceramics
Practical tips from mission trips—why certain tools become absolute MVPs when resources are limited, and how these experiences inform what’s essential in regular practice
5. Fostering team investment & growth
  •Dr. Karla Soto's educational platform, Key Elements, focuses on bringing whole teams together, sharing the journey, and creating retention through shared development wins.
Notable Quotes
“When your circle is at that level, it's almost contagious—you want to keep elevating together.” —Dr. Karla Soto
“You have to be comfortable being uncomfortable if you want to grow in this profession.” —Dr. Karla Soto
“I love CE that inspires me to want to change how I practice.” —Pam Maragliano
Connect with Dr. Karla Soto
Instagram: @Dr.KarlaSoto
Educational Platform: keyelements.co
Dr. Karla Soto is based in South Florida and always happy to connect with curious colleagues!
 

Don’t ignore it: The oral pathology red flag

This week on Dentistry Unmasked, David and Pam chat with renowned oral pathologist Dr. Ashley Clark for a powerful conversation about early detection, decisive action, and why “if you see something, say something” can truly save lives. Dr. Clark shares practical, must-know tips for identifying suspicious lesions, knowing when to biopsy, and if today’s technology is reliable to support accurate diagnosis. We also explore how oral pathologies can signal deeper systemic issues—and why timely, appropriate referrals are critical for protecting your patients’ overall health. If you’re ready to sharpen your clinical eye and elevate your standard of care, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.