Evolution of Dental Podcast

Dr. Tracey Nguyen didn’t set out to redefine dentistry, but somewhere between cosmetic cases that didn’t last and patients searching for real answers, everything shifted. What starts as a conversation about her journey into dentistry quickly unfolds into something much bigger, a reframing of how we diagnose, treat, and think about the mouth as part of the entire body. From airway focused dentistry to the misunderstood relationship between sleep, TMD, and restorative failure, Dr. Nguyen challenges one of the most common assumptions in modern dentistry, that fixing teeth is enough. Instead, she explores how breathing, anatomy, and skeletal structure quietly shape everything from long term case success to a patient’s overall health. She breaks down why airway dentistry is often confused with sleep appliance therapy and why that distinction matters, how undiagnosed airway issues show up as worn dentition, failed restorations, and chronic discomfort, the connection between sleep disruption, pain perception, and TMJ disorders, why orthodontics and skeletal changes may be the foundation rather than the afterthought of restorative care, and how pediatric airway dysfunction can influence development, behavior, and long term health outcomes. This conversation also dives into the evolution of dentistry itself, where wellness, diagnostics, and full body thinking are starting to replace a purely mechanical approach. Because at the end of the day, teeth don’t fail in isolation, and the future of dentistry may depend on finally treating the whole patient, not just the smile.

Jeffry Tobon, a pioneer in digital dentistry workflows and an early adopter of CAD CAM technology. Jeffry shares his journey from working with early Nobel Procera systems to mastering exocad and helping build CAD CAM departments in some of the largest dental laboratories in New York. What started as hands-on experience quickly evolved into building labs, launching Digital Dental Craftsmen, and shaping how technicians approach digital workflows today. The conversation explores the shift from traditional lab models to modern digital dentistry, including the rise of in house labs, full arch workflows, and the growing role of technology in clinical decision making. Jeffry also breaks down his transition from lab owner to entrepreneur, building Chairside Solutions and launching Regional Implant Centers. We also dive into innovation at the clinical level, including the development of the SegMark workflow and SegScrew, designed to improve accuracy, efficiency, and predictability in full arch implant cases. Chapters (00:00:00) - Jeff Tobin(00:00:30) - Teaching Digital Dentistry with Exocad(00:05:57) - 3Shape vs. Exocad: What Made The Jump(00:13:00) - Chairside Solutions: Restorative Dental Technology Institute(00:20:03) - One implant doctor's segue into business(00:23:34) - Pediatric implants: The Rosen Screw(00:29:33) - How to align implants after the surgery with the X-Cat(00:38:25) - The 2 millimeter screw(00:43:39) - Jeff Greene on His Final Podcast(00:45:42) - Jeffrey Tobin on Facebook and Instagram

Daniel Portal’s path into digital dentistry didn’t follow the rules, and that’s exactly why it worked. From witnessing CAD/CAM transform labs overnight to building a career around exocad training and independent design, his perspective cuts through the hype and focuses on what actually works. This conversation explores the reality behind today’s workflows, including the limitations of intraoral scans, why photogrammetry has become essential for full arch accuracy, and where tools like face scanning and AI still fall short. It also looks ahead at the shift toward additive manufacturing and how evolving technology continues to reshape both clinical outcomes and the role of the technician. SourcesRevilla León M, Aragoneses R, Arroyo Valverde EM, Gómez Polo M, Kois JC. Classification of scanning errors of digital scans recorded by using intraoral scanners. Journal of Esthetic and Restorative Dentistry. 2025;37:1363 to 1371. https://doi.org/10.1111/jerd.13419 Mitrani R. The use of a plaster verification jig to ensure accuracy of the master cast. Spear Education. Published August 12 2019. https://www.speareducation.com/resources/spear-digest/the-use-of-a-plaster-verification-jig-to-ensure-accuracy-of-the-master-cast-jig/

Hossein Bassir, CPO of SprintRay, breaks down how the industry is shifting from hardware-driven innovation to something much bigger: material science, software, and fully connected workflows. What used to take hours can now happen in minutes. But speed isn’t the full story. This conversation unpacks why viscosity changed everything in 3D printing, how new materials are pushing the limits of what’s possible chairside, and what it actually takes to make technology simple enough for any dental team to use. From the “iPhone moment” of dental 3D printing to fully integrated systems that remove friction from the workflow, this episode looks ahead at where digital dentistry is going, and what it means for the next generation of clinicians. If you’re paying attention to where dental technology is heading, this is one of those conversations that connects the dots. Citations: Price, R. B. T. (2017). Light curing in dentistry. Dental Clinics of North America, 61(4), 751–778. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cden.2017.06.008 “Heartwarming Smile Makeover Reaction | Zirconia Crowns + Root Canals” by Sani Dental Group, available at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nrMiz93KpNE, licensed under Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY). Chapters (00:00:00) - Intro(00:05:02) - Accuracy, Expectations, and Real World Impact(00:09:30) - Why Choose 3D Printing for Dentistry(00:12:56) - Midas: Concept & Material-Driven Innovation(00:17:20) - What Caused 3D Printing to Slow Down(00:26:33) - Connecting the Workflow: LabConnect(00:34:36) - Making Production Microwave-Easy(00:42:57) - What's Next for SprintRay(00:51:10) - Outro

Dr. Jonathan Abenaim shares his journey from an uncertain path in computer science to becoming a leading innovator in full-arch implant dentistry. He dives deep into the evolution of digital workflows, the disconnect between labs and clinicians, and how his hands-on approach led to groundbreaking inventions like advanced scan bodies and the Powerball Screw system. Dr. Abenaim breaks down the real challenges behind modern implant workflows from flawed traditional systems to the hidden risks of photogrammetry and over-engineered restorations. He also opens up about mentorship, innovation, and why dentists need to stop chasing “perfect solutions” and instead focus on understanding systems deeply. This conversation goes beyond technique touching on leadership, education, and the future of dentistry, including the growing impact of litigation, corporate influence, and the importance of staying true to your mission in an evolving industry.

Seth Potter, exocad educator, design expert, and a rising voice in the world of exocad, shares his journey from early exposure to dentistry to building a global presence through education and content creation. Together, Seth and Rob break down the rapid growth of digital dentistry, the increasing adoption of exocad, and how clinicians and technicians can create more efficient, repeatable workflows while also examining the evolving role of AI in dentistry and where it adds value versus where the human touch still matters most. From Smile Creator advancements to underutilized tools and real-world workflow strategies, this episode delivers practical takeaways for anyone looking to level up in digital dentistry. Chapters (00:00:00) - Intro(00:02:50) - Dental Design: Exocad Takes Over(00:08:48) - Newcomers to Digital Dentistry(00:11:22) - Finding the Right Workflow for Exocad(00:15:26) - The Biggest Mistakes Made in Exocad(00:20:05) - Exocad's AI Feature adoption(00:23:14) - Exocad's AI in Dentistry(00:25:37) - XCAD User Experience: The Human Touch(00:28:34) - XCAD Smile Creator 3.3 Update(00:34:57) - TrueSmile Video(00:37:20) - Exocad 2.8: Underutilized Tools(00:42:50) - Exocad CEO: Where Digital Dentistry is headed(00:44:54) - Dental Care: More Options Than Ever(00:45:47) - Dental Technology: Growing interest in the field(00:47:35) - Outro

Rob Norton talks with Dr. Josh Austin about how digital dentistry tools like iTero, Invisalign, exocad, and 3D printing are transforming the way dentists diagnose, communicate, and treat patients. From boosting case acceptance through visual scanning to enabling more minimally invasive treatment planning, Dr. Austin breaks down how digital workflows are helping practices deliver better outcomes, stronger patient understanding, and more predictable restorative care. Chapters (00:00:05) - Intro(00:01:31) - Early Digital Dentistry: The Scanner(00:04:32) - Scanners as Communication Tools(00:11:36) - Digital Workflows with Exocad and Evolve(00:29:00) - Visualization & Simplifying Treatment Plans(00:36:01) - Advanced Scanner Technology(00:46:39) - Outro

The Evolution of Dental Podcast welcomes Dr. Adamo “Elvis” Notarantonio, former President of the AACD, educator, and internationally recognized cosmetic dentist, for a conversation about photography, mentorship, and the fundamentals that shape great dentistry. Dr. Notarantonio explains why a simple digital camera may be the most important tool in a dentist’s practice, sharing how photography improves communication with patients, laboratories, and digital workflows. From smile design and treatment planning to documenting clinical progress, he highlights how proper dental photography supports better outcomes in cosmetic dentistry. The discussion also explores the balance between digital dentistry workflows and traditional analog techniques, and why understanding the fundamentals of occlusion, materials, and hand skills remains essential even as dental technology continues to evolve. Dr. Notarantonio also shares his personal journey from professional soccer to dentistry, the mentors who shaped his career, and the lessons he’s learned through AACD accreditation, teaching, and decades of clinical experience. This conversation offers valuable insight for dentists, dental technicians, and anyone interested in digital dentistry workflows, cosmetic dentistry, and the future of dental technology. Chapters (00:00:06) - Intro(00:00:28) - Why Dental Photography Matters(00:04:14) - Smile Design, Dental Workflows, and Clinical Precision(00:07:11) - Mentorship: Becoming a Better Diagnostician(00:12:08) - Teaching, Education, and Learning Through Failure(00:15:45) - Digital Dentistry vs Analog Fundamentals(00:19:27) - Transformative Cases, Patient Impact, and Clinical Integrity(00:26:03) - Emerging Technology in Dentistry(00:29:01) - Core Clinical Skills, AACD, and Long-Term Growth Mindset(00:33:05) - Composite Artistry, Clinical Skill Development, and ROI(00:41:28) - Advice for the Next Generation of Dentists(00:45:55) - Outro

Full-arch restorations are one of the most complex workflows in modern dentistry, and one of the easiest to get wrong without proper planning. Rob Norton sits down with Dora Rodrigues, President of ID Dental and a certified exocad trainer specializing in full-arch design. With nearly two decades of experience in full-arch restorations, Dora shares how she transitioned from an analog workflow to a fully digital lab environment. The conversation dives into prosthetic-driven planning, the collaboration required between labs and clinicians, and why full-arch cases demand far more than simply placing implants and designing teeth. Explore how the latest exocad tools including saved tooth positioning, Bridge Gap, and the new split-bar workflow in exocad 3.3, are improving efficiency and helping technicians design smarter, not just faster. Along the way, Dora shares insights from teaching full-arch courses, working chairside during surgeries, and even seeing the patient perspective firsthand. This episode offers practical insight for dental technicians, clinicians, and anyone interested in digital workflows shaping the future of modern dentistry.

What actually makes one ceramic stronger than another? Are the numbers on the brochure telling the full story? Dr. Nate Lawson joins the Evolution of Dental Podcast to unpack the real science behind modern dental materials. From multilayer pucks, fast sintering, and the rise of 3D printed restorations. This conversation moves beyond surface-level comparisons and into how materials are truly tested: flexural strength vs fracture toughness, static load vs fatigue, crack propagation, and why transformation toughening makes zirconia so unique. Dr. Lawson shares what labs and clinicians should understand about translucency trade-offs, yttria content, multilayer technology, and whether fast-sinter zirconia actually delivers on its promises. Sources: youtube.com/watch?v=FESOpqaVsII&embeds_referring_euri=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.drnatelawson.com%2F&source_ve_path=MjM4NTE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5yE6jwyrG8E https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12903-024-05325-z https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Phases-and-its-transformation-of-zirconia-A-monoclinic-B-tetragonal-C-cubic_fig1_372386970 https://www.kuraraynoritake.eu/se/newsroom/what-we-should-know-about-the-strength-of-dental-ceramics https://www.dentistrytoday.com/edge-effect-comparing-the-strength-of-ceramic-materials/ Chapters (00:00:06) - Intro(00:03:05) - The Ceramic Revolution(00:08:25) - Zirconia: Crack Healing & Transformation Toughening(00:17:10) - Measuring Strength and Translucency(00:28:50) - Accelerated Sintering and its Effects(00:31:07) - Dental Material Testing Explained(00:43:30) - 3D Printed Ceramics & Resin Hybrids(00:54:55) - Outro

AI is no longer a future concept in dentistry. It is actively reshaping how removable prosthetics are designed, manufactured, and delivered. John Madden CDT dives deep into the evolution of digital dentures and partials, unpacking how AI-driven design, automation, and systems thinking are transforming modern dental technology. From monolithic manufacturing and acetal partials to workflow bottlenecks and robotic assembly, this episode explores what it truly means to modernize removable dentistry at scale. John shares powerful insights on technician shortages, insurance-driven economics, digital production efficiency, and why simply mimicking analog workflows in software isn’t enough anymore. The future of dental technology demands smarter systems, better integration, and a willingness to rethink the entire process. Chapters (00:00:00) - Intro(00:01:47) - Committing to Digital Dentures(00:08:00) - Eliminating Clinical Bottlenecks(00:12:22) - The Cost of an Extra Appointment(00:17:40) - The Reality of Digital Partials(00:31:31) - Production Cost Analysis(00:42:52) - The Future of Removables(00:52:36) - Outro

The most advanced intraoral scanners can capture data within microns, but if the bite is wrong, everything downstream suffers. Björn Zäuner, founder of BiteFinder, explains how AI driven occlusion simulation is transforming digital dentistry by calculating maximum intercuspation, analyzing anatomy, and simulating jaw movement before design or production begins. By correcting bite discrepancies at the data stage, labs and clinicians can reduce remakes, shorten insertion times, and minimize chairside adjustments. The conversation explores vertical dimension control for splints and dentures, integration with exocad and intraoral scanners, CBCT driven workflows, and the evolution of patient specific articulators. With thousands of users across nearly 40 countries, BiteFinder is redefining digital occlusion and proving that better data at the beginning changes everything at the end!

Dr. Martin Toporek joins the Evolution of Dental Podcast to share how he blends foundational dental principles with cutting-edge digital technology to create highly precise, patient-centered, and artistically driven dentistry. He breaks down his fully digital workflows, including MODJAW 4D jaw tracking, exocad Smile Creator, and in-house 3D printing to deliver same-day night guards, prep-less veneers, and “Test Drive Smiles” that patients can see, feel, and even take home before committing to treatment. Dr. Toporek explains why a deep understanding of occlusion, jaw movement, and dental fundamentals is critical to using digital tools correctly, and how technology enhances experience rather than replacing it. The conversation explores AI-assisted design, scalable smile consultations, and how advancements in printers and materials are changing restorative and cosmetic dentistry. From TMJ therapy to digital mockups and injection molding techniques, Dr. Toporek shares practical insights on adopting new technology responsibly, empowering teams, and building patient trust through visualization and education. This discussion offers a grounded yet forward-looking perspective on how artistry, data, and innovation are reshaping the modern dental practice. Chapters (00:00:00) - Intro(00:02:54) - Fundamentals, and Art Influencing Dentistry(00:05:29) - Test Drive Smiles(00:11:18) - Materials & Accuracy(00:18:23) - Scaling Digital Workflows(00:22:43) - Injection Molding Technique(00:34:50) - Outro

Vicki Thomas, founder of Savvy Lab Solutions, joins the Evolution of Dental Podcast to share practical strategies for helping small and independent dental labs stay competitive in an increasingly commodified industry. Drawing on decades of hands-on experience, Vicki breaks down smart digital workflows, outsourcing strategies, buying power through community, and how lab owners can improve profitability without sacrificing quality or work-life balance. This episode is packed with real-world insight for lab owners navigating growth, technology, and long-term sustainability. Source video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9D4pNZpRSeU License: Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY) Chapters (00:00:06) - Intro(00:01:03) - Let's Get Savvy(00:04:26) - Making Growth Possible(00:11:34) - Training the Next Generation(00:19:08) - Outsourcing, Teamwork, and Profit Strategy(00:31:28) - Communication and Sustainable Lab Life(00:41:33) - Outro

Rob Norton sits down with Jonny Jakson to explore what it takes to design with speed, precision, and creativity in an always-evolving landscape. From navigating complex workflows and emerging technology to building confidence through consistency. This conversation dives into how experience turns chaos into control, and why mastering the process matters just as much as the tools themselves. Digital dentistry doesn’t slow down, and neither do the decisions behind it. Chapters (00:00:00) - Meet Johnny Exocad(00:01:59) - Dental Students: Working in 3-D Printing(00:07:58) - Are IVotion Dentures Better Than Mill Dentures?(00:08:55) - What are some of the bigger advancements in facial and jaw scanning?(00:12:42) - How to 3-D print a die with a metal crown(00:13:40) - Spring Ray Dentures demo at IDS 2017(00:15:24) - Jet Engine Printed Dentures(00:16:59) - Dental CAD Bar 3.3 Workflow(00:21:31) - Smile Creator: The Smile Trial(00:26:19) - Plastic prosthetics: Same Day Designs(00:28:43) - PRIEST: Should a physician invest in a printer?(00:30:34) - What's Next for Oral Surgery?(00:35:53) - Johnny on Social Media Influencers(00:38:17) - Ben Bomer and A Tin Liquor(00:39:55) - Evolving Dentist: Consistency is the Key

Rob Norton sits down this episode with Seth Smith, the mind behind GreatLab.io, to talk about the not-so-glamorous problem that decides whether a modern lab runs smoothly or spirals into chaos: managing digital case data. Rob and Seth dig into what happens after the scan, when labs are stuck juggling portals from iTero, 3Shape, Medit, DS Core, Shining, and more. Tune in for the latest insight on why customization is non-negotiable for lab software, how rule-based workflows (and the wild things labs do to survive) shaped GreatLab’s evolution, and why cloud-based systems are a literal business lifesaver. Seth shares his philosophy on focus, simplification, and avoiding “complication tax,” plus what’s next for GreatLab in 2026. Chapters (00:00:00) - Intro(00:02:00) - Solving the Lab Workflow Problem(00:10:00) - Customization & Lab Specifics(00:17:01) - Simplicity is Key(00:21:00) - Migration and Real-World Stories(00:43:00) - Final Thoughts & Outro

Rob Norton sits down with Dr. Ben Kellum to explore the evolution of a dental practice from a minimally equipped community clinic to a predominantly digital, in-house, full-arch workflow. Dr. Kellum shares firsthand insights into building a clinic-based laboratory, developing CAD/CAM capabilities over time, and navigating the early challenges of adopting digital manufacturing technologies. The conversation covers key topics including zirconia economics, the foundational role of intraoral scanning, photogrammetry versus scan-body workflows, and how improved data capture and communication strengthen collaboration between clinicians and labs. They also discuss emerging trends in materials science and artificial intelligence, and how these advancements may shape the future of restorative dentistry. The central takeaway is clear: when implemented thoughtfully, digital technology can do more than improve efficiency—it can support higher-quality care, expand access to treatment, and help practices remain firmly centered on patient needs. Chapters (00:02:15) - Dental technician trains to make gold crowns(00:06:13) - Graduating with the SLAP(00:11:04) - Bradley Dentist on Digital Surgery(00:14:36) - Not all 3-D Dentistry Systems are created equal(00:19:47) - Dental Students Get Into the Digital World(00:24:21) - Getting your dentures made(00:24:54) - Dental surgeons on the transition to digital scanners(00:30:52) - Dr. Henry Audia on the Digital Surgery(00:33:16) - The importance of photography in dentistry(00:39:24) - Beyond the Facial Scanner, Do You Need Photogrammetry(00:44:18) - Interaural Scanner(00:47:11) - Clinical Dentists: Where Technology Is Going(00:54:24) - One More Word

Host Rob Norton sits down with Dr. Brian Olitsky to unpack how adopting exocad transformed his clinical workflow and patient experience. Dr. Olitsky shares his progression from designing simple nightguards to delivering same-day restorations through milling, printing, and advanced CAD-driven workflows. The conversation explores real-world benefits like improved predictability, stronger collaboration with labs and surgeons, and enhanced communication through digital wax-ups, CBCT integration, and implant planning. They also dive into AI-generated crowns, minimally invasive prep design, and the rapidly evolving future of 3D printing and materials science, offering a forward-looking perspective on where dentistry is headed and why embracing digital tools now is a game-changer for any stage of practice. Chapters (00:00:00) - Intro(00:00:26) - Dental Surgeons Use exocad for Digital Surgery(00:02:48) - Crown Printing and Milling(00:05:52) - Oral implant placement and milling under exocad(00:11:37) - Are you ready for a digital dentistry?(00:14:18) - AI Crown Generator(00:16:04) - Getting Started in Digital Dentistry(00:20:47) - Dr. Brian's Perspective on Digital Dentistry(00:29:11) - Optimal 3-D Printing and Invisalign(00:36:32) - Outro

In this episode of the Evolution of Dental Podcast, Rob Norton sits down with Chelsea Homire, EFDA, co-founder of the Digital Dental Assistant Academy, to discuss how digital technology is reshaping the role of the dental assistant. Chelsea shares insights into the current state of dental education, the growing demand for digital skills in modern practices, and why many assistants are entering the workforce without the training needed to support today’s digital workflows. The conversation explores practical approaches to digital education, the importance of structured learning, and how empowering dental assistants can elevate the efficiency and confidence of the entire dental team. This episode is ideal for dental professionals interested in improving team training, adopting digital workflows, and preparing their practice for the future of dentistry.

Digital dentistry pioneer Dr. Steven Glassman joins the Evolution of Dental Podcast to share how going fully digital has transformed his practice. As one of the first iTero users in North America, he walks through how scanners, clear aligners, exocad, and 3D printing let him plan cases from the face first, protect enamel, and deliver less invasive, more predictable results. Dr. Glassman breaks down real-world cases—from severe wear and deep bites to full-arch all-on-X—and shows how partnering with Evolution Dental Science and using tools like Smile Architect, TruSmile, 3D facial scans, and digital mock-ups has boosted patient understanding and case acceptance. He also teases Align’s Advanced Restorative Treatment (ART) program and makes a strong case for why “before we plan, we must digitally scan.”

Digital dentures didn’t just appear overnight, they were engineered into existence. Host Rob Norton talks with Andy Jakson, CEO of Evolution Dental Science and co-founder of AvaDent, about how a nursing-home problem sparked a digital revolution in prosthetics. From early box-scanner workflows to 3D printing, AI-driven occlusion, and U.S.-made innovation, Andy shares the story of how passion, tech, and teamwork reshaped the denture game. Chapters (00:00:00) - The Evolution of Dental Science Podcast(00:01:41) - Digital Dentures: The World of Digital Dentures(00:04:30) - Putting Digital Dentures into the Digital World(00:07:45) - How to make a 3-D-printed denture(00:10:52) - Prosthodontic Record Taking(00:21:26) - Full Mouth Rehabilitation Tech Interview(00:32:54) - What is the Digital Denture?