The April podcast features oral cancer survivor Gloria Cancellieri, a patient of AGD Podcast Series host Dr. Wes Blakeslee. In 2020, Cancellieri was diagnosed with oral cancer during a regular screening in Dr. Blakeslee’s office. She describes the benefits of working closely with her dental care team to ensure her cancer was treated quickly. As a result of early diagnosis, her cancer has been successfully treated. A former janitorial services company owner and nurse, she is now retired.

An Oral Cancer Journey: Patient Perspective

Check out the latest podcast with Wes Blakeslee, DMD, FAGD, as he explores oral pathology with Ashley Clark, DDS. Dr. Clark discusses the importance of early diagnosis as well as leukoplakia and squamous cell carcinoma. Drs Blakeslee and Clark also discuss why the HPV vaccine is so important and why general dentists should discuss these important topics with their patients with a focus on oral cancer prevention.

Exploring the Latest in Oral Pathology

In the latest podcast Dr. Schmidt speaks with Russ S. Bergman, DMD, vice chair and GPR program director at Newark Beth Israel's Department of Dentistry. Together they talk about residency programs, the application process, and the valuable ways postgraduate general dentistry training prepares new dentists for success in their careers.  Dr. Bergman highlights the opportunities available in these comprehensive educational and clinical programs that allow new dentists to build upon their foundational knowledge from dental school. He also discusses some important advice for candidates applying to any residency program, as well as the importance of being curious, ambitious, and hard working. This is a valuable discussion for anyone considering a residency program as part of their dental career journey.

Listen now.

Exploring Residency Programs on Your Dental Career Journey

In the latest episode, AGD podcaster Dr. George Schmidt talks with James Klim, DDS, about ways to incorporate cosmetic and restorative dentistry into their practices. Dr. Klim shares strategies for managing complex cases and utilizing advanced dental technologies to enhance smile outcomes and improve patient outcomes. Dr. Klim is an internationally recognized speaker, author, manufacturing consultant, beta tester, and biofunctional and aesthetic CAD/CAM dentistry teacher. He discusses the techniques and life lessons that help him find meaning in his work, shares his knowledge about the field, and ensures that he delivers the care his patients deserve. Dr. Klim is the founder and director of the Klim Institute/ CADStar CAD/CAM Learning Center.  His practice facilitates post-graduate education for dentists worldwide, emphasizing 3D/CAD/CAM digital dentistry and 3D x-ray Cone Beam diagnostics.

The Latest in Cosmetic and Restorative Dentistry with Dr. James Klim

In this episode of the AGD Podcast Series, George Schmidt, DMD, FAGD, talks with Maggie Augustyn, DDS, a practicing general dentist and dental practice owner, whose work includes a focus on wellness and emotional strength to help lead healthy and fulfilling lives and careers. She speaks and writes extensively on these topics and during this podcast shares some of her approaches to finding self acceptance and other tools to accomplish personal and professional goals. Listen now.

Humanity and Wellness for General Dentists with Dr. Maggie Augustyn

In this episode, Dr. Schmidt talks with JoAn Majors, CSP, CVP, RDA, on leadership and communicate skills. She is the author of several books, including "Permission to be Honest: Tough Talk on Soft Skills for Providers of Care and Their Teams." She shares ways to approach patients and have conversations about care needs, emphasizing the importance of asking the right questions and promoting a posture of curiosity.

JoAn is the co-founder and content creationspecialist of The Soft Skills Institute, an AGDPACE National CE provider. She and her husband, Dr. Chuck Majors, a second-generation dentist, provide online content that is scalable, affordable, and predictable for maximum implementation and after-care. 

Listen now.

Understanding Soft Skills to Improve Patient Relations with JoAn Majors

In this insightful episode, AGD Podcast Series host Dr. George Schmidt talks with David Harris, founder and CEO of Prosperident, the leading dental embezzlement investigation firm in the United States. Embezzlement impacts over half of all dental practitioners at some point in their careers, often with devastating financial consequences. Harris has dedicated his career to uncovering theft and empowering practice owners to protect their businesses.

Harris talks through the warning signs of employee theft, the importance of balancing trust with accountability, and strategies for implementing robust systems to safeguard your practice. Whether you're a seasoned professional or new to managing a dental office, this episode includes actionable advice to help you prevent financial losses and ensure the long-term success of your practice.

Protecting Your Dental Practice from Embezzlement Practices

Our latest podcast features Kevin Kwiecien, DMD, MS, who joins AGD Podcast host and vice president George Schmidt, DMD, FAGD, to address opportunities to create systems that build strong teams and enhance dental practice performance. Dr. Kwiecien has more than 25 years of private practice experience, most of which overlapped in academia. He shares tips he teaches on connecting clinical and practice management systems to ensure dental offices are performing optimally and creating growth opportunities. 

Dr. Kwiecien graduated from Oregon Health and Science University School of Dentistry and holds a master’s degree in health care administration. He is the owner of K Squared Facilitation and the founder/coach at The CCO Solution. He was an assistant professor of restorative dentistry at the OHSU School of Dentistry and also had faculty roles at Spear Education and L. D. Pankey Institute, where he provided education to AGD constituents across the U.S.

Listen now.

Delivering Exceptional Care While Building Outstanding Teams

In this episode, AGD Podcast Series host Dr. George Schmidt talks with Dr. Larry Stanleigh about ways to create connections with new and existing patients. He provides practical steps to take when someone is new to your practice or for someone who regularly refers patients. Simple touches, he explains, are easy to do and make a significant impression on people when it is a first or recurring visit. 

Dr. Stanleigh is a general dentist from Calgary. He is also a orofacial pain-TMJ consultant, runs Agility Guard, a sports performance mouthguard company, and is a regular blogger in AGD's Daily Grind. He lends his expertise as a keynote speaker, award-winning writer/blogger, executive producer of the USNA: United States of North America graphic novel project, lead sponsor of the Stanleigh Cup for the Loose Moose Theater Company’s Annual High School Theater Sports championship, and more. 

Listen now.

Creating Exceptional Patient Experiences

In this episode, Dr. Schmidt brings together two dynamic voices from different stages of their careers—Jacqui Kozlowski, a dental student, and Stephanie Tilley, DMD, a general dentist with a broad range of experience providing clinical care and teaching new techniques. This candid conversation highlights the power of mentorship, collaboration, and resilience in shaping a brighter future for women in the field. Listen in as they explore how the landscape of dentistry has evolved, the opportunities and challenges women face, and the unique ways they connect to exchange ideas and offer support. 

Stephanie Flynn Tilley, DMD, is a graduate of the University of Alabama School of Dentistry and has undergone extensive training to bring her patients the highest level of care possible. Tilley is a native of Pensacola, Florida, and has been practicing dentistry in her hometown since 1998. She is a member of AGD as well as the American Dental Association, Florida Dental Association, Alabama Dental Association, Academy of Laser Dentistry, Oral Implantology and Academy of American Facial Esthetics.

Jacqui Kozlowski, a third-year dental student at Midwestern University College of Dental Medicine-Illinois, is from Novi, Michigan, and holds a bachelor's degree in Human Biology from Michigan State University. She is actively involved in the American Student Dental Association as secretary of her local chapter, vice president of the CDMI Dental Student Council, and a liaison for the Executive Dental Council. A member of Delta Sigma Delta fraternity, Jacqui plans to volunteer at a dental clinic in Jamaica. After completing dental school, she hopes to join a reputable dental practice and aspires to one day own her own dental practice.


Women in Dentistry

In this episode, Dr. Schmidt interviews Thomas Viola, RPh, CCP, CDE, CPMP, about important perspectives on prescriptions and over-the-counter drugs, supplements, and substances frequently used by patients and other medications used in the dental office. They also discuss best practices for prescribing and current protocols to follow.

With over 30 years’ experience as a board-certified pharmacist, clinical educator, professional speaker and published author, Viola has earned his national and international reputation as the go-to specialist for making pharmacology practical and useful for all members of the dental team. Viola has presented over 1,000 informative, humorous and engaging CE seminars and webinars to dental professionals internationally since 2001.

He has several courses on the schedule for AGD's upcoming scientific session in Montréal. Learn more and register for the meeting which will take place July 9-12, 2025

A Pharmacology Perspective for Dentists

David James Clark, DDS, joins with Dr. George Schmidt during the latest podcast episode. Dr. Clark explains the art and science of monolithic injection-molded composite dentistry and talks about utilizing injection-molding of composites with modern preparations, super-anatomic clear matrices and heated multi-viscosity composite to solve so many problems without resorting to crowns. (Dr Clark is a speaker at AGD's upcoming scientific session in Montreal, July 9-12.)

Dr. Clark is director of Bioclear Learning Centers International. He founded the Academy of Microscope Enhanced Dentistry, creates curriculum for dental schools and has lectured in 25 countries. He developed the Bioclear Matrix System for placement of biologically appropriate and esthetically pleasing direct composite restorations for facilitating injection-molding of the Clark Class I and Class II preparations, diastema closure, and black triangle elimination combined with papilla regeneration. The Clark Class I and Class II preparations and restorations are now being evaluated in in vivo and in vitro studies. He owns several patents. He published the first guide to dentinal and enamel cracks based on clinical microscope dentistry (16× magnification). Clark is a 1986 graduate of the University of Washington School of Dentistry.

Understanding Direct Composite Restorations

So many improvements have been witnessed in the field of digital dentures including streamlined workflows, easy-to-use software, and new and improved manufacturing techniques. In this episode, Dr. Goodacre talks about emerging techniques and other insights that make this a important procedure and tool for general dentists. Take a listen and learn about  how you can apply these skills in your practice. Dr. Gooacre will be a  speaker at AGD2025, July 9-12, in Montréal. Learn more at agd2025.org

Integrating Digital Dentures with Brian Goodacre, DDS

During the latest episode of the AGD Podcast Series, host George Schmidt, DMD, FAGD, talks with David Galler, DMD, one of the top providers of aligner treatments in the U.S. During the episode, Galler describes his early work with aligner therapies to some of the new tools that make them more accessible. He also discusses how incorporating aligners into a patient's care addresses cosmetics, periodontal, and occlusion care. Still, dentists must know how to manage these treatments and keep up with current aligner learning. He also touches on the problem of burnout, asking other dentists questions to help them identify factors impacting their happiness and how to find outlets for things that are causing them stress.

As a featured speaker at numerous study clubs, webinars, and national and regional events, Galler has created a strong following of practitioners wanting to learn more about treating patients with his aligner therapy. He is credited with bringing several key innovations to the forefront of the clear aligner field, including the GOST (Galler Ostreicher Spacing Technique), Ortho Munchies, and the GLR 4.0 — Galler's proprietary algorithm. He also runs various HAPPINESS seminars to improve dentists' quality of life. When not treating patients, lecturing, or innovating, Galler enjoys performing stand-up comedy and currently has a residency in Las Vegas, where he performs several times a month.

Clear Aligners: More Than Just Cosmetics with Dr. David Galler

In this powerful and deeply personal episode, Parul Dua Makkar, BSc, DDS, FACD, shares how the loss of her younger brother, Manu Dua, DDS, to oral cancer changed the course of her life and career. Manu was a healthy, young dentist with few risk factors, yet his diagnosis came late — a reality that highlights the critical need for early detection and awareness. Dr. Makkar opens up about her brother’s story, the warning signs that were missed, and the emotional toll of watching a loved one navigate cancer. She also offers practical advice for healthcare providers on how to talk to patients about suspicious lesions, the importance of regular screenings, and the shifting demographics of oral cancer. Following Manu's death, she authored the book Life Interrupted: Dr. Dua's Survival Guide. 

A passionate advocate, speaker, and award-winning author, Dr. Makkar is on a mission to educate both clinicians and the public about the importance of recognizing oral cancer risks—before it’s too late. She is a Board member American Academy of Oral Systemic Health and a Fellow for the American College of Dentists.

The Importance of Early Diagnosis of Oral Cancer with Dr. Parul Dua Makkar

In this episode, Dr. Schmidt sits down with Adamo Notarantonio, DDS, FICOI, FAACD, a highly regarded cosmetic dentist, to explore the often-overlooked power of composite in aesthetic dentistry. While porcelain options often take center stage in smile makeovers, Dr. Notarantonio shares why mastering composite artistry is not only essential for delivering beautiful results—but also for becoming a true craftsman in cosmetic dentistry. From repairing fractured teeth on teenagers to fine-tuning provisionals, he explains how composite skills translate into superior patient outcomes and provides a deeper understanding of smile design. (Dr. Notarantion will be a speaker at AGD2025, July 9-12.)

They also dive into the mindset shift required to build a fulfilling aesthetic practice—from ways to build skill and reputation to learning how to communicate treatment possibilities with patients without overwhelming them. This conversation offers practical insight, real-world advice, and inspiration for dentists at every stage of their journey. 

Dr. Notarantonio graduated from the State University of New York at Stony Brook School of Dental Medicine (2002), where he received honors in removable and fixed prosthodontics. He is accredited by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and received his Fellowship in the AACD in 2018. He is the current President of the AACD, Credential Examiner and Fellowship Chairman. Dr. Notarantio is a graduate and faculty of the Kois Center. He has received his fellowship in the International Congress of Oral Implantologists. He has been published in multiple dental journals and lectures nationally and internationally on such topics as CAD/CAM dentistry, implant dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, composite dentistry, and dental photography.

Tune in to hear how investing in your skills can transform both your dentistry and your career.

Art and Impact: A Masterclass in Cosmetic Dentistry with Dr. Adamo E. Notarantonio

This episode features Leila Zadeh, DMD, FAGD, who discusses advances in digital technology and the relatively recent incorporation of photogrammetry — a method of approximating a 3D structure using 2D images. She shares how it not only improves the accuracy of capturing implant relationships in a 3D space but also helps streamline the final impression process so that it is significantly faster and easier than traditional analog workflows. This story is the feature of an article in the May issue of AGD Impact. 

Dr. Zadeh is an advanced restorative dentist at digitalDDS and an adjunct assistant professor at NYU Langone Health’s advanced education in general dentistry residency. She also creates educational content for Spear Education.

Navigating Implant Success with Photogrammetry with Dr. Leila Zadeh

Dr. Schmidt sits down with Joseph Lucido, managing partner for Clear to Launch Dental Marketing. Lucido has collaborated with leading industry, professionals to enhance patient acquisition, strengthen brand authority and boost practice, efficiency through innovative strategies and data, driven insights. They share tips for marketing dental practices and growing dental practices. 

Listen to this episode for useful insight to apply on your practice immediately.

Strategic Insights to Drive Practice Growth with Joseph Lucido

In this episode, Dale Miles, DDS, MS, FRCD, a renowned expert in oral and maxillofacial radiology, explores the evolving role of cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) in dental practice.

With a career spanning several decades in academic and clinical settings, Dr. Miles offers a compelling look at how advanced imaging is transforming diagnostics, treatment planning, and patient outcomes. From clinical pearls to regulatory considerations and the future potential of AI in radiology, this episode is a must-listen for any dentist looking to stay at the forefront of diagnostic imaging. Listen now.





The Latest in CBCT with Dale Miles, DDS

In the latest episode, Dr. Schmidt talks with Joshua Austin, DDS, MAGD, dental educator and general dentists with a full-time restorative dentistry practice in San Antonio, Texas. During the discussion Dr. Austin addresses the opportunity in restorative dentistry including use of glass ionomer materials. Glass ionomers have undergone significant advancements that now make them essential tools for today’s clinicians. He shares how these improvements have changed his perspective—and his outcomes—and offers insights into when and how to best use these versatile materials. They also discuss ways to improve efficiency to ensure success with complex cases and treatment plans. 

Dr. Austin is an editorial director and monthly columnist for Dental Economics magazine, focusing on dental products and technology. He is a graduate of the University of Texas Health School of Dentistry and spent five years post-graduation in the department of restorative dentistry.


Rethinking Opportunities in Restorative Dentistry with Dr. Joshua Austin

In this episode, Dr. Schmidt talks with , an experts in restorative care. In the podcast, they take an engaging and highly educational look at the complexities of occlusion, the evolution of restorative philosophy, and the practical clinical tools available today. The conversation is especially valuable for clinicians who want to deepen their understanding of aesthetics and long-term restorative success.

Dr. Melkers is a 1994 graduate of the Marquette University School of Dentistry and currently on faculty at Rīga Stradiņš University in Riga, Latvia and The Pankey Institute; and a lead educator for RIPEGlobal. He maintains a private clinical practice in Hanover, New Hampshire, with a focus on comprehensive adult restorative care. 


The Evolution of Restorative Dentistry with Dr. Michael Melkers

In this episode, Dr. Schmidt speaks with John Chao, DDS, MAGD, inventor of the Pinhole Surgical Technique (PST), a minimally invasive, scalpel-free, suture-free method for treating gingival recession. A respected general dentist and educator, Dr. Chao shares insights into the clinical necessity of addressing gum recession as a vital intervention for protecting long-term oral and systemic health. (Dr. Chao is a speaker at AGD2025.)

Tune in to hear Dr. Chao’s perspective on innovation in dentistry, patient-centered care, and the future of periodontal treatment.They discuss opportunities to utilize PST and how this technique fits into evidence-based periodontal care and how general dentists can integrate it into their practices to improve patient outcomes and preserve periodontal health.

Listen now.

The Pinhole Surgical Technique with Dr. John Chao

AGD2025: Mohammed Attia, DDS, MAGD

AGD2025: Matthew Kremke, MBA, CAE, on AGD Benefits and More

In the latest podcast, Dr. Schmidt talks with Ralph Cooley, DDS, FAGD, and Arlene O'Brien, DMD, FAGD, who are members of ADA Legislative and Government Affairs Council and AGD representatives to the ADA Code Maintenance Committee. The Code Maintenance Committee is responsible for reviewing and updating dental coding systems. In their roles, they advocate for changes that benefit general dentists. New codes for 2026 include updates to anesthesia codes, a new cracked tooth testing code, and modifications to denture duplication and occlusal guard cleaning codes. They emphasize the importance of public input and collaboration between organizations.

Listen now.


How Dental Codes Get Made: A Conversation with AGD’s ADA Committee Reps Dr. Ralph Cooley and Dr. Arlene O’Brien

In the latest episode, Dr. Schmidt talks with Angela Davis Sullivan discussed the importance of practice management in dental offices, focusing on effective production and collection systems, goal setting, team involvement, communication, leadership, and having tough conversations. They also emphasized the need for a balanced approach to treatment planning, the importance of retaining patients, and the significance of effective communication and listening. on the importance of practice management in dental offices. During the podcast, they highlighted the importance of self-evaluation and the use of coaches in various industries, including dentistry and it concludes with a discussion on the significance of systems in a thriving dental practice.

Davis Sullivan, CEO and founder of Adaptive Dental Solutions, is also a speaker and educator for dental practices.  Her background as an administrator, expanded function dental assistant, new patient coordinator, office manager, and advanced training with dental management systems is invaluable with the day-to-day operations in a dental office, with the doctor, and with the team.

From Goals to Growth: Building a Thriving Dental Practice with Angela Davis Sullivan

In our latest podcast, Dr. Schmidt talks with Mitch Gardiner, DMD, FAGD, focused on dental malpractice and the role of expert witnesses in civil court cases, with discussions about the qualifications and objectivity required of dental experts. The conversation covered key elements needed to prove negligence in dental cases, including standards of care and proper documentation of patient interactions and treatment plans. Dr. Gardiner provided advice for young dentists on maintaining high standards of care through continuous education and proper record-keeping.

Dr. Gardiner is a full-time general dentist practicing in a multi-specialty office. A 1977 graduate of The University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, Dr. Gardiner served for three years as a dental officer in the Navy. He is a clinical instructor on the teaching faculty of the Rutgers School of Dental Medicine in the Department of Restorative Dentistry-Fixed Prosthodontics.  He has over 25 years of experience in reviewing dental malpractice cases as an expert witness. Dr. Gardiner lectures and presents programs on issues of dental malpractice throughout the United States.  He holds fellowships in the Academy of General Dentistry, American College of Dentists and International College of Dentists.


Expert Insights: Malpractice, Negligence, and Standards of Care with Dr. Mitch Gardiner

In the latest podcast, Dr. Schmidt welcomed Dr. Jason Mann and Phil Cassis, both from Providence Dental Partners, to discuss managing dental practices in challenging times. They are both industry leaders with extensive experience in dental business ventures and consulting, emphasizing the importance of a strong business model and practice management strategy in mitigating risk and navigating rising costs and decreasing reimbursements. The discussion focused on supporting dentists through both the administrative and clinical areas of a practice, while emphasizing clinical autonomy and local decision-making. 

Dr. Mann is the co-founder and chief dental officer, and Cassis, co-founder and chief executive officer, lead Providence Dental Partners. Dr. Mann is a nationally recognized dental leader, entrepreneur, and key opinion leader, with experience spanning clinical practice, dental services, product development, and strategic advisory roles. Cassis brings decades of executive leadership with one of the world’s largest dental companies, where he advised thousands of practices nationwide on business strategy, growth, and operational excellence.
 
Listen now.

From Strategy to Chairside: Supporting Dentists Beyond the Operatory with Dr. Jason Mann and Phil Cassis

March Podcast Dr. Batoon Sleep Apnea

Lee Culp, CDT is the CEO of Sculpture Studios, Sculpture Academy, and is a recognized pioneer in digital dentistry and advanced functional aesthetic dentistry.  He holds true to a belief that the attainment of perfection in restorative dentistry can only be harnessed through a unique combination of skillful application coupled with superior knowledge. He shares key insights on the industry and opportunities for the future.

As a world-renowned innovator and educator, he maintains an unparalleled focus and commitment to understanding the revolutionary, often complex, changes that continue to influence modern aesthetic dentistry.  Thus, he lends his vision and talent to developing, throughout dentistry and within his laboratory, the related materials and communications standards necessary to ensure the most realistic opportunities for success and gratification for those discriminating dental professionals who maintain a higher profile, cutting-edge practice philosophy.

He is a leading resource/inventor for many of the materials, products, and techniques used in dentistry today, and holds numerous patents for his ideas and products.  Lee writes many articles per year, and his writing, photography, and teaching style have brought him international recognition, as one of today’s most exciting lecturers and innovative artisans in the specialty of digital dentistry, dental ceramics and functional esthetics.

Lee’s life is all about two things, his wife, Dr Lida Swann( prosthodontist, implant surgeon, and recently named head of Digital Dentistry at University of North Carolina) and dentistry, well, kind of the same thing. He has three children, one of which is also a dentist.

Academy of General Dentistry

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