Endo Voices

What does it take to build a thriving endodontic practice when clinical excellence alone is no longer enough? On Endo Voices, Dr. Marcus Johnson welcomes Dr. Monica Estes, Navy veteran, Board-certified endodontist, and author of Innovative Endodontics: Redefining Excellence in Today's Endodontic Practice. After opening her first practice straight out of residency and expanding to three locations, Dr. Estes shares the pivotal mindset shift from treating teeth to leading a business. Dr. Estes gets specific about systems, values-based hiring, mentorship, and avoiding burnout. She also reveals how consistent referral outreach, thoughtful marketing, and an unexpected "comfort menu" can transform the patient experience. Dr. Estes also reflects on her Navy service and, just in time for the holiday, her practice's Veterans Day tradition of providing complimentary root canals. Tune in for a fresh perspective on leadership, lasting relationships, and what success in endodontics can look like beyond the chair. Episodes of Endo Voices may include opinion, speculation and other statements not verifiable in the scientific method and do not necessarily reflect the views of AAE or the sponsor(s). Listeners should use their best judgment in evaluating the merits of any content.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Treating pediatric and adolescent patients can bring a unique set of clinical and communication challenges, but it also presents an opportunity for endodontists to make an impact that lasts well into adulthood. In this episode of Endo Voices, Dr. Marcus Johnson sits down with longtime colleague Dr. Beth Damas to explore the intersection of pediatric dentistry and endodontics. The two also reflect on their shared history, including participating in the AAE’s Leadership Development Program together. From managing anxious young patients and their parents to navigating trauma, mixed dentition and the developing tooth, Dr. Damas offers several insights.She shares her practical approach to vital pulp therapy, case selection, bioceramic materials and follow-up, emphasizing a philosophy of preserving healthy pulp tissue and allowing immature teeth the opportunity to continue developing whenever possible. The conversation also explores regenerative endodontics, CBCT, orthodontic considerations and the importance of collaboration among endodontists, pediatric dentists, orthodontists and general practitioners.Episodes of Endo Voices may include opinion, speculation and other statements not verifiable in the scientific method and do not necessarily reflect the views of AAE or the sponsor(s). Listeners should use their best judgment in evaluating the merits of any content.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this insightful episode of Endo Voices, host Dr. Marcus Johnson sits down with Australian endodontist, educator, and author Dr. Kehn Yapp to explore the art and science of team microscope endodontics. Drawing on principles developed through his training with microscope pioneer Dr. Gary Carr, Dr. Yapp shares how thoughtful operatory design, assistant integration and a systematic approach to clinical workflow can help endodontists minimize wasted movement, improve efficiency and practice more comfortably throughout their careers.From mastering low magnification and optimizing depth of field to positioning the patient, organizing instruments and training assistants to anticipate each stage of treatment, Drs. Johnson and Yapp take a practical look at what it means to truly work as a team under the microscope. The conversation also explores clinical photography, ergonomics, surgical workflows, and the importance of consistency in developing expertise. Whether you are new to microscope endodontics or looking to refine an established workflow, this episode offers practical strategies for creating a more precise, efficient, and sustainable way to practice.Episodes of Endo Voices may include opinion, speculation and other statements not verifiable in the scientific method and do not necessarily reflect the views of AAE or the sponsor(s). Listeners should use their best judgment in evaluating the merits of any content.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of Endo Voices, Dr. Marcus D. Johnson is joined by internationally recognized endodontists Drs. William Ha and Omar Ikram for a wide-ranging conversation on where endodontics is headed—and how education, technology and clinical experience are shaping the specialty worldwide. From the impact of CBCT, microscopes and reciprocating instrumentation to the evolving role of artificial intelligence, they explore how emerging innovations are improving efficiency, expanding case selection and helping clinicians preserve more teeth while maintaining predictable outcomes. The discussion also dives into modern endodontic education, managing calcified canals and retreatment cases, and the importance of balancing technological advances with evidence-based decision making and sound clinical judgment. Along the way, the trio shares practical pearls for clinicians at every stage of their careers, addressing the future of the specialty and the upcoming IFEA World Endodontic Conference in Sydney—highlighting why collaboration, lifelong learning and thoughtful innovation remain essential to advancing patient care.Episodes of Endo Voices may include opinion, speculation and other statements not verifiable in the scientific method and do not necessarily reflect the views of AAE or the sponsor(s). Listeners should use their best judgment in evaluating the merits of any content.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Separated instrument retrieval remains one of endodontics’ most technically demanding—and humbling—procedures. In this episode of Endo Voices, Dr. Marcus Johnson joins internationally recognized clinician, researcher, and educator Dr. Yoshi Terauchi for a highly technical yet practical exploration of the science and strategy behind predictable instrument retrieval. From cyclic and torsional fatigue to canal curvature, fragment location, and CBCT assessment, Dr. Terauchi explains why successful retrieval begins with diagnosis, visualization, and disciplined treatment planning.Dr. Terauchi shares the principles behind his systematic approach to retrieval, including strategic dentin removal, ultrasonic technique, bypassing, and the clinical application of the Yoshi Loop. The conversation highlights the delicate balance between persistence and preservation: when does continued retrieval become more damaging than the fragment itself? Along the way, Drs. Johnson and Terauchi discuss secondary fracture, apical displacement, pericervical dentin preservation, tactile sensation, and those difficult cases in which the separated instrument lies beyond the curvature.Episodes of Endo Voices may include opinion, speculation and other statements not verifiable in the scientific method and do not necessarily reflect the views of AAE or the sponsor(s). Listeners should use their best judgment in evaluating the merits of any content.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

At AAE26 in Salt Lake City, Dr. Marcus Johnson sits down with former AAE President Dr. Terryl Propper for a candid conversation on leadership, mentorship, and the evolution of endodontics. From becoming the first female president of the Tennessee Dental Association to co-founding Endodontic Practice Partners, Dr. Propper reflects on the experiences that shaped her career and the lessons learned through decades of service, advocacy, and innovation. Together, they explore the importance of identifying and developing future leaders, building meaningful patient relationships, adapting to change in a shifting practice landscape, and creating a culture rooted in trust, accountability, and empowerment. With insight, humor, and authenticity, Dr. Propper shares why leadership begins long before the boardroom—and why the future of endodontics depends on those willing to step forward and make a difference.Episodes of Endo Voices may include opinion, speculation and other statements not verifiable in the scientific method and do not necessarily reflect the views of AAE or the sponsor(s). Listeners should use their best judgment in evaluating the merits of any content. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of Endo Voices, Dr. Marcus Johnson sits down with outgoing AAE President Dr. Steven Katz for an honest and reflective conversation about leadership, mentorship, and the future of endodontics. From his early days on the Public and Professional Relations Committee to leading one of the most visible years in AAE history, Dr. Katz shares the experiences that shaped his presidency, including the organization’s expansive media outreach, the evolution of the Worth Saving campaign, and the development of the updated CBCT position statement and trauma guidelines.Together, they explore the importance of servant leadership, the role of mentorship in organized dentistry, and how endodontists can continue to make meaningful contributions to the specialty at every stage of their careers. Dr. Katz also offers thoughtful insight into the challenges facing the profession—from educator shortages and student debt to the growing influence of AI—while emphasizing the enduring value of humanity, connection, and giving back.Episodes of Endo Voices may include opinion, speculation and other statements not verifiable in the scientific method and do not necessarily reflect the views of AAE or the sponsor(s). Listeners should use their best judgment in evaluating the merits of any content.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Mustafa Gündoğar, researcher, educator, and globally recognized voice in endodontics, to explore the evolving science behind how we truly clean root canal systems. From his journey into endodontics driven by microbiology and patient care, to his extensive research on irrigation activation systems, Dr. Gündoğar challenges long-held assumptions and reframes the conversation: are we shaping to clean, or cleaning to shape? Together, we unpack the critical role of biofilm, the limitations of instrumentation, and why irrigation remains the cornerstone of predictable outcomes.The discussion dives into advanced technologies like lasers and multisonic irrigation, examining their real-world impact, limitations in clinical data, and the practical considerations of adoption across global practices. Dr. Gündoğar offers a candid perspective on what truly drives innovation, including effectiveness, workflow integration, and economic feasibility, while emphasizing the need for stronger long-term clinical evidence.Episodes of Endo Voices may include opinion, speculation and other statements not verifiable in the scientific method and do not necessarily reflect the views of AAE or the sponsor(s). Listeners should use their best judgment in evaluating the merits of any content.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of Endo Voices, host Dr. Marcus D. Johnson sits down with renowned endodontist and educator Dr. Samuel Kratchman for a dynamic conversation on the evolving landscape of endodontic microsurgery and the relentless pursuit of saving natural teeth. Drawing on decades of clinical experience, Dr. Kratchman reflects on his journey in endodontics—from early mentorship and academic leadership at the University of Pennsylvania to becoming a global voice in microsurgical innovation. Together, they explore how advancements in technology, biomaterials, and surgical techniques are reshaping what’s possible in modern endodontic care.The discussion dives into emerging regenerative concepts, including platelet-rich fibrin (PRF), biologically driven grafting strategies, and the growing role of intentional replantation as a powerful tool in the endodontist’s armamentarium. With practical insights, clinical pearls, and candid reflections, Dr. Kratchman shares how thoughtful innovation and evidence-based practice can expand treatment possibilities while keeping the ultimate goal in focus.Episodes of Endo Voices may include opinion, speculation and other statements not verifiable in the scientific method and do not necessarily reflect the views of AAE or the sponsor(s). Listeners should use their best judgment in evaluating the merits of any content.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of Endo Voices, Dr. Marcus D. Johnson sits down with Dr. Pierre Wohlgemuth for a thoughtful and collegial examination of two defining challenges in contemporary endodontics: the elusive cemental tear and the disciplined art of soft tissue management in surgical care.Cemental tears—seldom discussed yet likely underdiagnosed—often masquerade as endodontic or periodontal pathology. With a limited but growing body of evidence, accurate identification demands clinical vigilance. Key red flags include vital teeth presenting with periapical radiolucencies and persistent disease following technically adequate root canal therapy. The discussion explores the roles of occlusal trauma, CBCT interpretation, and histologic confirmation, reinforcing the importance of expanding the differential diagnosis before defaulting to retreatment or extraction. Decisions surrounding tooth preservation versus implant placement are framed not as reflexive, but as biologically and prognostically driven.A central theme resonates throughout: clinicians do not rise to the level of their intentions—they fall to the level of their training.Episodes of Endo Voices may include opinion, speculation and other statements not verifiable in the scientific method and do not necessarily reflect the views of AAE or the sponsor(s). Listeners should use their best judgment in evaluating the merits of any content.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.