How to Manage TMD When The Evidence Base Sucks – PDP212

How do we decide whether speciality training is right for us? Is the best time to specialise straight after Dental School? Or should we gain some experience in practice first? Dr Beant Thandi joins us today to share his journey into specialising and shares some key experiences that will surely help guide you along the way. We discuss the different specialities within Dentistry as well as what personality types may suit them. This episode will really help you understand what it takes to specialise and how to get there. https://youtu.be/f8ZM8EkjSQY Watch IC056 on Youtube Key Takeaways:- Beant is starting his specialization in periodontics.- His journey began during COVID, leading to a desire to specialize.- Proactive learning and mentorship played a crucial role in hisdevelopment.- Financial planning is essential when considering specialization.- Choosing a specialty should align with personal interests and strengths.- Periodontics offers a breadth of practice that appeals to Beant.- The importance of community support in dental education cannot be overstated.- Reflection and documentation of cases can enhance learning and confidence.- Understanding the financial implications of specialization is vital.- It's important to stay grounded and not rush into specialization.  Highlights of this Episode:00:00 Teaser02:38 Intro to Dr Beant Thandi04:03 Dental Journey06:10 What Influenced You?12:56 Too Young to Specialise17:50 Judgement by Jaz21:00 Never too Young26:05 Cost of Specialising28:23 Why not the USA?31:30 Roasting Prostho34:45 Roasting Endo37:42 Roasting Ortho39:49 Roasting Oral Surgery45:00 Shoutout to Lucy45:30 Final Thoughts47:28 End Outro If you liked this episode, check out a classic: Should You Specialise? PDP006 This episode is not eligible for CPD/CE points, but never fear, there are hundreds of hours of CPD waiting for you on the Ultimate Education Plan, including Premium clinical workthroughs and Masterclasses.

Two weeks ago I suffered a spontaneous pneumothorax and it shook me. This episode came at the PERFECT time as such health scares remind us that our health and wellbeing are the highest form of Wealth. Should Dentists have a therapist to manage stress and anxiety? Did you know that a BDA survey found 1 in 5 practitioners have seriously considered taking their own lives? Is it the intense work environment, the pressure from patients, the fear of litigation, or the added burden of business ownership? More importantly, how can we address this issue and support dental professionals? Dr. Simon Chard, a cosmetic and implant dentist and co-founder/CEO of Parla (as seen on Dragon's Den!), joins Jaz to discuss the often-overlooked realities of the dental profession.  https://youtu.be/rH7PtjFTOpk Watch IC055 on Youtube Here are the two books Jaz recommended during the intro: The 5 Types of Wealth by Sahil Bloom Hold on to your Kids by Gabor Mate Check out The Dental Growth Retreat by Dr Simon Chard Need to Read it? Check out the Full Episode Transcript below! Key Takeaways: Simon emphasizes the importance of balancing personal and professional life. Mental health issues in dentistry are alarmingly high, with many professionals considering leaving the field. Therapy can be beneficial for everyone, including dentists, to manage stress and emotional challenges. Building mental resilience is crucial for handling the pressures of dental practice. Sleep quality and routine significantly impact overall health and productivity. Mindfulness and meditation can reduce stress and improve mental health. A structured approach to self-care can enhance resilience in the dental profession. Exercise is a key component of maintaining mental and physical health. Creating a supportive community among dental professionals is essential for mental well-being. Proactive self-care strategies can prevent burnout and improve job satisfaction. You can't mess up meditation; awareness is key. Diet significantly impacts mental health and well-being. Interpersonal relationships are crucial for mental resilience. Exercise is a powerful tool for physical and mental health. Purposeful living leads to greater fulfillment. Hydration and nutrition are foundational to health. Loneliness can have severe health implications. Creating time for relationships is essential. A value-based calendar helps prioritize what matters. Retreats can provide tools for personal growth and accountability. This episode is not eligible for CPD/CE points, but never fear, there are hundreds of hours of CPD waiting for you on the Ultimate Education Plan, including Premium clinical workthroughs and Masterclasses. Highlights of this Episode:00:00 Intro04:25 Introduction to Dr Simon Chard10:10 Why is Dentistry so Stressful?14:00 Therapy for Dentists19:20 Strategies for Mental Resilience25:20 Mindfulness31:57 Intake40:32 Love45:12 Value Based Calendar48:32 Exercise51:57 Managing Everything54:34 The Retreat  If you enjoyed this episode, check out: Mental Health in Dentistry - PDP185 Click below for full episode transcript: Jaz: The BDA, which is the British Dental Association, it had like something like it was 18% or nearly 1 in 5, right, had thoughts about and we'll just say it taking their own life, right? And I'm sorry to everyone to go in this direction, but it's important that we address it head on. Teaser:Incredible the number of individuals who are vitamin D deficient in this country. So I vitamin D test all of my surgical patients. We have a finger prick, point of care blood tests that we do ahead of the surgical appointment. I would probably say in my patient cohort, 75% are vitamin D deficient. The digital connection that we have with people is like a junk connection, like junk food and the real interpresonal relationship that we have with people is like whole food and whole c...

What is the best technique for fabricating temporary veneers? How do you ensure they are retentive but not TOO retentive? What’s the best way to shape, polish, and remove them efficiently? In this episode, I’m joined by Aodhan Docherty—an absolute sensation in Sydney when it comes to veneers. He’s mastered the art, and today, he’s on a mission to share everything you need to know to get crisp, stable, and well-shaped temporary veneers every single time. We break down different protocols, troubleshoot common issues, and, most importantly, make sure your temporaries stay put until it’s time for the final fit. https://youtu.be/BI_xMlSXgvc Watch PDP214 on Youtube Protrusive Dental Pearl: Aodhan recommended a chlorhexidine-based mouthwash to reduce inflammation but advises using an ADS (Anti-Discoloration System) mouthwash to avoid staining. The ADS system helps maintain healthy tissue response, preventing bleeding and inflammation on the day of veneer placement while eliminating the discoloration commonly associated with standard chlorhexidine products. Key Takeaways: Temporary veneers serve as a blueprint for final restorations. Facially driven smile design enhances patient satisfaction. Patient adaptation is key to successful cosmetic procedures. Oral hygiene is vital for maintaining temporary veneers. Effective communication with the dental team improves outcomes. Understanding patient biotype is essential for treatment planning. Stress management is a critical skill for dental professionals. Patient-centric approaches are essential in modern dentistry. The shrink wrap technique offers better control and aesthetics for temporaries. Effective communication with patients enhances their experience and satisfaction. Hands-on training is crucial for developing practical skills in dentistry. The importance of assessing temporaries before finalizing restorations cannot be overstated. Need to Read it? Check out the Full Episode Transcript below! Highlights of this episode: 01:17  Protrusive Dental Pearl 04:42 Welcoming Dr. Aodhan Docherty  06:30 Challenges and Rewards of Managing Practice 10:00 Facially Driven Smile Design 14:53 Temporary Veneers: Practical Tips and Techniques 20:51 Non-Staining Mouthwash  22:27 Temporaries: Pros and Cons  26:49 Proximal Papilla Care 31:14 The Trial Smile Approach 35:14 The Shrink Wrap Technique 39:41 Detailed Steps for Shrink Wrap Technique 40:56 Spot Etching & Bonding for Retention 43:08 Removing Temporaries Atraumatically 51:22 Porcelain Veneers Workshop: Course Overview  56:12 Learning from Failures This episode is eligible for 1 CE credit via the quiz on Protrusive Guidance.  This episode meets GDC Outcomes B and C. AGD Subject Code: 780 ESTHETICS/COSMETIC DENTISTRY (Tooth colored restorations) Aim: Aimed to provide dental professionals with a comprehensive understanding of temporary veneers, covering techniques to improve their fit, durability, and aesthetics. Dentists will be able to - Implement predictable protocols for creating stable and well-shaped temporary veneers. 2. Apply the shrink wrap technique for improved aesthetics and retention. 3. Assess and adapt temporaries effectively before finalizing restorations. Ready to take your veneer skills to the next level and create stunning, long-lasting smiles? Join the Exceptional Porcelain Veneers Workshop with Dr. Aodhan Docherty and Dr. Kamran Ashraf! 📍 2025 Course Schedule:🦷 Sydney: March 8–9🦷 Melbourne: May 3–4🦷 Perth: July 26–27🦷 Auckland: April 5–6🦷 London: May 24–25 🚀 Upcoming Course:🔹 Bulletproof Dentistry – The Foundations of Occlusion & Restorative Dentistry (April 25–26, Surrey, UK)This two-day hands-on course is the ultimate foundation before tackling full-mouth rehabs and tooth wear cases. Join Jaz and Mahmoud to strengthen your force management, longevity strategies,

A Clinician’s guide to TMD Management Walkthrough of the latest TMD Guidelines with the authors! What’s the right approach when a patient presents with both acute and chronic painful jaw symptoms? How can the latest RCS guidelines simplify your diagnosis and treatment process? In this episode, Professor Justin Durham and Mrs. Emma Beecroft join Jaz to unpack the latest Royal College of Surgeons TMD guidelines designed specifically to help GDPs navigate these tricky cases. Together, they explore practical strategies for managing TMD, breaking down the step-by-step flowchart that makes handling these cases less intimidating. From understanding the key principles to applying them in everyday practice, this episode will help you feel more confident in delivering better patient care for TMD. https://youtu.be/R0NaBJr5g5E Watch PDP213 on Youtube Protrusive Dental Pearl: Important takeaway: Download the New TMD Guidelines  The folder includes: A patient version of the guidelines A dentist version of the guidelines The full guidelines document Video of delivering an equilibrated soft bite guard using heat technique Key Takeaways: The guidelines for TMD are designed to simplify diagnosis and treatment. Self-management is crucial for TMD patients and can lead to better outcomes. Understanding the difference between muscle and joint pain is essential in TMD management. Early intervention in TMD can lead to significant improvements for patients. The importance of patient-centered care in managing TMD effectively. TMD is a common issue that requires a collaborative approach among dental professionals. The role of pain management in TMD is about improving quality of life, not just curing the condition. Continuous education and training are vital for dental professionals dealing with TMD. Understanding the pathogenesis of TMD is crucial for effective treatment. Stabilization splints can provide relief but should be used judiciously. Effective communication can significantly impact patient pain experiences. Tailoring treatment to individual patient needs is vital. Need to Read it? Check out the Full Episode Transcript below! Highlights for this episode: 00:48 Protrusive Dental Pearl 05:20 Introducing the Guests: Prof. Justin Durham and Mrs. Emma Beecroft 13:05 Stigma and Complexity of TMD in Dentistry 17:01 Challenges of Navigating TMD Treatment Perspectives 22:07 Diagnosing TMD: Tools and Techniques 27:09 Simplified Approach to TMD Examination 30:54 Muscle Palpation Pressure  32:20 Acute Limited Opening: Muscle vs. Joint Origin 40:20 Diazepam for Acute Myogenous TMD 54:58 Debating Soft vs. Stabilization Splints 57:17 Patient-Centered TMD Management 01:09:28 Conclusion and Resources This episode is eligible for 1 CE credit via the quiz on Protrusive Guidance.  This episode meets GDC Outcomes B and C. AGD Subject Code: 200 OROFACIAL PAIN (Diagnosis and treatment) Dentists will be able to - Explore the varied approaches to TMD care and how to align them with evidence-based practices. Emphasize the importance of self-management strategies and their role in improving patient outcomes. Advocate for a patient-centered approach, focusing on listening, communication, and individualized care plans. If you loved this episode, be sure to check out this episode: TMD Full Exam with ‘The TMJ Doc’ Dr Priya Mistry – PDP064 Click below for full episode transcript: Teaser: A standard extroral exam involves, the examination of temporalis and masseter, which are the only two muscles that international recommendations would suggest. Teaser:So you don't need to bother with that lateral pterygoid because you've got to be, have a bit of a strange finger to reach it, firstly up and around the back of the tuberosity and not evoke kind of vomit on your shoes. And a medial pterygoid similarly,

In this episode, Jaz dives into the complexities of Temporomandibular Disorders (TMD) management with Dr. Suzie Bergman, a US-based dentist and TMD sufferer. They discuss why treatments for TMD vary so much and examine the current state of evidence-based approaches. https://youtu.be/r3QpkMYeTWk Watch PDP212 on Youtube Dr. Bergman shares her personal journey, highlighting conservative treatments, the role of occlusal appliances, and the power of multidisciplinary care. But just when you think you’ve got it all figured out—Dr. Bergman reveals a game-changing insight that could completely shift your approach to TMD management. Ready to find out what it is? Need to Read it? Check out the Full Episode Transcript below! Highlights of this episode: 02:40 Protrusive Dental Pearl 04:32 Meet Dr. Susie Bergman: A Personal Journey with TMD 7:27 The Wild West of TMD Treatments 10:32 Challenges in TMD Research and Treatment 13:34 Suzie’s TMD Journey: From Trauma to Advocacy 21:42 Evidence-based Therapies and Occlusal Appliances 27:11 Orthodontics and TMD: A Complex Relationship 33:40 The Role of Occlusal Appliances 35:05 Debating Disc Displacement 39:17 Comprehensive TMD Diagnosis 44:09 Orthopedic Stability in Dentistry 51:04 Splints and TMD 53:52 Managing Bruxism Effectively 58:16 Suzie’s TMD Course and Final Thoughts Listen to Dr. Suzie Bergman’s "Why is healthcare disjointed?" | TEDxStrathcona Women Check out Dr. Suzie’s Course “21st Century TMD Protocols" Looking for an Online course to allow General Dentists to treat 80% of TMD cases and 100% of Bruxists? Check out SplintCourse Online by Jaz Gulati  This episode is eligible for 1 CE credit via the quiz on Protrusive Guidance.  This episode meets GDC Outcomes B and C. AGD Subject code: 200 Orofacial Pain (Diagnosis and treatment) Dentists will be able to:  1. Recognize the multifaceted nature of Temporomandibular Disorders (TMD) and the various factors influencing treatment variability. 2. Evaluate current evidence-based treatments for TMD and their effectiveness, including conservative methods and occlusal appliances. 3. Discuss the importance of a collaborative approach in TMD management, integrating different specialties for optimal patient outcomes. If you loved this episode, be sure to check out Deep in to TMD – An Orthopaedic Perspective – PDP172 Click below for full episode transcript: Teaser: I tell them T. A. T. U., which stands for Teeth Apart, Tongue Up, so during the day as much as possible, try to keep your teeth away from each other so that you're not clenching. I tell them, we want you to do the three S's, which are- Teaser:I always tell people it's unrealistic with chronic pain patients to think that there will be a day that you go to zero in pain. I don't know what it's like to not be in pain. Some days might be a little bit better, but there's never a time that I'm not in pain. And part of that is because- When we have pain for so long, it can become a central nervous system issue. So when we have that central sensitization, our brain interprets non painful stimuli as painful. We have patients who have discs that are either anteriorly and medially displaced, which is most common. It's very uncommon for there to be a posterior displacement of the disc. We have to think about how that patient's body has responded to the changes if the disc has been displayed. Some people will adapt beautifully and some people will not. And so, it's really about the individual patient. Jaz's Introduction:The management of Temporomandibular Disorders is like the Wild West. I know for a fact that for the same issue you can go to one dentist who will suggest orthodontics, you can go to a surgeon who may suggest some form of surgery, even if it's like an arthrocentesis, you can go to another person they might suggest some botox to calm those muscles,

How far should you extend composite resin? When does edge bonding become a composite veneer?  How do you decide where to finish the restoration?  And most importantly, how do you avoid that dreaded yellow-brown stain line that can form on anterior resins? These are just some of the burning questions tackled in this episode with my guest, Dr. Mahmoud Ibrahim. We dive deep into the artistry and engineering of  decision-making in anterior composites. https://youtu.be/_q2O57-Y-d4 Watch PDP211 on Youtube Protrusive Dental Pearl: use a zirconia primer which contains 10-MDP (e.g. Monobond, Z-Prime Plus) on the intaglio of crowns to enhance bond strength, even with conventional cements like GIC. This low-risk, high-reward tip improves retention, especially for teeth with limited height. Incorporating a zirconia primer can significantly improve outcomes without switching to resin cement. Interested in the Unchippable 2 Day Course? Click here to register your interest! Key Takeaways: Choosing between edge bonding or veneers is not a black-and-white decision. The height of contour is key in cosmetic dentistry. Seamless transitions between composite and tooth are pivotal. Aesthetic considerations vary based on individual cases. Material choice is influenced by patient risk factors. Layering techniques enhance the natural appearance of teeth. Patient previews are essential for managing expectations. Thickness of composite affects durability and aesthetics. Understanding angles is key to successful restorations. Not all patients require the same approach to bonding. Need to Read it? Check out the Full Episode Transcript below! Highlights of this Episode: 02:43  Protrusive Dental Pearl 04:49 Personal Anecdotes and Health Goals 09:37 Anterior Composites: Edge Bonding vs Veneering 16:00 Importance of Finishing Composite Correctly 17:09 Understanding the Height of Contour 18:36 Importance of Layering in Dental Procedures 21:35 Choosing the Right Materials for Layering 23:56 Importance of Layering in Dental Procedures 27:14 Challenges and Solutions in Composite Layering 32:31  The Marshall Hanson Method 36:29 Mockups and Wax-Ups: Planning for Success 43:03 Treatment Considerations This episode is eligible for 0.75 CE credits via the quiz on Protrusive Guidance.  This episode meets GDC Outcome C - Maintenance and development of your knowledge and skills within your field(s) of practice. AGD Subject Code: 250 OPERATIVE (RESTORATIVE)DENTISTRY (Direct restorations) Aim: To enhance clinicians' understanding and decision-making in anterior composite restorations, focusing on when edge bonding transitions to a veneer, optimizing aesthetics and functionality, and minimizing common challenges such as staining and occlusal complications. Dentists will be able to - Understand the key factors that influence the transition between edge bonding to full veneers. Apply guidelines for minimum composite thickness and bonding angles to enhance durability and aesthetic outcomes. Identify high-risk patients and tailor material choices, layering techniques, and bonding approaches to individual needs. If you loved this episode, make sure to watch Composite Veneers vs Edge Bonding – Biomimetic Dentistry with George The Dentist – PDP075 Click below for full episode transcript: Jaz's Introduction: How far should you extend your composite resin up a tooth, i. e. like when is it just edge bonding and when is it a composite veneer? Is it somewhere in between? How do you decide where to finish that resin up a tooth? And then how do you avoid that horrible stain line that can sometimes form on your resins anteriorly? Jaz's Introduction:So that horrible yellow brown line that you see around a composite. And when should you layer like different tints and shades? And when should you stick to monoshade? Just one shade.

What influences your decision when choosing ceramics? What are the main ceramics nowadays—and do porcelain-fused-to-metal still have a place in dentistry? Are the protocols different for various types of ceramics and crown materials? How important is rubber dam isolation, and is a split dam good enough? In this Back to Basics Protrusive episode, Jaz teams up again with Emma Hutchison, ‘the Protrusive Student’, to break down these critical questions and simplify the world of ceramics. From decision-making frameworks to practical rubber dam tips, this episode is packed with insights to elevate your practice. Whether you're a student navigating the foundations or a seasoned clinician revisiting the essentials, this discussion offers a fresh, evidence-based perspective on mastering ceramics in dentistry. https://youtu.be/z4a8Hv6peVU Watch PS013 on Youtube Key Takeaways: Understanding the role of metal ceramic crowns is crucial in modern dentistry. Monolithic ceramics are preferred for posterior restorations due to their strength. Layered ceramics can enhance aesthetics but may compromise strength. Proper crown preparation is essential for successful restorations. Communication with lab technicians is vital for successful bonding. The choice of ceramic material largely depends on the amount of enamel available. Following manufacturer protocols is key to achieving optimal results. Bruxism patients require careful consideration in material selection. Rubber dam isolation is crucial for predictable bonding. Digital scanning requires more aggressive tissue management. Impressions are still valuable, but digital methods are advancing. Need to Read it? Check out the Full Episode Transcript below! Highlights for this episode: 03:52 Emma's Exam Experience 07:28 Feedback on Previous Episode 08:00 Discussion on Ceramics in Dentistry 10:51 Practical Applications and Material Choices 19:45 Monolithic vs. Layered Ceramics 24:18 Exploring Milled Cobalt Chromes and Gold Crowns 26:14 Challenges in Fitting Restorations and Bonding Techniques 30:03 Rubber Dam Techniques and Benefits 37:01  Intraoral Scanners vs. Traditional Impressions 40:14 Effective Communication with Lab Technicians 44:25 Conclusion and Future Plans This episode is eligible for 0.75 CE credit via the quiz on Protrusive Guidance.  This episode meets GDC Outcomes B and C. AGD Subject Code: 010 BASIC SCIENCE (Dental materials) Dentists will be able to - Identify the suitability of ceramics based on their strength, aesthetics, and application. Highlight the importance of proper crown preparation and manufacturer protocols for optimal results. Emphasize the importance of rubber dam isolation and compare the benefits and challenges of analog impressions versus digital scanning. If you love this episode, make sure to watch Composite vs Ceramic with Dr Chris Orr – PDP030 and make sure to read the Protrusive Notes!  Click below for full episode transcript: Teaser: I do not place lithium disilicate and I cement it. So for me, the way my mind works is if I'm cementing and not bonding, if I'm cementing just using a GIC based cement, so I'm not relying on enamel for adhesion, why would I use lithium disilicate? Using lithium disilicate posteriorly and bonding it, excellent strength, good, it's going to be fine, as long as you give it enough thickness, 1.5-2mm, you're golden, okay. Teaser:If you don't respect the thickness, or if you use cement and you don't bond it, you're going to really compromise on the strength, you're not going to get the high strength. So therefore, the same material, lithium disilicate, cemented is a completely different ceramic to the same ceramic lithium disilicate, bonded. You need to know your material and the correct protocol for your material. You're not supposed to air abrade lithium disilicate.

What’s the best way to reduce post-op pain after extractions? And why should we never use the term “painkiller” with patients? What to do when you hear the dreaded *crack* of a tuberosity? In this episode we talk about all things post-operative extraction complications! And I’m joined by one of the nicest guys in dentistry - Dr. Nekky Jamal  Complications are something we ALL experience, so this episode is great for any dentist. Whether you're brushing up on dry socket prevention, mastering post-op communication, or just curious about advanced healing hacks, tune in for real-world advice to make extractions smoother - for both you and your patients https://youtu.be/BvB3hDESYDY Watch PDP210 on Youtube Protrusive Dental Pearl: The "Niche Kebab" concept encourages dentists to narrow their focus by reducing the variety of procedures they perform and prioritizing those they genuinely enjoy. By evaluating every new skill or treatment added and strategically dropping less-loved procedures, dentists can avoid overextension and the "jack of all trades, master of none" pitfall.  Learn how to Extract Impacted 3rd Molars, don't miss out on Third Molars Online and use the coupon code ‘protrusive’ to get 15% off! Key Takeaways Pain management is about setting realistic expectations. Dexamethasone can be beneficial but must be used cautiously. Dry socket is often overhyped; proper care can prevent it. Effective communication can alleviate patient anxiety and prevent misunderstandings and complaints. Preoperative care can help manage pain expectations. Understanding the signs of infection is essential for diagnosis. Chlorhexidine rinses can significantly reduce dry socket risk. Patients appreciate being informed about their unique dental situations. PRF can significantly reduce the incidence of dry socket. Dentists should embrace new techniques like PRF to enhance patient care. Patient involvement in post-surgical care is crucial for healing. Dentists should not hesitate to refer complex cases to specialists. Need to Read it? Check out the Full Episode Transcript below! Highlights of this episode: 02:54 Protrusive Dental Pearl 04:05 Dr. Nekky Jamal  08:39 Managing Post-Extraction Pain and Swelling 21:37 Infection 25:02 Identifying Dry Socket and How to Prevent it 28:30 Case Selection and Communication 37:13 Mitigating Dry Socket with Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) 39:47 The Importance of Nicheing in Dentistry 43:19 Cryotherapy and Post-Surgery Care 47:32 Handling Tuberosity Fractures 55:08 Patient Consent  57:55 Litigation and Patient Communication This episode is eligible for 1 CE credit via the quiz on Protrusive Guidance.  This episode meets GDC Outcomes A, C and D. AGD Subject Code: 310 ORAL AND MAXILLOFACIALSURGERY (Exodontia) Dentists will be able to: Identify and differentiate common postoperative complications, and recognise the  key symptoms associated Evaluate the ethical and clinical considerations of case selection for extractions Communicate effectively with patients regarding potential complications If you loved this episode, be sure to check out another epic episode with Dr. Nekky Jamal - Wisdom Teeth Extractions – SURGICAL TOP TIPS Click below for full episode transcript: Teaser: Overexplain and then have them on your page, have them take ownership for their anatomy before you even start. You know what I mean? Dentistry is about talking to patients and Jaz, you've seen how I talk to my patients. I keep everything light, but after I joke around, I say, okay, but seriously, do you understand that this is a risk like this could actually happen and in this case scenario I don't want that to happen for you. Teaser:I'll do everything I can for you. But there's things that are out of our control. Do you understand? And patients have to take ownership of it? Otherwise, I'm not doing work.

In this special recap, we’ll explore 12 key lessons from 2024 —insights that have shaped our practice, validated our protocols, and sometimes, inspired small but meaningful changes. Happy New Year from Team Protrusive! As we kick off 2025, we want to express heartfelt gratitude for your incredible support throughout 2024. What were the standout moments that shaped your learning this year? Which episodes gave you that “aha” moment? Whether you’re a seasoned listener or just jumping in, this recap will help solidify the lessons that you can apply to your practice every day. https://youtu.be/OxfRmNhQ7Wk Watch PDP209 on Youtube Protrusive Dental Pearls:  Take time to reflect on your goals for 2025 and consider what sacrifices you're prepared to make to achieve them. Emphasizing the importance of writing down both your objectives and the trade-offs they require, align your time and priorities with your personal and professional aspirations.  “You overestimate what you can achieve in a year and underestimate what you can accomplish in ten years.”  Productivity is about knowing how badly you want something and what you're willing to sacrifice to achieve it. Take a deep dive into this literature: Clinical considerations for increasing occlusal vertical dimension: a review  Australian Dental Journal - 2012 - Abduo - Clinical considerations for increasing occlusal vertical dimension a reviewDownload Need to Read it? Check out the Full Episode Transcript below! Highlights of this episode: 01:08  Protrusive Dental Pearl 06:25 Value Your Skills 11:54 Importance of Photography and App Launch 14:42 Audio Notes in Dentistry 16:41 Rubber Dam Mastery 18:07 Composite Techniques and Innovations 21:07 Onlays vs Full Crowns 25:54 Best Bonding Agents 28:55 Digital Dentures Revolution 31:24 Mastering Vertical Dimension 32:29 Perfecting Posterior Composites 34:58 Creating Awesome Dentures 36:27 Extraction Techniques and Avocado Analogy 37:47 Looking Forward to 2025 Here are some episodes and webinars mentioned in this episode that are definitely worth checking out: Value Your Skills – How to Stop Underselling Yourself – AJ006 Your Occlusion Questions Answered by Dr Michael Melkers – PDP015 Cracked Teeth and Dentistry’s Tough Questions with Dr Lane Ochi – PDP175 NEVER Write Notes Again! How I Use AI for Awesome and Efficient Dental Records – PDP181 Canine Guidance vs Group Function – Does it Matter?! – PDP182 Class II Composites WITHOUT a Wedge + Contact Opening Technique – PDP188 Onlays Vs Full Crowns – Decision Making 2024 – PDP189 Quick and Slick Rubber Dam Vertipreps for Plonkers  Premium Clinical Videos  My Productivity Secrets Revealed Webinar REPLAY Deep and Dark Class III Restorations Which Generation Bonding Agent is the Best? 2024 Adhesive Systems – PDP192 Digital Dentures for Every Dentist – The Death of Impressions? – PDP195 [OCCLUSION MONTH] Vertical Dimension – Don’t Be Scared! – PDP197 How to Place Posterior Composites without Destroying Your Anatomy – PDP200 Making Awesome Dentures – Border Moulding and Beyond – PDP205 Exodontia for Beginners – Extractions via Avocados! – PS012 Take your practice to the next level with DigitalTCO, Dental Audio Notes, and the Greater Curve. This episode is not eligible for CPD/CE points, but never fear, there are hundreds of hours of CPD waiting for you on the Ultimate Education Plan, including Premium clinical workthroughs and Masterclasses. Click below for full episode transcript: Jaz's Introduction: Happy New Year, Protruserati. 2025, from all of us here at Team Protrusive, honestly, thank you so much for an awesome 2024 and looking forward to so much in 2025. In this episode, we're going to look back at all the gems from 2024 and looking forward to 2025. So I'll give you at least 12 takeaways, 12 key lessons from the episodes of 2024.

Are you focusing enough on pink aesthetics in smile design? What role does gingiva play in achieving a truly stunning smile? When should you refer for recession around lower incisors or upper canines? Can you get the gum to grow back through orthodontics? And how about class 5 restorations? Should we do them, or should we work on the gingival recession first? In this episode, Jaz is joined by the expert Dr. Tidu Mankoo, who shares his extensive knowledge on the importance of gingival health in aesthetic dentistry. They dive into the crucial role of the dento-gingival complex.  https://youtu.be/Ao_vgJ-IbOg Watch PDP208 on YouTube Protrusive Dental Pearl: Shade Matching Composite button technique - a small blob of composite is applied to a dry tooth without etching or bonding to assess shade match and translucency, avoid excess thickness, which can affect opacity and aesthetics (Jason Smithson’s Tip: take a black-and-white photo to evaluate the composite's value and ensure it matches the natural teeth) Using a custom composite shade guide like Smile Line by Style Italiano for more precise shade matching. Key Takeaways Gingival architecture plays a vital role in aesthetics. Dentists should focus on patient-centered care. Understanding tooth position is key to treatment planning. Orthodontics can sometimes resolve gingival issues without surgery. Communication with patients is essential for effective treatment. Aesthetic dentistry requires a comprehensive approach. The dental field is evolving, and practitioners must adapt. Root coverage procedures can be effective with proper techniques. Understanding prognosis is crucial for successful treatment outcomes. Aesthetic considerations are a primary reason for root coverage. Restorative dentistry should consider the position of the gingiva. Crown lengthening should not expose root surfaces unnecessarily. Mucogingival surgery plays a vital role in implant aesthetics. Education and training are essential for dental professionals. Need to Read it? Check out the Full Episode Transcript below! Highlights for this episode: 4:29 Protrusive Dental Pearl 6:16 Dr. Tidu Mankoo's Journey and Inspirations 11:48 Reflections on Comprehensive Dentistryand Lifelong Learning 15:59 Balancing Work and Family in Dentistry 17:52 Understanding Gingival Architecture 19:49 Creating a Harmonious Smile 21:52 Addressing Gingival Aesthetics & Limitations 26:56 Orthodontics and Surgical Interventions 29:40 Root Coverage Procedures 33:49 The Value of Early Diagnosis and Referral 35:01 Indications for Root Coverage 36:03 Root Coverage vs. Class V Restorations 39:50 Managing Gingival Zenith Irregularities 41:23 Role of Mucogingival Surgery inImplant Success 47:47 Course on Mucogingival Surgery with IAS This episode is eligible for 1 CE credit via the quiz on Protrusive Guidance.  This episode meets GDC Outcomes B and C. AGD Subject Code: 780 ESTHETICS/COSMETIC DENTISTRY (Esthetic diagnosis and treatment of intraoral soft tissues)  Dentists will be able to - Discuss when and how to manage gingival recession, including the role of root coverage procedures. Explore the anatomy and function of the dento-gingival complex and its influence on smile aesthetics. Promote the value of early diagnosis and timely referrals to specialists for successful treatment. 🚨 Join the Ultimate Masterclass on Implant Soft Tissue and Complex Cases! 🚨 📅 Dates: April 2024🌟 Event: Implant Soft Tissue and Complex Case Masterclass Join this two-day masterclass to elevate your skills in: ✅ Implant soft tissue management ✅ Root coverage and crown lengthening ✅ Complex case planning and aesthetics If you loved this episode, be sure to check out PDP035 - Case Acceptance in Smile Design with Dr Gurs Sehmi Click below for full episode transcript: