Dentistry Unmasked: A Roundtable Podcast

This week on Dentistry Unmasked, Pam and Brian sit down with renowned pharmacologist Tom Viola for a timely and practical conversation on preventives in dentistry. From the latest updates on antibiotic prophylaxis to what every dental professional should know about the growing use of PrEP and PEP, this episode breaks down complex pharmacology into clear, clinical takeaways you can use immediately. And in true Dentistry Unmasked fashion, the discussion takes an unexpected (and entertaining) detour into chapstick. Insightful, relevant, and just the right amount of fun—this is one episode you won’t want to miss.

This week on Dentistry Unmasked, we cover Brian’s all-time favorite topic… saliva. Pam and Brian sit down with Dr. Paul Slowey—the innovator behind many of the salivary diagnostic tests transforming health care today. He’s the mind behind cutting-edge saliva tests, including the one used by the NFL to help determine whether a player has suffered a concussion. But that’s just the beginning. What if we told you that Alzheimer’s disease can be detected in saliva up to 10 years before clinical symptoms appear? The implications for dentistry—and for health care as a whole—are staggering. In this episode, you’ll discover: • How salivary diagnostics are changing medicine and dentistry • Why saliva may be the most underutilized diagnostic tool in health care • The science behind concussion testing through saliva • What early Alzheimer’s detection could mean for patients and practices • Why the future of precision health may start in the dental chair Salivary diagnostics isn’t just “the future”—it’s already here. If you’ve ever wondered how dentistry fits into the larger medical landscape, this episode will change the way you see the power of a simple saliva sample. Trust us—Brian is excited about this one and you will be too! Resources:   pds@4saliva.com  Dr.Paul Slowey

This week on Dentistry Unmasked, Pam Maragliano and Brian Novy take a deep dive into one of dentistry’s most talked-about preventive materials: Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF). They break down what SDF is, how it works at the chemical and clinical levels, and how to thoughtfully select the right cases to ensure predictable, patient-centered outcomes. But the conversation doesn’t stop there. There’s a bigger issue at play—pending legislation that could eliminate a CDT code tied to preventive care, potentially impacting how practices implement and get reimbursed for SDF treatment. What could this mean for your preventive protocols and your bottom line.  If you’re incorporating SDF into your practice—or considering it—this episode delivers the clinical clarity and policy awareness you need to stay informed and prepared and get involved.  

This week on Dentistry Unmasked, Pam and Brian sit down with Dr. Uche Odiatu for a conversation that goes far beyond the operatory.   With RFK’s newly proposed inverted food pyramid making headlines, what does it actually mean for your patients—and for your own daily life? Dr. Odiatu breaks down how today’s heavily processed diet (now making up 55% of adults’ and 65% of children’s calories) is impacting systemic and oral health in ways we can no longer ignore.   You’ll hear:   The key nutrients almost everyone is deficient in   What to look for when choosing a high-quality fish oil   How the oral cavity is designed to protect itself—even when the diet is working against it   Practical, real-world strategies to reduce inflammation and support total health     Resources: odiatudmd@gmail.com   https://static01.nyt.com/images/2026/01/08/well/08WELL-FOOD-PYRAMID1/08WELL-FOOD-PYRAMID1-superJumbo.png   https://epic.iarc.fr/   https://open.spotify.com/show/7iQXmUT7XGuZSzAMjoNWlX  

In Part Two, the conversation expands beyond one individual’s story to examine what it means for all of us in dentistry.   Building on her lived experience, our guest shares insights on how transitioning reshaped her approach to patient care and why empathy is essential in creating trust and safety in the dental setting. Together, we discuss how dental professionals can better support transgender patients and colleagues, challenge unconscious bias, and foster more inclusive, affirming practice environments.   This episode offers thoughtful reflection and practical perspective for dental teams committed to compassionate care, deeper understanding, and continuous growth as healthcare providers.

In part one of this two-part series, we sit down with a dentist who shares her deeply personal journey of coming out as transgender and the profound impact it had on every aspect of her life. She reflects on years of struggling with her identity, navigating complex family dynamics, and facing the very real fear of losing the dental practice she worked so hard to build when she decided to transition. This episode is an honest and vulnerable look at what it means to choose authenticity in the face of uncertainty, professional risk, and personal loss. Through her story, we explore themes of resilience, courage, and what it truly means to show up as yourself—even when the stakes are high.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

In one of our most jaw-dropping episodes yet, Dr. Stacey Gividen joins us to share her real, raw, and riveting story of discovering embezzlement inside her own dental practice—an ordeal that ultimately led to an arrest and sentencing. Walking us through every step from the first unsettling suspicions to the moment justice was served, Stacey offers a cautionary tale every practice owner needs to hear. She’s joined by embezzlement expert David Harris, whose investigative work helped uncover the truth. Together, they reveal how embezzlement happens, the red flags most dentists miss, and what every practice must do to stay protected. This is an episode you won’t just want to listen to—you’ll want to take notes.

In this refreshingly real and fun episode of Dentistry Unmasked, Gina Livy joins us to break down what sustainable wellness actually looks like—no extremes, no toxic positivity, and definitely no spiraling. We dive into the everyday habits that support long-term health and career longevity, from how we eat and move to how we think and talk to ourselves. Gina shares her signature blend of honesty, humor, and science-backed strategy to help you stay on a healthy trajectory without feeling deprived or overwhelmed. If you're ready for a wellness conversation that feels doable, empowering, and a little bit sassy, you won’t want to miss this one.

In this unapologetically honest episode of Dentistry Unmasked, David and Pam sit down with Melissa Obrotka, aka the Badass Dental Hygienist, for a real conversation about motivation, mastering your craft, and why not all hygienists—and not all hygiene careers—are created equal. We dig into what it truly means to practice at the top of your license, why skill and calibration matter, and how elevating your value can transform your earning potential. We also confront the long-standing divide between dentists and hygienists and explore what it will take to build respect, alignment, and stronger teams across the industry. If you’re ready for a conversation that challenges norms and inspires growth, you won’t want to miss this one.

How you ever wondered what the top 1% producers in dentistry know that others miss? Is it really their clinical skills? Or is it something more? Join Pam, David and Dr. Mark Hyman as they dive into how true peak performers build bigger and better relationships for the win.