The Dental Head Start Podcast

Dr David Keir

The Dental Head Start podcast is made to help dental students become great dentists. You cant google the path to dental success, but you can learn from those already there. We interview dentists who have achieved what you’re striving for and get the story behind the struggles, the successes and the advice they want you to hear. Get the head start you need in your dental career.

  1. 2d ago

    The Journey behind the specialist #1: The Dark Days Behind Oral Surgery with Dr Thao Truong

    Hosted by Ahmed Issa Behind every title is a journey most people never see. In this first episode of Ahmed’s specialist journey series, he sits down with Specialist Oral Surgeon Dr Thao Truong to unpack the pressure, sacrifice and self-doubt behind operating at the highest level of dentistry. From hospital training and specialist exams to carrying responsibility in high-stakes surgical environments, this conversation explores the dark days that shape clinicians long before confidence arrives. Dr Truong reflects on the realities of oral surgery training, the emotional weight of patient care and the moments that tested her resilience throughout her journey. Beyond the operating room, she also shares how humanitarian work in developing countries reshaped her perspective on dentistry, responsibility, and purpose.This episode is not just about oral surgery — it’s about growth, discipline, identity, and becoming someone capable of carrying responsibility at the highest level. Get connected: @drthaotruong_oralsurgery @drahmedissa Key moments [00:49] From Medical Science to Dentistry[02:20] Why Oral Surgery Was Not Love at First Sight[03:29] Finding Mentors in Oral Surgery Residency[05:45] The Case That Made Her Question Everything[07:34] Taking Feedback and Letting Go of Ego[08:55] Why Students Need to See Specialists Struggle[11:06] Staying Calm When Surgery Gets Difficult[13:52] Sponsor: OrthoEd Aligner Essentials[15:54] The 6 to 8 Second Rule[17:44] Changing a Patient’s View of Dentistry[20:16] Why General Dentistry Came Before Specialization[22:43] Inside Oral Surgery Specialty Training[26:00] How to Get Into the Program[28:09] What the Interview Really Assesses[29:18] The First Year as an Interview Year[31:47] Year by Year: Clinical and Theory Breakdown[34:24] Dr. Thao’s Scope of Practice Today[36:45] Sponsor: Dental Advice Network[38:46] Questioning the Specialty and Managing Complications[42:19] Consent, Nerve Risk, and Patient Communication[43:41] MRONJ, Fear, and Practical Management[46:50] The Responsibility of Being the Go-To Surgeon[48:37] Advice for Future Oral Surgeons[50:08] There Is No Right Time to Specialize[51:54] How New Grads Can Become an Asset[53:55] Where to Find and Shadow Dr. Thao[55:35] Outro and Dental Head Start Resources Dr Thao Truong Dr Thao Truong is a University of Sydney–trained Specialist Oral Surgeon working across both public hospital systems and private practice in New South Wales. After graduating with honours in Dentistry and completing a Bachelor of Medical Science with Honours, she spent years training through major hospital networks before completing a Doctor of Clinical Dentistry in Oral Surgery at the University of Sydney. Alongside clinical practice, Dr Thao is a Senior Lecturer and Clinical Educator involved in mentoring postgraduate trainees and dental students. Known for her calm and empathetic approach to patient care, she practices the full scope of oral surgery with interests spanning wisdom teeth removal, dental implants, bone grafting, oral pathology and complex surgical cases. Beyond surgery, she is actively involved in humanitarian dental work through organisations including Vietnam Vision Projects and AusViet Charity Foundation. Thank you to our sponsors… Dental Advice Network Dental Head Start is proud to collaborate with the Dental Advice Network to offer our community access to some of the most respected names in Australian dentistry. DAN functions as a comprehensive knowledge hub, offering a wealth of resources including live webinars, explainer videos, and up-to-the-minute news updates. Highlights of the platform include the highly regarded Journal Club with Professor Laurie Walsh and specialised legal insights from Dr Steven Parker, who brings the dual perspective of both a clinician and a lawyer to complex regulatory matters. We recognise that the first few years of practice are a steep learning curve. To support the next generation of clinicians, DAN offers free membership to dental students (query service only available to registered dental professionals) and a 50% discount for first-year graduates. For the broader Dental Headstart audience, we have secured an exclusive 15% discount on subscriptions. This is an invitation to move beyond isolated practice and join a community dedicated to clinical excellence and safety. Go to www.dentaladvicenetwork.com.au to find out more and contact Dental Head Start via direct message on Facebook or Instagram for your special discount code. The OrthoED institute The OrthoED Institute is the leading orthodontic educator for general dentists. Founded by Specialist Orthodontist Dr Geoff Hall — with over 35 years of clinical experience — OrthoED has trained more than 1,500 dentists in orthodontics across Australia, New Zealand and internationally. Dr. Hall is widely respected for his structured approach to treatment planning and his ability to teach sound orthodontic principles in an understandable fashion OrthoED’s courses are comprehensive, evidence-based and focus on sound biomechanical principles — teaching the entire gamut of orthodontics whether it be  braces and /or clear aligner therapy with hands-on learning, case reviews, mentoring and long-term support. With a reputation built on clinical excellence and hundreds of 5-star reviews, OrthoED is trusted by general dentists who want to confidently integrate orthodontics, expand their scope, and deliver exceptional patient outcomes. Exclusive Offer for Dental Headstart Listeners Dental Headstart listeners can receive 5% off any OrthoED signature course. T&Cs: Valid until 30 June 2026. Not valid in conjunction with any other offer. Exclusions apply. To redeem, use a coupon code at checkout. dentalheadstart-pif (for pay in full) dentalheadstart-pp (for payment plan) Go to orthotraining.com.au The post The Journey behind the specialist #1: The Dark Days Behind Oral Surgery with Dr Thao Truong appeared first on Dental Head Start.

    56 min
  2. Jun 26

    The Unseen Curriculum: Formation Series #10 – The Cost of Clinical Excellence with Dr Karl Batorski

    Hosted by Ahmed Issa Behind every great clinician is a journey of pressure, pain, sacrifice, and relentless refinement. In this episode of the Formation Series, Ahmed Issa sits down with Dr Karl Batorski to unpack the darker side of growth. The sleepless nights, the pressure, the self-doubt, and the difficult seasons that often sit behind success in dentistry. This is a raw conversation about what it really takes to become a clinician patients trust and remember. From the vision behind his CEREC to Success program to some of the more controversial conversations in cosmetic dentistry, this discussion goes far beyond the surface. Not about doing more. About becoming more through everything that tried to break you. Get connected: @drkarlbatorski_ Dr Karl Batorski Dr Karl Batorski is a cosmetic dentist based in Byron Bay, known for aesthetic dentistry, same-day smile transformations and his work in digital workflows using CEREC. A graduate of Queen Mary University of London in 2016, he later moved to Australia, where he developed a strong focus on digital and cosmetic dentistry. Alongside clinical practice, Dr Karl is an instructor with CEREC to Success, where he teaches dentists how to master anterior CEREC and create high-level aesthetic outcomes. Thank you to our sponsors Dental Protection Dental Protection have proudly been supporting the Dental Head Start podcast since day one! The Dental Protection team understands the ever-changing challenges faced by dental professionals and we take our responsibility to members seriously. Our professional protection package helps you practise with confidence, safe in the knowledge that we are always by your side if things go wrong. With over 40 years protecting Australian dental professionals, we have the global stability and financial resilience to be by you A special mention The Esesson Foundation The Esesson Foundation are running two events: their annual gala, and a clinical education weekend — and what makes this different is that every single presenter is donating their time. No egos, no fluff, just really good clinicians giving back. The goal is simple: raise money for healthcare access for vulnerable children. Last year alone, with around $300,000 raised, they delivered over $2.5 million worth of medical and dental care, treating more than 4,000 children who otherwise would’ve gone without. The CPD event alone raised $50,000 last year with 60 attendees — and this year, with more notice and more support, the aim is to double that. It’s one of those rare events where you get excellent clinical education and know every dollar of profit is going directly back into care. Nothing pretentious. Just good people, good dentistry, and a really meaningful cause. Check out the line up below… Enrol in the Clinical Education Weekend here Find out more and get tickets to the Annual Gala here Thank The post The Unseen Curriculum: Formation Series #10 – The Cost of Clinical Excellence with Dr Karl Batorski appeared first on Dental Head Start.

    56 min
  3. Jun 17

    The Unseen Curriculum: Formation Series #9 – The reflection habit that separates good dentists from great ones with Dr Uday Sen

    Hosted by Dr Michael Shambira In this episode, Michael sits down with Dr Uday Sen to explore one of the most underrated skills in dentistry: how to reflect properly after a case.For many students and early-career dentists, reflection can become either vague, overly negative, or something rushed through after a difficult appointment. Uday shares a more practical and constructive approach: how to assess what went well, identify what could be improved, and turn clinical challenges into repeatable learning without spiralling into self-doubt. The conversation explores how high-performing clinicians process failure, why difficult cases can become some of our best teachers, and how structured reflection can help young dentists build confidence, clinical judgement, and emotional resilience over time.This episode is especially valuable for dental students, new graduates, and clinicians who want to grow intentionally rather than simply “survive” each clinical day. Connect with us: Dr Michael ‘Mike’ Shambira: @thatdentistmikeDr Uday: @drsentist Key moments (00:00) Introduction and Welcome(03:00) Early Career Shaping Moments(08:00) Costs of Chasing Excellence(13:00) Mental Resilience and Boundaries(18:00) Building Discipline and Avoiding Corners(23:00) Documentation and Continuous Improvement(28:00) Targeted CPD and Mentorship(33:00) Managing Expectations and Challenges(38:00) Final Takeaways and Closing Dr Uday Sen Dr Uday Sen is a dentist with a strong interest in Advanced Oral Surgery and Implantology, clinical excellence and education, reflective practice, and helping clinicians develop beyond technical skills alone. Known for his thoughtful approach to case reflection and self-assessment, Uday has developed practical tools to help students and early-career dentists review their cases more constructively, learn from difficult moments, and build confidence without becoming overly self-critical. A special thank you to our sponsors Dental Protection Dental Protection have proudly been supporting the Dental Head Start podcast since day one! The Dental Protection team understands the ever-changing challenges faced by dental professionals and we take our responsibility to members seriously. Our professional protection package helps you practise with confidence, safe in the knowledge that we are always by your side if things go wrong. With over 40 years protecting Australian dental professionals, we have the global stability and financial resilience to be by you A special mention The Esesson Foundation The Esesson Foundation are running two events: their annual gala, and a clinical education weekend — and what makes this different is that every single presenter is donating their time. No egos, no fluff, just really good clinicians giving back. The goal is simple: raise money for healthcare access for vulnerable children. Last year alone, with around $300,000 raised, they delivered over $2.5 million worth of medical and dental care, treating more than 4,000 children who otherwise would’ve gone without. The CPD event alone raised $50,000 last year with 60 attendees — and this year, with more notice and more support, the aim is to double that. It’s one of those rare events where you get excellent clinical education and know every dollar of profit is going directly back into care. Nothing pretentious. Just good people, good dentistry, and a really meaningful cause. Check out the line up below… Enrol in the Clinical Education Weekend here Find out more and get tickets to the Annual Gala here The post The Unseen Curriculum: Formation Series #9 – The reflection habit that separates good dentists from great ones with Dr Uday Sen appeared first on Dental Head Start.

    48 min
  4. Jun 4

    The Unseen Curriculum: Formation Series #8: Visibility without Distortion with Tye Bate

    Hosted by Dr Michael Shambira In this episode, Dr Michael Shambira sits down with Tye Bate, the founder and dental marketing expert from 230media.dental to unpack the role of social media in modern dentistry. We explore identity, comparison, content pressure, and how to build an online presence without distorting who you are. This is not about growth hacks. It’s about clarity. If you’re navigating visibility while still building competence, this episode will help you approach social media as a tool — not a measuring stick. Get connected: @‌tye_bate@‌230media.dental Key moments (00:00) Introduction to Personal Branding in Dentistry (04:30) What Personal Branding Really Means (09:15) Patient Assumptions and Attraction (14:00) Aligning Content With Ideal Cases (19:45) Creating Patient-Focused Content (25:10) Early Career Strategies and Niching (31:20) Mastering Content Hooks (38:00) Sustainable Systems and AI Tools (45:15) Final Advice and Takeaways Tye Bate Bio coming soon Thank you to our sponsors… The OrthoED institute The OrthoED Institute is the leading orthodontic educator for general dentists. Founded by Specialist Orthodontist Dr Geoff Hall — with over 35 years of clinical experience — OrthoED has trained more than 1,500 dentists in orthodontics across Australia, New Zealand and internationally. Dr. Hall is widely respected for his structured approach to treatment planning and his ability to teach sound orthodontic principles in an understandable fashion OrthoED’s courses are comprehensive, evidence-based and focus on sound biomechanical principles — teaching the entire gamut of orthodontics whether it be  braces and /or clear aligner therapy with hands-on learning, case reviews, mentoring and long-term support. With a reputation built on clinical excellence and hundreds of 5-star reviews, OrthoED is trusted by general dentists who want to confidently integrate orthodontics, expand their scope, and deliver exceptional patient outcomes. Exclusive offer for Dental Head Start listeners Dental Headstart listeners can receive 5% off any OrthoED signature course. T&Cs: Valid until 30 June 2026. Not valid in conjunction with any other offer. Exclusions apply. To redeem, use a coupon code at checkout. dentalheadstart-pif (for pay in full) dentalheadstart-pp (for payment plan) Go to orthotraining.com.au A special mention The Essesson Foundation The Esesson Foundation are running two events: their annual gala, and a clinical education weekend — and what makes this different is that every single presenter is donating their time. No egos, no fluff, just really good clinicians giving back. The goal is simple: raise money for healthcare access for vulnerable children. Last year alone, with around $300,000 raised, they delivered over $2.5 million worth of medical and dental care, treating more than 4,000 children who otherwise would’ve gone without. The CPD event alone raised $50,000 last year with 60 attendees — and this year, with more notice and more support, the aim is to double that. It’s one of those rare events where you get excellent clinical education and know every dollar of profit is going directly back into care. Nothing pretentious. Just good people, good dentistry, and a really meaningful cause. Check out the line up below… Enrol in the Clinical Education Weekend here Find out more and get tickets to the Annual Gala here The post The Unseen Curriculum: Formation Series #8: Visibility without Distortion with Tye Bate appeared first on Dental Head Start.

    43 min
  5. May 24

    The Unseen curriculum: Formation Series #7 – High Standards Without Self-Punishment with Dr Sam Gidaro

    Hosted by Dr Michael Shambira In this episode, I sit down with Dr Sam Gidaro to unpack a tension many high-performing students and early-career dentists feel but rarely articulate: how do you pursue excellence without turning that pursuit inward? We explore the difference between high standards and self-criticism, why ambitious dentists often struggle to feel “good enough,” how early competence can mask internal pressure, and the role mentorship plays in calibrating expectations. We also discuss learning to grow without attaching identity to outcomes, and what healthy ambition actually looks like in the first few years of practice. Dr Sam Gidaro has been placing implants for over a decade and has developed a strong reputation for managing complex revision and rescue cases. He is known not only for his clinical standards, but also for his high personal and professional ethics, and his open, generous approach to mentorship and sharing knowledge with other clinicians. If you’re a student or early-career dentist who feels driven, self-aware, and sometimes internally heavy — this episode will resonate. Because the goal isn’t just to become skilled. It’s to become steady. Get connectedFollow Dr Sam Gidaro: @‌drsamgidaroFollow Michael Shambira: @‌michaelshambiraIf this episode resonated with you, follow the show, send us your questions, and share this episode with someone who might benefit. Key moments (05:15) Dr. Sam Guidara’s Background and Early Career(12:40) Exposing Yourself to All Aspects of Dentistry(18:30) Finding Mentors and Learning from Others(24:10) Managing Risk and Knowing Your Limits(32:50) Leveling Up to Complex Implant Cases(40:20) Handling Failure and Building Resilience(48:05) Balancing Fatherhood and High-Pressure Surgery(55:00) Patient Communication and Case Selection(62:15) Final Advice for New Grads Dr Sam Gidaro Dr Sam Gidaro has been placing implants for over a decade and has developed a strong reputation for managing complex revision and rescue cases. He is known not only for his clinical standards, but also for his high personal and professional ethics, and his open, generous approach to mentorship and sharing knowledge with other clinicians. He’s a mentor to both Ahmed and Dr Mike that has been a wise sounding board for them as they navigate their dental careers.If you’re a student or early-career dentist who feels driven, self-aware, and sometimes internally heavy; this episode will resonate. Because the goal isn’t just to become skilled. It’s to become steady. A special thank you to our sponsors Dental Advice Network Dental Head Start is proud to collaborate with the Dental Advice Network to offer our community access to some of the most respected names in Australian dentistry. DAN functions as a comprehensive knowledge hub, offering a wealth of resources including live webinars, explainer videos, and up-to-the-minute news updates. Highlights of the platform include the highly regarded Journal Club with Professor Laurie Walsh and specialised legal insights from Dr Steven Parker, who brings the dual perspective of both a clinician and a lawyer to complex regulatory matters. We recognise that the first few years of practice are a steep learning curve. To support the next generation of clinicians, DAN offers free membership to dental students (query service only available to registered dental professionals) and a 50% discount for first-year graduates. For the broader Dental Headstart audience, we have secured an exclusive 15% discount on subscriptions. This is an invitation to move beyond isolated practice and join a community dedicated to clinical excellence and safety. Go to www.dentaladvicenetwork.com.au to find out more and contact Dental Head Start via direct message on Facebook or Instagram for your special discount code. Dental Protection Dental Protection have proudly been supporting the Dental Head Start podcast since day one! The Dental Protection team understands the ever-changing challenges faced by dental professionals and we take our responsibility to members seriously. Our professional protection package helps you practise with confidence, safe in the knowledge that we are always by your side if things go wrong. With over 40 years protecting Australian dental professionals, we have the global stability and financial resilience to be by you The post The Unseen curriculum: Formation Series #7 – High Standards Without Self-Punishment with Dr Sam Gidaro appeared first on Dental Head Start.

    48 min
  6. May 11

    The Unseen Curriculum: Formation series #6 – When ambition outpaces judgement with Dr Michael Frazis

    Hosted by Dr Michael (Mike) Shambira In this episode of the Formation series, Mike sits down with Dr Michael Frazis, Director of Education at Ripe Global, to explore the blind spots that shape early-career growth in dentistry. Drawing from years of teaching and mentoring clinicians, Michael Frazis shares insights on ambition, judgement, efficiency, and the common traps dentists fall into when trying to progress too quickly. The conversation focuses on developing calibration, building competence before speed, and understanding what truly compounds over the long term. This episode is about stepping back, thinking clearly, and approaching growth with intention rather than urgency. Connect with Mike and Dr Michael Frazis here If this episode resonated, share it with a colleague or friend who’s early in their journey.If there are specific guests or topics you’d like to see next, reach out via Instagram; we’re always looking to shape this series around what would be most valuable for listeners. Key moments (00:00) Introduction to Early Career Blind Spots(03:45) Setting Intentional Goals as a Dentist(08:20) Overambition vs Underambition Risks(12:10) Social Media’s Double-Edged Sword(17:30) Avoiding Comparison and Staying Aligned(22:50) Quantifying Goals and Tracking Progress(28:15) Efficiency After Quality in Procedures(33:40) Using Repetition and Feedback for Growth(39:00) Clinical Photography and Documentation(45:20) Long-Term Separation of Success Paths(50:50) Giving Yourself Grace as a New Grad(55:30) Removing Time Distortions for Success Dr Michael Frazis Thank you to our sponsors… The OrthoED institute The OrthoED Institute is the leading orthodontic educator for general dentists. Founded by Specialist Orthodontist Dr Geoff Hall — with over 35 years of clinical experience — OrthoED has trained more than 1,500 dentists in orthodontics across Australia, New Zealand and internationally. Dr. Hall is widely respected for his structured approach to treatment planning and his ability to teach sound orthodontic principles in an understandable fashion OrthoED’s courses are comprehensive, evidence-based and focus on sound biomechanical principles — teaching the entire gamut of orthodontics whether it be  braces and /or clear aligner therapy with hands-on learning, case reviews, mentoring and long-term support. With a reputation built on clinical excellence and hundreds of 5-star reviews, OrthoED is trusted by general dentists who want to confidently integrate orthodontics, expand their scope, and deliver exceptional patient outcomes. Exclusive Offer for Dental Headstart Listeners Dental Headstart listeners can receive 5% off any OrthoED signature course. T&Cs: Valid until 30 June 2026. Not valid in conjunction with any other offer. Exclusions apply. To redeem, use a coupon code at checkout. dentalheadstart-pif (for pay in full) dentalheadstart-pp (for payment plan) Go to orthotraining.com.au A special mention The Esesson Foundation The Esesson Foundation are running two events: their annual gala, and a clinical education weekend — and what makes this different is that every single presenter is donating their time. No egos, no fluff, just really good clinicians giving back. The goal is simple: raise money for healthcare access for vulnerable children. Last year alone, with around $300,000 raised, they delivered over $2.5 million worth of medical and dental care, treating more than 4,000 children who otherwise would’ve gone without. The CPD event alone raised $50,000 last year with 60 attendees — and this year, with more notice and more support, the aim is to double that. It’s one of those rare events where you get excellent clinical education and know every dollar of profit is going directly back into care. Nothing pretentious. Just good people, good dentistry, and a really meaningful cause. Check out the line up below… Enrol in the Clinical Education Weekend here Find out more and get tickets to the Annual Gala here The post The Unseen Curriculum: Formation series #6 – When ambition outpaces judgement with Dr Michael Frazis appeared first on Dental Head Start.

    1h 7m
  7. May 1

    Feature #101 – The journey behind the title with Dr Rand Younes

    Hosted by Ahmed Issa Ahmed Issa sits down with Dr Rand Younes to explore the journey behind the title. From arriving in Australia as a young immigrant with little English, to becoming dux of her school, launching a mobile dental service at just 17, and building a career grounded in purpose, service, and impact. Together, they unpack the defining chapters that shaped her path: the challenges of dental school, training in rural New South Wales, the early clinical experiences that exposed the deeper inequities in healthcare, and the decision to pursue further training while stepping into practice ownership at a young age. More than a story of achievements which include Australia’s youngest dental clinic owner, a nominee/finalist for the Young Australian of the Year award and the youngest ever recipient of the global Top 100 Doctors award. This is a conversation about identity, sacrifice, and the conviction to build something that changes lives. A powerful listen for students, clinicians, and anyone striving to create a career that stands for more than success alone. Follow Dr Rand and Ahmed on Instagram @dr.randyounes @drahmedissa Key moments (02:30) Early Life and Immigration Challenges (05:45) Attraction to Dentistry and High School Success (09:15) Dental School Struggles and Growth (13:00) Launching Mobile Dental Clinic at 17 (17:30) Overcoming Doubts and Balancing Responsibilities (22:00) Post-Graduation and Opening Own Practice (26:45) Finding Mentors and Key Qualities (31:20) Advice for New Grads and Aesthetic Dentistry (36:10) Patient Impact Stories and Responsibilities (40:00) Awards, Future Goals, and Rapid Fire Dr Rand Younes Dr Rand Younes is a cosmetic dentist, practice owner, educator, and founder of ‘Pearly’. After migrating to Australia at 11 with little English, she went on to become dux of her school and rank second in the state for English.A graduate of Charles Sturt University, Dr Rand received a National First Prize from the Australian Endodontic Society for her research and is currently undertaking a Masters degree in Prosthodontics and Dentofacial Aesthetics. At just 17, she founded Impact Mobile Dental Services, now known as Pearly, a program delivering dental care and prevention into schools and rural communities. Since then, Pearly has reached more than 150,000 children and treated over 40,000, with a long-term vision to reach one million children.Her achievements include Australia’s youngest dental clinic owner, a nominee/finalist for the Young Australian of the Year award and the youngest ever recipient of the global Top 100 Doctors award. Dr Rand continues to build her work around one clear purpose: changing lives through dentistry. A special thank you to our sponsors… The OrthoED Institute The OrthoED Institute is the leading orthodontic educator for general dentists. Founded by Specialist Orthodontist Dr Geoff Hall — with over 35 years of clinical experience — OrthoED has trained more than 1,500 dentists in orthodontics across Australia, New Zealand and internationally. Dr. Hall is widely respected for his structured approach to treatment planning and his ability to teach sound orthodontic principles in an understandable fashion OrthoED’s courses are comprehensive, evidence-based and focus on sound biomechanical principles — teaching the entire gamut of orthodontics whether it be  braces and /or clear aligner therapy with hands-on learning, case reviews, mentoring and long-term support. With a reputation built on clinical excellence and hundreds of 5-star reviews, OrthoED is trusted by general dentists who want to confidently integrate orthodontics, expand their scope, and deliver exceptional patient outcomes Exclusive Offer for Dental Headstart Listeners Dental Headstart listeners can receive 5% off any OrthoED signature course. T&Cs: Valid until 30 June 2026. Not valid in conjunction with any other offer. Exclusions apply. To redeem, use a coupon code at checkout. dentalheadstart-pif (for pay in full) dentalheadstart-pp (for payment plan) Go to orthotraining.com.au A special mention… The Esesson Foundation The Esesson Foundation are running two events: their annual gala, and a clinical education weekend — and what makes this different is that every single presenter is donating their time. No egos, no fluff, just really good clinicians giving back. The goal is simple: raise money for healthcare access for vulnerable children. Last year alone, with around $300,000 raised, they delivered over $2.5 million worth of medical and dental care, treating more than 4,000 children who otherwise would’ve gone without. The CPD event alone raised $50,000 last year with 60 attendees — and this year, with more notice and more support, the aim is to double that. It’s one of those rare events where you get excellent clinical education and know every dollar of profit is going directly back into care. Nothing pretentious. Just good people, good dentistry, and a really meaningful cause. Check out the line up below… Enrol in the Clinical Education Weekend here Find out more and get tickets to the Annual Gala here The post Feature #101 – The journey behind the title with Dr Rand Younes appeared first on Dental Head Start.

    58 min
  8. Apr 24

    Feature #100: Mastering Patient Care & Expectations with Dr Sam Gidaro

    Hosted by Dr Michael Shambira and Ahmed Issa Stepping out of dental school and into a thriving practice can be entirely overwhelming, but itdoesn’t have to be. In this feature episode, we sit down with Dr. Sam Gidaro to explore the realities of clinical life, the pressures of practice ownership, and how to find the perfect mentor to accelerateyour growth. Dr. Sam shares his exact process for thorough patient assessments, navigating the complexities of full-arch implant therapy, and how new graduates can position themselves to get hired. You will learn the stark realities of overseas dental tourism, why managing patient expectations is actuallythe hardest part of dentistry, and how staying humble and hungry will fast-track your clinicalsuccess over the long term. Follow us on instagram @dr.samuelgidaro @thatdentistmike @drahmedissa Key moments (00:00) Introduction and Mentorship (03:15) Transitioning to Practice Ownership (07:40) Putting the Patient First (11:05) Assessing Patients for Full Arch Implants (17:10) The Reality of Overseas Dental Tourism (21:30) Understanding the True Cost of Dentistry (25:45) Finding Your Niche and Obsession in Dentistry (28:50) How to Stand Out and Get Hired as a New Grad (34:20) Managing Patient Expectations Dr Samuel Gidaro Dr Sam Gidaro has been placing implants for over a decade and has developed a strong reputation for managing complex revision and rescue cases. He is known not only for his clinical standards, but also for his high personal and professional ethics, and his open, generous approach to mentorship and sharing knowledge with other clinicians. He’s a mentor to both Ahmed and Dr Mike that has been a wise sounding board for them as they navigate their dental careers.If you’re a student or early-career dentist who feels driven, self-aware, and sometimes internally heavy; this episode will resonate. Because the goal isn’t just to become skilled. It’s to become steady. The post Feature #100: Mastering Patient Care & Expectations with Dr Sam Gidaro appeared first on Dental Head Start.

    1h 8m

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

The Dental Head Start podcast is made to help dental students become great dentists. You cant google the path to dental success, but you can learn from those already there. We interview dentists who have achieved what you’re striving for and get the story behind the struggles, the successes and the advice they want you to hear. Get the head start you need in your dental career.

You Might Also Like