The ODONTOJAM Podcast

Dr. Jesse Liang
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Conversations about everyday dentistry for the general dentist. Odontojam is a platform for dentists young and old to learn clinical tips and tricks from dental experts and to learn more about our colleagues in the dental community.

  1. FEB 8

    #40 Digital Dentistry and AI with Dr. Sonny and Rob

    In this conversation Sonny and Rob discuss the transformative impact of digital tools and AI in dentistry. They explore the top digital tools every dentist should be using, the efficiency gains from AI, and the importance of data safety. The discussion also highlights the common pitfalls dentists face when integrating these technologies and the need for a supportive community to navigate the evolving landscape of digital dentistry. Time Stamps 00:00 Introduction to Digital Dentistry and AI Tools 05:27 Top Digital Tools for Dentists 12:06 Enhancing Efficiency with AI in Practice 14:02 The Impact of Digital Tools on Patient Experience 21:13 Common Pitfalls in Digital Dentistry and AI Usage 25:01 Understanding AI Limitations and Responsibilities 27:51 Navigating AI Tools for Clinical Use 31:09 Customizing AI for Patient Communication 35:03 The Birth of Digital Dentistry Study Clubs 40:01 Building Community in Digital Dentistry 45:03 Upcoming Events and Future Directions To learn more about Sonny's upcoming courses be sure to visit the ADDA website https://digitaldentistryacademy.com.au/  GUEST BIOS Dr Sonny Lee, BDSc (UWA), PgCert Adv Aesth & Rest Dent (Portsmouth), Fellow ofPierre Fauchard Academy (FPFA) is a restorative dentist and founder of the Australian Digital Dentistry Academy in Perth, Australia. He runs a fully digital clinic, lab, charity clinic , with almost 20 years of experience in CAD/CAM, exocad and 3D printing. In his courses he shares practical, real-world workflows for exocad design and Sprintray 3D printing that can be applied immediately in daily practice. Dr. Rob brings over 20 years of dental experience to Ashburton Family Dental. After graduating from the University of Otago in 2004, he began his career as a house surgeon at Auckland Hospital, where he developed strong foundations in complex and emergency dental care. Inspired by his keen interest in implant dentistry, Dr. Rob completed a Graduate Diploma in Implant Dentistry at the University of Melbourne in 2021. He is also one of a handful of Digital Smile Design (DSD) Masters in Australia and has recently started up the ADDA Vic Chatper (see links below). https://www.digitaldentistryacademyvic.com.au/

    43 min

  2. JAN 20

    #39 MORE GOOD DAYS - Modern Approaches to Pain Management with Nel Fulia

    Understanding Chronic Pain: Misconceptions and Effective Management Strategies Chronic pain affects millions of people, yet it’s still widely misunderstood. In this episode, we unpack what pain actually is, why chronic pain can persist even when scans appear “normal,” and why treating pain isn’t as simple as fixing damaged tissue. We explore pain as a protective alarm system—one designed to keep us safe—but discuss how, in chronic pain, that system can become overprotective. The conversation challenges the common belief that ongoing pain always equals ongoing injury, highlighting research showing that many people with structural changes on scans experience no pain at all. A key focus of the episode is the role of the nervous system and central sensitization, where pain signals become amplified over time. Using simple, relatable analogies, we explain how pain can be driven by sensitivity rather than damage—and why understanding this can be both empowering and relieving for patients. We also dive into the thinking behind More Good Days, an initiative created to bridge the gap between evidence-based pain science and what many patients are actually offered in clinical care. The discussion highlights the importance of education, movement, psychology, and human connection in helping people rebuild confidence in their bodies. Ultimately, this episode reinforces a critical message: effective chronic pain management requires a multidisciplinary approach that treats the whole person—not just the site of pain. Episode Chapters / Timestamps 00:00 – Understanding Chronic Pain What pain really is, why it exists as a protective mechanism, and how chronic pain differs from acute injury. 00:51 – Rethinking Pain and Damage Challenging the assumption that pain always equals physical damage, and why scans don’t always tell the full story. 04:49 – The Journey to More Good Days How the idea for More Good Days emerged and the gap it aims to close in chronic pain care. 10:29 – Explaining Pain to Patients Why education matters, how understanding pain reduces fear, and the role of language in recovery. 16:40 – Recognizing Central Sensitization How the nervous system can amplify pain signals and what this means for chronic pain sufferers. 22:09 – Engaging Patients in Their Recovery Movement, confidence-building, and tailoring approaches to individual patients. 24:50 – Clinicians as Patients: Common Patterns Shared behaviours clinicians fall into when experiencing pain themselves—and what we can learn from it.

    31 min

  3. JAN 1

    #38 NATURAL INDIRECT AESTHETICS with Dr. Varun Garg (Specialist Prosthodontist)

    Summary In this enlightening conversation, Dr. Varun Garg shares his expertise on indirect restorations, emphasizing the importance of communication with both patients and ceramists. He discusses the critical aspects of provisionalization, material selection, and cementation protocols, while also addressing the nuances of finishing lines and margins. Varun highlights the significance of teaching in refining one's own skills and announces upcoming courses aimed at enhancing practical knowledge in dentistry. Chapters 00:00 The Art of Indirect Restorations 07:03 Communication: The Key to Patient Satisfaction 10:53 Mastering Clinical Skills for Precision 12:53 The Importance of Provisionalization 18:26 Mixing Materials: A Balancing Act 22:42 Finalizing the Bonding Process 23:48 Mastering Aesthetic Restorations 26:56 The Importance of Etching and Bonding 28:55 Finishing Lines and Margins in Veneer Preparations 33:16 Insights from Teaching and Learning 38:22 Upcoming Courses and Educational Initiatives 43:09 ODONTO OUTRO FINAL.mp3

    43 min

  4. 12/21/2025

    #37 CHASING CRACKS with Dr. Martin Gale (Endodontist)

    This conversation delves into the complexities of tooth cracks, exploring their diagnosis, management, and the underlying engineering principles that inform dental practices. Dr. Martin Gale shares insights on the importance of understanding the mechanics of cracks, the role of material science in dental restorations, and effective patient communication strategies. The discussion emphasizes the need for a thorough pain history, the significance of infection management, and the impact of material choices on treatment outcomes. TIME STAMPS 00:00 Introduction to Cracks in Dentistry 02:08 Challenges in Diagnosing Tooth Cracks 04:32 Exploring the Pathology of Cracks 06:51 Management Strategies for Cracks 09:24 The Importance of Crack Localisation 11:59 The Role of Magnification in Crack Treatment 14:36 Patient Communication and Expectations 17:05 Material Science in Dentistry 19:58 Understanding Bacterial Load and Pulp Response 22:29 Layering Techniques in Composite Restoration 25:00 The Mechanics of Composite vs. Ceramic Overlays 27:40 Innovations in Core Build-Up Materials 30:07 Conclusion and Key Takeaways Thanks you Martin for joining us on the show!

    41 min

  5. 11/12/2025

    #36 Mastering the Unexpected: Surgical Wisdom with Dr. Sophia Richardson (OMFS)

    n this episode, Dr. Jesse Liang sits down with oral and maxillofacial surgeon Dr. Sophia Richardson to unpack what really happens when an “easy” extraction suddenly becomes complicated. Sophia shares how to stay composed when root tips fracture, strategies for managing surgical stress, and the mindset shift from fearing complications to expecting and managing them calmly. The conversation also explores the art and science of orthognathic surgery, its life-changing impact on function, aesthetics, and airway health, plus Sophia’s journey from general dentistry to specialist training across Australia and the UK. They discuss mentorship, the value of hospital experience and the importance of communication with patients. A grounded, insightful chat for any dentist who’s ever had their “heart drop” mid-extraction—or anyone curious about pursuing the OMFS pathway!

    36 min

  6. 09/15/2025

    #35 BRUXISM, TMD, Alternative Therapies with Dr. Damian Teo

    Bruxism isn’t just “clenching and grinding”—it’s a symptom. In this episode of The Odontojam Podcast, Dr. Jesse Liang sits down with Dr. Damian Teo (TMD & dental sleep medicine clinician/educator) to unpack the modern understanding of bruxism and its relationship to TMD. They separate sleep vs. awake bruxism, explain why the sympathetic fight-or-flight system drives parafunction, and map common triggers—from stress, injury and hormonal changes to sleep-disordered breathing (snoring/OSA) and reflux. Dr. Teo outlines practical, diagnosis-first management: when to choose permissive vs. non-permissive splints, the risks of splinting unrecognised OSA, and why multidisciplinary care (physio/osteo, psychology, ENT/sleep, TMJ-aware dentistry) matters. He introduces “bracing” (muscle tension without tooth contact), the BruxApp for daytime awareness, posture/SCM links, and strategies to mitigate mandibular advancement splint bite changes (morning exercises/aligner). We also explore acupuncture/low-level laser vs. dry needling. Key takeaways Treat the cause, not just the teeth: screen sleep and reflux before splinting.Bracing is common in daytime bruxism—awareness tools can reduce pain quickly.Splints protect; they don’t “cure.” Diagnosis dictates design (muscle vs. joint).Informed consent and morning deprogramming help manage MAS bite changes.Multimodal care (manual therapy, psychological support, sleep medicine, acupuncture/laser) improves outcomes.

    45 min

  7. 08/15/2025

    #34 BEYOND THE CLINIC: TECHNOLOGY, INNOVATION, AND CAREER GROWTH with Dr. Dilhan Rajasingham

    In this episode of The Odontojam Podcast, Dr. Jesse Liang sits down with Dr. Dilhan Rajasingham to explore how the skills we hone in dentistry — like problem-solving, communication, and adaptability — can open doors well beyond the clinic. From stepping into leadership roles and board positions, to pursuing an MBA and working with cutting-edge dental tech, Dilhan shares practical insights on career pivots, networking, and designing a professional life that supports the lifestyle you want. Whether you’re early in your career or feeling ready for a change, this conversation offers strategies, inspiration, and a reminder that your dental degree can be the start of many different journeys. Time Stamps 00:00 – Introduction & setting the scene 02:18 – Problem-solving skills that translate beyond dentistry 08:14 – Taking a career break to pursue an MBA 14:39 – The power of communication in and outside the clinic 20:52 – Breaking out of the “four walls” mindset 29:22 – Getting comfortable with networking and building connections 37:18 – Embracing AI and digital tools in dental practice 44:45 – The role of scanners and patient education 47:55 – Serving on the ADA board and giving back to the profession 52:27 – Designing a career and lifestyle you actually want 59:36 – Final thoughts and takeaways Learn more about Dr. Dilhan @ www.drdilhan.io

    1h 2m

  8. 07/23/2025

    #33 PATIENTS & PERSONALITIES with Dr. Derry Rogers

    In this conversation, Dr. Derry Rogers discusses the importance of understanding patient personalities in dentistry, emphasising how effective communication can enhance patient care and treatment acceptance. He categorises patients into four personality types—directors, socialisers, relators, and thinkers—and explains how dentists can adapt their communication styles to meet the needs of each type. The discussion also covers the significance of creating a comfortable environment for patients, the necessity of developing both clinical and communication skills, and the role of vision and values in achieving a fulfilling dental practice. Dr. Rogers shares insights from his extensive experience and training programs aimed at helping dentists improve their practice and patient interactions. KEY TAKEAWAYS! Understanding patient personalities is crucial in dentistry.Patients can be categorized into four personality types: directors, socializers, relators, and thinkers.Effective communication is key to patient acceptance of treatment plans.Creating a comfortable environment can help alleviate patient anxiety.Photography can enhance communication and understanding between dentists and patients.Dentists need to develop both clinical skills and communication skills for success.Having a clear vision and values is essential for a fulfilling dental practice.Training and development programs can significantly improve a dentist's practice.Understanding personality types can lead to better patient experiences.Dentistry can be a rewarding profession when approached with the right mindset. TIME STAMPS 00:00 Understanding Patient Personalities in Dentistry 10:39 The Importance of Communication Skills 20:56 Creating a Comfortable Patient Environment 29:37 Navigating Patient Expectations 38:46 Training and Development in Dentistry 45:36 Life Lessons for a Fulfilling Dental Practice Learn more about Dr. Derry Rogers and the DR Institute at www.drinstitute.com.au

    46 min
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About

Conversations about everyday dentistry for the general dentist. Odontojam is a platform for dentists young and old to learn clinical tips and tricks from dental experts and to learn more about our colleagues in the dental community.

Information

  • Creator
    Dr. Jesse Liang
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    41
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The ODONTOJAM Podcast
  • Show Website
    The ODONTOJAM Podcast