On the Mic with MAP Podcast: Mapping the Way to Predictable Implant Dentistry

Michael A. Pikos
  • 5.0 (4)
  • Courses

The MAP Podcast — Mapping the Way to Predictable Implant Dentistry — is Dr. Michael A. Pikos’ platform to share over 40 years of implant dentistry experience. He created this podcast to discuss real-world clinical insights, modern techniques, and lessons learned in practice, while sharing updates and education from the Pikos Institute. It’s a space for honest conversation, practical knowledge, and advancing excellence in implant dentistry.

Episodes

  1. May 28

    Remote Anchorage & Full-Arch Predictability with Dr. Pedro Moura

    In this episode of On the Mic with MAP: Mapping the way to Predictable Implant Dentistry, Dr. Michael A. Pikos sits down with internationally recognized implant clinician and educator Dr. Pedro Moura from Porto, Portugal for a deep conversation on modern full-arch implant rehabilitation, remote anchorage strategies, and the evolution of treatment for the severely atrophic maxilla. In this episode, Dr. Moura shares his philosophy on predictable full-arch therapy, including the use of pterygoid implants, trans-sinus approaches, palatal implants, guided surgery, and how today’s minimally invasive protocols are helping clinicians avoid more aggressive zygomatic procedures whenever possible. The discussion also dives into: ✅ FP1 vs FP3 treatment philosophies✅ Guided surgery for complex full-arch cases✅ The realities of complications in implant dentistry✅ Why prosthetic complications remain the biggest challenge✅ The importance of biomechanics and prosthetically driven treatment planning✅ Managing bruxers and reducing cantilevers✅ Why every clinician needs a “Plan B” during surgery✅ Advice for young clinicians entering full-arch implant therapy This episode delivers practical insights, real-world experience, and honest discussion around what truly creates long-term predictability in implant dentistry. Time Stamps 00:00 – Introduction to Dr. Pedro Moura01:26 – Building a training center & clinical residency programs03:00 – Why real clinical follow-up matters more than social media dentistry03:56 – Growing up in a family of dental technicians06:10 – Dr. Moura’s philosophy on full-arch rehabilitation06:57 – FP1 vs FP3 treatment concepts08:01 – Avoiding zygomatic implants whenever possible09:20 – Guided surgery for pterygoid and trans-sinus implants10:01 – How modern zygomatic workflows have evolved11:37 – Why fully “brain-guided” surgery can be difficult to teach14:03 – Photogrammetry and digital workflows in full-arch therapy15:10 – The evolution of the palatal implant approach17:17 – Why exposed palatal threads are often not problematic18:08 – When palatal implants truly shine clinically20:04 – Why trans-sinus implants are more difficult than they appear22:08 – The importance of always having a Plan B24:08 – Immediate load realities and managing low torque situations26:22 – The most common complications in full-arch dentistry27:46 – Managing bruxers and minimizing cantilevers29:26 – Advice for young clinicians entering full-arch therapy31:02 – Prosthetically driven implant dentistry philosophy31:26 – Closing thoughts and where to learn more from Dr. MouraConnect with us on Social Media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pikosinstitute Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pikosinstitute/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pikos-institute/ Twitter/X: ⁠https://x.com/PikosInstitute Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6Sj8qBsxCM8az1BmWzIdUi?si=51d7a9dad5f0405d Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/on-the-mic-with-map-podcast-mapping-the-way/id1878393358 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PikosInstitute/videos

    32 min

  2. May 14

    Zygomatic Implant Complications: What Most Clinicians Don't Know

    Dr. Michael A. Pikos returns for Episode 7 of On the Mic with MAP: Mapping the Way to Predictable Implant Dentistry to discuss one of the most important and misunderstood topics in full-arch implant therapy: zygomatic implant complications. In this episode, Dr. Pikos breaks down: The major differences between hybrid and quad zygomatic casesWhy quad zygoma cases are in a class of their ownThe “dreaded triad” of complications:✓ Sinusitis✓ Oroantral communication✓ Implant failure/distressOrbital intrusion risks and surgical anatomy considerationsWhy pterygoid implants can often reduce the need for zygomatic implantsThe importance of surgical experience, diagnostics, and patient selectionThe progression of full-arch education from foundational concepts to advanced remote anchorage protocolsThis episode is essential viewing for clinicians interested in:✓ Full-arch implant reconstruction✓ Remote anchorage protocols✓ Zygomatic implants✓ Pterygoid implants✓ Advanced implant surgery✓ Surgical complication prevention and management Learn more about advanced implant education at:PikosInstitute.com 0:00 – Introduction0:20 – Why this topic matters1:27 – Intraoperative vs early vs late complications2:00 – Cases that may not require zygomatic implants2:53 – Hybrid vs quad zygomatic cases4:07 – The “dreaded triad” of complications6:17 – Why pterygoid implants are a game changer7:22 – Managing sinusitis and oroantral communication10:04 – Sinus membrane integrity and complication risk13:08 – Orbital intrusion risks explained15:36 – Why zygomatic implant training matters16:05 – The Pikos Institute Full Arch Learning Ladder22:04 – Why zygomatic implant placement is more than surgery24:58 – Why complication management matters25:51 – Final thoughts and encouragementConnect with us on Social Media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pikosinstituteInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/pikosinstitute/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pikos-institute/Twitter/X: ⁠https://x.com/PikosInstituteSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6Sj8qBsxCM8az1BmWzIdUi?si=51d7a9dad5f0405dApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/on-the-mic-with-map-podcast-mapping-the-way/id1878393358

    27 min

  3. Apr 30

    Peri-implantitis: Prevention, Management, Future Treatment with Dr. George Kotsakis

    Peri-implantitis is one of the fastest-growing complications in implant dentistry—and one of the most misunderstood. In this episode, Dr. Michael A. Pikos welcomes internationally recognized researcher Dr. George Kotsakis for a powerful discussion on the evidence, misconceptions, and future of peri-implant disease prevention and treatment. From diagnosis and risk factors to implant surface decontamination, prosthetic design, surgical intervention, and emerging host modulation therapies, this conversation delivers practical insight every implant clinician needs now. If you place implants, restore implants, or maintain implant patients—this episode is required listening. 00:00 — Introduction to Episode 6 & Guest Introduction00:20 — Dr. George Kotsakis Background: Greece to U.S. Dentistry Journey03:22 — Why Curiosity Led Him into Peri-Implantitis Research05:10 — University of Washington, Texas, and Rutgers Academic Career10:49 — Why Peri-Implantitis Is Now a Clinical Reality12:27 — Modern Evidence-Based Prevention & Diagnostic Frameworks14:42 — The Biggest Modifiable Risk Factors Clinicians Overlook15:23 — Honest Patient Communication & Treatment Reliability17:58 — When Is It Better to Remove the Implant?20:18 — “Less Is More” Around Implant Surface Treatment22:05 — Why Chlorhexidine May Reduce Bone Regeneration23:01 — Lasers in Peri-Implantitis Therapy: Promise vs Reality25:23 — Prosthetic Design & Emergence Profile as a Risk Factor29:05 — Full Arch Bone/Soft Tissue Considerations Often Ignored34:01 — Future of Peri-Implantitis Treatment & Host Modulation36:40 — Closing Thoughts🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or watch on YouTube🔗 Explore courses at PikosInstitute.com Connect with us on Social Media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pikosinstitute Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pikosinstitute/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pikos-institute/ Twitter/X: ⁠https://x.com/PikosInstitute Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5JmGSwM7eOrOpAKVFY8F0O?si=Nt5MluomQBeCthhRU79zyA Apple Podcasts: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/michael-a-pikosYouTube: https://youtu.be/jeQjIM81jdw

    37 min
  4. What Every Dental Implant Surgeon Should Know About Remote Anchorage Non-Zygomatic Approach

    Apr 16

    What Every Dental Implant Surgeon Should Know About Remote Anchorage Non-Zygomatic Approach

    In Episode 5 of On the Mic with MAP, Dr. Michael A. Pikos dives deep into remote anchorage solutions for full arch implant therapy—without relying on zygomatic implants. Following the overwhelming response to Episode 1 on zygomatic implants, this episode explores alternative surgical strategies for treating the atrophic maxilla, including: ✅ Pterygoid implants ✅ Palatal approach implants ✅ Paranasal implants ✅ Trans-sinus protocols Dr. Pikos breaks down: When and why to use non-zygomatic approachesHow pterygoid implants eliminate distal cantileverThe role of cortical anchorage in full arch stabilityCommon complications and how to avoid themWhy restorative understanding is critical for surgical successIf you're looking to expand your full-arch capabilities and reduce reliance on zygomatic implants, this episode provides clinical insight, real-world application, and surgical strategy. 00:00 – 00:56 Introduction Episode overviewRecap of zygomatic implant discussion00:56 – 01:49Why this episode matters Demand for non-zygomatic solutionsImportance of complications in learning01:49 – 02:21Overview of Remote Anchorage Options PterygoidPalatalParanasalTrans-sinus02:21 – 05:05 Pterygoid Implants Deep Dive Eliminates distal cantileverReduces need for zygomasIdeal for atrophic maxilla05:05 – 06:25Clinical Advantages EfficiencyReduced morbidityVersatility in revision cases06:25 – 07:39Technical Considerations Learning curveBlind procedureGuided vs freehand07:39 – 08:54Palatal Approach Game-changing techniqueStrong synergy with pterygoid implants08:54 – 10:02Paranasal + Trans-Sinus Approaches Cortical anchorage principlesExpanding treatment possibilities10:02 – 11:47Restorative Integration Importance of surgical-restorative communicationFull-arch workflow considerations11:47 – 14:58Complications Overview Pterygoid risksAnatomy challengesImportance of CBCT + planning14:58 – 16:44Palatal + Paranasal Complications Loss of torqueTrajectory issuesAnchorage failures16:44 – 17:58Key Takeaway First drill (pilot bur) is criticalProprioceptive feedback matters17:58 – 20:30Event Promotion + Closing Full Arch Complications SummitMultidisciplinary approachLegal + anesthesia considerations

    21 min
  5. A Perio-Prosth Approach to Dental Implants with Dr. Hussein Basma

    Apr 2

    A Perio-Prosth Approach to Dental Implants with Dr. Hussein Basma

    In this episode of On the Mic with MAP: Mapping the Way to Predictable Implant Dentistry, Dr. Michael A. Pikos sits down with Dr. Hussein Basma to discuss: ✅ Dual specialty training in periodontics and prosthodontics✅ The biggest causes of implant complications✅ Immediate vs delayed implant placement decision-making✅ Soft tissue management in the esthetic zone✅ 3D implant positioning and emergence profile✅ How photography and video improve clinical outcomes✅ The importance of evidence-based, clinically relevant protocols This episode is essential for clinicians looking to improve predictability, esthetics, and long-term implant success. 🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or watch on YouTube🔗 Explore courses at PikosInstitute.com Connect with us on Social Media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pikosinstitute Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pikosinstitute/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pikos-institute/ Twitter/X: ⁠https://x.com/PikosInstitute Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5JmGSwM7eOrOpAKVFY8F0O?si=Nt5MluomQBeCthhRU79zyA Apple Podcasts: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/michael-a-pikosYouTube: https://youtu.be/jeQjIM81jdw A Perio-Prosth Approach to Dental Implants with Dr. Hussein Basma https://www.pikosinstitute.com/hard-soft-tissue-gbr-courses/mastering-implants-in-the-esthetic-zone 00:00–01:10 — Introduction• Dr. Michael A. Pikos introduces Dr. Hussein Basma• Sets up his unique dual specialty background 01:10–03:00 — Prosthodontic Training (Lebanon)• Full-mouth rehab, implants, removable + fixed• Early exposure to comprehensive implant care 03:00–04:30 — Periodontics Residency (UAB)• ~400 implants placed during residency• Extensive experience in bone + soft tissue grafting 04:30–05:30 — First Exposure to Pikos Institute• Sinus grafting course experience• “Changed the way I look at complications” 05:30–07:30 — Dual Training Advantage• Perio + Prostho synergy• Rare combination → full-scope clinician 07:30–09:00 — Photography & Education• Importance of documentation• 4K video + photography as teaching tools• Key insight: reviewing complications visually 09:00–12:00 — Esthetic Zone Implant Course (A–Z)• Immediate vs delayed decision-making• Emergence profile + prosthetic planning• Major causes of complications: Poor 3D positioningSoft tissue deficiencies12:00–13:30 — Course Success + Demand• Sold-out trajectory• High attendee feedback 13:30–16:30 — Education Philosophy (Pikos Standard)• Teaching the “WHY” vs just technique• Evidence-based + clinically relevant• “Monday morning implementation” mindset 16:30–20:30 — What Makes Great CE Valuable• Implementation > attendance• Avoiding the “learn and do nothing” trap 20:30–23:00 — Social Media & Continuous Learning• Using Instagram the right way• Collaboration > imitation• Evidence-based validation 23:00–26:30 — Role in Pikos Institute Programs• Core curriculum + full-arch training• Faculty impact and mentorship 26:30–32:00 — Pikos Symposium Discussion• Longer lecture format (90+ mins)• Depth > surface-level education• Structured Q&A = real learning

    32 min
  6. Full Arch Implant Therapy Complications: Recognition, Prevention, and Treatment

    Mar 19

    Full Arch Implant Therapy Complications: Recognition, Prevention, and Treatment

    In Episode 3 of On the Mic with MAP, Dr. Michael A. Pikos explores one of the most critical—and often overlooked—topics in implant dentistry: Full Arch Implant Therapy Complications. Drawing on decades of clinical experience, Dr. Pikos breaks down: Why complications are inevitable in full-arch cases The critical role of bone and soft tissue grafting The truth behind “graftless” solutions How proper maintenance and follow-up prevent long-term failure Why prosthesis removal is essential for diagnosis This episode is essential for any clinician looking to improve predictability and long-term success in implant dentistry. 00:00 – Introduction Welcome + overview of full arch complications 00:30 – Why complications are inevitable Experience-based perspective + importance of prevention 01:00 – The real issue: Bone & soft tissue The “elephant in the room” 02:00 – The myth of “graftless” solutions Why this mindset leads to failure 03:15 – Clinical scenario: Thin maxilla case Implant translucency + risk factors 04:30 – Why these cases fail over time Long-term consequences of under-treatment 05:00 – Veneer grafting approach 70/30 graft protocol + membrane strategy 06:15 – Additional hard tissue concerns Periodontal defects + trans-sinus cases 06:45 – Soft tissue complications (mandible focus) Lack of attached tissue risks 07:15 – Connective tissue grafting solutions Autogenous vs ADM (AlloDerm) 08:45 – Key technique: Managing graft relapse Planning for 50% shrinkage 10:00 – Rethinking implant foundations Hard + soft tissue as standard of care 11:20 – The importance of follow-up Why most clinicians miss complications 12:00 – Maintenance protocols that work 3, 6, 12-month intervals 13:00 – Why you must remove the prosthesis Hidden complications revealed 14:30 – Disagreeing with current guidelines Why radiographs alone are not enough 15:30 – Additional benefit: Cancer screening Critical diagnostic opportunity 16:00 – Final takeaways Prevention, maintenance, accountability 17:00 – Event invitation Full Arch Complications Symposium (Orlando)

    20 min
  7. Mastering Full Arch Protocols at the Pikos Institute

    Mar 5

    Mastering Full Arch Protocols at the Pikos Institute

    In this episode, Dr. Michael A. Pikos and Dr. Safa Tahmasebi discuss the philosophy and execution of full-arch implant reconstruction through an evidence-based lens. Recorded during a live course at the Pikos Institute, this conversation explores the integration of surgical and restorative principles, evolving techniques, and the importance of structured education in achieving predictable outcomes. Key Topics: Evidence-based dentistry is the foundation of predictable implant outcomes Full-arch success depends on integration of surgery, prosthetics, and biology Hybrid workflows are becoming the new clinical standard Education and continuous learning are essential for staying at the forefront 00:00 – Introduction & Course Overview Day 3 of the full-arch program Participant feedback and course structure 01:00 – Building the Foundation: The “Why” Importance of science over “how-to” training Avoiding procedural-only education 02:30 – All-on-XYZ Concept Explained Beyond implant count Role of bone and soft tissue in long-term success 04:00 – Hands-On Training & Clinical Relevance Realistic patient-based models Bridging theory to real-world execution 05:30 – Occlusion-Driven Implant Planning Prosthetic-first approach Implant positioning guided by restorative outcomes 06:30 – Digital vs. Analog Workflows Hybrid workflow approach Incorporating photogrammetry and evolving technology 07:30 – The 7-Level Education Continuum Structured progression from beginner to advanced cases 08:30 – The Shift Away from Zygomatic Implants When they are appropriate Rise of alternative anchorage solutions 10:30 – Managing Complex Maxillary & Mandibular Cases Limitations of the mandible Introduction to subperiosteal implants 12:30 – The Future of Implant Education & Innovation Digital advancements Continuous evolution of techniques Connect with us on Social Media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pikosinstitute Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pikosinstitute/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pikos-institute/ Twitter/X: ⁠https://x.com/PikosInstitute Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5JmGSwM7eOrOpAKVFY8F0O?si=Nt5MluomQBeCthhRU79zyA Apple Podcasts: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/michael-a-pikosYouTube: https://youtu.be/jeQjIM81jdw

    16 min
  8. Episode 1: To Zygoma or Not to Zygoma?

    Feb 19

    Episode 1: To Zygoma or Not to Zygoma?

    In this inaugural episode of "On the Mic" with MAP: Mapping the Way to Predictable Implant Dentistry, Dr. Michael A. Pikos explores the evolving role of zygomatic implants in full-arch reconstruction. Drawing on decades of experience, he discusses clinical indications, complications, and modern alternatives that can reduce the need for zygomatic implants. Key Topics: The real indications for zygomatic implants Why they may be overused The “dreaded triad” of complications Remote anchorage solutions Patient-first treatment philosophy Training pathways for clinicians You can watch the video version of this podcast on the Pikos Institute YouTube channel at: https://youtu.be/OQ_YzrUeW0c Connect with us on Social Media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pikosinstituteInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/pikosinstitute/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pikos-institute/Twitter/X: https://x.com/PikosInstitute

    17 min
  • 8 Episodes

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

The MAP Podcast — Mapping the Way to Predictable Implant Dentistry — is Dr. Michael A. Pikos’ platform to share over 40 years of implant dentistry experience. He created this podcast to discuss real-world clinical insights, modern techniques, and lessons learned in practice, while sharing updates and education from the Pikos Institute. It’s a space for honest conversation, practical knowledge, and advancing excellence in implant dentistry.

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