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

Michael A. Pikos
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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.

  1. 2d ago

    Beyond the Arch: Measuring What Truly Matters in Implant Dentistry

    Full-arch dentistry is often discussed in terms of implant positioning, immediate loading, digital workflows, prosthetic design, and clinical outcomes. But to truly go Beyond the Arch™, clinicians must recognize the person—and the story—behind every case. In this episode of On the Mic with MAP, Dr. Michael A. Pikos takes listeners Beyond the Arch™ to explore the human side of full-arch implant dentistry. Drawing on more than four decades of clinical experience, he explains why listening to the patient, rebuilding trust, and understanding what brought them to treatment are just as important as surgical and restorative excellence. Many patients arrive after years of pain, failing teeth, unsuccessful treatments, embarrassment, financial investment, and lost confidence. Going Beyond the Arch™ means understanding that treatment is not simply about replacing teeth. It can restore a patient’s comfort, dignity, confidence, ability to eat, and willingness to smile again. Dr. Pikos also discusses the responsibility of the entire dental team, the danger of allowing routine procedures to feel routine to the patient, and the importance of measuring success beyond implant survival. Can the patient eat comfortably? Are they smiling again? Do they trust their new teeth? Has their life genuinely improved? Because going Beyond the Arch™ means recognizing that clinical excellence gets the patient through the procedure—but human excellence gets them through the journey. 00:20 It’s not about the arches—it’s about the people 00:46 The rapid evolution of full-arch dentistry 01:24 Looking beyond implants and prostheses 02:01 Every patient arrives with a story 03:07 Rebuilding trust before rebuilding the mouth 03:35 Why clinicians must slow down and truly listen 04:03 The consultation is not about selling dentistry 04:59 Anatomy provides information; the patient’s story provides understanding 05:25 The problem with impersonal, assembly-line care 06:46 What are we really restoring? 07:21 Confidence, dignity, comfort, and quality of life 08:17 A routine procedure can be life-changing for the patient 09:23 Never allow treatment to feel routine to the patient 10:20 Preparing the entire team to understand patient fear 11:10 Patients experience one team—not separate departments 12:09 Clinical excellence versus human excellence 12:38 The emotional moment when the patient sees the result 13:20 Measuring outcomes beyond implant survival 14:20 Technology should make care more personal 16:00 The most important lessons are not always surgical 18:30 Why Dr. Pikos continues to love what he does 19:08 ClosingConnect 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

  2. Sep 3

    Why Great Implant Education Develops Thinkers, Not Just Doers

    Mastering a surgical technique is only the beginning. True clinical growth comes from understanding why, when—and when not—to use it. In Episode 15 of On the Mic with MAP, Dr. Michael A. Pikos goes Beyond the Arch™ to explore the value of educational diversity in implant dentistry. He explains how exposure to different clinical backgrounds, philosophies, biomaterials, workflows, and approaches to complications helps clinicians develop stronger judgment and make better decisions. From full-arch treatment and remote anchorage to hard- and soft-tissue grafting, no single technique is right for every patient. Dr. Pikos discusses the importance of respecting anatomy and biology, anticipating complications, preparing a Plan B, and customizing treatment to the individual case. The goal of meaningful education is not to produce clinicians who simply follow protocols. It is to develop independent thinkers and confident decision-makers capable of delivering predictable, patient-specific care. 00:20 Introducing educational diversity 00:50 Why clinicians may approach the same case differently 01:49 Education versus indoctrination 02:23 Developing thinkers instead of doers 03:40 Looking beyond technique to anatomy and indications 05:14 Why great education develops judgment 05:47 The value of diverse faculty backgrounds 07:23 Learning multiple approaches to complications 08:22 The importance of in-depth lectures and focused Q&A 10:46 Evidence-based education with clinical relevance 12:18 Challenging established thinking and techniques 13:20 Clinical growth: how, when, and when not 14:18 Why one approach does not fit every patient 15:44 One diagnosis with multiple treatment options 16:22 Planning for complications and preparing a Plan B 18:16 Developing decision-makers—not protocol followers 18:44 Creating a community of clinical excellence 19:43 The question every clinician should continue asking 20:08 Closing thoughtsConnect 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

  3. Aug 20

    Education, Confidence, and Clinical Growth with Dr. Steven Rasner

    Dr. Steven Rasner didn’t graduate at the top of his dental class or begin his career with prestigious opportunities. He returned to his rural New Jersey hometown because it was the only opportunity available—and used continuing education to completely transform his confidence, clinical skills, and future. In this episode of On the Mic with MAP: Mapping the Way to Predictable Implant Dentistry, Dr. Michael A. Pikos sits down with his longtime friend and colleague to discuss Dr. Rasner’s remarkable 46-year career. They explore how live continuing education helped him build a thriving fee-for-service practice in a blue-collar community, become a respected educator, and establish the Rasner Institute. Dr. Rasner also shares candid advice for younger clinicians about failure, confidence, case acceptance, lifelong learning, and taking ownership of their professional growth. This conversation is a powerful reminder that your starting point does not determine how far you can go. Invest in yourself, eliminate excuses, and never stop learning. 00:20 – IntroductionDr. Pikos introduces Dr. Steven Rasner and reflects on his 46-year dental career. 01:19 – An Unconventional BeginningDr. Rasner explains why his journey did not begin at the top of his class. 02:42 – Returning HomeLimited opportunities led him back to rural New Jersey to practice with his father. 03:40 – Discovering Continuing EducationHow CE gave Dr. Rasner a new direction and transformed his outlook. 04:30 – Learning from Dentistry’s Leading EducatorsLessons and inspiration from Dawson, Spear, Kois, Misch, Pikos, and others. 06:22 – How Education Builds ConfidenceDr. Pikos and Dr. Rasner discuss the connection between knowledge, confidence, and clinical growth. 08:15 – The Transformation of a PracticeHow education influenced treatment planning, team development, and practice performance. 09:00 – Advice for Young DentistsLive below your means—but never hesitate to invest in your education. 10:05 – Confidence and Case AcceptancePresenting comprehensive care with confidence, honesty, and genuine concern for patients. 11:50 – Becoming an EducatorHow a successful rural practice led Dr. Rasner to begin teaching practice management. 12:00 – Building a $4 Million Solo PracticeCreating an exceptional practice through comprehensive care rather than patient volume. 14:41 – “Dentistry Is My Golf”Why Dr. Rasner continues pursuing advanced education at 72 years old. 16:31 – Bridging Education and Patient CareThe development and purpose of the Rasner Institute. 20:44 – The Fulfillment of TeachingWhy seeing former students succeed has become one of his greatest professional honors. 22:54 – Success in a Blue-Collar CommunityBuilding a thriving fee-for-service practice in an economically challenged area. 23:35 – Implementation Creates GrowthWhy applying what you learn is just as important as attending the course. 24:49 – The Irreplaceable Value of Live CEThe conversations, mentorship, relationships, and opportunities that cannot be replicated online. 27:11 – The Limitations of Social Media EducationWhy online content may create unrealistic expectations about clinical outcomes. 28:48 – Entering the “Fourth Quarter”Dr. Pikos and Dr. Rasner reflect on longevity, purpose, and continuing to grow. 31:15 – Invest in YourselfDr. Rasner delivers his most important advice for younger clinicians. 33:19 – Final ReflectionsDr. Pikos reinforces the importance of ownership, education, and eliminating excuses. 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/show/6Sj8qBsxCM8az1BmWzIdUi?si=51d7a9dad5f0405d Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/on-the-mic-with-map-podcast-mapping-the-way/id1878393358

  4. Aug 6

    The Challenge of Delivering Meaningful Education | With Dr. Michael A. Pikos

    Are lectures alone enough to create better clinicians? In this episode of On the Mic with MAP: Mapping the Way to Predictable Implant Dentistry, Dr. Michael A. Pikos discusses one of the most important—and often overlooked—topics in continuing education: What makes education truly meaningful? Drawing on more than three decades of teaching clinicians around the world, Dr. Pikos explains why information alone doesn't create competence. Instead, predictable clinical success comes from understanding biology, anatomy, diagnosis, critical thinking, sound decision-making, and learning from complications. Topics include: ✔ Information vs. transformation✔ Why understanding "why" matters more than memorizing techniques✔ Building clinical judgment and confidence✔ The importance of anatomy, diagnosis, and treatment planning✔ Why complications are the greatest teachers✔ Lifelong learning in implant dentistry✔ The educational philosophy behind the Pikos Institute Whether you're placing your first implant or have decades of experience, this episode offers valuable insight into becoming a more thoughtful, confident, and predictable clinician. Subscribe for future episodes of On the Mic with MAP featuring leading educators and experts in implant dentistry. Learn more about Pikos Institute live courses:https://www.PikosInstitute.com 00:00 – Introduction: What is meaningful education? 01:00 – Information vs. transformation in learning 02:00 – Why competence requires structured thinking, not information overload 03:45 – Why fundamentals always matter: anatomy, diagnosis, and treatment planning 05:05 – Teaching beginners and experienced surgeons at the same time 06:10 – Moving from technician to thinker 07:40 – Developing clinical judgment through mentorship and experience 08:40 – Why complications create the greatest learning opportunities 10:40 – Lifelong learning and evaluating new technology critically 11:50 – The responsibility educators have to their students and patients 13:10 – The mission of the Pikos Institute 15:25 – Why the live course experience matters 17:10 – Final thoughts: becoming better every day 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/show/6Sj8qBsxCM8az1BmWzIdUi?si=51d7a9dad5f0405d Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/on-the-mic-with-map-podcast-mapping-the-way/id1878393358

  5. Jul 23

    Beyond Implants: Purpose, Passion & Full-Arch Dentistry with Dr. Simon Oh

    Purpose drives great clinicians. In this episode of On the Mic with MAP, Dr. Michael A. Pikos welcomes Dr. Simon Oh for a discussion that goes far beyond surgical techniques. Dr. Oh shares the personal journey that led him from professional burnout to discovering purpose through full-arch implant dentistry. Together they discuss education, mentorship, humanitarian outreach, advanced implant reconstruction, and the responsibility every clinician accepts when restoring a patient's smile. Listeners will also hear the inspiring story behind Dr. Oh's work in Guatemala, where he is helping develop sustainable education programs that empower local surgeons to provide advanced care within their own communities. This conversation serves as a reminder that excellent implant dentistry is about more than placing implants—it's about changing lives through education, compassion, and lifelong learning. 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/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 00:00 – Introduction Dr. Michael Pikos introduces Dr. Simon OhOverview of Simon's accomplishments and humanitarian work1:05 – Simon's Journey into Full-Arch Dentistry OMS residencyLeaving residencyBuilding a DSOBurnout treating routine dentistryDiscovering purpose through full-arch treatment3:30 – Humanitarian Mission in Guatemala Discovering the needBringing zygomatic implant treatmentCreating sustainable educationUniversity partnerships 6:00 – Building Sustainable Healthcare Treating patients firstTumor reconstructionCraniofacial careOperation Smile collaborationLong-term vision for Guatemala8:25 – Learning Full-Arch Dentistry Reading literatureMentorsBrazil trainingImportance of live surgical educationLearning from pioneers12:50 – Building a Patient-First Full-Arch Practice Philosophy behind his DSOFP1 vs overdenturesTechnologyTreatment planningPatient-centered decision making15:00 – Life Outside Dentistry FamilyParentingWork-life balancePersonal interests18:00 – Advice for Young Clinicians Responsibility of treating full-arch patientsMentorshipContinuing educationCommunity learningNever stop improving20:00 – Final Thoughts Commitment to educationLeadershipLifelong learningClosing remarks

  6. Jul 9

    Soft Tissue, Biology & Predictable Full-Arch Outcomes with Dr. Tomasz Kaczyński

    Episode 11: Soft Tissue, Biology & Predictable Full-Arch Outcomes with Dr. Tomasz Kaczyński What separates predictable full-arch clinicians from those who simply place implants? In this episode of On the Mic with MAP: Mapping the Way to Predictable Implant Dentistry, Dr. Michael A. Pikos welcomes internationally recognized periodontist Dr. Thomas Kaczynski for an insightful discussion on the principles that create long-term implant success. Together, they explore why mastering single implant therapy remains the foundation for predictable full-arch reconstruction, how proper soft tissue management influences long-term biological stability, and why clinicians should resist the temptation to shortcut their education. The conversation also covers pterygoid implants, treatment planning philosophy, common complications, patient follow-up, mentorship, and the importance of lifelong learning in implant dentistry. Whether you're beginning your implant journey or refining advanced protocols, this episode offers practical clinical insights that can immediately improve your decision-making. • Transitioning from periodontics to full-arch implant therapy • Why every clinician should master single implants first • The role of bone grafting and soft tissue in long-term success • Preventive surgical strategies that reduce future complications • When to graft—and when not to • Pterygoid implants versus zygomatic implants • The value of structured education and mentorship • Why long-term follow-up matters more than social media highlights • Advice for young implant clinicians Subscribe for future episodes featuring world-renowned educators discussing the latest concepts in implant dentistry, regenerative therapy, full-arch reconstruction, and evidence-based surgical protocols. 0:00–2:00 Introduction and guest introduction 2:00–5:00 Dr. Kaczynski's journey from periodontics to full-arch surgery 5:00–9:00 Why mastering single implants comes before full-arch rehabilitation 9:00–13:00 The importance of biology, bone grafting, and soft tissue management 13:00–17:00 Preventive soft tissue protocols and minimizing secondary surgeries 17:00–20:00 Training philosophy and Full-Arch Immersion education program 20:00–24:00 Pterygoid implants vs. zygomatic implants and reducing complications 24:00–28:00 Common complications in full-arch implant therapy and long-term maintenance 28:00–31:00 Advice for young clinicians entering implant dentistry 31:00–End Final thoughts on mentorship, education, ethics, and continuous learningConnect 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

  7. Jun 25

    Beyond the Bone: Why Soft Tissue Is the Real Foundation of Full-Arch Success

    In Episode 10 of On the Mic with MAP: Mapping the Way to Predictable Implant Dentistry, Dr. Michael A. Pikos explores one of the most overlooked factors in implant dentistry: soft tissue management. While most full-arch education focuses on implant placement and bone grafting, long-term esthetic, biologic, phonetic, and restorative success is often determined by the "Z" in Dr. Pikos' All-on-XYZ™ philosophy—soft tissue. Discover why tissue thickness, keratinized tissue, vestibuloplasty procedures, flap design, and phenotype management are critical for achieving predictable full-arch outcomes that stand the test of time. In This Episode: ✔ Understanding the All-on-XYZ™ philosophy✔ Why soft tissue matters more than most clinicians realize✔ The relationship between tissue phenotype and implant longevity✔ Surgical strategies for improving tissue stability✔ Vestibuloplasty and soft tissue augmentation techniques✔ Immediate provisionalization as a tissue-shaping tool✔ Why many implant complications are actually tissue-related✔ The future of tissue-driven full-arch treatment planning 00:00 Introduction 00:20 The Origins of the All-on-XYZ™ Philosophy 01:25 Why Soft Tissue Is the Real Foundation 02:17 How Soft Tissue Impacts Esthetics 02:52 Hygiene Access, Phonetics & Long-Term Stability 03:26 Thin Phenotypes and Future Complications 04:51 Bone Grafting vs. Soft Tissue Management 05:47 Vestibuloplasty with Acellular Dermal Matrix 06:22 Why Many Implant Failures Are Tissue Related 06:53 The Biology of Full-Arch Success 07:43 Emergence Profiles and Tissue Health 08:45 Surgical Strategies for Soft Tissue Enhancement 09:15 Flap Design Principles for Full-Arch Cases 10:45 Tissue Preservation Techniques 11:24 Vestibuloplasty and Tissue Volume Enhancement 11:55 Immediate Provisionalization as a Tissue-Shaping Tool 12:24 Tissue-Driven Treatment Planning 12:55 Growth Factors, Biologics & Soft Tissue Architecture 13:21 Remote Anchorage and Soft Tissue Management 13:47 What Patients Really Want 15:02 The True Meaning of the Z Factor 15:30 Final Takeaways 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/show/6Sj8qBsxCM8az1BmWzIdUi?si=51d7a9dad5f0405d Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/on-the-mic-with-map-podcast-mapping-the-way/id1878393358

  8. Jun 11

    Patient-Specific Implants, Full-Arch Failures & Revision Surgery with Dr. Vishtasb Broumand

    In Episode 9 of On The Mic with MAP: Mapping the Way to Predictable Implant Dentistry, Dr. Michael A. Pikos welcomes internationally respected oral and maxillofacial surgeon Dr. Vishtasb Broumand for an insightful discussion on some of the most complex challenges in implant dentistry today. Drawing from decades of experience in tumor reconstruction, advanced implant rehabilitation, and revision surgery, Dr. Broumand shares how he became a referral destination for some of the most difficult implant complications and catastrophic full-arch failures. The conversation explores the rapidly evolving role of patient-specific implants (PSIs), treatment options for severely atrophic jaws, the importance of soft tissue management, and why mastering surgical fundamentals remains essential for long-term success. Topics discussed include: • Patient-Specific Implants (PSIs) for severe maxillary and mandibular defects • Managing failed All-on-X and full-arch implant cases • Soft tissue principles that drive long-term implant success • Designing predictable custom implant frameworks • Revision surgery strategies for complex complications • Clinical decision-making for advanced reconstruction cases • The importance of surgical foundations and lifelong learning • Why social media can create unrealistic expectations for developing clinicians One of the most memorable takeaways from the episode is Dr. Broumand's reminder that successful clinicians are built through years of experience, education, and repetition—not shortcuts. Whether you are a general dentist, oral surgeon, periodontist, prosthodontist, or implantologist, this episode offers valuable clinical insights and practical wisdom for navigating the increasingly complex world of implant dentistry. Learn more about advanced implant education at PikosInstitute.com 00:00 Introduction & Welcome Dr. Vishtasb Broumand01:52 Early referral cases and professional relationship03:03 Leaving Miami and moving to Arizona06:38 Building a practice focused on complex revision surgery08:31 Why difficult implant failures get referred to specialists09:01 Introduction to Patient-Specific Implants (PSIs)10:01 Cases where conventional implants are no longer possible11:23 Managing severe maxillary defects and failed All-on-X cases13:31 Risks and complications of subperiosteal implants15:10 Evolution of PSI design and manufacturing17:31 Why soft tissue management is critical for success18:32 Preventing implant exposure and long-term complications20:47 The future of patient-specific implant reconstruction22:04 Selecting the right PSI candidates23:16 Advice for young clinicians entering implant dentistry24:10 Why fundamentals matter more than social media highlights25:35 The importance of continuing education and mentorship28:43 Lifelong learning and becoming the best clinician possible30:14 Closing remarks

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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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