The Dental LABCast

JennaEllisDentalTech
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The Dental LABCast is a UK-based dental laboratory podcast for dental technicians, CDTs, and anyone looking to learn more about the dental technology industry. The show focuses on sharing knowledge, personal views, and real experiences from inside the lab, covering education, technology, industry standards, regulation, and the politics that shape our profession. Through open discussion and interviews, The LABCast aims to support, inform, and help new and developing dental professionals grow with confidence.

  1. Sep 7

    14 - Tips, Tricks & Choosing the Right Materials with Agata Bak

    Agata Bak is a master ceramist and owner of Black Pearl Dental Laboratory. Originally from Poland, she specializes in all-on-X restorations, single central shade matching, and aesthetic veneers. Passionate about dental technology, Agata enjoys sharing knowledge to advance the field. Outside of work, Agata enjoys being a new mum, loves hiking, travel, and cats. Agata Bak shares her journey into dental technology, training, and the establishment of her own dental lab. She discusses the use of lithium disilicate and zirconia, as well as the challenges and considerations in working with these materials. The conversation also delves into the importance of client communication and the technical aspects of veneer and crown restoration. The conversation covers a range of topics related to dental materials, dentists' preferences, patient satisfaction, and the need for improved communication between dentists and technicians. It also delves into the challenges of material comparisons and the importance of accessible knowledge for technicians. The conversation covers a wide range of topics related to dental technology, including testing materials, learning styles, back to basics approach, and the challenges of different dental disciplines. The discussion also delves into the importance of community, sharing knowledge, and the impact of space and equipment on a dental lab's capabilities. Instagram - @agatabak.dt Takeaways Dental technology training and career journeyChallenges and considerations in working with lithium disilicate and zirconia Material comparisons are essential for understanding the differences and limitations of dental materials.Improved communication and collaboration between dentists and technicians are crucial for delivering high-quality dental restorations.Accessible knowledge and training courses are needed to bridge the gap between beginner and advanced knowledge in dental technology. Material testing and feedbackImportance of accessible knowledgeChallenges of different dental disciplinesCommunity and knowledge sharingImpact of space and equipment on lab capabilities Chapters 00:00 Journey into Dental Technology01:23 Training and Career Development02:37 Transition to the UK and Material Preferences06:03 Establishing a Dental Lab12:09 Client Communication and Material Considerations23:24 Technical Aspects of Veneer and Crown Restoration28:21 Dental Material Comparisons29:18 Challenges in Dentist-Technician Communication30:34 Patient Satisfaction and Aesthetic Demands36:16 The Importance of Accessible Knowledge for Technicians59:41 Understanding Zirconia and Yttria in Zirconia01:00:11 Material Testing and Feedback01:03:17 Learning Styles and Accessible Knowledge01:04:16 Challenges of Different Dental Disciplines01:07:24 Community and Knowledge Sharing01:09:12 Impact of Space and Equipment on Lab Capabilities Music Licenced from Premium Beats. Licence ID: N7A69UNBLBBSE0S4

    14 - Tips, Tricks & Choosing the Right Materials with Agata Bak

  2. Aug 24

    13 - From 16-70: A Life in Dental Technology with Rowland Gardner

    Rowland Gardner is the Head of Dental & Maxillofacial Technology at King’s College Hospital, Gillies Unit Sidcup, bringing over 54 years of experience in Dentistry across orthodontic technology, orthognathic planning, and implant‑retained prosthodontics. A skilled clinical practitioner in removable prosthodontics and therapy devices, he also spent 15 years as Lecturer and Principal Tutor at Guy’s Dental Hospital, teaching all dental technology specialities. He holds advanced qualifications including Cert Ed (Dist) and Dip CDT RCS (Eng), is a member of the Institute of Maxillofacial Prosthetists and Technologists and the College of General Dentistry, and is a double award‑winner at the 2013 FMC Laboratory Awards. With 15 years’ departmental leadership at Queen Mary’s Hospital Sidcup, Rowland continues to uphold excellence, innovation, and honour within the profession. The conversation covers the journey of Roland Gardner in dental technology, from early career and training to the challenges and opportunities in the field. It explores the impact of education changes, the future of dental technology, and the transition to digital dentures and orthognathic surgery. The conversation delves into the evolution of dental technology, the impact of digitalization, and the personal journey and advice for young dental technicians. It provides insights into the changing landscape of dental technology, the challenges and opportunities presented by digitalization, and the personal experiences and advice from a seasoned dental technician. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Dental Technology00:31 Early Career and Training03:01 Transition to Hospital Work05:17 Challenges in Commercial Laboratories06:29 Business Skills and Education16:01 Impact of Education Changes17:51 Hospital vs. Commercial Work19:50 Apprenticeships and Education26:32 The Future of Dental Technology35:41 Orthognathic Surgery and Digital Dentures41:12 The Changing Landscape of Dental Technology46:11 The Impact of Digitalization01:10:44 The Personal Journey and Advice for Young Dental Technicians Music Licenced from Premium Beats. Licence ID: N7A69UNBLBBSE0S4

    13 - From 16-70: A Life in Dental Technology with Rowland Gardner

  3. Aug 10

    12 - Building Confidence, Communication & Communities with Deepa

    Deepa is an award winning registered Dental technician with 15 years of experience in dental technology. Specialising in private dentistry for the past decade, she is passionate about creating highly aesthetic smiles with expertise in implant-retained dentures, acrylic hybrid prostheses and premium private dentures. Deepa is an international speaker, published author, social media educator, Den-Tech charity supporter & coordinator, KOL for Bredent and Co-Founder of Nightshift. Instagram - @d_Mandalia & @calligraphybydee web: www.nighshiftdentaltech.com www.den-tech.org The conversation covers Deepa's career journey in dental technology, from her initial introduction to the field to her experiences in the lab. It also delves into the topic of building confidence and the importance of effective communication in the dental technology field. The conversation highlights the importance of effective communication in the dental industry, emphasizing the need for clear and open communication between dentists and technicians. Additionally, the discussion delves into the challenges of balancing work and family life, showcasing the need for support and self-compassion in managing multiple responsibilities. The conversation covers the importance of communication in dental technology, the experience of skydiving and overcoming fears, and the balance between creative pursuits and work-life commitments. It emphasizes the role of passion and conviction in driving success. Takeaways Career JourneyBuilding Confidence Effective communication is essential in the dental industryBalancing work and family life requires support and self-compassion Communication is keyPassion and conviction drive success Chapters 00:00 Career Journey15:58 Building Confidence31:08 The Importance of Effective Communication52:25 Balancing Work and Family Life01:02:06 The Importance of Communication01:07:30 Skydiving and Overcoming Fears01:14:20 Creative Pursuits and Work-Life Balance Music Licenced from Premium Beats. Licence ID: N7A69UNBLBBSE0S4 Music licensed through Soundstripe. Code: 9PNZUYIQZXVHP8L6

    12 - Building Confidence, Communication & Communities with Deepa

  4. Jul 27 ·  Bonus

    DTS Part 2 - 40 Years of Dental Tech Experience Reveals the Biggest Changes in Materials & Methods

    Mark Ambridge shares his journey into dental technology, the evolution of the industry, and the impact of digital technologies on the profession. He also discusses the changing dynamics of work and the environmental implications of digital dentistry. Takeaways Dental technology has evolved significantly over the years, with the introduction of digital technologies revolutionizing the industry.The transition to digital dentistry has impacted the way technicians work, offering new opportunities for remote work and changing the traditional workflow. Chapters 00:00 Journey into Dental Technology03:01 Transition to Dental Technology06:00 Evolution of Dental Technology15:28 Impact of Digital Technologies21:04 Changing Dynamics of Work29:03 Environmental Implications of Digital Dentistry Music Licenced from Premium Beats. Licence ID: N7A69UNBLBBSE0S4

    DTS Part 2 - 40 Years of Dental Tech Experience Reveals the Biggest Changes in Materials & Methods

  5. Jul 20 ·  Bonus

    DTS 2026 Part 1 - With Shaenna Loughnane

    If you missed us back in May at the DTS you can now catch up with our conversations we had in the Dental Pod. We have two parts to this episode kicking off part 1 and a very impactful conversation with Shaenna Loughnane. Shaenna Loughnane is Chief Executive Officer of Bridge2Aid, where she leads work to improve access to oral healthcare in East Africa and the UK through locally led, sustainable partnerships. With over 20 years in the voluntary sector and a previous career building an award-winning healthcare business, she brings both strategic insight and hands-on experience to her role. Alongside this, she is Chair of The Keepers – Wotton Area Community Hub, volunteers with Cranfield Trust, and supports sector development through her role with the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh. The conversation covers the partnership between Bridge2Aid and Den-Tech, the impact of Den-Tech's involvement in training and mentorship, the role of dental therapists, challenges and solutions in dental care, and the impact on local communities. It also discusses volunteering and fundraising opportunities for those interested in supporting the cause. Takeaways Training and education in oral healthPartnership and collaboration Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Charity Overview01:40 Partnership with Dentech03:13 Impact of Dentech's Involvement04:10 Role of Dental Therapists05:27 Training and Collaboration06:21 Dental Care in Tanzania07:32 Challenges and Solutions11:15 Training and Mentorship13:10 Impact on Local Communities26:45 Volunteering and Fundraising Music Licenced from Premium Beats. Licence ID: N7A69UNBLBBSE0S4

    DTS 2026 Part 1 - With Shaenna Loughnane

  6. Jul 6

    09 - The Real Story Behind Nina's Success, Confidence, Resilience & Self Belief.

    Nina Frketin is a Croatian dental technician who has spent the last 15 years in the UK perfecting work most people never notice and learning what that invisibility costs. Nina is the founder of Nightshift, a global community empowering women in dental technology, and a technician at Queensway Dental Laboratory. She mentors, teaches, writes and speaks internationally, not because she chases titles, but because she believes this craft deserves better visibility, fairer value, and healthier people. Award-winning, outspoken, and deeply committed to the technicians behind every smile, especially when no one’s looking. Links: Nightshift Frketin Nina - Queensway Dental Laboratory | LinkedIn NINA | Dental Technician (@nina_f_dt) • Instagram photos and videos Summary In this inspiring interview, Nina shares her journey from Croatia to the UK, her passion for dental technology, and her efforts to empower women in the industry through Night Shift. Discover insights on building a career, overcoming challenges, and fostering community and confidence. In this engaging episode, Nina shares her journey in dental technology, her passion for empowering women, and her inspiring experiences from Uganda to international competitions. Discover how she overcomes imposter syndrome, builds supportive communities, and advocates for change in the industry. Chapters 00:00— Introduction and welcome to Nina02:30— From art to dental technology07:15— Moving from Croatia to the UK12:45— GDC registration and qualifying in the UK17:20— Why dentures became Nina’s passion22:00— The psychological side of dentures and patient care28:15— Confidence, judgment, and being a woman in dentistry36:22 — Community, mentorship, and the Night Shift platform44:05— Supporting women and overcoming imposter syndrome52:30— Nina’s volunteer work in Uganda with Dentec75:00— The impact of volunteering and cultural exchange85:00 — Competitions, awards, and lessons from challenging herself88:05— Self-love, authenticity, and supporting each other94:00 — Embracing imperfections and individuality99:15— Balancing passion, work, and personal life103:30— Future goals and inspiring technicians105:50 — A surprising personal fact about Nina106:25— Final thoughts and closing remarks Music Licenced from Premium Beats. Licence ID: N7A69UNBLBBSE0S4

    09 - The Real Story Behind Nina's Success, Confidence, Resilience & Self Belief.

  7. Jun 22

    08 - From Dental Lab to Film Set: The Bitemakers Story

    Dominic has been a dental technician for over 12 years, in which he has managed to carve out a career not just as a technician,  exocad trainer,  and an iTero clinical trainer , but also managing to start up his own business (Bitemakers Ltd) in 2017 making teeth for film and television. In this episode, Dominic shares his journey from retail management to becoming a renowned dental technician specializing in special effects for films. He discusses the integration of digital workflows, the challenges of breaking into the film industry, and the importance of combining technical expertise with creativity. In this engaging interview, Dominic shares his journey from dental technology to the film industry, revealing the complexities of prosthetic design, the importance of networking, and the realities of working in high-pressure environments. Discover how digital tools and traditional craftsmanship blend to create stunning effects, and gain insights into the passion and perseverance required for success. keywords Dental Technology, Film Effects, Digital Workflows, Special Effects, Industry Insights dental technology, prosthetics, film industry, digital dentistry, networking, special effects, career journey, craftsmanship, film production, dental innovations key topics Journey from retail to dental technology Integration of digital workflows in special effects Challenges of breaking into the film industry Importance of technical expertise and creativity Building a global network of film effects professionals Prosthetic design and craftsmanship Digital tools and traditional techniques Networking and reputation in the film industry Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Dominic and His Journey 04:13 From Retail to Dental Technology: A Career Shift 11:47 The Birth of Bite Makers: Merging Passions 16:43 Balancing Family Life and Entrepreneurship 22:24 The Art and Science of Prosthetics in Film 28:17 Building a Network in the Film Industry 32:14 The Art of Horror Film Prosthetics 35:31 Digital Innovations in Dental Technology 40:12 Balancing Traditional and Digital Techniques 44:52 Challenges in Complex Cases 47:52 Collaboration with Makeup Artists 58:08 The Importance of Networking and Planning 59:06 The Importance of People Skills in Business 01:00:50 Networking: The Key to Success 01:04:12 Navigating Digital vs. Traditional Techniques 01:08:13 Misconceptions in the Film Industry 01:11:57 The Reality of Hard Work and Sacrifice 01:15:24 Behind the Scenes: Humorous Anecdotes 01:21:19 Outro end page.png Instagram -@Bitemakers Music Licenced from Premium Beats. Licence ID: N7A69UNBLBBSE0S4

    08 - From Dental Lab to Film Set: The Bitemakers Story

  8. Jun 8

    07 - Dentistry Behind Bars: Transforming Lives Inside a Women's Prison

    Christina Worle works as a general dentist in a women’s prison in South Gloucestershire. She is especially interested in the application of trauma informed dentistry and how to best care for patients who have suffered traumatic past life events which may make dentistry difficult for them.   Christina is also the dental strategy clinical lead for Gloucestershire ICB and is passionate about representing primary care dentistry at an NHS leadership level and using her significant experience of working with socially excluded groups of people to improve oral health inequalities. She is also a trustee of the dental charity Den-Tech. Christina Worle shares her experience and insights into the world of prison dentistry, highlighting the unique challenges and limitations faced in providing dental care to incarcerated individuals. From security procedures and patient triage to treatment planning and lab relationships, Christina's work sheds light on the complexities of dental care within the prison system. Her emphasis on trauma-informed dentistry and the impact of dental care on patient confidence and quality of life provides valuable insights into the unique nature of prison dentistry. The conversation delves into the challenges of communication in prison dentistry, highlighting the limitations and barriers faced by dental technicians and practitioners. It also explores the impact of working in a prison environment on one's perspective and trust in society, shedding light on the emotional and ethical considerations involved in the work. Takeaways Prison dentistry involves treating patients with complex dental needs and trauma histories.The nature of prison dentistry presents unique challenges and limitations for dental care. Challenges of CommunicationImpact of Work on Perspective Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Prison Dentistry07:05 Patient Care and Treatment Challenges22:09 Clinical Dentistry and Lab Relationships28:47 Shades, Impressions, and Digital Dentistry38:36 Challenges of Communication in Prison Dentistry46:23 Impact of Work on Perspective and Society Music Licenced from Premium Beats. Licence ID: N7A69UNBLBBSE0S4

    07 - Dentistry Behind Bars: Transforming Lives Inside a Women's Prison
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About

The Dental LABCast is a UK-based dental laboratory podcast for dental technicians, CDTs, and anyone looking to learn more about the dental technology industry. The show focuses on sharing knowledge, personal views, and real experiences from inside the lab, covering education, technology, industry standards, regulation, and the politics that shape our profession. Through open discussion and interviews, The LABCast aims to support, inform, and help new and developing dental professionals grow with confidence.

Information

  • Creator
    JennaEllisDentalTech
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    14
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 JennaEllisDentalTech
  • Show Website
    The Dental LABCast