Let's Talk Teeth

Saad Alamgir & Victor Razinobakht
  • 5.0 (3)
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Let’s Talk Teeth is a dental podcast dedicated to helping the next generation of dentists succeed. Hosted by Saad Alamgir and Victor Razi, two dental students passionate about the future of the profession, the show features conversations with leading clinicians, residency program directors, and innovators in dentistry. Each episode explores topics such as dental school, specialty training, clinical practice, leadership, entrepreneurship, and the evolving role of technology in oral healthcare. Whether you're exploring dentistry as a career or already on the journey, Let’s Talk Teeth brings you insights, experiences, and advice from people shaping the field. For guest opportunities or questions, contact us at letstalkteethpodcast@gmail.com.

  1. MAR 16

    Inside Jacksonville University’s Oral Implantology Residency Program w/ Dr. James Rutkowski

    Send a text In this episode of Let’s Talk Teeth, we are joined by Dr. James (Jim) Rutkowski, the Program Director of Jacksonville University’s Comprehensive Oral Implantology Program, one of the few programs in the country dedicated specifically to advanced implant training. Dr. Rutkowski shares his unique career journey, from pharmacy school at Duquesne University to dental school at the University of Pittsburgh, followed by private practice in Pennsylvania. He later returned to Duquesne to earn a PhD in Pharmacology, and even establishing a research laboratory within his dental office focused on autogenous growth factors for oral bone regeneration. After decades of clinical practice centered largely on implant surgery and grafting, Dr. Rutkowski retired from clinical dentistry in 2020 and now focuses on education. He gives us an inside look at Jacksonville University’s 2 Year Comprehensive Oral Implantology Program, discussing its origins, structure, didactics, EPAs, IV sedation training, tuition, stipends, and how training sites are matched with residents. Don’t miss this insightful conversation with one of the leaders in implant dentistry as we explore the training, philosophy, and future of oral implantology. 00:00 Meet Dr James Rutkowski 00:34 Transitioning from Pharmacy to Dentistry 01:23 Small Town Practice Move 01:43 PhD Research and Patents 03:03 Implant Focus and Retirement 04:35 Why Dentistry Rewards 06:50 Pharmacology in Modern Care 08:04 Jacksonville Program Origins 09:25 Recruited as Program Director 13:31 Program Overview and Sites 15:27 Training EPAs and Sedation 18:54 Didactics Culture and Flexibility 24:23 Applications Deadlines and Match 28:11 How the Match Works 29:26 Flexibility and New Sites 30:50 Ideal Applicant Profile 33:07 Clinical Progression and EPAs 35:02 Site Consistency and Case Volume 36:59 Mentorship and Practice Management 39:11 Program Outcomes and Recognition 40:17 How Clinics Join the Program 43:31 Stipends Discounts and Director Benefits 48:00 Final Advice and Wrap Up Support the show

    54 min

  2. FEB 10

    Insights to Texas A&M's Periodontics Residency w/ Program Director Dr. Carlos Parra

    Send a text In this episode of Let’s Talk Teeth, we sit down with Dr. Carlos Parra, Graduate Program Director of Periodontics at Texas A&M. Dr. Parra shares his inspiring journey from completing his undergraduate education and dental training in Spain to pursuing advanced periodontal residency training at Tufts University in Boston, ultimately leading to his current role in Dallas. We dive into his motivations for choosing periodontics and academia, as well as the unique strengths of Texas A&M’s Periodontics Program, including its rigorous clinical training, research opportunities, and admissions process. Dr. Parra also offers valuable advice for dental students at every stage of their journey. Tune in for an insightful conversation filled with personal experiences, career guidance, and a comprehensive look at what it takes to excel in periodontics. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Background 01:36 Choosing a Career in Periodontics 03:21 Deciding to Stay in the US 06:01 Academia vs. Private Practice 07:45 Day-to-Day at Texas A&M 12:40 Program Highlights and Applicant Insights 16:52 Challenges in Candidate Selection 17:47 Future Goals for Texas A&M's Perio Program 18:31 Importance of Research and Clinical Competence 20:59 Diverse Procedures and Training at Texas A&M 29:41 Advice for Aspiring Perio Students 34:15 Final Thoughts and Fun Questions Support the show

    35 min

  3. JAN 21

    Pursuing an OMFS Fellowship with Dr. Waleed Zaid

    Send a text In this episode of Let’s Talk Teeth, we are joined by Dr. Waleed Zaid, the Fellowship Director of Head and Neck Oncology and Microvascular Surgery at Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, to discuss his journey from dental school in the UAE to leading one of the top OMFS fellowship programs in the United States. Dr. Zaid delves into the nuances and challenges of oral and maxillofacial surgery, emphasizing the importance of passion in the field. He discusses advancements in digital dentistry, robotics, and AI, as well as LSU's unique oral surgery program. Additionally, Dr. Zaid offers invaluable advice for dental students and new graduates on how to stay motivated and absorb as much knowledge as possible. Don't miss this insightful conversation about the future of oral surgery and dental research. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 00:35 Dr. Zaid's Journey into Dentistry 01:41 Choosing Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery 03:15 Training and Experience in the UAE and USA 04:38 Joining LSU and Career Path 06:17 Pursuing a Fellowship in Head and Neck Oncology 10:55 Unique Aspects of LSU's Head and Neck Program 13:55 Challenges and Passion in Oral Surgery 15:38 Evolution of Full Arch Dentistry 17:46 The Role of Digital Dentistry in Modern Surgery 18:16 Nerve Grafting and Patient Expectations 20:24 Advancements in Oral Surgery 21:01 The Future of Robotics and AI in Dentistry 21:28 The Importance of Research in Dentistry 26:36 Innovative Techniques in Oral Surgery 29:33 Final Advice for Dental Students and New Grads Support the show

    33 min

  4. 12/16/2025

    Balancing the OR and Private Practice w/ Dr. Samir Singh

    Send a text In this episode of Let's Talk Teeth, we are joined by Dr. Samir Singh, an accomplished oral and maxillofacial surgeon from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Dr. Singh shares his journey through dental school at the University of Pittsburgh, his residency at Virginia Commonwealth University, and his practice at North Pittsburgh Oral Surgery since 2016. He discusses his decision-making process between the MD track versus the traditional four-year path, insights into his broad scope of practice, and the impact of mentorship on his career choices. Dr. Singh also talks about the challenges and rewards of keeping an open mind throughout his training, his experience with digital workflows, and the essential role of technology in modern dental practices. Reflecting on his career goals, he emphasizes the importance of leaving a legacy, balancing his professional life with family, and contributing to the next generation through teaching and mentorship. Tune in for a deep dive into oral surgery, professional growth, and the future of dentistry. Stay connected with Dr. Singh via his Instagram @ssingh_dmd_facs and be sure to reach out with any questions you all may have!  00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:42 Dr. Singh's Background and Education 01:12 Choosing the OMS Path 02:23 Residency Experience and Mentorship 04:14 Transition to Private Practice 09:44 Daily Life in Private Practice 15:44 Future of OMS and Personal Goals 25:39 Advice for Dental Students 27:08 Closing Remarks and Contact Information Support the show

    28 min

  5. 11/10/2025

    An Innovative Approach to TMD w/ Dr. Tony Urbanek

    Send a text In this episode of Let’s Talk Teeth, we are joined by Dr. Tony Urbanek, a distinguished oral maxillofacial surgeon with over 40 years of experience in the field and a renowned specialist in TMD treatment. Join us as we discuss his Dr. Tony's unorthodox journey in undergrad, his accelerated progress through dental school, and his groundbreaking research combining dental and medical training at Vanderbilt University. Dr. Tony dives deep into his focus on non-surgical treatment for TMD, explaining the physiology behind the condition and sharing insights about his patented device designed to alleviate TMD symptoms. Feel free to reach out to Dr. Tony at tony@tmjservices.net, and tune into his podcast 'TMD Demystified' on YouTube and Spotify! 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 00:18 Dr. Tony's Educational Journey 00:44 Discovering a Passion for Dentistry 01:29 Challenges and Triumphs in Dental School 02:17 Advanced Studies and Early Career 05:16 Innovative Research and Breakthroughs 07:25 A Distinguished Career in Oral Surgery 09:27 Encouragement for Aspiring Dentists 12:03 The TMJ Journey and Non-Surgical Solutions 17:44 Personal Insights and Final Thoughts 26:10 Unexpected Results in Early Cases 26:36 Understanding the Mechanism of TMD 27:57 Linking TMD to Other Conditions 29:17 Mechanisms of Pain and Inflammation 35:39 Introducing the TMJ Device 45:10 Advice for Dental Students 51:30 Final Thoughts and Contact Information Support the show

    52 min

  6. 09/15/2025

    The Evolution of Oral Surgery Practice w/ Dr. Joe Doctora

    Send a text In this week's episode of Let's Talk Teeth, we sit down with Dr. Joe Doctora, a successful oral surgeon practicing in Nashville, TN who shares his incredible journey and insights into the field of oral surgery. Dr. Doctora discusses his educational background at Meharry Medical College, his experiences with trauma and pathology during his non-categorical year at the University of Miami, and the persistence required to succeed in his specialty. He also provides valuable advice to dental students, reflects on the challenges and rewards of starting his own practice, and offers his perspective on the future landscape of dentistry. Tune in to hear Dr. Doctora's thoughts on private equity, practice management, and the evolving  landscape of the dental industry. Don't miss out on this insightful conversation! 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 00:42 Journey to Oral Surgery 02:06 Residency Experiences 05:50 Starting a Practice 08:02 Challenges and Growth 12:34 Current Practice and Future Plans 13:34 Adjusting Workflow with Associates 14:36 Deciding to Hire an Associate 15:24 Characteristics of an Ideal Associate 16:23 Future Plans for the Practice 17:23 Private Equity in Dentistry 22:52 Advice for New Dental Practitioners 24:09 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Support the show

    25 min

  7. 08/04/2025

    Building a Successful DSO Brand at Life Dental w/ President Jeff Hand

    Send a text In this episode of Let’s Talk Teeth, we sit down with Jeff Hand, President of Life Dental Group, a regional DSO based in Oxford, Mississippi. Since its founding in 2018, Life Dental has grown to manage over 15 practices across the Southeast. Jeff shares the story behind that growth, beginning with early partnerships and continuing  to thrive through strategic expansion and culture building. We discuss the challenges that come with scaling, the importance of mentorship for new dentists, and how thoughtful marketing plays a critical role in attracting and retaining patients. Whether you are a dental student, recent graduate, or experienced clinician, this episode offers valuable insight into the business and operational side of dentistry. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:20 Jeff Hand's Background and Life Dental Group 01:06 The Journey of Life Dental Group 02:53 Understanding DSOs and Life Dental's Unique Approach 04:37 Challenges in Scaling and Team Building 06:35 Growth Strategy and Practice Acquisitions 10:34 Employee Retention and Culture 13:09 Advice for New Dentists and Training Programs 18:30 Marketing Strategies for Dental Practices 19:01 The Role of Location and Facilities 19:22 Effective Marketing Techniques 21:09 Introducing Dr. Mike Huggins 23:20 Acquiring and Managing Dental Practices 25:54 Challenges in Practice Transitions 27:51 Future Vision for Life Dental 30:25 Advice for Dental Students 32:38 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Support the show

    34 min

  8. 07/14/2025

    Dr. Mohaad Faraj's Journey to Prosthodontics and Private Practice

    Send a text In this episode of Let's Talk Teeth, we welcome Dr. Mohaad Faraj, a skilled prosthodontist with an inspiring journey. Dr. Faraj takes us through his educational background, including his extensive 11-year tenure at the University of Connecticut, where he completed his undergrad, dental school, and prosthodontics training. Now practicing in Lubbock, Texas, Dr. Faraj discusses his current professional endeavors, including working as a contractor at two practices primarily focusing on surgeries, and the exciting process of opening his own practice. He offers insightful advice on choosing the right path in dentistry, the benefits of choosing the right residency program, and tips for new graduates navigating contract negotiations and career planning. Don't miss this engaging and informative conversation! 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:33 Dr. Faraj's Background and Journey to Dentistry 01:22 Choosing Dentistry and Early Career Decisions 03:35 Residency and Specialization in Prosthodontics 05:46 Starting a Practice and Overcoming Challenges 11:39 Surgical Training and Immediate Implants 18:33 The Value of Residency Over CE Courses 19:22 Mentorship and Practical Training in Residency 20:36 Transitioning to Private Practice and Contract Work 22:56 Advice for New Graduates on Employment Contracts 29:50 Immediate Implants: Benefits and Techniques 35:31 Final Advice for Dental Students and New Grads Support the show

    39 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Let’s Talk Teeth is a dental podcast dedicated to helping the next generation of dentists succeed. Hosted by Saad Alamgir and Victor Razi, two dental students passionate about the future of the profession, the show features conversations with leading clinicians, residency program directors, and innovators in dentistry. Each episode explores topics such as dental school, specialty training, clinical practice, leadership, entrepreneurship, and the evolving role of technology in oral healthcare. Whether you're exploring dentistry as a career or already on the journey, Let’s Talk Teeth brings you insights, experiences, and advice from people shaping the field. For guest opportunities or questions, contact us at letstalkteethpodcast@gmail.com.

Information

  • Creator
    Saad Alamgir & Victor Razinobakht
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    40
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Let's Talk Teeth
  • Show Website
    Let's Talk Teeth