The DOC Podcast

I am SO EXCITED to bring you today’s guest, Dr. Tom Pitts.  Dr. Pitts is a true legend in the field of orthodontics who has been practicing and educating for over 50 years.  We have an amazing discussion about a variety of topics, including: 

In this episode of the DOC Podcast, I welcome Dr. Mark Cruz, a dentist with a distinguished career, including serving as assistant director at the UCLA Center for Aesthetic Dentistry and on the editorial board for the Journal of Evidence-Based Dental Practice.  

We delve into an evidence-based discussion about the etiology of malocclusion, exploring whether it is determined by genetics, environment, or both, the evolution of craniofacial growth and development, the impact of modern lifestyle on health and malocclusion, the importance of early intervention in patients suffering from sleep-disordered breathing, and the multitude of comorbidities as...

In this episode of the DOC podcast, I am joined by Dr. David McIntosh, an ENT specialist, and Dr. Bill Harrell, an orthodontist.  We delve into the topics of evidence-based medicine, the significance of CBCT imaging, the challenges with pediatric sleep studies, and the critical role of identifying and treating mouth breathing in young children.

Drs. McIntosh and Harrell share insights on how early detection and management of sleep-disordered breathing by the dental professional can prevent long-term health issues, highlight the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in promoting pediatric health, and dispel many of the myths surrounding the i...

In this episode of The DOC Podcast, I dive into a fascinating discussion with Dr. Barry Raphael, an esteemed orthodontist who has revolutionized treatments to address airway-centered dysfunctions.  

Together, we explore the importance of early intervention in pediatric airway health, the critical role of soft tissue function in malocclusion, and how multidisciplinary approaches can enhance patient outcomes. 

The conversation touches upon the resistance within the profession to embrace new paradigms and offers insights into how orthodontists and other dental professionals can evolve their practices to better serve patients holistically.

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In this episode of The DOC Podcast, I’m joined by Dr. Jack Fisher, an esteemed orthodontist with decades of experience in both clinical practice and education. Dr. Fisher shares his journey, from overcoming dyslexia and ADD to becoming a pioneer in the use of temporary skeletal anchorage devices (TSADs) and CBCT imaging for orthodontic diagnosis and treatment. 

The discussion dives into various topics, including the future of orthodontic education, the necessity of early intervention, the use of 3D imaging, evidence-based practice, and the importance of addressing the why in orthodontics. Dr. Fisher emphasizes the need...

In this episode of The DOC Podcast, my guest is Dr. Dave McCarty, a board-certified expert in internal and sleep medicine. 

Dr. McCarty discusses his journey from a primary care internist to an innovator in sleep medicine. He sheds light on the complexities of sleep apnea, the importance of nasal breathing, and the shortcomings of the current treatment protocols. 

Dr. McCarty introduces his Empowered Sleep Apnea Project and the innovative integrated multidisciplinary ecosystem at Rebis, designed to democratize complexity and improve patient outcomes. The discussion also highlights the need for collaboration betw...

In this episode, I welcome Dr. German Ramirez, an expert in pediatric dentistry and orthodontics with a PhD in oral biology. We discuss Dr. Ramirez's career journey from Colombia to Canada and his unique approach to early orthodontic intervention. 

The conversation delves into the importance of functional appliances, the role of pediatric airway-focused therapy, the interplay between genetics and environment in craniofacial growth, and the significance of collaboration between medical professionals in treating sleep and breathing disorders. 

Dr. Ramirez also emphasizes the need for effective communication with young patients and their pare...

In this episode of The DOC Podcast, I welcome Dino Watt to discuss personal and professional development. We dive into Dino's background, exploring how his diverse experiences in acting, DJing, and business have shaped his expertise as a business relationship trainer. 

Dino shares insights into effective team management, the importance of knowing your 'why,' and strategies for maintaining work-life balance, especially in marriage. The episode emphasizes the need for clear communication, understanding individual motivations, and fostering a supportive work environment. 

Dino also discusses the changing landscape of the dental industry, incl...

In this episode of The DOC Podcast, I’m joined by Doctors Claire Ferrari and Allie Larios of Ferrari Larios Orthodontics in Kensington, California. Together, they discuss transforming patient care through a proactive, whole-body approach to orthodontics. 

Topics include the need to integrate overall health into orthodontic residency programs, early diagnostic and treatment for pre-adolescent patients, the benefits of CBCT imaging, the relationship between tooth extraction and airway issues, building a trusted medical network, and the impact of corporate entities in dentistry. We also delve into the future of orthodontics and their decision to pursue a tr...

On this episode of The DOC Podcast, I sit down with Dr. George Mandelaris, a leading expert in periodontology and dental implant surgery.  Dr. Mandelaris shares his extensive journey from Flint, Michigan, to becoming a thought leader in the dental community, highlighting his work on surgically facilitated orthodontic therapy (SFOT), guided implantology, and the use of CBCT imaging. 

We discuss the importance of proper diagnosis, treatment planning, and interdisciplinary approaches to improving patient care, as well as the need for lifelong learning, the impact of early intervention in orthodontics, and the potential challenges posed by cos...

In recent years, more non-orthodontists have begun doing interceptive orthodontics.  Why is that, and what role are orthodontists playing in this shift?  I discuss that and much more with Dr. Jenna Schwibner, owner of Dental Partners of Vero Beach.  

Dr. Schwibner is an amazing practitioner who focuses on the intersection of oral and total body health through airway-focused dentistry.  She shares her journey from traditional dentistry to a holistic approach that diagnoses and assists with the management of obstructive airways, including how her education under the late Dr. Peter Dawson helped shape her practice philosophy. 

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In this milestone 100th episode of The DOC Podcast, I am joined by Drs. Lynda and Krystle Dean Duru, a mother-daughter team of board-certified pediatric dentists in Ashburn, Virginia. They discuss their holistic approach to pediatric dentistry that focuses on understanding the root causes of oral health issues and preventing disease by linking oral health to overall well-being. 

They emphasize the importance of early intervention, nasal breathing, and comprehensive integrative care. The episode highlights the journey and transformational results they have seen with their unique and patient-centered practice philosophy.

00:00 Introduction and Mil...

In this episode of The DOC Podcast, I interview Tim “Jai” Baker, a seasoned financial advisor with a unique focus on integrating personal wellness and professional success.  Jai shares his life story, tracing his journey from a golf scholarship at the University of South Carolina to his successful career in financial planning and wealth management, emphasizing the importance of being the best version of oneself and maintaining a balance between personal fulfillment and professional achievement.

Jai discusses the critical role of meditation and personal introspection in managing stress and achieving overall personal and financial well-being.   He also touche...

In this episode of The DOC Podcast, Melissa Mugno shares her journey from dental assistant to dental hygienist, to orofacial myofunctional therapist, delving into the complexities and benefits of myofunctional therapy.  She discusses the various appliances like Myobrace, MyoMunchie, and the importance of integrating these tools into dental practices.

Melissa emphasizes the need for collaboration between dentists and myofunctional therapists and provides practical advice for implementing airway-focused approaches into a busy dental or orthodontic practice.  She also highlights the significance of educating patients and the dental team to achieve better clinical outcomes. 

Thi...

In this episode of The DOC Podcast, I have the pleasure of interviewing Dr. Skye Zeller, a distinguished dentist and expert in airway health. The conversation delves into Dr. Zeller's unique journey from studying molecular biology to becoming a dentist with a special focus on sleep medicine. 

We discuss her comprehensive new patient examination process, tips on coordinating care with medical and OMT colleagues, and how she handles professional criticism. Dr. Zeller shares personal stories about her own children’s health challenges and how it fueled her passion for airway-focused treatment. 

The ep...

In this episode of The DOC Podcast, I host Dr. Steve Lamberg, a renowned dentist and airway management expert. Dr. Lamberg shares his journey from entering his father's dental practice to becoming a leading figure in dental sleep medicine.  We discuss innovative diagnostic approaches, the challenges of integrating airway-focused treatments into dental practices, and the evolution of the field in recent years. The episode offers insights into preventing airway issues through early dental interventions and emphasizes the importance of remaining curious and adaptable in professional practices.

Dr. Lamberg also shares many of his diagnostic approaches, as...

In this episode of The DOC Podcast, I am joined by Dr. Roger Price, a world-renowned expert in airway and breathing. Our discussion dives deep into the importance of correct breathing, both at rest and during exertion, and the consequences of improper breathing. 

Topics include the essential role of nasal breathing, the balance of oxygen and CO2, thoughts on various breathing methods, and the intersection of epigenetics with breathing and malocclusion. Dr. Price also critiques Western medicine’s reactive approach and advocates for proactive healthcare and early intervention. 

We explore innovative soluti...

In this episode of 'Airway Conversations,' Nicole and I dive deep into the nuances of airway health to explore the intricate connections between breathing, sleep, facial development, and overall wellness. 

This episode features expert insights on topics ranging from early intervention in orthodontics, to the reasons why many orthodontists will only expand the upper jaw if the patient has a posterior crossbite, to the numerous issues with pediatric sleep studies and why children can have an AHI of 0 and yet still be suffering from an airway problem.  Through an engaging discussion involving patient cases and...

In this insightful episode of The DOC Podcast, I chat with my colleague Dr. Paul Henny about the multi-faceted nature of the dental profession, emphasizing the importance of looking at dentistry from clinical, philosophical, financial, and behavioral standpoints.  Dr. Henny shares his personal journey in the dental field, detailing his family background in dentistry, his challenges, and eventual success in developing a thriving, patient-centered practice.  

The discussion delves into the potential pitfalls of corporatized dental practices, the significance of forming therapeutic alliances with patients, and the benefits of maintaining a preventive, holistic approach to dental care.  Dr. Hen...

In this episode of The DOC Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Maria Sokolina, a dentist with a fascinating journey from Russia to the U.S.  Hear her struggles and successes in integrating airway, health, wellness, and myofunctional therapy into her dental practice.  Discover how early challenges in restorative dentistry and orthodontics led her to dive deep into sleep medicine and its impacts on dental health. 

Dr. Sokolina shares inspiring patient stories, her collaboration with medical professionals, and practical advice for young dentists navigating the corporate and private practice landscape. Learn about her passion for comp...

In this episode of The DOC Podcast, I have the pleasure of hosting Brittny Murphy, a registered dental hygienist and certified orofacial myologist. Brittny shares her journey into the field of orofacial myology and her experiences as an educator and mentor. 

The discussion covers a comprehensive overview of orofacial myofunctional therapy, its benefits, diagnostic and treatment protocols, and the importance of collaborative care. Brittny also provides insights into the implications of oral habits, the role of non-nutritive sucking, the use of guidance appliances and myo munchies, and offers practical advice for parents and practitioners in ma...

In this episode of The DOC Podcast, I have the pleasure of interviewing Dr. Svitlana Koval, an orthodontist from Boca Raton, Florida, whose practice focuses on detecting and treating patients with sleep-disordered breathing. 

The discussion covers Dr. Koval’s groundbreaking work in airway-focused orthodontics and the treatment of temporomandibular disorders, the various factors impacting jaw development in children, the need for better education in orthodontic training programs regarding airway health, the importance of early intervention and why Dr. Koval treats patients as young as 3 years old, and the benefits of collaborating with medical professionals.

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In this episode, I bring you a deep dive into sleep and airway disorders with two leading experts in the field, Dr. Jerry Simmons, a neurologist with a passion for sleep medicine, and Dr. Steve Carstensen, a renowned dentist who focuses on airway management in his patients.  

Join us as we explore their sleep and airway medicine journeys, discuss the complexities and spectrum of sleep-related breathing disorders, and highlight the importance of dental and medical collaboration. We delve into the epidemiology of sleep disorders, the shortcomings in medical and dental education regarding airway & sleep, the cr...

In this episode, I have a fascinating and thought-provoking conversation with real estate investor David Valley about financial freedom and personal transformation through real estate and self-development.  

David outlines his journey from modest means to becoming a multimillionaire in commercial real estate.  He shares insights about overcoming challenges, leveraging opportunities, and the importance of mindset in achieving success.  The discussion covers practical steps for investing in real estate, the role of mentorship, balancing work and life, and understanding the tax benefits of real estate investments. 

Whether you're an aspiring investor or a seasoned profe...

Don’t miss this episode of The DOC Podcast as we delve into the revolutionary approach of functional pediatric dentistry with Dr. Pia Gandhi.  You’ll learn about Dr. Gandhi's inspiring journey, her pioneering work in early airway intervention, and how she's transforming lives by addressing the root causes of pediatric sleep and breathing disorders. 

You’ll also discover the challenges and rewards of going beyond traditional dental care, and gain insights into the importance of educating both practitioners and parents. This episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in how innovative dental practices can impact ov...

In this episode of The DOC Podcast, I’m joined by Dr. Andrew Leland, an orthodontist from Reno, Nevada, to discuss the journey from traditional orthodontic techniques to modern, proactive treatments that focus on the etiology of malocclusion. 

Dr. Leland shares insights into his unique career path, the importance of evaluating airway issues in younger patients using CBCT imaging, and his approach to early interceptive orthodontic treatment. We delve into the complexities of balancing life as a parent, spouse, business owner, and orthodontist, while exploring the mindset shifts necessary for growth in both professional and pers...

Today’s guest is Dr. Amanda Vanderstelt, a renowned orthodontist from Denver, Colorado. Known for her holistic approach to orthodontics, Amanda delves into the root causes and etiology of orthodontic issues, prioritizing overall facial health over merely straightening teeth. 

In this episode, Amanda shares her fascinating journey to becoming an orthodontist, the importance of understanding the etiology of malocclusion, and her passion for airway-focused orthodontics. Learn about her protocols, the significance of craniofacial growth, and why many orthodontists may overlook airway issues. Amanda also opens up about the challenges of owning her practice and balancing fami...

In this episode, Dr. Mike and Nicole Goldfarb, an orofacial myofunctional therapist, dive deep into pediatric airway health and sleep-disordered breathing.  This is the first episode in a collaborative series called Airway Conversations which has the goal of spreading awareness and educating providers and parents on the topic of pediatric airway health. 

This episode emphasizes the importance of early detection and treatment of pediatric sleep-disordered breathing, challenges the notion that orthodontics and airway issues are not interconnected, and reviews the stance of both the American Dental Association (ADA) and American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) on the...

Earlier this year, I got to sit on the other side of the microphone and be interviewed by my daughter, Kendall!  As part of her ACE General Paper class, Kendall had to select someone to interview to learn more about their live story and journey and she chose me!  So we figured we’d record it and let everyone hear our conversation! 

With the Holidays upon us, I figured it was a good episode to repost as a reminder to focus on family, faith, and constantly working to grow and become your best self.

I hope...

In this episode of The DOC Podcast, I get to talk with Dr. Maz Moshiri, a visionary orthodontist and educator known for pioneering clear aligner therapy.  We discuss Dr. Moshiri's journey into orthodontics, the bridging of the clinical-academic divide, and his groundbreaking work with clear aligners.  We delve into the importance of breaking professional dogmas, persevering through challenges, the need for orthodontists to embrace proactive patient care, and transformative developments in early orthodontic treatment.  We also discuss the upcoming 'Winds of Change' meeting and share personal stories that showcase the impact of modern orthodontics on patient lives.   Don't miss this...

Join Dr. Mike as he hosts visionary orthodontist Dr. Ilya Lipkin on this episode of the Doc Podcast. Dr. Lipkin discusses his groundbreaking work with Mini Screw Assisted Rapid Maxillary Expansion (MARPE) and shares his journey, from overcoming academic challenges in the Soviet Union to becoming a pioneer in airway-focused orthodontics. 

Learn about the clinical and academic divide in the field, the importance of comprehensive patient care that goes beyond aligning teeth, and practical advice for implementing MARPE in a busy practice. Dr. Lipkin also touches on the vital role of diagnostic processes and offers i...

In this episode of the Doc Podcast, host Dr. Mike DeLuke delves into the crucial topic of optimizing profitability in orthodontic practices. Joined by a distinguished panel of guests—Mary Sawtelle, Dr. Brad Chvatal, and Paul Gange, Jr.—they discuss strategies for controlling overhead costs and increasing net income.

Topics include effective inventory management, the importance of efficient bonding protocols, and the role of leadership and team culture in driving practice success. This comprehensive discussion is a must-listen for practitioners looking to improve their bottom line while maintaining high-quality patient care. Tune in for actionable insights and expe...

In this special Thanksgiving episode of The DOC Podcast, Dr. Mike DeLuke shares his thoughts on gratitude and the importance of recognizing blessings amidst a busy life. He also addresses common challenges faced during the festive season, such as stress management, goal setting for the upcoming year, and making smart financial decisions.

Dr. DeLuke delves deep into the impact of stress on both physical and mental health, offering scientifically backed strategies to manage it effectively. He further emphasizes the importance of creating a vision for life and setting clear goals to achieve it, sharing personal anecdotes and...

In this episode, I welcome the amazing Dr. Claudia Pinter, an internationally renowned orthodontist and faculty member in the Department of Orthodontics at Nova Southeastern University.  Dr. Pinter shares her journey from Vienna, Austria to becoming a pioneer in clear aligner therapy. The discussion delves into the importance of blending art and science in orthodontics, the value of studying post-treatment records, and the necessity of screening patients for airway issues. 

Dr. Pinter also shares her innovative techniques in maxillary expansion using bone-borne expanders, the role of social media in patient education, and the significance of being transparent an...

Transforming Oral Surgery: Insights from Dr. David Alfi

In this episode of the 'Doc Podcast,' host Dr. Mike DeLuke interviews acclaimed oral surgeon Dr. David Alfi from Los Angeles, California. They discuss Dr. Alfi's journey through Columbia University, his evolution from academic practice to private practice in Houston, and the development of his groundbreaking surgical techniques. Dr. Alfi shares his innovative approaches in orthognathic surgery, including the use of custom-printed titanium guides and plates, which have significantly improved surgical outcomes, efficiency, and patient recovery times. The conversation extends to the crucial topic of airway i...

Money, retirement, wealth, prosperity.  All terms we are familiar with but do any of us know how to achieve them?  That is why I wanted to have my friend and colleague, Dr. Mart McClellan on the show.  Mart is an orthodontist AND a financial advisor and he is a wealth (pun intended 😊) of knowledge.  He will share how he feels all of us can achieve financial prosperity both pre-and post-retirement. 

We discuss:

·         What motivated Mart to pursue a career in financial advisement while he was practicing orthodontics full-time.

·         How a conference Mart went to as a resident cha...

I had the pleasure of interviewing Dr. Kalli Hale, an amazing general dentist who transformed her practice into one that focuses on the overall health and well-being of her patients.  In addition to being a wealth of knowledge on airway and early treatment, she is a business owner, wife, mom, and national lecturer.  

We discuss:

Dentists and orthodontists often debate the role we play in the detection and management of airway compromise, especially in children.  I had a fascinating conversation with Dr. David McIntosh, a highly regarded ENT from Australia, who offered his thoughts on the topic from a medical perspective. 

 We discuss:

Life is a journey and today’s guest, Lauren Gueits, truly exemplifies that fact.  She has worked in private practice, as a high-level rep with Align, and is now on a mission to help children by advancing awareness of airway health.  Lauren has an amazing ability to persevere through whatever life puts in front of her and has a deep passion for promoting the connection between our mouth and our overall health.  We discuss:

·         How Lauren ended up pursuing dental hygiene as a career, and why she feels she was called to dentistry.

·         Her role with Dr. Lorne Go...

Melissa Methven is a dental hygienist whose husband, Scott, a dentist, committed suicide in 2022, leaving behind Melissa and her two young children.  She shares her incredible story of emerging from a time of great darkness and tragedy with the hope of helping others who are struggling with depression.  

We discuss:

·         Scott’s tremendous passion for dentistry.

·         What led Scott to take his own life and, in hindsight, some of the warning signs that were there.

·         How Scott’s cycle of depression spun deeper and deeper.

·         The role that suppression plays in our...