Little Teeth, BIG Smiles

LTBS Host Dr. Joel Berg is joined by Dr. Brian Martin for a robust conversation focused on the integration of dentistry and medicine. Dr. Martin shares his unique perspective as a pediatric dentist now in hospital administration, delving into the shift to value-based care, which is a more discreet measurement of outcomes over costs, and how caries risk assessment may be impacted. The duo also discusses the commitment pediatric dentists have made to preserve access to care for all children. 

Guest Bio:  

Dr. Brian S. Martin is a board-certified pediatric dentist and healthcare lead...

Host Dr. Joel Berg is joined by American Dental Association (ADA) President Dr. Thomas Paumier for a conversation focused on the work of the ADA and how specialty practitioners can benefit from maintaining a connection with the organization. Speaking to the importance of that connection and teamwork from the AAPD 2026 Annual Session Exhibit Hall Floor, Dr. Paumier shares details of the cohesion between the ADA President and President-Elect as well as his goals for the ADA and its partnership with the AAPD as he ascends to the President role in October 2026.  

Guest Bio:  

Thoma...

In this episode of little teeth BIG Smiles, Dr. Joel Berg sits down with Dr. Ann Bynum to explore what it takes to build a strong, thriving pediatric dental practice. From the power of language and creating a true team culture to transparency, mentorship, shared decision-making and fostering a growth mindset, Dr. Bynum shares practical insights from her years of experience as a practice owner, mentor and leader. The conversation offers valuable advice for pediatric dentists at every stage of their careers, discussing how to bring new doctors and team members into the culture, create clear expectations and build systems tha...

Dr. Bobby Elliott returns to the podcast to chat about burnout as it relates to patient and practice management and education. He and Dr. Berg talk through solutions focused on his mantra – “Educate, don’t convince.” – that support office culture and patient/family satisfaction and trust. Dr. Elliott shares his tools for identifying work/life imbalance and building connection and investment in one another. 

Guest Bio:  

Dr. Bobby Elliott is from Louisville, Kentucky where he graduated from the University of Louisville School of Dentistry. His pediatric dental residency was completed at the UNC School of Dentistry and UNC Memorial...

Host Dr. Joel Berg speaks with Dr. Chelsea Fosse, Vice President of the AAPD Research & Policy Center (RPC) on the current hot topics in public health and how the RPC is working to make an impact. Dr. Fosse delves into the impacts of federal updates on pediatric dentistry and the organizations advocating for the health of children. She shares a timeline for the anticipated impacts of H.R. 1 to families and how AAPD members and other healthcare professionals can turn to the RPC for support with state-specific questions relating to Medicaid or other legislation.  

Guest Bio:  

Chelsea Foss...

Incoming AAPD CEO Dr. Jessica Y. Lee joins host Dr. Joel Berg for an engaging discussion of her goals and vision for the Academy’s future. She shares her journey through pediatric dentistry, delving into what excites her most as she shifts from academia to leader of the AAPD. In this heartfelt and genuine conversation, Dr. Lee compares taking on the CEO role to “coming home” and hopes to bring that sense of belonging to the newest generations of pediatric dentists as she takes the helm. 

Guest Bio:  

Dr. Jessica Y. Lee is Chief Executive Officer o...

In this very special episode of little teeth, BIG Smiles, host Dr. Joel Berg is joined by Dr. John Rutkaushas on the verge of his retirement after 27 years as American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and AAPD Foundation CEO. Dr. Rutkauskas shares his personal highlights from his career, many of which made a profound impact on the profession – from elevating advocacy and education to strengthening the voice of pediatric dentists nationwide. He also reflects on the vision, dedication, and transformative leadership that helped shape the AAPD into the organization it is today, positioned to continue its mission of optimal oral health for all chil...

Host Dr. Joel Berg is joined by Dr. Juan Yepes, a distinguished professor and AAPD 2026 featured speaker, for a discussion focused on Dr. Yepes unique journey to become both a pediatric dentist and medical primary care physician. Dr. Yepes shares his stories from studying in numerous programs around the globe and how they each played a role in his growth and network, highlighting how all of the experiences and relationships have shaped him as a teacher and professional.  

Guest Bio:  

Juan F. Yepes DDS, MD, MPH, MS, DrPH is a full professor in the Department of Pediatric Dentistry a...

Dr. Cody Masts joins host Dr. Joel Berg for a conversation on the importance of building relationships with your pediatric patients. Dr. Mast shares his winding journey that led him to choosing dentistry and why working in pediatrics appealed to him after first treating adults. He also discusses how cultivating relationships can be even more impactful for your business, especially concerning patients utilizing Medicaid, from his perspective as the CEO of a 15-office practice group.  

Guest Bio:  

Dr. Cody Mast is a board-certified pediatric dentist who grew up in Bellevue, Wash. He is the son of a pediatr...

On this episode, host Dr. Joel Berg is joined by Dr. Jorge Castillo, past president of the International Association of Paediatric Dentistry (IAPD) to discuss Dr. Castillo’s session at AAPD 2026 in Las Vegas. The session, featuring Dr. Castillo and other international experts, delves into the global perspectives on early intervention with developing dentition and how pediatric dentistry and orthodontics intersect during that decision-making process.  

Dr. Castillo also lends his voice to the ongoing little teeth, BIG Smiles discussion relating to the co-location of pediatric dentistry and orthodontics, sharing his perspective on international trends, particularly in comprehensive car...

This episode of Little Teeth, BIG Smiles explores how co-locating pediatric dentistry and orthodontics under one roof advances dentistry’s version of the Triple Aim: improving patient experience, enhancing population oral health, and reducing per-capita costs. Dr. Christina Carter joins our host Dr. Joel Berg for a discussion that reframes co-location not as a convenience model, but as a value-based, prevention-oriented system of care that is particularly impactful for children, families, and underserved communities. 

Guest Bio:  

Dr. Christina R. Carter is a graduate of Haverford College in Haverford, Penn. She earned her dental degree at UMDN...

Pediatric dentist and entrepreneur Dr. Ashley Lerman joins little teeth, BIG Smiles to chat with Dr. Berg about her company First Grin and how its unique approach to teaching families about oral health care. Dr. Lerman shares how First Grin was born out of her experience right out of residency, working in a clinic, seeing dozens of high-risk patients a day who often had little-to-no prevention knowledge. She explains the original First Grin kit designed for expectant parents to set families up for success with the tools and knowledge needed for at-home preventive care. Dr. Lerman also delves into...

Host Dr. Joel Berg is joined by American Dental Association (ADA) President Dr. Richard Rosato. In this conversation, Dr. Rosato shares his journey from shifting gears from pediatric medicine to pediatric dentistry as a student and how his relationships have affected his participation in organized dentistry. 

Dr. Rosato shares his experience as a private practitioner and business owner, and how that mentality and passion influence the impact he hopes to have during his time as ADA President. In particular, Dr. Rosato speaks about the importance of practitioner and patient mental wellbeing. 

Guest Bio: 

Dr...

Host Dr. Joel Berg is joined by Dr. Tim Wright on this episode of little teeth, BIG Smiles for a discussion of hot topics in dentistry and how those topics make it into the profession’s academic publications. Dr. Wright also delves into his experience as Editor of JADA, the Journal of the American Dental Association. Now in his fourth year, he explains the manuscript submission and review process, as well as the topics he anticipates being the next big “cover stories” and emerging topics. 

Guest Bio: 

Tim Wright received his DDS degree from West Virginia...

Host Dr. Joel Berg speaks with Dr. Chelsea Fosse, Vice President of the AAPD Research and Policy Center (RPC) on the current hot topics in public health and how the RPC is working to make an impact. They delve into how pediatric dentistry can continue to lead the way among the other dental specialties and with our medical peers on care for those children and adults with disabilities and other special healthcare needs. Dr. Fosse also shares how AAPD members and other healthcare professionals can turn to the RPC for support with state-specific questions relating to Medicaid or other...

Dr. David Carsten joins little teeth, BIG Smiles host Dr. Joel Berg for a conversation on waterline safety. A previous Chair of Infection Control for the Washington State Dental Commission, Dr. Carsten shares information on how waterlines can be compromised and what practitioners can do to maintain waterline safety to protect their patients and themselves. 

Guest Bio: 

David Carsten, DDS, is a dentist anesthesiologist. He has a BS in Biochemistry from Washington State University, with a background in Medical Bacteriology and virology. His DDS is from the University of Washington. He has 5 publications in the sc...

Dr. Jeanette MacLean, a trailblazer in minimally invasive SDF practices, joins Dr. Joel Berg to discuss how observations and a willingness to try a different approach can positively benefit both providers and patients. Dr. MacLean shares how her own learning experiences seeing the same patients year after year in private practice led to her desire to consider less aggressive treatment options. She also delves into how the collaborative pediatric dental community was imperative in guiding her path.  

Guest Bio:  

Dr. Jeanette MacLean has been in private practice as an Owner for 20 years. As an ap...

LTBS host Dr. Joel Berg sits down with incoming American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry President Dr. Tom Ison to talk about his leadership journey. Dr. Ison shares how he felt the pull to specialize in pediatrics after practicing as a general dentist, and how that choice impacted him as a rural practitioner. He also delves into his agenda for the 25-26 Academy year, including honoring the legacy of the leaders who came before him. Recorded in front of a live audience at AAPD 2025, the conversation is a testament to the importance of professional organizations and the role they play...

Dr. Carolyn Strom joins host Dr. Joel Berg to discuss the impact of literacy on how the brain continues to learn and process information. Dr. Strom shares her experience as a first-grade teacher in an area with high rates of intergenerational illiteracy and how her interactions with parents and students led her to dive deeper into the neurosciences of learning and comprehension, particularly in relation to dyslexia. She speaks to how implementing the science of learning matters as the brain learns new skills – and how this thinking can also be utilized in the dental sphere. 

Gues...

On this exciting episode of LTBS, host Dr. Joel Berg is joined by AAPD 2025 keynote speaker Mick Ebeling for a candid conversation delving into Mick’s mantra of “commit, then figure it out.” Sharing the story of an accidental invention that made the seemingly impossible possible, he highlights his unique problem-solving approach that brings together passionate and talented people to create solutions that better the world. Mick also speaks to the impact that grounding yourself in the belief that something that’s possible today was once considered impossible can have on your ability to make change. 

Guest Bio: 

Host Dr. Joel Berg is joined by Rose Dodson, founder and CEO of Sedation Resources for this episode of little teeth, BIG Smiles. Dodson discusses the importance in a strong foundation for sedation management and how emergency training is an integral piece of a practitioner’s overall skill set. She also delves into the latest updates in technology supporting safety. 

Guest Bio: 

Rose Dodson is the founder and CEO of Sedation Resource, a long-time Silver Sponsor of the AAPD. For over 20 years, Rose and her team have been dedicated to patient safety and supporting dental seda...

Dr. Jade Miller joins host Dr. Joel Berg for a very special episode of little teeth, BIG Smiles discussing a major opportunity within organized dentistry. After nearly 25 years, Dr. John Rutkauskas will be retiring as AAPD CEO in July 2026. Dr. Miller, as chair of the search committee to find AAPD’s new leader, shares details of the role as well as what it means to join an AAPD staff committed to the optimal oral health for all children. 

Guest Bio: 

Dr. Jade Miller is a board-certified pediatric dentist who since 1983 has maintained a private practice in R...

Legendary pediatric dentist Dr. Heber Simmons joins little teeth, BIG Smiles host Dr. Joel Berg, for a conversation featuring the highlights of his nearly six-decade long career. A previous AAPD Distinguished Service Award recipient, Dr. Simmons shares in detail the highlights of his career, beginning with how he got started in pediatric dentistry during his time in the Army and as the first pediatric dentist in Mississippi all the way through President of the AAPD and beyond. Dr. Simmons also delves into his “60 Minutes” appearance on behalf of the Academy and how his message still resonates with dental professionals and...

In the latest episode of little teeth, BIG Smiles, host Dr. Joel Berg is joined by Dr. Don Schmitt for a discussion on the importance of fluoride. A hot topic in recent news, fluoride – and specifically water fluoridation – has decades of science supporting its positive impact on the prevention of tooth decay. This is a great listen for a clinician looking for support with in-office conversations with patient families or a parent looking to better understand better how fluoride supports not only the oral health – but the overall health – of children. 

Guest Bio: 

Dr. Don Schmitt ha...

Host Dr. Joel Berg is joined by Dr. John Blake, the current Affiliate Membership Trustee of the AAPD Board, to for a conversation focused on how the advocacy and research of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry influences and supports not only pediatric dentists, but general dentists as well. Dr. Blake shares his unique professional journey as a general dentist focused on pediatric needs and how it led to various leadership roles in organized dentistry. 

Guest Bio: 

Dr. John Blake is the Executive Director and Dental Director of the Children’s Dental Health Clinic (CDHC) in L...

Host Dr. Joel Berg is joined by seasoned talent acquisition expert Ron Harrison for a conversation focused on the struggles of finding – and keeping – talent in dentistry. Harrison specifically dives into the similarities between the hiring practices of the early 2000s tech boom companies and DSOs, and how they can impact smaller, privately-owned practices. Learn how important a fast-paced, efficient decision-making process is when hiring to best meet your staffing needs in a competitive market. 

Guest Bio: 

Ron Harrison is a seasoned talent acquisition expert with over two decades of recruiting experience. He is the founde...

On this episode of little teeth, BIG Smiles, Dr. Susan Fisher-Owens, a nationally known pediatrician who is joining pediatric dentists on the front lines protecting children’s oral health, to discuss the importance of the care of adolescents to support them as they grow into their adult selves. Dr. Fisher-Owens shares important aspects of the adolescent psyche that all health care providers should keep in mind when counseling them on good health and habits and where pediatricians and pediatric dentists can bridge the two specialties. 

Guest Bio: 

Susan Fisher-Owens is a Clinical Professor of Pediatrics in t...

In this episode of little teeth, BIG Smiles, host Dr. Joel Berg is joined by Dr. Patty Medland, a pediatric dentist and orthodontist, to discuss the intersection and collaborative opportunities between the two specialties. Dr. Medland delves into the potential positive impacts to growth outcomes of early monitoring or treatment for children by a collaborative care team. 

Guest Bio: 

Dr. Patricia Medland holds a DDS degree from West Virginia University and MS degrees in both pediatric dentistry and orthodontics from the University of North Carolina, where she is currently an adjunct associate professor. She has co...

In this episode of Little Teeth, BIG Smiles, host Dr. Joel Berg is joined by Dr. Brett Kessler, a general dentist and the President-Elect of the American Dental Association (ADA) to discuss his extensive career and leadership roles within organized dentistry. Dr. Kessler reflects on his journey from an engineering student at the University of Iowa to his decision to pursue dentistry. He shares personal challenges, including overcoming substance abuse, and credits organized dentistry with saving his life and shaping his career. Throughout the conversation, Dr. Kessler highlights his commitment to wellness, which he passionately advocates for within the...

Recording live at AAPD 2024, this episode of little teeth, BIG Smiles features Dr. Leon Klempner joining host Dr. Joel Berg to discuss the importance of marketing to grow a practice in this digital environment. In this candid conversation, Dr. Klempner elaborates on his path to choosing to specialize in orthodontics after dental school and how the specialties of pediatrics and orthodontics can come together to maximize business potential. 

Guest Bio: 

Dr. Leon Klempner is the director of orthodontics at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, assistant clinical professor in both the Department of De...

Recorded live at AAPD 2024, little teeth, BIG Smiles host Dr. Joel Berg is joined by Dr. Matt Geneser to discuss the latest in vital pulp therapy for permanent teeth with deep caries lesions. A native Iowan now teaching at both the pre-doctoral and post-doctoral level in the Department of Pediatric Dentistry at the University of Iowa, Dr. Geneser shares his thoughts on how to foster better outcomes for vital pulp therapy, which has been shown to be a more successful option for permanent teeth in recent years. As part of the conversation, he delves into the why pulp therapy...

Host Dr. Joel Berg is joined by Dr. Jayakumar Jayaraman to discuss ongoing research delving into utilizing dental dentition as a tool to assess age and other health factors. Dr. Jayaraman shares details of finding thus far and how the information can be more broadly used to support the one in four children in developing countries who are unsure of their birth date, a major roadblock for refugees and immigration processes. 

Guest Bio: 

Dr. Jayakumar Jayaraman is a board certified Pediatric Dentist with extensive clinical and research training from various prestigious institutions around the world. He...

Dr. Reza Ardalan joins host Dr. Joel Berg to chat about his role as Master of Ceremonies for AAPD’s Annual Session and share some behind-the-scenes info about the exciting CE program and social events planned for May 2024 in Toronto. Listen today for a sneak peek at the all-new format for the Opening Ceremony and Keynote. 

Delve into some highlights of the Scientific Program agenda, including the pre-conference course and “Team Talk” for dentists and their teams. This episode is a must-listen for every AAPD member making the trip to Toronto. 

Guest Bio: 

Dr. Reza...

What’s one topic that routinely comes up between pediatric dentists and their patients? Pacifiers. Dr. Christina Carter chats with host Dr. Joel Berg the physiological impact and pros and cons of utilizing pacifiers as a tool. She walks listeners through her thought process when counseling parents on introducing and weaning a pacifier habit. 

Guest Bio: 

Dr. Christina R. Carter is a graduate of Haverford College in Haverford, Penn. She earned her dental degree at UMDNJ-NJDS, now Rutgers School of Dental Medicine. She earned her Certificate in both Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics at New York Univ...

The recently “retired” Dr. David Tesini joins little teeth, BIG Smiles host Dr. Joel Berg to chat about the importance of identifying passions beyond your areas of professional expertise to stay engaged and energized in your work. Dr. Tesini shares his own personal path to passion endeavors, specifically a prosecco vineyard in Italy, along with suggested ways to diversify your interests. He also discusses the importance of considering one-, three-, and five-year plans to help combat burnout and determine what it will take for you to feel fulfilled. 

Guest Bio: 

Dr. David Tesini recently retired after...

Dr. Kevin Donly joins little teeth, BIG Smiles host Dr. Joel Berg to share his journey through pediatric dentistry academia, including how he got his start and what he would have chosen to do differently. Dr. Donly breaks down what every professional contemplating entering academia needs to consider before making the leap. He also speaks to the importance of focusing on research early on during an academic career, as well as professional development geared towards teaching and leadership. 

Guest Bio: 

Kevin J. Donly, D.D.S., M.S. is currently a Professor and Chair Emeritus fo...

Host Dr. Joel Berg is joined by Dr. Whitney Casares, a pediatrician and CEO/Founder of Modern Mommy Doc, who, through her podcast and coaching, helps working moms break the cycle of burnout in parenting and shift their focus to their own health and well-being so they can create work-life integration in a way that fosters greater joy and purpose in every area of life. She discusses ways to empower yourself to stop over-functioning and instead re-prioritize your own needs so you can be the parent, professional, and person you’re meant to be.

Guest Bio:

...

Miscommunication can wreak havoc on the day-to-day operation of your practice, as well as its potential. Generational differences can be a major factor in miscommunication. Guest Lisa Copelands walks host Dr. Berg through the four generations potentially in the office every day, their strengths and concerns, and how to best communicate with someone who may not share your generational cultural milestones and experiences. 

Guest Bio: 

Lisa Copeland is a Gen X and an IRONMAN! She knows the corporate and clinical business of dentistry. As a team coach and professional speaker, her career has focus...

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry has held its Annual Session outside of the United States just once – in 1999 in Toronto, Canada. Now, 25 years later AAPD is excited to return to Toronto for AAPD 2024!

In 1999, Dr. Paul Andrews was the Local Arrangements Chair, and he’s excited to reprise that role for AAPD 2024. In this episode of little teeth, BIG Smiles, Dr. Andrews chats with host Dr. Joel Berg about the exceptional education and exclusive experiences planned for AAPD 2024, as well as the unique opportunity to consider all of the advances and updates impacting pediatric dentistry over...

Craniofacial and pediatric oral surgeon Dr. John Caccamesechats with host Dr. Joel Berg about all things relating toconcerns that can arise within the specialties, including head, neck, and jaw tumors, cysts, and pathology; cleft lip and palate; speech issues; and bite problems relating to skeletal growth. Dr. Caccamese also delves into the latest news from the American Cleft Palate Craniofacial Association (ACPA) and current strategic initiatives during his term as Board of Directors President. 

Guest Bio: 

John F. Caccamese, Jr., DMD, MD, FACS, is a Professor and Vice-Chair in the Department of Oral and Maxill...