Episodes
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Hygienist Zara Shirvani discusses her unconventional journey from genetics via acting to dental hygiene.
Zara geeks out on guided biofilm therapy and discusses her unique approach to patient care.
She shares insights on the importance of dental teams working together, her experience across multiple practices, and her views on evolving hygiene techniques.
The conversation also explores her Iranian heritage, future career aspirations, including facial aesthetics, and her perspectives on professional development in dentistry.
In This Episode
00:01:00 - Introduction and backstory
00:14:30 - Studying at Eastman
00:18:30 - The hygienist’s experience
00:26:30 - Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT)
00:36:30 - Iran
00:41:35 - Working with dental nurses and practice dynamics
00:51:50 - Blackbox thinking
01:11:35 - Patient education and oral hygiene
01:19:55 - Future career plans
01:24:10 - Career and people skills
01:26:15 - Fantasy dinner party guests and advice
About Zara Shirvani
Zara Shirvani is a London-based dental hygienist who graduated from the Eastman Dental Institute in 2019 after studying genetics at Swansea University. She works across multiple private practices, is an ambassador for guided biofilm therapy, and is currently pursuing training in facial aesthetics.
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Alex Hadley reflects on his journey from NHS dentistry to a thriving private practice, sharing insights on transitioning between roles, managing complex implant cases, and building patient trust through strong communication.
He highlights the importance of mentorship, the challenges of balancing work across multiple practices, and the impact of entering private dentistry on professional growth.
Enjoy!
In This Episode
00:01:10 - Introduction and background
00:03:15 - Mentors and early experiences
00:07:30 - NHS challenges
00:11:50 - Transition to private dentistry
00:18:30 - Managing multiple practices
00:25:00 - Insights on implant dentistry
00:32:10 - Value of mentorship
00:42:35 - Approach to complex cases
00:57:00 - Challenges in patient communication
1:11:40 - Future plans and teaching aspirations
01:37:10 - Reflections and advice
About Alex Hadley
Alex Hadley is a private dentist with expertise in restorative and implant dentistry.
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Dooroo Ihm shares his journey from growing up in South Korea to practising dentistry across Europe and eventually settling in London. He discusses his unique career path, the value of listening to patients, and the importance of patient-first care. Dooroo also reflects on navigating different healthcare systems, the challenges of moving internationally, and his passion for both technical excellence and patient communication.
Enjoy!
In This Episode
00:00:05 - Patient communication & first impressions
00:01:15 - Introduction and background
00:02:00 - Comparing South Korean and UK dentistry
00:03:30 - High-tech approaches in South Korea
00:06:00 - Moving to Germany for school
00:12:00 - Studying dentistry in Hungary
00:18:05 - Starting work in Ireland
00:23:15 - Lessons from a mentor in Ireland
00:28:10 - Transitioning to practice in London
00:32:25 - Specialising in endodontics
00:35:50 - Studying periodontics at Eastman
00:42:00 - Reflecting on patient care and ethicsAbout Dooroo Ihm
Dooroo Ihm is a London-based dentist known for his expertise in endodontics and periodontics. Originally from South Korea, Dooroo has practised in several countries, developing a patient-first philosophy and commitment to comprehensive care.
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Steffen Decker shares his journey from adult orthodontics to a focus on paediatric and interceptive orthodontics, emphasising the importance of early intervention. He discusses the benefits of clear aligners for young children, how early treatment impacts overall health, and his belief in a collaborative, multidisciplinary approach to airway health. Steffen also reflects on the changes in orthodontics, advocating for education, and the significance of functional occlusion.
Enjoy!
In This Episode
00:00:05 - Combining orthodontic techniques
00:01:00 - Introduction and background
00:03:15 - Partnering with restorative dentists
00:05:40 - Shifting focus to children’s orthodontics
00:09:25 - Clear aligners for kids
00:14:15 - Health benefits of early orthodontics
00:19:50 - Changes in orthodontics
00:22:35 - Addressing airway and sleep issues
00:28:10 - Key growth markers in kids
00:34:00 - Training dentists on early intervention
00:43:05 - Preventing alignment issues earlyAbout Steffen Decker
Steffen Decker is a renowned orthodontist known for his work in paediatric and interceptive orthodontics. Originally trained in adult orthodontics, he now focuses on early intervention for children and collaborates with other health professionals to improve airway health. Steffen is passionate about functional occlusion and advocates for greater education in the field.
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Polly Bhambra, co-owner of the Tri Dental group, shares her journey from dental nurse to overseeing ten dental practices in the West Midlands. She discusses the importance of empowering dental nurses, creating a respectful work environment, and the challenges and rewards of managing a large team. Polly also talks about her family’s entrepreneurial background and the balancing act of building a dental group while raising a family.
Enjoy!
In This Episode
00:00:05 - Introduction and background
00:01:10 - Empowering dental nurses
00:04:00 - Career progression and training for staff
00:07:45 - Managing change and overcoming resistance
00:13:00 - Ideal practice model for growth
00:17:45 - Handling a large team
00:20:00 - Hiring and firing strategies
00:25:30 - Supporting associates
00:30:00 - Family influences and work-life balance
00:34:00 - Expansion plans and building a legacyAbout Polly Bhambra
Polly Bhambra is a co-owner of Tri Dental, a group of ten practices in the West Midlands. Starting her career as a dental nurse, Polly now leads a large team, focusing on growth, staff development, and patient care. She is known for her commitment to creating a respectful and empowering workplace.
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James Morrison shares his journey from NHS dentistry to becoming a private cosmetic dentist in Bristol. He discusses the shift to cosmetic work during COVID-19, challenges in managing patient expectations, and insights on the evolving role of social media in dentistry.
James opens up about his rare muscular condition and how it influenced his approach to work-life balance. He also shares valuable tips on patient communication and his streamlined consultation process.
Enjoy!
In This Episode
00:01:10 - Introduction and background
00:01:45 - Transition to cosmetic dentistry
00:02:55 - Handling patient expectations
00:03:45 - Differences in patient demographics
00:06:15 - Impact of social media
00:09:00 - Streamlined consultations
00:20:15 - Adjusting work-life balance
00:35:30 - Discovering muscular dystrophy symptoms
00:37:00 - Diagnosed with muscular dystrophy
00:41:00 - Navigating physical limitations in dentistry
00:42:05 - Growing the practice via Instagram
01:02:35 - Fantasy dinner party guests
01:05:10 - Reflections and adviceAbout James Morrison
James Morrison is a Bristol-based cosmetic dentist specializing in composite bonding and Invisalign treatments. Transitioning from NHS to private practice, he leverages social media to connect with patients and continues to excel despite facing personal health challenges.
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Rhona and Payman chat with Angus Pringle, a specialist orthodontist with a deep interest in mental health and suicide prevention.
Angus shares his personal experiences with losing his brother to suicide. He discusses the importance of mental health awareness in the dental profession, touching on the need for compassion, open dialogue, and better support systems within the dental community and beyond.
In This Episode
00:02:35 - Cycling challenge
00:05:25 - Safe spaces
00:07:45 - Suicide, stigma, and mental health
00:26:25 - GDC and mental health
00:34:15 - Perfectionism
00:41:35 - Politics and management
00:43:55 - Supporting patients
00:48:45 - Mental health language and conversations
00:56:35 - The orthodontist’s perspective
00:58:25 - Empathy and non-judgmental approaches
01:04:35 - Egos and opinions
About Angus Pringle
Angus Pringle is a specialist orthodontist and mental health advocate practising in Winchester.
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Former BACD president Andrew Chandrapal discusses his journey in dentistry, from his early days balancing dental school with music aspirations to becoming a respected clinician and educator.
He shares insights on the value of humility in dentistry, the impact of social media on patient expectations, and the significance of building trust with patients.
He also reflects on his experiences with the BACD and his approach to teaching.
Enjoy!
In This Episode
00:02:55 - Early years
00:05:35 - Personal loss
00:07:35 - Dentistry Vs music career
00:09:40 - Ego and humility
00:16:50 - Social media
00:23:55 - Treatment planning and patient communication
00:31:30 - Full mouth rehabilitation
00:47:50 - Blackbox thinking
00:55:05 - Teaching and education
01:16:35 - BACD
01:22:20 - Quick-fire questions
01:27:25 - Fantasy dinner party
About Andrew Chandrapal
Andrew Chandrapal is an aesthetic and restorative dentist and former president of the British Association of Cosmetic Dentistry (BACD).
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Payman Langroudi sits down with Dr. Zohaib Ali, a specialist prosthodontist and leader in the bio-emulation movement in the UK.
They discuss Dr. Ali's journey in dentistry, his experiences with various dental techniques and technologies, and his thoughts on education and patient care.
The conversation covers everything from the challenges of NHS dentistry to the importance of clear communication with patients and the future of digital dentistry.
Enjoy!
In This Episode
00:02:35 - Bio-emulative dentistry
00:07:15 - From Ireland to the UK
00:11:55 - Dental education
00:16:35 - Injection moulding techniques
00:21:25 - Financial crisis
00:24:35 - Specialisation
00:29:55 - Mental health awareness in dentistry
00:38:35 - Education, communication, and patient autonomy
00:49:50 - New technologies
00:54:55 - Responsibility
01:00:25 - Education: quality and variety
01:11:50 - Patient communication and treatment planning
01:19:35 - The Bio-emulation symposium
01:53:05 - Fantasy dinner party
01:54:30 - Last days and legacy
About Zohaib Ali
Zohaib Ali is a specialist prosthodontist interested in bio-emulative dentistry.
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Dr Devinia Lavan-Iswaran (known as Coco) shares her inspiring journey from surviving domestic abuse to rediscovering herself and thriving as a dentist and mentor.
She discusses her multicultural upbringing, experiences in boarding school, and how she rebuilt her life and career after leaving an abusive marriage.
Coco offers insights into resilience, the importance of self-worth, and her passion for helping others through dentistry and charitable work.
In This Episode
00:05:00 - Backstory
00:13:35 - Boarding school
00:24:05 - Study
00:26:50 - Early career
00:39:35 - Marriage, abuse and turning point
01:00:30 - Rebuilding
01:09:35 - Finding joy in dentistry
01:19:15 - Creating positive experiences for patients
01:25:45 - Blackbox thinking
01:29:10 - Charity work
01:33:30 - Fantasy dinner party
About Coco
Coco qualified from Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry in 1995. She currently works in private practice in Holborn, London.
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Payman Langroudi meets Awaz Sharief, a young dentist with a special interest in minimally invasive endodontics.
Awaz shares her journey, personal challenges, and innovative approach to minimally invasive endodontics treatments.
The conversation covers clinical techniques, personal growth, faith, and the importance of emotional awareness.
In This Episode
00:02:24 - Pulpotomy approach
00:05:35 - Back story
00:21:25 - Faith, belief, and finding meaning
00:24:35 - Personal growth
00:31:55 - Narcissism and emotional suppression
00:37:35 - Dentistry and teaching
00:43:45 - Work-life balance
00:55:50 - Women in dental education
01:01:10 - Fantasy dinner party and life advice
About Awaz Sharief
Awaz Sharief is a Greater Manchester-based dentist with a special interest in minimally invasive endodontics.
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In this insightful episode, Dru Shah, a specialist periodontist and founder of the Dentinal Tubules network, discusses the state of dental education, personal growth, and the challenges facing the dental profession.
He shares his views on leadership, the importance of trust in dentistry, and the need for a more patient-centric approach. Dru also touches on broader societal issues, including multiculturalism and social integration.
In This Episode
00:02:00 - Authenticity
00:04:35 - Reading and learning
00:07:10 - Repetition
00:08:35 - The challenge of engagement
00:16:35 - Learning styles
00:22:50 - Dentinal Tubules
00:25:55 - CPD and commoditisation
00:29:25 - Relationship-building
00:35:25 - Leadership and team management
00:41:35 - Awards and humility
00:44:45 - AI learning
00:52:50 - Career planning
00:57:50 - Dentinal Tubules Congress and future plans
01:03:55 - Unrest in the UK
01:15:55 - Multiculturalism, integration and breaking down barriers
About Dru Shah
Dhru is a specialist in periodontics and the CEO of Dentinal Tubules, an online training platform for dentists across the globe.
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Rhona and Payman chat with Levi Levenfiche, co-founder of PerfectTed, Europe's first matcha-powered energy drink company.
Levi shares his entrepreneurial journey, discussing the challenges of starting a business with family members, the impact of appearing on Dragon's Den, and the rapid growth of PerfectTed.
The conversation covers various aspects of running a start-up, from product development and marketing strategies to managing team dynamics and personal mental health.
In This Episode
00:01:10 - Backstory
00:04:35 - PerfectTed origins
00:18:35 - Dragon's Den
00:27:20 - Product growth
00:31:50 - Business and family
00:37:35 - Marketing and brand building
00:41:55 - Perfect Ted roadmap
00:46:35 - Personal challenges
00:51:20 - Hiring and managing a growing team
00:56:50 - Thinking big
01:04:50 - Dentistry and confidence
01:06:35 - Business mistakes
About Levi Levenfiche
Levi Levenfiche is the co-founder and managing director of the PerfectTed organic matcha energy drink brand.
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Payman Langroudi chats with Giovanni Martino, a young Italian dentist practising in the UK. Giovanni shares his journey from studying dentistry in Italy to working in the NHS and private practice in the UK.
Giovanni discusses the importance of continuing education, challenges and opportunities in dentistry and how his musical background has influenced his approach to dentistry.
In This Episode
00:03:55 - Background with the Delta Academy
00:05:50 - Teaching and learning
00:08:45 - Work and the UK
00:14:00 - Music and dentistry
00:21:10 - Patient communication
00:28:25 - Study in Italy and Spain
00:37:35 - DJing
00:43:00 - Fatherhood
00:51:30 - UK Vs Italian dentistry
00:57:55 - Unrest in the UK
01:04:35 - Patient-driven orthodontics
01:15:45 - Adhesive dentistry and "aha" moments
01:25:25 - Thoughts on practice ownership
01:37:35 - Standardization and corporate dentistry
01:40:10 - Blackbox thinking
01:44:20 - Fantasy dinner party
01:45:54 - Last day and legacy
About Dr Giovanni Martino
Dr Giovanni Martino graduated with a Diploma in Dentistry from the University of L'Aquila, Italy, in 2017. He now practices in Bristol, UK.
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Payman Langroudi chats with May Firoozmand, a young dentist who recently qualified from Bulgaria. May shares her journey into dentistry, her experiences studying abroad, and her perspective on life and service shaped by her Baha'i faith. The conversation covers topics ranging from her dental education in Bulgaria to her charitable work and future aspirations in dentistry.
In This Episode
00:02:35 - Faith
00:07:35 - Family influence
00:14:50 - Study
00:19:20 - Oral surgery
00:23:25 - Bulgaria
00:29:35 - Charity and community
00:43:40 - Faith and personal loss
00:49:15 - Oral surgery career paths
00:54:15 - Mentoring and support
00:57:30 - Fantasy dinner party
01:00:25 - Last days and legacy
About May Firoozmand
May Firoozmand graduated in May 2024 from the Medical University Varna with a DMD (Doctor of Dental Medicine).
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Dr Tara recounts her journey from a conservative upbringing to becoming a leading voice in sexual education and empowerment.
The professor and sex expert shares her personal experiences with marriage, divorce, and finding a fulfilling relationship, while also delving into topics such as sexual mindfulness, the impact of cultural norms on relationships, and the complexities of infidelity.
Enjoy!
In This Episode
00:02:00 - Background
00:04:35 - Religion, culture and sexuality
00:08:35 - Body neutrality and body image
00:16:50 - Academia
00:20:20 - Sexual chemistry
00:26:25 - Divorce and healing
00:31:30 - Relationships and monogamy
00:41:00 - Sexual mindfulness
00:45:45 - Pornography and ethics
00:52:50 - Toxic masculinity
00:57:20 - Celebs Go Dating
01:06:35 - Infidelity
01:25:50 - Future plans
About Dr Tara
Dr. Tara is a tenured professor at California State University Fullerton, where she teaches relational and sexual communication and quantitative research. She is also a researcher and appears as a sex expert on the TV show Celebs Go Dating. Dr Tara is also the host of the Luvbites by Dr Tara Podcast.
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Payman meets Kunal Thakker, the founder of Tooth Club, a rapidly growing dental practice group in the UK.
Kunal shares his journey from a career in banking to disrupting the dental industry, discussing his approach to creating a patient-centric experience, scaling a dental business, and the challenges of maintaining quality while expanding.
He offers insights into his marketing strategies, recruitment practices, and the importance of company culture in building a successful dental group.
In This Episode
00:04:35 - Backstory
00:09:50 - From finance to dentistry
00:21:10 - Tooth Club
00:25:25 - Setting up squats
00:31:25 - Recruiting and retaining
00:37:35 - Measuring success
00:43:00 - Painless injections
00:49:55 - Management and structure
00:57:30 - Marketing
01:08:25 - Ethics and motivation
01:25:35 - Blackbox thinking
01:27:20 - Fantasy dinner party
01:28:20 - Last days and legacy
About Kunal Thakker
Kunal Thakker is a former executive director at Goldman Sachs and the founder of Tooth Club—a membership-based chain of dental practices.
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Payman Langroudi chats with Mark Allan, General Manager of Bupa Dental Care. Mark shares insights into leading one of the UK’s largest private healthcare organisations, discusses current challenges and opportunities in the dental industry, and offers valuable leadership advice.
The conversation touches on corporate dentistry, talent acquisition, the importance of listening to frontline staff, and how tech is shaping the industry’s future.
In This Episode
00:00:55 - Dentistry—first impressions
00:06:00 - Bupa's brand, reputation and impact
00:10:30 - Organisation and structure
00:14:15 - Recruitment and career progression
00:24:50 - Frontline staff and corporate strategies
00:28:35 - Dental insurance
00:33:55 - Leadership approach
00:38:35 - Work-life balance
00:47:45 - Bupa's acquisitions and strategy
00:52:50 - Data and AI
01:06:35 - Fantasy dinner party
01:14:35 - Last days and legacy
About Mark Allan
Mark Allan is the General Manager of Bupa Dental Care. Prior to this role, he served as General Manager for Business & Specialist Products in Bupa's UK Insurance business, responsible for the commercial leadership of business & specialist products, SME and corporate channels for private medical and dental insurance.
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Manrina Rhode recounts her journey from practice fresh from dental school in high-end London clinics to owner and CEO of the upscale DRMR practice and medical skincare line.
She discusses her experiences in cosmetic dentistry, teaching, product development, and practice management. Dr. Rhode also opens up about personal challenges, including divorce and loss, and how these experiences have shaped her both personally and professionally.
In This Episode
00:01:15 - Evolution of Veneers
00:04:35 - Backstory and pursuing dentistry
00:16:35 - Early career
00:41:35 - Work ethic and generational differences
00:54:50 - Personal Challenges
01:07:00 - Practice ownership
01:21:45 - Product development
01:29:30 - Teaching and mentoring
01:46:35 - Quick-fire questions
01:50:50 - Fantasy dinner party
01:51:50 - Last days and legacy
About Manrina Rhode
Manrina Rhode is a cosmetic dentist and founder of the DRMR dental clinic, aesthetic studio and medical skincare brand.
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This week, we take a walk into the archives with a look back at an early conversation with a true dental leader.
Andy Moore discusses balancing his stellar career with a healthy, happy home life, reveals the story behind his architecturally stunning practice, and gives a peek into hanging out with Richard Branson and Larry Page.
Enjoy!
In This Episode
02:12 – The perfect environment for practice
13: 07 – The power of delegating
15:03 – Hiring process – an oft-overlooked trait
18:43 – Achieving work-life balance
25:21 – Getting into implants
35:13 – A life-changing case
47:05 – Teaching other dentists
About Andrew Moore
Andrew is a dentist, educator and owner of Advance Dental Clinic, which was given an award for design by the Royal Institute of British Architects.
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