What keeps you going when the work is demanding and the days feel relentless? In this solo episode of Everyday Oral Surgery, Dr. Grant Stucki reflects on why giving often leads to deeper, more lasting fulfillment than receiving. He shares lessons from residency, mentorship, and years in practice, exploring how a mindset of contribution shapes both personal growth and the future of the profession. Dr. Stucki also offers a candid look at the time, cost, and intention behind producing the podcast, and the quiet rewards that come from helping others learn and advance. He also connects these experiences to a broader truth echoed by leaders, philosophers, and spiritual traditions, namely, that joy fades quickly when it is tied to what we receive, but it deepens when it comes from service. As the year comes to a close, this episode invites reflection on a simple but powerful question: who can you help next, and how might that generosity renew your own sense of purpose?

Key Points From This Episode:

• Reflections on persistence, imperfection, and producing this podcast despite the challenges.
• Lessons from residency on being a proactive learner, not a passive participant.
• Choosing residents who give back to the profession, not just take from it.
• The lasting impact of attendings who sacrificed income to teach.
• Stepping back to ask what oral surgery has given you and how you can help others.
• Why giving leads to deeper, more lasting peace and fulfillment than receiving.
• What producing the podcast has cost, and why it has been worth it.
• Why altruistic giving is more powerful when nothing is expected in return.
• How giving back can help counter burnout and restore joy.
• An invitation to help one person, or a group of people, and notice how it brings joy.

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

Giftology — https://www.amazon.com/Giftology-Increase-Referrals-Strengthen-Retention/dp/1619614332

Everyday Oral Surgery Website — https://www.everydayoralsurgery.com/

Everyday Oral Surgery on Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/everydayoralsurgery/

Everyday Oral Surgery on Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/EverydayOralSurgery/

Dr. Grant Stucki Email — grantstucki@gmail.com

Dr. Grant Stucki Phone — 720-441-6059

Better implant outcomes start with how we shape tissue from day one. In this episode of Everyday Oral Surgery, host Dr. Grant Stucki welcomes return guest Dr. Richard Akin, an oral and maxillofacial surgeon from Louisiana, to explore immediate implants and the art of crafting custom healing abutments. Dr. Akin explains how years of refinement shaped his chairside method for building custom healing abutments with bulk-fill composite. This approach helps capture and maintain the natural tissue contours during healing. He shares practical lessons on case selection, torque control, and grafting, and unpacks why wide-platform implants play such a critical role in the long-term success of posterior and second molar cases. Beyond surgical precision, Dr. Akin reflects on how collaboration with restorative dentists and lab technicians helps bridge knowledge gaps, streamline workflows, and ultimately improve patient outcomes. Tune in for a masterclass in technique, teamwork, and continual learning within oral surgery!

Key Points From This Episode:

• An introduction to Dr. Richard Akin, an OMS practicing in Louisiana.
• How a 2010 course sparked his interest in immediate provisionals.
• The evolution of his chairside custom healing abutment technique.
• Using bulk-fill composite to capture patient-specific tissue contours.
• Publishing the “anatomic harmony abutment” concept in 2016.
• Why soft-tissue management is as critical as implant stability.
• Key benefits from his custom healing abutment technique.
• Dr. Akin’s full immediate implant workflow from extraction to final abutment.
• Optimizing insertion torque for predictable immediate placement.
• Case selection, grafting, and managing buccal gaps for success.
• Preference for wide-platform implants in posterior and molar cases.
• Long-term recall data showing success in second-molar implants.
• Prioritizing thorough socket debridement and irrigation to achieve clean, bleeding bone.
• Avoiding over-drilling through feel and control during osteotomy preparation.
• Collaborating with restorative dentists and other specialists for improved patient outcomes.
• The importance of actively bridging gaps between surgeons, labs, and restorative teams.
• A breakdown of Dr. Akin’s approach to maxillary immediate implants.
• Final reflections on teamwork, gratitude, and patient-centered care.

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

Dr. Richard Akin — https://www.drakin.com/

Dr. Richard Akin on LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/rick-akin-644aa932/

Dr. Richard Akin email — rick@drakin.com

‘A New Concept in Maintaining the Emergence Profile in Immediate Posterior Implant Placement: The Anatomic Harmony Abutment’ — https://www.researchgate.net/publication/304779134_A_New_Concept_in_Maintaining_the_Emergence_Profile_in_Immediate_Posterior_Implant_Placement_The_Anatomic_Harmony_Abutment

‘Clinical Advantages of Immediate Posterior Implants With Custom Healing Abutments: Up to 8-Year Follow-Up of 115 Cases’ — https://www.researchgate.net/publication/363099744_Clinical_Advantages_of_Immediate_Posterior_Implants_with_Custom_Healing_Abutments_Up_to_8_Year_Follow_Up_of_115_Cases

Everyday Oral Surgery Website — https://www.everydayoralsurgery.com/

Everyda

Choosing whether to pursue a fellowship is one of the biggest career decisions a young surgeon can make. In this episode, Dr. Arshad Kaleem breaks down the three key elements that shaped his own path: passion, finances, and quality of life. From his training at the University of Pennsylvania to fellowships in head and neck and microvascular reconstructive surgery, he shares how clear priorities guided his journey to a thriving full-scope practice in El Paso, Texas. He also reflects on his humanitarian work in Pakistan and Palestine, where he performs complex surgeries with limited resources. Through his story, Dr. Kaleem offers thoughtful advice for young surgeons on finding purpose, balance, and growth in their careers. Listen to the full conversation for a candid guide to building both skill and purpose in oral surgery!

Key Points From This Episode:

• Dr. Kaleem’s path from UPenn to head and neck and microvascular fellowships.
• Establishing a full-scope private practice serving El Paso and beyond.
• Details of his mission trips to Pakistan, the West Bank, and Gaza.
• Performing and planning for complex surgeries abroad with limited resources.
• Advances in virtual surgical planning and custom implants in reconstructive surgery.
• The rise of subspecialty training within oral and maxillofacial surgery.
• How technology has reduced surgery time while improving precision and planning accuracy.
• Making head and neck surgery work within private practice.
• Honest advice for residents deciding on their next step, including pursuing a fellowship.
• Key factors to weigh when considering a fellowship: passion, finances, and quality of life.
• Rapid-fire questions on hobbies, favorite shows, and more.
• Reflections on the lasting fulfillment of helping others through surgical skill.

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

Dr. Arshad Kaleem — https://www.aboms.org/news/dr-arshad-kaleem-head-neck-oncologic-surgeon

Dr. Arshad Kaleem on Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/akmaxfaxsurgeon/

Dr. Arshad Kaleem email — arskaleem@gmail.com

High Desert Oral and Facial Surgery — https://www.hdofs.com/

High Desert Oral and Facial Surgery | Dr. Arshad Kaleem — https://www.hdofs.com/meet-us/meet-dr-kaleem/

High Desert Oral and Facial Surgery on Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/HDOFS/

Yellowstone — https://www.imdb.com/title/tt4236770/

Horizon — https://www.imdb.com/title/tt17505010/

Everyday Oral Surgery Website — https://www.everydayoralsurgery.com/

Everyday Oral Surgery on Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/everydayoralsurgery/

Everyday Oral Surgery on Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/EverydayOralSurgery/

Dr. Grant Stucki Email — grantstucki@gmail.com

Dr. Grant Stucki Phone — 720-441-6059

Starting an oral surgery practice can feel like leaping into the unknown, but with the right plan, success is absolutely achievable. In this episode, Dr. Roger Levin, CEO of Levin Group, joins us again to break down the proven steps that help young surgeons launch and grow profitable, referral-driven practices. Dr. Levin shares pragmatic advice on how to break into competitive markets, build referral networks, and create strong brand messaging from day one. He explains how to identify your niche, the power of gift giving, and how to train your team to deliver world-class service. Gain insights into crafting intro letters, the value of delivering handwritten cards, and the art of the follow-up for building your reputation and patient base. Join us to discover how strategy, communication, and positive energy can transform a startup into a thriving oral surgery practice. Tune in now!

Key Points From This Episode:

• Why referral marketing is the make-or-break factor for oral surgery startups.
• The importance of starting your marketing plan early and how to build a brand identity.
• Who typically opens new practices and why motivation and timing are essential.
• How to find your niche and develop cost-effective, relationship-based referral marketing.
• Unpack the common mistakes surgery startups often make and how to avoid them.
• Steps for creating an effective marketing campaign and building professional relationships.
• Explore the foundational marketing materials every startup needs.
• Learn why relationship building creates long-term and loyal referral partners.
• Discover the value of engaging with the front desk for building professional relationships.
• Find out the importance of training your team on how to handle referring doctors.
• Tips for creating an online presence, getting reviews, and follow-ups with referring offices.
• Dr. Levin’s final takeaways and why leading with positive energy is vital for success.

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

Dr. Roger Levin on LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-levin-69ab744/

Levin Group, Inc. — https://levingroup.com/

Giftology — https://www.amazon.com/Giftology-Increase-Referrals-Strengthen-Retention/dp/1619614332

Everyday Oral Surgery Website — https://www.everydayoralsurgery.com/

Everyday Oral Surgery on Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/everydayoralsurgery/

Everyday Oral Surgery on Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/EverydayOralSurgery/

Dr. Grant Stucki Email — grantstucki@gmail.com

Dr. Grant Stucki Phone — 720-441-6059

Dr. Victor Martel, a general dentist practicing in Florida, is back on the Everyday Oral Surgery podcast with Dr. Stucki for another round of expert insight. This time, he’s here to talk about comprehensive treatment planning and how surgeons can work with the GP to provide excellent patient care. Tune in as Dr. Martel defines comprehensive treatment planning and big-picture dentistry, explores how it can grow your practice, and unpacks the key barriers that hold clinicians back from putting it into action. Dr. Martel deep dives into grand rounds and how they fit into this conversation, shares a key frustration he sees with All-on-X cases, and breaks down his initial comprehensive patient exam, including what he calls the ‘tour of the mouth’ at the second visit. He emphasizes the critical role of communication between GPs and specialists, and underscores the need for clinicians to invest in educating themselves and their teams on comprehensive treatment planning. Don’t miss this insightful episode and a powerful reminder that when we work together and keep the big picture in mind, that’s where the magic happens!

Key Points From This Episode:

• Welcoming back Dr. Vic Martel, a general dentist practicing in FL.
• How Dr. Martel defines comprehensive treatment planning: big-picture dentistry.
• Where generalists fail (even at the very first visit).
• How comprehensive treatment planning can grow your practice.
• We look at the barriers holding clinicians back from doing comprehensive planning.
• Looking at patients from a comprehensive standpoint, and his definition of holistic dentistry.
• Why he believes first-time patients should not be brought to the practice for a cleaning first.
• His thoughts on how a specialist could help a general dentist comprehensively plan.
• We deep dive into grand rounds and how they fit into this conversation.
• Dr. Martel shares a pet peeve: all-on-X cases.
• A tour of their mouth: a breakdown of how he structures a comprehensive dental exam and what makes it effective.
• He explains the permission statement.
• Why it’s essential to include specialists in the communication of the comprehensive plan.
• The main summary take-home point Dr. Martel wants listeners to walk away with: learn to comprehensively plan treatment.
• Where to learn more about Dr. Martel and his courses.

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

Dr. Victor Martel on LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/victor-martel-dmd-91431922

Dr. Victor Martel on Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/drvicmartel/

Dr. Victor Martel Email — martelacademy@gmail.com

Martel Academy — https://www.martelacademy.com/

The Dawson Academy — https://thedawsonacademy.com/

Everyday Oral Surgery Website — https://www.everydayoralsurgery.com/

Everyday Oral Surgery on Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/everydayoralsurgery/

Everyday Oral Surgery on Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/EverydayOralSurgery/

Dr. Grant Stucki Email — grantstucki@gmail.com

Dr. Grant Stucki Phone — 720-441-6059

What does comprehensive treatment planning look like, and how can specialists and general dentists design it together? In this episode, Dr. Grant Stucki sits down with Florida general dentist and educator Dr. Vic Martel to unpack the ins and outs of comprehensive treatment planning. Dr. Martel explains why many dentists were never taught comprehensive planning in dental school, how this leads to a reactive mindset, and why slowing down to assess occlusion, periodontal health, joints, and restorative needs as a whole improves outcomes for patients and practices. Together, they explore real-world barriers and practical solutions to comprehensive treatment planning and the importance of surgeon-led education and interdisciplinary planning. Dr. Martel shares how he runs new-patient exams and builds trust with patients while coordinating with specialists. He also explains how investing in your referral network can help a practice grow and how a thoughtful, comprehensive treatment plan makes life easier for everyone on the team. Tune in now!

Key Points From This Episode:

• Comprehensive treatment planning and why many dentists are underprepared.
• The difference between “tooth fixer” dentistry and being a “physician of the mouth.”
• Learn how comprehensive treatment planning benefits patients and practices.
• Find out about the biggest barriers to comprehensive treatment planning.
• How comprehensive planning impacts case acceptance, treatment, and patient outcomes.
• Hear how generalists and specialists can work together to design a comprehensive plan.
• Explore the history behind grand rounds and why it is an effective educational tool.
• Important considerations around implant solutions and the risk of removal.
• He shares his comprehensive dental exam setup and his overall approach.
• Discover how shared plans improve coordination, referrals, and patient confidence.
• Final takeaways and why dentists should focus on educating their referral network.

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

Dr. Victor Martel on LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/victor-martel-dmd-91431922/

Dr. Victor Martel on Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/drvicmartel/

Dr. Victor Martel Email Address — martelacademy@gmail.com

Dr. Victor Martel Phone Number — 561 602 7222

Martel Academy — https://martelacademy.com/

Everyday Oral Surgery Website — https://www.everydayoralsurgery.com/

Everyday Oral Surgery on Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/everydayoralsurgery/

Everyday Oral Surgery on Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/EverydayOralSurgery/

Dr. Grant Stucki Email — grantstucki@gmail.com

Dr. Grant Stucki Phone — 720-441-6059

Tori removal may not be the most glamorous procedure, but it’s one that demands skill, patience, and careful preparation. In this episode of Everyday Oral Surgery, host Dr. Grant Stucki welcomes Dr. Richard Akin, an oral and maxillofacial surgeon in Baton Rouge, to explore the nuances of managing these challenging cases. Dr. Akin reflects on lessons learned from early practice with his father, the unique anatomy and patient factors that complicate these cases, and the importance of knowing when removal is truly indicated. He shares practical techniques for both maxillary and mandibular tori, from flap design to instrument choice. Dr. Akin also discusses the realities of insurance coverage and billing, and how reimbursement rarely reflects the complexity of the work. Along the way, he emphasizes patient communication, setting realistic expectations for recovery, and taking the time needed to avoid complications. Tune in to hear insights that can help you refine your approach and set patients up for better outcomes!

Key Points From This Episode:

• An introduction to Dr. Richard Akin, an OMS in Baton Rouge.
• Dr. Akin’s early training with his father and transition into solo practice.
• Why tori removal remains a core responsibility of oral surgeons.
• Indications for removal, from hygiene challenges to painful ulcers.
• Preparing patients for recovery and setting realistic expectations.
• Step-by-step techniques for removing maxillary and mandibular tori.
• Managing thin tissue, closure difficulties, and post-op care.
• Instrument choices that make tori removal safer and more efficient.
• Strategies to minimize tearing and ensure proper healing.
• Recognizing rare complications such as flap necrosis.
• Why suturing technique and flap care are critical to healing.
• Dr. Akin’s range of patient stories, from food entrapment to denture challenges.
• Typical healing timelines and patient resilience after surgery.
• Insurance coverage and billing realities for tori removal cases.
• Dr. Akin’s favorite books, hobbies, and daily practices.

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

Dr. Richard Akin — https://www.drakin.com/
Dr. Richard Akin on LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/rick-akin-644aa932/

Dr. Richard Akin email — rick@drakin.com
Dr. Richard Akin Powerpoint —

7 Goldman-Fox Knife — https://www.hufriedygroup.com/en/dental-knives/7-goldman-fox-knife

1/2 Orban DE Knife, EverEdge™ — https://www.hufriedygroup.com/en/dental-knives/1-2-orban-periodontal-knife-0

Forceps to extract tooth number five —

Hearts in Atlantis — https://www.amazon.com/Hearts-in-Atlantis-Stephen-King-audiobook/dp/B0000547DG

Surrender — https://www.amazon.com/Surrender-40-Songs-One-Story/dp/B09ZK1XJ4X

Hidden Potential — https://www.amazon.com/Hidden-Potential-Science-Achieving-Greater/dp/0593653149

The Overstory — https://www.amazon.com/Overstory-Novel-Richard-Powers/dp/039335668X

Breaking Bad — https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0903747/

Better Call Saul —

Some days in oral surgery feel like everything conspires against you. Your back hurts, your schedule is overbooked, and (to top it all off) your favorite assistant called in sick! In this solo episode, Dr. Grant Stucki reflects on how to find joy and purpose in those difficult moments while offering practical ways to shift your mindset. Drawing inspiration from Einstein’s theory of relativity, he compares our attitude to gravity, shaping the emotional space around us and influencing everyone we work with. Through stories from his own practice, he explores how awareness, intention, and small daily choices can transform frustration into focus. He shares simple strategies like identifying your top stressors and writing down what boosts your energy, and offers book recommendations that inspire greater mental strength and positivity. Tune in to reconnect with the purpose and positivity that keep great surgeons going!

Key Points From This Episode:

• A new series exploring lessons from everyday surgical experiences.
• Announcing Dr. Stucki’s upcoming course on PRF and Exparel in Denver.
• Today’s topic: How to find joy in surgery and maintain a positive attitude on tough days.
• Einstein’s theory of relativity as a metaphor for mindset and influence.
• How our mental “gravity” affects the people and energy around us.
• A story about Dr. Stucki’s brother and his contagious enthusiasm for surgery.
• Reflections on how surgeons can become jaded and cynical over time.
• The impact of negativity on staff, patients, and surgical outcomes.
• Being intentional about the energy and attitude brought into the workplace.
• Strategies for maintaining positive energy, including building awareness of triggers.
• Book Recommendations: On Fire, The Alter Ego Effect, and Can't Hurt Me.

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

Enhancing Surgical Outcomes with Platelet Rich Fibrin (PRF) and Exparel in Oral Surgery Course — https://www.collectiveeducationsociety.com/products/courses/prf-and-exparel

Collective Education Society — https://www.collectiveeducationsociety.com/

Everyday Oral Surgery blog — https://everydayoralsurgery.com/blog/

On Fire — https://www.amazon.com/Fire-Choices-Ignite-Radically-Inspired/dp/1501117726

The Alter Ego Effect — https://alteregoeffect.com/

Can't Hurt Me — https://www.amazon.com/Cant-Hurt-Me-Master-Your/dp/1544512287

Everyday Oral Surgery Website — https://www.everydayoralsurgery.com/

Everyday Oral Surgery on Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/everydayoralsurgery/

Everyday Oral Surgery on Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/EverydayOralSurgery/

Dr. Grant Stucki Email — grantstucki@gmail.com

Dr. Grant Stucki Phone — 720-441-6059