Michael Scherer, today’s guest, has a fascinating perspective on how people get into implant dentistry: by an interest in tools and mechanical things. Most people who listen to the podcast, he guesses, particularly enjoyed playing with Legos while growing up. (Do you think he’s right about this? Did you love your Legos? Are you generally mechanically inclined, with an affinity for tinkering around with tools?)
After his clinical practice, Michael wanted to dig back into academics. This led him into prosthodontics residency, after which he took a faculty position in Nevada. This, he explains, cemented his love of implant dentistry. Given his vast experience in the industry, Michael also has some fantastic insight into the secrets to implant dentistry. It’s not just about being there and showing up—but also knowing that you need to invest in yourself.
Michael and I will also dig into 3D printing, the importance of finding something that you want to improve on in your practice, the top ROI device for his dentistry practice, what Michael thinks of the future of dentistry, how hiring an in-house lab tech can help make procedures more affordable and accessible for patients, and much more. This was a fantastic conversation that I found both educational and inspirational, and I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!
Today’s Guest:
In This Episode:
[00:47] - Michael offers some insight into his background and the Northern California town where he works. He also talks about where he did his training, and how he got into the teaching that he does now.
[07:29] - What was Michael’s implant training like? Where did he dive into high-end training?
[15:20] - Michael talks about his work and experiences with Zest Dental Solutions, as well as his book Lost Your Teeth But Not Your Appetite?
[20:45] - Philip makes a point about the value of learning to master overdenture.
[22:36] - What’s the latest in the overdenture world? How would Michael recommend that people introduce their practice to the Zest process?
[27:44] - We hear about the speaking and courses that Michael is doing these days.
[35:53] - What advice would Michael give to someone interested in getting new technology like a 3D printer or getting started in digital dentistry?
[43:12] - Michael shares his thoughts on bringing a laboratory technician in-house rather than outsourcing those aspects of his practice.
[47:14] - Philip digs into how bringing a lab tech in-house can benefit a practice, including by making procedures more affordable for patients.
[49:43] - Michael talks more about the value of patient-centered care, which Philip had been talking about previously.
[51:51] - We learn that Philip is always trying to push and challenge himself by learning new things. This, he explains, is why he created the podcast and Facebook group.
[53:52] - What else would Michael like to share with listeners? What’s coming up for him that he’s excited about?
Links and Resources:
Lost Your Teeth But Not Your Appetite? by Michael Scherer