Teeth Matter

What happens when being a great clinician is no longer enough?

Dr. Christopher Ramsey (@chris_ramsey_dmd) has spent more than 25 years in dentistry, but his approach to building a successful practice has surprisingly little to do with chasing the latest technique, impressing other dentists, or adding another plaque to the wall.

His philosophy: stop treating dentistry like a commodity.

In this episode, Ellie Halabian sits down with Dr....

When you hear the phrase "Turkey teeth," what comes to mind?

For many dentists, it's over-prepared teeth, rushed treatment, and cosmetic cases gone wrong.

But is the problem really the country—or the clinician?

In this episode of TeethMatter, I sit down with Dr. Eyup Çelik (@doctorcelik), a cosmetic dentist practicing in Istanbul, to explore one of the most polarizing topics in modern dentistry: dental tourism.

Rather than debati...

What if burnout isn't caused by dentistry—but by the way we build our careers?

Endodontist Dr. Yulia Salmarone (@dr.yuliyasalmeron) shares the mindset shifts, systems, and leadership lessons that transformed not only her practice, but her life. From building a boutique endodontic office to creating a team that runs without constant oversight, she reveals the behind-the-scenes decisions that most dentists never learn in school.

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In this episode of Teeth Matter, Maria Lucas (@marialucas_sydney) shares what it's like practicing dentistry in Australia—from the role of oral health therapists and non-dentist practice ownership to the cultural shifts shaping patient care and team dynamics.

We explore how the Australian dental system differs from the U.S., the opportunities and challenges of ownership, and why mentorship, communication, and empathy remain so...

In this light and playful conversation, Dr. Tian (Mike) Jin (@drmikejin) takes us through his journey from dental school to becoming a successful practice owner. A UCLA School of Dentistry graduate, Dr. Jin has dedicated his career to mastering cosmetic and restorative dentistry through extensive continuing education and training alongside leaders in the field. At Jin Dental Aesthetics, he blends advanced technology with a hospital...

In this episode, dental marketing expert and founder of Bright Smile Digital (⁠@brightsmiledigital), Robbi Jan (@robbijan⁠⁠), shares her journey from clinical dentistry to social media entrepreneurship. She emphasizes the importance of authentic branding, strategic marketing, and building trust online. Whether you're a practitioner or aspiring social media influencer, discover how to leverage digital tools to grow your practice and...

In this episode, Dr. Geeta Harb (@therealOCdentist) shares her inspiring path from a remarkably young start in dentistry to building a practice rooted in integrity, artistry, and authentic patient care. Born to be a warrior, after 14 years growing up in war-torn Beirut, she moved to the U.S. where she graduated from university at the young age of 17 and went on to earn a doctorate.

For the last 15 years, she has built a successful,...

In this episode, Dr. Sarah Jebreil (@sarahjebreildds), an Accredited Member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, shares her inspiring journey from working in her father's practice to becoming a renowned cosmetic dentist with her own brand. She discusses the significance of accreditation and how it has helped her achieve clinical excellence and build a reputable practice.

KEY TOPICS

• Dr. Sarah Jebreil’s journey from...

In this episode of Teeth Matter, Dr. Ellie Halabian hosts Dr. Danny Snyder (@dr.danny.dmd) the innovative mind behind Slate Floss (@slateflosser). They discuss the journey from dental school to creating a revolutionary flossing tool, addressing dental anxiety, and the importance of oral health in overall well-being. Dr. Snyder shares insights on overcoming mental health challenges, the impact of Slate Floss on patient care, and the...

In this episode of Teeth Matter, host Ellie Halabian engages in a candid conversation with Dr. Erin Sheffield (@drerinsheffield), an oral surgeon, about her unique journey in the field of dentistry. We delve into the challenges and triumphs of being a woman in oral surgery, contrasting the experiences of male and female providers. The discussion highlights the importance of mentorship, the struggle with imposter syndrome, and the d...

In this New Year episode of Teeth Matter, we sit down with oral and maxillofacial surgeon Brendan Gallagher (@doctorgallagher) for an honest, behind-the-scenes conversation about growth, transition, and intentional career decisions. As many of us reflect on the year behind us and think about what’s next, we unpack what it really takes to move through residency, relocate, and step confidently into private practice.

We talk open...

In this episode of Teeth Matter, Dr. Dean Saccomanno, co-founder of One Endo (@one_endo_), shares his journey and insights into transforming the dental industry. He discusses the importance of collaboration, brand trust, and creating a supportive network for dental professionals. Dean also highlights the challenges and opportunities in building a practice and how One Endo is fostering a community of like-minded professionals.

KEYWOR...

In this episode of Teeth Matter, host Ellie Halabian interviews Alan Withall (@newyorkdentalconsultant), a senior sales consultant at Henry Schein (@henryschein), who shares his expertise on helping dentists start and manage successful dental practices. Alan discusses his role in the industry, the importance of building strong relationships, and the common challenges dentists face when starting their own practices. He also highligh...

In this episode of Teeth Matter, Dr. Anthony Nguyen (@drsaveatooth) shares his journey from student debt to owning a thriving dental practice. He discusses the influence of his childhood dentist, financial strategies, and the importance of community and mentorship in dentistry.

Keywords: dentistry, student debt, dental practice, entrepreneurship, mentorship

Topics Discussed:

• Transition from student debt to practice ownership.
• Finan...

In this episode of Teeth Matter, I sit down with Dr. Jim Arnold (@smilesbyarnold), a dentist who has navigated nearly every stage of the profession—from private practice to ownership, to selling, and eventually guiding DSO acquisitions. Today, he’s the founder of Luxury Dental Retreats, where he hosts luxury retreats that blend continuing education with personal growth.

We dive into the mindset and business lessons Jim l...

Dentistry is changing fast — from new technologies and practice models to the growing focus on oral-systemic health. In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Abdi Sameni, Clinical Associate Professor at the Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry of USC, founder of the Los Angeles Dental Symposium, and practicing clinician at WLA Dental Center in West Los Angeles. Known internationally for his work in dental photography, esthetics, and...

Ever wonder how some dentists break into high-income, oversaturated markets—and thrive?

Dr. Rhonda Kalasho (@dr.rhondakalasho⁠) did exactly that. She built and scaled TruGlo Modern Dental with locations in Beverly Hills, Calabasas, and Hollywood, defying the odds by establishing a luxury brand that attracts loyal patients without relying on insurance-based volume.

In this episode of Teeth Matter, Dr. Kalasho shares:

• How she ...

In Part Three of our series with Dr. Naved Fatmi, D.M.D. (@drnavedfatmi), we dive into the side of dentistry no one wants to face—but everyone needs to understand: malpractice and ethics. Dr. Fatmi, who was appointed in 2015 as the youngest dentist ever to serve on the Florida Board of Dentistry, offers an inside look at what actually gets dentists into trouble, the blind spots many overlook, and how to protect your license&m...

In Part Two of our conversation with Dr. Naved Fatmi, D.M.D. (@drnavedfatmi), we dive into the real-world business of dentistry—beyond the operatory. We unpack what sweat equity actually means, how to approach job interviews with the right mindset, and why treatment planning is one of the most valuable (and overlooked) skills in building trust and case acceptance. Dr. Fatmi also breaks down how your lifestyle choices and pers...