s your dental lab relationship a source of frustration, wasted time, and inconsistent results?
In this episode, dental innovator Christian Coachman offers a powerful, pragmatic framework to solve these common problems. He breaks down the four critical moments of dentist-lab collaboration, revealing how to:
Diagnose & plan more effectively: Ensure you and your lab are on the same page from day one.
Eliminate common errors: Learn how digital tools can prevent frustrating re-dos and miscommunications.
Get predictable results: Discover the "copy-paste" concept that ensures your approved design is exactly what you get.
Become a lab's "top 5%" dentist: Understand what your lab wishes it could tell you and how to build a better, more efficient partnership.
If you're looking for actionable steps to improve your workflow, reduce stress, and get superior results for your patients, this episode is for you.
In this episode, I had the chance to sit down with Scott and Jinesh from the Open Wide Podcast and share my journey, the unconventional path that brought me to where I am today.
We talked about the evolution of Digital Smile Design, the balance between quality and scale, and why I believe in always aiming for gold-standard dentistry.
I also shared my thoughts on how technology is reshaping our profession and spoke about my more recent role as a strategic investor.
It was a rich and honest conversation, and I hope listeners find inspiration in the lessons I’ve learned along the way.
Learn more about the Open Wide Podcast and Dr. Scott Drucker and Jinesh Patel:
https://open.spotify.com/show/4WH3H1A2OzlgYj7wD1XiZd?si=ede017e94fd3487a
In this episode, I’m joined by one of the true legends of our profession: Dr. Nitzan Bichacho. If you’ve studied or worked in prosthodontics, dental implants, or complex aesthetic rehabilitation, you’ve likely been influenced by his work, whether you know it or not. Professor at the Hebrew University and Hadassah in Jerusalem, former president of the European Academy of Esthetic Dentistry, and a pioneer behind countless treatment techniques and implant systems, Dr. Bichacho has shaped dentistry as we know it.
Together, we tackle a big, provocative question: Dentistry 2040: Will we still have a job? We explore how AI and technology are changing our profession, the incredible opportunities they create, the dangers of over-reliance, and most importantly… the human skills that no machine will ever replace.
If you’ve ever wondered where our profession is headed and how to stay relevant and irreplaceable, this conversation is for you.
Learn more about Dr Nitzan:
https://bichacho.clinic/about-us/
Christian Coachman sits down with Michael Tholey, Head of Education at Vita, to dive into the game‑changing world of digital dentures, high‑performance ceramics and the science behind simpler, smarter workflows. Michael shares insights from two decades at Vita, his role as Vice‑President of PROSEC, and why teaming up with DSD is a perfect fit for technicians and dentists alike.
Tune in to hear how the new DSD × Vita collaborative partnership is reshaping restorative dentistry.
https://digitalsmiledesign.com/
https://www.vita-zahnfabrik.com/
In this episode, I sit down with one of the leading experts in advanced implant dentistry—Prof. Howard Gluckman—to explore the topic of Partial Extraction Therapy.
This is one of our most focused and pragmatic episodes to date. No fluff—just real, clinically relevant insights into a technique that’s changing the way we preserve bone and manage esthetics around implants.
Howard brings his deep experience and research-driven approach to the table, covering everything from immediate placements to the nuances of case selection and execution.
Learn more about Prof Howard Gluckman:
https://howardgluckman.com/
In this episode, I had the pleasure of being interviewed by Shwan Zajas—an incredible host who knows how to pull out the why behind the journey.
We talked about how I broke away from the expected path in dentistry—even going against advice to keep working as a dental technician after becoming a dentist. That choice, though controversial at the time, ended up shaping everything that came after: my perspective, my innovations, and ultimately, the creation of Digital Smile Design.
We dive into what it means to stay true to your instincts, to combine disciplines, and to think differently—even when others don’t understand your vision yet.
Huge thanks to Shwan for creating space for authentic, heart-centered conversations like this one.
If you're a dentist, a creator, or just someone forging your own path—you’ll find something in this episode.
Learn more about Shwan:
https://shawnzajas.com/
In this episode, I share what it was like to be on stage with one of my biggest inspirations—Dr. John Kois—at our recent Kois-Coachman course in Miami. We dive into the outcomes, the incredible energy of the event, and the key insights that came from bringing our worlds together to push digital dentistry forward.
I also give you a sneak peek into something I’m really excited about: the IntraOral Scanner Festival happening this May in Modena, Italy. This is not your average dental course. It’s 100% focused on intraoral scanners—every brand, every feature, every clinical application—plus, we’re adding a twist of Ferrari and Formula 1 to the experience.
If you’re serious about scanning, whether you're already using one or thinking about your next investment, this course is designed to give you clarity and confidence.
Join me and the Agnini Brothers this May in Modena.
May 15-18, 2025
Save your spot: https://digitalsmiledesign.com/intraoral-scanner-festival-with-agninis-coachman
For years, we've been told that outsourcing marketing is the way to go. But the future is shifting—insourcing will soon be the smarter strategy. In this episode, I sit down with Brendon Macdonald and Kirk Behrendt to explain why this change is happening, how AI is revolutionizing marketing, and what you need to do now to stay ahead. Trust is the new currency, your website is your most valuable asset, and word-of-mouth remains the strongest form of marketing. The era of generative AI is here—leverage it before your competitors do!
I’m back with my friend Kirk Behrendt to introduce Dentistry 3.0—a new model of care that’s redefining the future of our profession.
Dentistry is evolving fast, and if you’re not adapting, you’re falling behind. In this episode, I’ll explain what Dentistry 3.0 is, why it matters, and how AI and technology are reshaping everything we do.
Join us for this essential conversation on the next big shift in dentistry!
Key Takeaways:
-Dentistry 2.0 is the gold standard—but we can do even better with 3.0.
-AI is the future of dentistry—start leveraging it now.
-Don’t fear AI—it will free up time for you and your team.
-Customized dentistry is the future—move away from the cookie-cutter approach.
-A 3.0 dentist focuses on whole-body health, not just pretty teeth.
-Humans have limitations—technology fills the gaps.
In this episode I have the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Anabella Oquendo from NYU Dentistry, where I share the advice I would give to my younger self. I reflect on the importance of resilience, continuous growth, and trusting the process, offering insights for dentists navigating their own journeys.
About NYU
https://www.nyu.edu/
In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Tal Morr, renowned prosthodontist and founder of TMprosthodontics, to tackle a critical question in modern dentistry: Is quality scalable?Scaling a dental business comes with opportunities and challenges—but can you maintain excellence while expanding? Together we explore the pros and cons of scaling in dentistry. Dr. Tal Morr is known for his precision, artistry, and advanced techniques in prosthodontics. With years of expertise in full-mouth rehabilitation and complex dental cases, he brings a unique perspective to the conversation.Watch now and join the discussion!Get to know more about Dr Tal Morr:https://www.tmprosthodontics.com/
Do you have frustrated patients and daily conflicts? There's a formula to fix it! In this episode of Coffee Break with Coachman, Dr Kirk Behrendt breaks down the E – R = C formula and how it can reduce conflict in all areas of your life—inside and outside the clinic.
For more information about Dr Kirk Behrendt check his website:
https://www.actdental.com/
In this inspiring episode I chat with Dr. Konstantin Kross, a leading advocate for oral health and smile aesthetics, about the power of creating healthy, beautiful smiles.
Dr. Kross shares his philosophy of “Empowering people through healthy & beautiful smiles” and reveals his proven system, complete with practical tools and tips, to help dentists enhance both patient outcomes and practice success.
Plus, we dive into tips on balancing a successful dental career while maintaining personal well-being.
Follow Dr. Kross on Instagram: / dr.konstantinkross
In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Andrea Shepperson, a globally recognized leader in dentistry and founder of Shepperson Education on Waiheke Island. Together, we explore the evolution of dental design, how technology is transforming workflows, and the challenges of being a modern dental designer. Tune in for insights on predictability, efficiency, and cutting-edge materials that are shaping the future of dentistry
About the guest:
Dr Andrea Shepperson is regarded as a global leader in dentistry. She founded Shepperson Education, a dedicated teaching centre for dentists worldwide, based on Waiheke Island, where she lives. Driven by a desire to be at the forefront of dentistry, she has embraced technology, offering patients high-tech solutions and great visibility and engagement with technology, materials and efficient workflows to deliver more accurate, predictable and efficient dentistry for patients.
A Kois Center Graduate and Alumnus from the internationally acclaimed Kois Center in Seattle, she brings a comprehensive Risk Management approach to care to a loyal patient base of 30+ years.
Dr Shepperson is internationally recognised as an expert in tooth wear, acclaimed for her contributions to both teaching and clinical dentistry.
In this special episode of Coffee Break with Coachman, part of the live webinars from the highly anticipated Kois & Coachman Course in Miami this March 2025, Christian Coachman sits down with two renowned speakers of the course—Dr. Vinicius Machado and Dr. Vicente Gimeno. Dr. Vicente, originally from Spain, and Dr. Vinicius, from Brazil, are both widely recognized experts in the field of dentistry. Their insights and expertise have made them key references in the industry, shaping the future of modern dental practices. For more information about the course: Optimizing Clinical Outcomes with Kois&Coachman Miami 20-21 March 2025 https://digitalsmiledesign.com/optimizing-clinical-outcomes-with-kois-coachman
In this episode , I sit down with one of my greatest mentors, Dr. Rick Roblee – a global authority in esthetic dentistry, advanced orthodontic techniques, and interdisciplinary therapy.
Discover how comprehensive care transforms patient outcomes and why ideal dentistry goes beyond the smile.
About the guest:
After graduating from Baylor College of Dentistry (BCOD), Dr. Roblee quickly became renowned for his work in Esthetic and Restorative Dentistry in Dallas, Texas. In order to be able to give his patients the highest level of comprehensive care, he decided to return to BCOD and study graduate orthodontics. He is now recognized around the globe for his work in esthetic dentistry, orthodontic techniques and interdisciplinary therapy.
He has given more than 500 professional presentations in the United States, Canada, Central America, South America, Europe, Australia and Japan on these topics. He is also a leader in several exciting new areas of dentistry including Surgically Facilitated Orthodontic Therapy (SOFT) and Airway Centered Growth and Development. He is the author of numerous publications and videos, including a landmark textbook entitled “Interdisciplinary Dentofacial Therapy: A Comprehensive Approach to Optimal Patient Care” (Quintessence Publishing Co., Inc.).
He is an active member in numerous prestigious dental organizations, including the American Academy of Fixed Prosthodontics and the American Academy of Restorative Dentistry. He is a distinguished leader in esthetic dentistry and is a valued member and past President of the American Academy of Esthetic Dentistry, an exclusive organization limited to only 100 worldwide leaders in the field. He is honored to be only the second orthodontist to ever serve in that role.
Dr. Roblee is a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics, a distinction that less than 20% of practicing orthodontists actually receive. He has served as an associate clinical professor at Baylor College of Dentistry in both the restorative department and the orthodontic department. While maintaining a full-time practice in Fayetteville, Dr. Roblee continues to be instrumental in the development of web-based collaborative software to facilitate his comprehensive approach to healthcare. In creating the first interdisciplinary digital network for clinical records through his company in 1997, TeamLINKS.com, Dr. Roblee provides a vehicle for exceptional patient care through the collaborative value of shared images, treatment planning and patient services.
In addition to “talking teeth” to anyone who will listen, Dr. Roblee is passionate about growing heirloom tomatoes, cheering on the Razorbacks, traveling and spending time with his family.
Learn more about at:
https://robleeortho.com/
In this episode of Coffee Break with Coachman, Kirk challenges me with the 3 most important questions in dentistry—and I don’t hold back. We explore why I believe the golden age of dentistry is still ahead and how the profession is evolving to focus on prevention, longevity, and systemic health.
Join us as we discuss how the leaders in the field are shaping a better future for dentistry, making it less reactive and more proactive for both professionals and patients.
Learn more about DSD at:
https://digitalsmiledesign.com/
About our co-host:
Kirk Behrendt is a renowned consultant and speaker in the dental industry, known for his expertise in helping dentists create better practices and better lives. With over 30 years of experience in the field, Kirk has dedicated his professional life to optimizing dentistry's best systems and practices.
Kirk has been a featured speaker at every major dental meeting in the United States. His company, ACT Dental, has consistently been ranked among the Top Dental Consultants in Dentistry Today's annual rankings for the past ten years. In addition, ACT Dental was named one of the fastest-growing companies in the United States by Inc Magazine, appearing on their Inc 5000 list.
Kirk's motivational skills are widely recognized in the dental industry. Dr. Peter Dawson of The Dawson Academy has referred to Kirk as "THE best motivator I have ever heard." Kirk has also assembled a trusted team of advisor experts who work with dentists to customize individual solutions that meet their unique needs.
Learn more at:
https://www.actdental.com/
In this special episode of Coffee Break with Coachman, part of the live webinars from the highly anticipated Kois & Coachman Course taking place in Miami this March 2025, Christian Coachman sits down with the renowned Dr. Arash Hakhamian!
Dr. Hakhamian, a celebrated cosmetic and implant dentist, CEO of Dentulu, and an innovator in mobile dentistry and Teledentistry, shares his incredible journey—from groundbreaking advancements in dental technology to his inspiring global efforts to bring free dental care to underserved communities.
Dr. Arash gives us an exclusive sneak peek at what he’ll be lecturing and presenting in Miami during the course.
For more information about the course:
Optimizing Clinical Outcomes with Kois&Coachman Miami 20-21 March 2025
https://digitalsmiledesign.com/optimizing-clinical-outcomes-with-kois-coachman
About the guest:
Dr. Arash comes from a family of medical doctors and dentists and as such sees the mouth and oral health as one integral piece of a connected system affecting and working with other parts of the body. The longstanding tradition of community service and philanthropy exemplified by previous generations in his family motivated Dr. Arash to continue his heritage helping better the lives of others through the practice of medicine within the field of dental surgery.
Dr. Hakhamian teaches advanced surgical techniques, dental implants, bone grafting as well as business management and marketing to dentists around the world and is licensed by the State of California as a continuing education provider. He was chosen in 2018 as one of the top 40 dentists under 40 and again in 2019 as the best cosmetic dentist in Los Angeles by LA Magazine. He is currently serving as CEO of Dentulu, a technology company providing mobile dentistry and Teledentistry services.
Learn more at:
https://doctorarash.com/
In this special edition of Coffee Break with Coachman, Dr. Christian Coachman hosts the highly anticipated course featuring the renowned Dr. Dean Kois. Together, they explore strategies to optimize clinical outcomes through precision, expertise, and innovation in dentistry.
Learn from Dr. Kois' exceptional journey—Prosthodontic specialist, international lecturer, and educator at the esteemed Kois Center—as he shares insights on restorative, aesthetic, and implant dentistry.
For more information about the course:
Optimizing Clinical Outcomes with Kois&Coachman Miami 20-21 March 2025
https://digitalsmiledesign.com/optimizing-clinical-outcomes-with-kois-coachman
About the guest:
Dr. Dean E. Kois received his Doctorate in Dental Medicine (DMD) from Nova Southeastern University, College of Dental Medicine. Dr. Kois went on to specialize in Prosthodontics receiving a Certificate in Prosthodontics with a Master’s of Science degree (MSD) from the University of Washington, School of Dentistry, and then completed a 2- year surgical Implant Fellowship (FID) at New York University, College of Dentistry. His memberships to professional organizations includes the American Academy of Esthetic Dentistry, American Academy of Restorative Dentistry, American College of Prosthodontists, Pacific Coast Society for Prosthodontics, Washington State Society of Prosthodontists & King County Dental Association. Dr. Kois continues to lecture nationally and internationally as well as publish extensively on various topics in dentistry. He is also currently serving on the editorial advisory boards of the Compendium and Inside Dentistry. He maintains a private practice limited to restorative, aesthetic and implant dentistry in Seattle. In addition, he continues to work with restorative dentists at the Kois Center, a didactic and clinical teaching program.
On this edition of Coffee Break with Coachman, we're diving into the most anticipated course of the year: Optimizing Clinical Outcomes with Kois & Coachman!
Join Dr. Christian Coachman as he hosts an exclusive live webinar with Dr. Marta Revilla-León, a distinguished leader in digital dentistry and key speaker for the course.
Discover why this course is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, featuring the legendary Dr. John Kois on stage with Dr. Coachman—potentially one of Dr. Kois' last appearances!
Dr. Revilla-León, Faculty and Director of Research at the Kois Center, shares insights into her groundbreaking work in digital workflows, 3D printing, AI in dentistry, and much more. Don't miss her expertise and a behind-the-scenes preview of the course.
For more information about the course:
Optimizing Clinical Outcomes with Kois&Coachman Miami 20-21 March 2025
https://digitalsmiledesign.com/optimizing-clinical-outcomes-with-kois-coachman
About the guest:
Dr. Marta Revilla-León serves as Faculty and Director of Research and Digital Dentistry at the Kois
Center. She holds a PhD in Prosthodontics and Digital Dentistry from ACTA University in Amsterdam, an MSD in Prosthodontics from the University of Washington in Seattle, and a Master’s in Esthetic Dentistry from Complutense University of Madrid.
Dr. Revilla-León has authored over 200 peer-reviewed publications in the last 5 years, addressing topics such as facial and intraoral scanning techniques, virtual patient integration, digital implant workflows, advanced 3D printing of polymers, metals, and ceramics, CAD software, and the application of artificial intelligence in dental practice.
In addition to her role at the Kois Center, Dr. Revilla-León is Affiliate Faculty in the Graduate Prosthodontics Programs at both the University of Washington in Seattle and Tufts University in Boston.
Previously, she dedicated 17 years to private practice and served as Assistant Program Director for the General Dentistry Program at Texas A&M College of Dentistry in Dallas, Texas.