Perspectives /by Fta

In this short and final message, Andy and Chris take amoment to say a sincere thank you to everyone who has supported Dentology.What began during the COVID lockdowns, inspired by the riseof Clubhouse conversations, has grown into something far beyond what any of uscould have imagined - over 200 episodes filled with inspiring stories, honestconversations, and unforgettable guests.From Andy and Chris: ‘thank you for listening, forsharing, and for being part of something special.’Here’s to the next exciting project!

THE CURTAIN CALL....Welcome to a very special milestone edition of Dentology -our 200th, and final, episode.  To mark the occasion, Andy and Chris chat with a guest who epitomises wisdom, longevity, and impact in the dental profession – Dr Stephen Hancocks OBE.A dentist, publisher, speaker, and storyteller, Stephen hasspent over 20 years as the Editor-in-Chief of the BDJ Portfolio, shaping thewritten voice of British dentistry. He was awarded an OBE in 1997 by HerMajesty Queen Elizabeth II for services to the dental profession – an honourfew in the field receive.In this celebratory episode, Stephen talks about his earlylife and what set him on the path to dentistry, as well as how his globaltravels and long editorial career have influenced his thinking. He shares howhe’s balanced clinical credibility with publishing leadership and reflects onthe changes – and constants – in dentistry over the decades.He also talks about his MA in Advanced Theatre Practice, hislove of storytelling, and how the art of performan

In this episode of Dentology Andy and Chris arejoined by Dr Shalin Kapoor - dentist, entrepreneur, and pioneer.A graduate of Guy’s Hospital, Shalin talk about how theirrelationship began, their early career paths, and what led them to take theleap into practice ownership with the creation of their first New York DentalOffice (NYDO) practice in the early 2000s.They talk about the string of successful squats they havecreated over the years and explain how they have managed to balance businessgrowth with family life, and how working so closely together has requiredboundaries to carve out non-dental time.The couple have also played a long-standing role in publicdental health by supporting the NHS 111 dental line, offering advice and triageduring out-of-hours care. They share what a typical day looks like at thecentre and why it continues to be an important part of their work.Finally, Shalin talks about his recent diagnosis with ADHD anddiscusses how this discovery has impacted his routines and how it has given hi

In this episode of Dentology Andy and Chris are joined by atrue innovator and leader in UK dentistry - Dr Rahul Doshi.A former practice owner, renowned cosmetic dentist, and nowa highly sought-after Strategic Profit Coach, Rahul has spent his careerblending clinical excellence with business acumen. From his early days as anassociate to his role as Clinical Director at Dentex Healthcare, his journey ispacked with insight, impact, and transformation.Rahul chats about his childhood and shares his experiences fromdental school, his leap into practice ownership, and how he came to be one ofthe pioneers of cosmetic dentistry in the UK.He talks about his work as founder of The Advanced TrainingInstitute, where he helped shape the way interdisciplinary dentistry ispractised today, and reflects on his time as the resident dental expert on Channel4’s 10 Years Younger, helping to bring dentistry into the public eye.Beyond the surgery, Rahul has made major contributions tothe profession - as President of the BACD, a foun

In this episode of Dentology Andy and Chris sit down with atrue pioneer at the intersection of dentistry and technology – Aalok Y Shukla,CEO of Implement AI.Aalok looks back at his early years and tells Chris and Andyabout qualifying from King’s in 2003, and then how he spent over a decade inclinical practice, including more than seven years running Alkali DentalStudios – where his interest in using digital tools to elevate the patientexperience began to take form.He talks about the launch of Instant Dentist inOctober 2019, a digital dental wellness platform providing remote screeningsand consultations, and his currently role heading up ‘Implement AI’ – guidingbusinesses, including dental practices, on how to embrace AI solutions inpractical, meaningful ways. He answers a series of rapid-fire questions about AI and explainsclearly how he believes AI can genuinely improve care, streamline systems, andwhy it might also raise patient expectations. Topics:·        Tell us about your early years, includingqualifyi

In this episode of Dentology, Andy and Chris chat to MaggieAndi – a holistic dentist, practice principal, mother of three, and founder ofthe global Kids Go Free movement. Maggie chats about her childhood and her early years as adentist after qualifying at just 22. She credits her mentor, Dr NariMansukhani, for igniting her love for the profession and talks about how hisinfluence shaped her career from the very beginning.From her first roles in dentistry to becoming principal ofMill Hill Dental Practice – a surgery with over 110 years of history – Maggie talksabout her journey, including the challenges of balancing motherhood andbusiness ownership in a demanding profession.Digital dentistry has played a major role in Maggie’spractice, recognised in 2024 when she won Best Practice for Digital Innovationand Clinical Excellence. She chats about how digital tools fit alongside herholistic approach, and what more needs to be done to integrate lifestyle,mental health, and oral care into mainstream dentistry.Finally,

In this episode of Dentology Andy and Chris are joined by Rasnaam Tiwana, Founder and CEO of Dentstock, a procurement service helping independentpractices and dental groups streamline how they purchase supplies.Rasnaam chats about his early life, family background, whatultimately led him into the world of dentistry and who supported him early on.He shares how the unique pressures on principals – jugglingclinical work with business demands – sparked the creation of Dentstock duringthe pandemic. He explains how the service works, how much time it saves, andwhy supply chain efficiency remains such a sticking point for so manypractices.Finally, Rasnaam reflects on what stops some principals fromembracing change – whether it’s mindset, leadership, or tech literacy – andwhat it really takes to help practices thrive in a fast-evolving sector. Topics:-         What were your early years were like?-         Are there medics or dentist in your family tree?-         Before dentistry what did you career comprise of?-    

In this episode of Dentology Andy and Chris chat to one ofthe most recognised and multifaceted figures in UK dentistry – Dr Raj Rattan MBE.With a career that spans clinical dentistry, practiceownership, policy advising, writing, international speaking, and his currentrole as Dental Director, Raj truly embodies the idea of a portfolio career. Raj talks about why he chose dentistry, the memory of hisfirst patient, and his entrepreneurial drive that led to running threepractices.He reflects on the evolution of his career – how philosophy,mentoring, and policy have all played a part - and shares what mentoring reallymeans to him, and the importance of being supported early in your career.He also talks about his MBE for services to dentistry, arare and prestigious recognition, and what it was like to step into the Palaceto receive the honour.Topics:-         Tell usabout your background and childhood-         Why dentistry?-         Do youremember your first patient?-         Did youalways see yourself as a practi

This week Andy and Chris chat to Tejal Doshi.Tejal is an associate dentist and a podcaster, and while shemay not be a practice owner, her story resonates with so many in the profession– especially those navigating the early years of their career.In this episode, Tejal chats about the key moments thatshaped her journey, her career in dentistry and the highs and challenges oflife as an associate. She speaks openly about the times she’s felt overwhelmed andon the brink of burnout, and how a sabbatical in 2022 helped her to reset.Finally, she tells Chris and Andy about the podcast sheco-hosts with her sister, celebrating their shared heritage and bringingcultural stories to life. Topics:-         Tell usabout your childhood-         How was your time atdental school?-         What was your VT time in Berkshire like?-         When youstarted in dentistry who was kind to you?-         What ledto you taking a short sabbatical in 2022?-         What did you do with this time out?-         What do you think your life

In this episode of Dentology Andy and Chris arejoined by Catherine Rutland, a leading figure in UK dentistry whose career hasspanned clinical care, business leadership, and national policy.As Clinical Director for Simplyhealth and Denplan, and Director of Policy and Research for the Association of Dental Groups, Catherinebrings a wealth of insight into both the strategic and practical sides of theprofession.Catherine chats about her early life, including her timespent living in Kenya, and how those experiences helped shape who she is today.From studying at Leeds to her hospital years in Newcastle,and nearly two decades as a partner in a private practice in Berkshire,Catherine reflects on the lessons learned at each stage.She also talks about her current role and considers how thebusiness of dentistry is evolving. Finally, she shares her thoughts on the shift in partnershipmodels and how her role has changed over time. Topics:·          Tell us about your childhood and early years living in Kenya·          You

This week’s guest is someone who has continually pushed the boundaries of what dentistry can be – a clinician, an author, a leader, and an innovator – James Goolnik.James is the recent founder of Optimal Dental Health inMarylebone, past president of the British Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (BACD), head judge of the Private Dentistry Awards, and author of ‘Brush andKick Sugar’.In this episode, Chris and Andy chat to James about hisearly years and the childhood influences that shaped his path, before moving on to discuss how he found dentistry and whether it was love at first sight or something he grew into over time.James reflects on founding Bow Lane Dental Group tolaunching his latest venture, Optimal Dental Health.He talks about his passion for changing the narrative aroundsugar and shares more on some of the insights that have shaped his book and led to his new practice model – one that integrates dentistry with nutrition, health coaching, myofunctional therapy, and psychotherapy.He also chats about his t

In this episode, Andy and Chris are joined by someone whobrings a powerful blend of clinical expertise, entrepreneurial grit, and boundless energy to the world of dentistry – Dr Rana Al-Falaki.Rana is a specialist periodontist, an Optimal PerformanceStrategist, and the founder of MedDent – the Leadership and Wellbeing Academy.She’s also recently launched Breathe Dental Wellness – a name that already tells you a lot about her mission to bring balance and purpose into the profession.From being nudged into dentistry by her parents, to buildingand selling two specialist practices, to managing chronic illness and transforming that experience into a wellbeing movement – Rana’s story is nothing short of inspiring.She chats about her childhood and family life, some of herbig career decisions made at a very young age, her time at Barts, and her journey from startup to practice ownership of 2 specialist practices and finally, her decision to sell.She also talks about the NAIL-IT system – the framework shecredits for he

In this episode, Andy and Chris are joined by Steve Davey,practice growth and marketing consultant. Steve has over three decades of marketing expertise and followed afascinating journey that’s taken him from the leafy suburbs to the heart ofDevon, and from broader healthcare to a powerful niche within dentistry.Steve chats about the early influences that shaped hiscareer and the marketing truths he’s uncovered that most still overlook. With acareer that spans both offline and digital worlds, Steve shares what’s changed– and what’s stayed the same – in the ever-evolving marketing landscape.He also talks about how he found himself working with dentalpractices, how they can grow by focusing on their existing patient base, andwhy clear aligner marketing might just be the most crowded space of all. Plus, he also reflects on some of the current challenges indentistry… and there’s a bit of sports chat too. Topics:-         Tell us about your early years.-         Why did you move to Devon? What was the attraction to

Andy and Chris chat to Dr Adam Nulty in this latest episodeof the Dentology podcast.Adam, a true pioneer in digital dentistry, is a highlyexperienced clinician with a special interest in Restorative & AestheticDentistry, Digital Dentistry and Implantology and has been at the forefront ofadvancing technology in dentistry, shaping the way modern practices operatetoday.In this episode, he chats about his journey - from growingup in a household with a dentist father to becoming a leader in digitaldentistry. He explains what first sparked his passion for digital workflows,the impact of digital transformation on patient care, and how his vision led tothe creation of the International Digital Dental Academy (IDDA), the IDDA Lab,and an R&D centre.Beyond his clinical expertise, Adam is also an innovatorwith patents on several dental products and shares more about hisentrepreneurial mindset, the key skills he believes every business owner shouldmaster, and what truly makes him happiest. Topics:-         Tell us

In this episode of the Dentology podcast, hosts Andy and Chris chat to Bilal Ahmed, a chief accountant with a passion for financial literacy and a knack for breaking down complex money matters.Bilal shares his journey from growing up in a family business to navigating the complexities of accountancy and eventually finding his niche in the dental industry.  He chats about the state of financial literacy in dentistry - why so many professionals struggle with managing personal finances, tax planning, and budgeting, and why these crucial skills aren’t taught in schools or even business education. He also shares some of the financial pitfalls he’s seen dentists fall into and how a shift in mindset can turn tax from a burden into a tool for growth.With a strong presence on social media, Bilal has also built a reputation for making accountancy engaging and accessible. He explains more about his strategy for educating and demystifying financial topics online and discusses the balance between being data-driven and run

In this episode of the Dentology podcast, Kunal Thakker, CEOand founder of Tooth Club, shares more on his entrepreneurial journey in dentistry. He discusses the influence of his upbringing, the lessonslearned from his career to date, and his transition from a high-pressure investment banking career to building a dental group. He discusses the complexities of growing a dental businesswhile maintaining a strong company culture and emphasises the importance of kindness in leadership, the challenges of outgrowing team members, and the unique perspective he brings as a non-dentist owner. Finally, he considers where he sees dentistry going over thenext 5-10 years and shares insights on learnings from influential figures and the importance of industry success stories. Topics:-        Can you tell us about your upbringing and early family life?-        Working in investment banking - did your education route lead you downthis path?-         How did this world set you up for starting a dental group?-         Are there

In this episode, Andy and Chris delve into the critical roleof money in the dental profession, emphasising the importance of understanding cash flow versus profit. They discuss common misconceptions among dentists regarding financial management and the necessity for financial literacy to ensure the sustainability of dental practices. The conversation highlights the need for dentists to analysetheir financial data regularly and to be comfortable discussing money within their teams.

In this episode of the Dentology podcast, Dr. Simon Chardreturns to discuss his journey with Parla, a sustainable oral care brand, and the challenges and triumphs of being a startup founder. He reflects on his experience on Dragon's Den, theimportance of sustainability in the dental industry, and the connection between oral health and overall wellness. Simon talks about what has happened with Parla in the past two years (he was a previous guest with us back in March 2023) and chats about plans for the future.He also explains about the Dental GrowthRetreat aimed at addressing mental health issues in dentistry, what drove him to lead this initiative and what the inaugural event was like. Topics:- Update us on Parla- Your experience on Dragon’s Den: Do you still stand byyour decision to not take the money?- You are now a Cert B business - to the uninitiated what does this mean?- What else has happened at Parla in the past 2 years?-  Is the mainstream competition catching up?- Does the life of a founder always fe

In this episode of the Dentology podcast, Dr. Yewande Oduwole shares her inspiring journey into dentistry with hosts Andy and Chris. She discusses the influence of her family, her academic achievements, and the challenges she faced in her pursuit of a dental career. She talks about her time at dental school, her student scholarship from the Afro-Caribbean Dental Association and how this then led her to embarking on a project in Ghana to provide free dental care and oral health education to communities, schools and orphanages. She also talks about clinical work and the support she now does with the dental student community. Finally, she shares her secrets to successfully balancing her clinical work alongside her growing social media presence and considers her aspirations for the future. Topics: -  Have you always been ultra-positive and was this instilled in you as a child? -  Was there a time you can look back on your childhood and say this is why I am the person I am today? -  How was this in terms of help

This week Chris and Andy chat to Cat Edney, multi award winning Dental Therapist, about her career journey becoming a dental therapist. Cat explains more about the training she undertook to qualify, how a therapist role differs to a hygienist, and the current challenges and barriers faced in the profession. She talks about access to dental training opportunities, the creation of her course, 'The Modern Therapist’, a hands-on course designed to inspire, support and drive dental therapy in practice, and how the UK compares with other countries in Europe and further afield. Finally, she chats about the challenges dental therapists face in practice, including barriers to ownership and access to funding, and whether it is popular career choice and given the recognition to the extent it should.   Topics: -  What’s your family tree? Where did your childhood take place? - When did you know that dentistry was a career path for you? - Did you consider other options? - How do you qualify as a dental therapist? - How