According to Dr. Ed McLaren, “Of all the zirconia’s he's tested, the optical properties of Ivoclar’s e.max zirconia are the closest to natural teeth.” (And I second that with everything I’ve see – if Barb does the read)

Discover what’s redefining the possibilities with IPS e.max Zirconia.

Join Dr. Ed McLaren for Zirconia Reimagined—an informative webinar exploring the latest advancements, clinical insights, and practical applications of zirconia in modern dentistry.

October 5th @ 7:00 pm. Register today at Vivalearning.com

As full-arch dentistry continues to grow, so do the demands on today's dental laboratories. That's why Knight Dental recently launched SimplyARCH Studio, a dedicated production environment built exclusively for full-arch restorations. To support this specialized workflow, Knight invested in an XTCERA milling system and carefully evaluated multiple CAM software solutions before choosing hyperDENT. The decision came down to exceptional milling quality, minimal hand finishing, and impressive production efficiency. But what truly set hyperDENT apart was the implementation process. From the very beginning, the team provided more than software training—they shared the knowledge and experience needed to build an optimized workflow for complex full-arch cases. With proven expertise in advanced milling strategies and laboratory production, hyperDENT helped ensure SimplyARCH Studio was designed for long-term success from day one.Matt Everatt joins Elvis and Barb for a fascinating conversation that takes a deep dive into his journey through the dental laboratory industry and the story behind his book, The Invisible Profession. From discovering dental technology at 16 and specializing in maxillofacial prosthetics and orthodontics to working in hospitals, developing early sleep-apnea appliances, and nearly leaving the profession altogether, Matt's career has taken some seriously interesting turns. Eventually, he helped co-found S4S, building a successful business around sleep-apnea appliances, occlusal splints, orthodontics, and more before eventually stepping away from ownership.

DETAX has been making waves in the dental industry with 3D printing materials, and in this episode, Elvis and Barb sit down with Veronika Perrone from DETAX and Brandon Smith to talk about where digital dentistry is headed—and why flexible printed partials might be one of the most interesting developments yet.

Veronika shares her journey from Germany to the United States and her nearly 15 years with DETAX, while giving us a look at the company’s history, its roots in medical and audiology materials, and its growing presence in the dental market. Brandon brings the technician’s perspective, talking about his path through the lab world, Triad, Whip Mix, 3Shape, and eventually starting his own consulting and training business.

The conversation really gets interesting when they dive into DETAX’s flexible resin. Brandon explains how the material handles in the lab, from design and nesting to printing, post-processing, bonding and finishing. They discuss the chemical bond between the flexible base and denture tooth resin, the ability to design flexible partials from scans, and how the material can be used for everything from flexible partials and flippers to unilaterals and claspless appliances.

They also get into DETAX’s lineup of splint materials, printer validations, hands-on training courses, and what’s coming next—including retainer and aligner materials and additional crown shades. Whether you're already printing removable appliances or just wondering if it’s finally time to bring flexible partials into your digital workflow, this episode is packed with practical information, real-world experience, and plenty of dental-geek conversation.

Special Guests: Brandon Smith and Veronika Perrone.

If you’re passionate about creating natural, beautiful smiles—but want to simplify your workflow without sacrificing aesthetics—this is for you. I’m honored to be part of Ivoclar’s development team introducing a powerful new stain and glaze system featuring Structure Paste, IPS e.max Ceram Art. Create stunning depth and lifelike color in as little as one firing.

Let’s continue to innovate, simplify, and create meaningful change—one smile at a time.

Elvis actually made it down to the exhibition halls this year — and hyperDENT from FOLLOW-ME! Technology was everywhere.

Booth after booth, people were talking milling strategies, templates, and workflows. It felt like a full-on CAM takeover. Their Milling Roadmap scavenger hunt had attendees bouncing between Axsys, Imagine, D.O.F., and Roland collecting stamps like responsible adults…

Responsible adults chasing a bright orange folding electric hyperDENT scooter.

That’s what we love about the FOLLOW-ME! team — world-class CAM engineers talking microns and validation protocols one minute, then ripping around Lab Day the next.

Serious about precision. Not too serious about themselves.

Big shoutout for bringing the brains — and the electric horsepower.

Come see and talk to Elvis and Barb at all these amazing shows in 2026*

• Dental Lab Association of Texas Meeting in Dallas Apr 9-11 https://members.dlat.org/
• exocad Insights in Mallorca, Spain Apr 30 - May 1 https://exocad.com/insights-2026

At the 100-year celebration of the Cal-Lab Association, Elvis checks in with past chair Jeff Stronk after the first full day of the meeting to see how things are going. With Barb stepping into the chair role and kicking things off in style, Jeff talks about the incredible energy in the room, the rise in attendance, and the surprising number of first-time lab owners showing up. From powerful panel discussions filled with unforgettable one-liners to honest conversations about succession planning, leadership, and the realities of running a lab, day one proves why this meeting has survived for a century. Unlike traditional trade shows packed with sales pitches, Cal-Lab keeps the focus on real lab owners sharing real experiences, giving attendees practical insights they can take back to their businesses.

After moving over to the Ivoclar Ballroom at LMT Lab Day Chicago, the conversation shifts to the future of the industry with April Newell, a former dental hygienist who strategically worked her way into the world of additive manufacturing at Nota3D. Now selling advanced resin and metal 3D printing systems to dental labs, April breaks down how 3D printing evolved from simple model production to full frameworks and implant bars. She explains the realities of metal printing, the technology behind lasers and powder systems, and why labs that invest in metal printing tend to grow faster than they expect. Her perspective highlights just how quickly digital manufacturing is changing the lab landscape—and how dentistry continues to pull people into its orbit for life.

Finally, Elvis talks with Joey Hunter, a veteran technician with nearly 30 years in the industry and a true removable specialist. Joey shares how she answered a newspaper ad looking for a “starving artist” back in the 90s and ended up building a lifelong career in dental technology. From mastering every step of removable fabrication to adapting after losing her hearing during her career, Joey’s story highlights both the artistry and resilience behind the craft. Now working at Renstrom Dental Studio, she reflects on seeing LMT Lab Day Chicago 2026 for the first time and being amazed by how far the industry has come. Her experience reminds everyone that while technology continues to evolve, the hands-on knowledge and artistry of technicians remain at the heart of dentistry.

Hey, listeners—ever wonder what Elvis is doing when he’s not recording Voices from the Bench?

He’s a client rep for Derby Dental Laboratory, out in the field every day doing chairside visits and building relationships. His job is simple—keep doctors happy and keep them coming back.

And he couldn’t do it without iCortica.

Right from his phone, Elvis can see sales, remake rates, account notes, risks, and cross-sell opportunities—even before he walks through the door. No spreadsheets. No surprises. Just the info he needs to grow accounts.

Stop digging for data and start taking action.

Head to icortica.com and schedule your demo today.

Join us at exocad Insights 2026, happening April 30–May 1, 2026, on the stunning island of Mallorca, Spain. This two-day event features powerhouse keynotes, hands-on workshops, live software demos, and top-tier industry showcases—all in one unforgettable setting.

Barb and Elvis will be on site bringing you exclusive interviews, plus don’t miss the Women in Dentistry Lunch, celebrating career growth, wellbeing, and the real stories shaping our profession. And of course, cap it all off with the legendary exoGlam Night under the stars.

Tickets are limited. Visit exocad.com/insights-2026 and use code VFTBPalma15 for 15% off.

Special Guests: April Newell, Jeff Stronk, and Joey Hunter.