We save a conversation from the Ivoclar Ballroom at Lab Day Chicago to release this week so if you are at Lab Day West you can go meet Mark Hidde from WINWINGO.com. Mark comes on to talk about owning a lab and seeing the struggles to find good talent. So he created a website where labs can create a profile to look for technicians and technicians can post that they are looking for a good lab. It's a different approach to a much-needed service in our industry.

Then we have a conversation with Chris Nevarez. Chris started his dental career with Patterson. From warehouse to customer service, Chris started to really understand the ins and outs of clinical dentistry. After his mother needed some dental work, Chris found a way for her medical insurace to help cover a lot of the cost. Now he is doing this for patients and clinics. The best part about all of this is that if more people have access to care, then that is more cases coming to the labs.

Take it from Laura Prosser, the digital marketing manager for Ivoclar North America. She would like to invite you to start following them on Instagram. It's your chance to obtain exclusive updates on product announcements, industry news, upcoming educational events, and heartwarming stories about our local team and industry professionals. Let's get social together. Simply start following us on Instagram @Ivoclar.na. We'll see you there.

Special Guests: Chris Nevarez and Mark Hidde.

Make sure you visit Ivoclar at LMT Lab Day Chicago 2025. Ivoclar will be in their usual spot at Grand Ballroom A&B in the East Tower, on the Gold Level. Right across from the registration desk.

Register today!

Make sure you come see VOICES FROM THE BENCH recording from the Ballroom all weekend!

Attend the 99th Annual Cal-Lab Meeting Feb 20 & 21 at the Swissôtel in Chicago. (Connected to the Hyatt and Lab Day)
Elvis & Barb will be *recording there Thursday night during the "Cocktail Hour" from 4:00 to 6:30 *
Register today: https://cal-lab.org/annual-meeting

This week we had the privilege of sitting down with the dynamic team from Amann Girrbach. We kicked off the conversation with CEO Keith Clements, who shared his remarkable journey to AG. With over 20 years of experience in the dental sector, Keith transitioned from semi-retirement to leading Amann Girrbach, emphasizing the importance of a strong distribution model, highlighting the company's commitment to building trust with their dealer partners.

Director of Operations Nick Pizzo followed up with insights into his extensive background in supply chain and logistics. After spending over a decade with Amazon, Nick brings to the company unmatched customer service experience.

Industry veteran Maurice "Mo" Whitlock, who has been with AG for nearly a decade, brought a wealth of knowledge to the discussion. He emphasized the importance of customer experience with the motto "The relationship to me starts after the sale." This sentiment resonates deeply in a market where service can make or break a company’s reputation.

Throughout the episode, the team discussed the innovative changes they are implementing to enhance customer service. From remote repairs utilizing high-resolution cameras to a focus on technician training, AG is setting new standards in the dental milling space. Keith shared their vision of creating a customer-centric approach, all while celebrating every mill install they do.

This episode is not just about the products; it's about the passion and commitment behind them.

You are invited to Ivoclar’s IPS e.max Panel Discussion Friday, February 22nd stating at 3:00 at LMT Lab Day in Chicago. Our very own Barb Warner will be on stage with Jessica Birrell, Stephenie Goddard, Mike Roberts, Jed Archibald and Dr. Ken Malament as they dive into the world of e.max. After the panel discussion, Ivoclar will host a Happy Hour to commemorate this 20-year milestone. So, please join us by registering at Labday.com/Ivoclar.

Make sure you visit Aidite at Booth E-26 during your visit at LMT Lab Day Chicago! They will be there showcasing their exciting new products and cutting-edge solutions in digital dentistry. Attendees can explore hands-on demonstrations of Biomic stain & glaze techniques and some of their other innovative technologies. Aidite will also host engaging lectures in Grand Suite 2, East Tower, covering topics such as EZneer, 3D Pro-Zir, Digital Dentures, and their Aidite Cloud design service. Even before you go, you can stay updated by following @AiditeNorthAmerica on all social media platforms. Don’t miss the opportunity to see how Aidite is shaping the future of dental labs!

Special Guests: Keith Clements, Maurice “Mo” Whitlock, CDT, and Nick Pizzo.