The journey to finding one's true calling can be as intricate as the work itself. For Carmel Vickers-Wall, a clinical dental technician from the UK, this journey began at the tender age of 16. Initially stepping into the dental field as a nurse, Carmel's path has been marked by a series of pivotal decisions that have led her to a fulfilling career that beautifully marries her artistic talents with her passion for patient care.

In our latest podcast episode, Carmel shares her story, offering listeners an inside look into the world of dental technology and the unique role of a clinical dental technician. From her early days of doodling horror-themed art in school to contemplating a career in law, Carmel's path was anything but straightforward. It was a chance suggestion from her dentist that set her on a course towards the dental field, where she discovered a passion for helping patients and a love for the artistry involved in crafting dentures.

Carmel's journey is a testament to the power of meeting the right people and making the right choices. Her decision to pursue an apprenticeship as a dental nurse allowed her to gain invaluable experience and insight into the dental world, ultimately leading her to the realization that her true passion lay in dental technology. The transition wasn't easy, but Carmel's determination and artistic flair have set her apart in the field.

In the episode, Carmel discusses the importance of proper impressions and patient communication, sharing tips and tricks that can benefit both dental professionals and patients alike. Her emphasis on setting realistic expectations and her dedication to patient care are evident in every aspect of her work.

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. They have a killer line up of speakers including:

Mariano Maurizi

Lee Culp

Dr. Shashikant Singhal

Don Yancey

Jed Archibald

Benjamin Gebhardt

Tanya Little

Aaron Johnson

Jenelle Tabaković

Patrick Coon

John Wilson

Luke LaRocque-Walker

Paul Imperius

Jonny "exocad" Jakson

Yuki Momma

Dr. Ken Malament

Stephenie Goddard

Jessica Love

Dr. George Tysowsky

Michael Roberts

Barbara Warner!

Register today!

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

Special Guest: Carmel Vickers-Wall.

As we continue the amazing conversations we got while at exocad Insights 2024 in Mallorca, Spain, we want to thank again the good people at exocad that made all this possible. This episode brings us three fantastic conversations with 3 fantastic people.

First up is Dr. Marcus White from England who is one of the UK's foremost opinion leaders in digital dentistry and intra oral scanning. Dr. White talks about his on-site lab, utilizing remote designers and milling centers, and his view of the full arch workflow.

Next is UK lab owner, Ashley Bryne. Ashley is the son of a lab owner that told him not to get into the business. It's a great thing he didn't listen to him, because now Ashley owns Brynes Dental Lab, one of the biggest labs into digital and implants in England. Ashley talks about his journey, why his labs uses both exocad and 3shape, bringing technicians to Insights, and being a part of the Conus Group of laboratories.

Then we wrap up the episode with Seth Potter. Since the age of 12, Seth knew he wanted to be a dental technician. After school and working in a lab, Seth soon found himself needing a new direction. So, he got a laptop and exocad and started looking for work. Now he's not only a freelance designer but also a Independent Certified exocad Trainer.

Introducing Ivotion Digital Dentures from Ivoclar – Experience unparalleled precision and efficiency with Ivoclar‘s state-of-the-art digital denture workflow.

Ivotion is available in their patent pending monolithic disc that combines denture base and tooth materials in one seamless puck. Or if you lab needs more flexibility, Ivotion is also available as stand-alone discs - Ivotion Base, Dent and Dent Multi all in 98mm width to fit your favorite milling machine.

With Ivotion you can streamline your lab’s processes, reduce production time, and enhance patient satisfaction. Elevate your lab's capabilities with Ivotion Digital Dentures – where innovation meets perfection. Discover the future of dentures today with Ivoclar." Thanks for your continued support of the podcast Ivoclar.

Special Guests: Ashley Byrne, Dr. Marcos White, and Seth Potter.