Creating good culture in a dental lab is not easy. It takes dedication from owners and managers to set the path that the lab can follow. Two brothers both went through the apprenticeship program with John Archibald in the 90s. Darin Swartz was instantly hooked and opened up Swartz Dental Arts in the basement of a dental office after graduation. Followed by his younger brother, Mike Swartz graduated and opened his own lab. You would think they would partner up, but for 15 years they ran separate labs in the same space. After seeing technology coming into the industry, it was time to partner up and create Diamondhead Dental Lab. They talk about doing their own apprenticeship program, growing to 40 employees, creating a culture of partnership and quality, how they stay relevant in ever changing workflows, and staying true to their "North Star"

Check out Culture Camp Podcast: https://www.iamjasonhaugen.com/culture-camp

Listen to John Wilson from Sunrise Dental Lab and take your own lab to the next level by getting in on some of Ivoclar's End of the Year deals on equipment. If you are looking for your first or looking to expand your capabilities, Ivoclar has just what you need at a time where it's best to invest. Head over to Ivolcar.com or contact your local rep for all the deals today. Don't let the new year come thinking you should have bettered your lab.

Special Guests: Darin Swartz and Mike Swartz.

We love meeting dental technicians from all over the world. It's even better when we meet them when they are in other parts of the world when recording. Sabine Mayer started in a lab 32 years ago and for 28 years it was just a job. There was no passion or obsession. Then she fell in love with another dental technician and that passion helped create a passion for teeth. Sabine grew her skills, got on social media, and now she and her boyfriend are teaching courses around the world.

Shera Model Resin: https://shera.de/en/produkte/3d-druck-material/

As a special bonus, the president of the NADL and past podcast guest, Denise Burris, stopped by the Jensen Dental booth while we were at the FDLA Symposium a few weeks ago. Denise updates us on all things NADL like their new website and job board, the NBC and the success of the Digital Workflow Specialty, and how the FDLT can help you obtain your CDT.

Allie Williamson's DLT Training: https://dlttraining.com/

Wanting to take your knowledge and skills to the next level? If you are looking for the best education dedicated to dentistry in both the labs and clinics, check out Ivoclar Academy.

From on-demand webinars to in-person training, Ivoclar Academy has a program to meet your busy schedule. Check out all they have to offer HERE!

Special Guests: Denise Burris, CDT and Sabine Mayer.

Voices From the Bench is headed back to Florida for the FDLA Southern States Symposium & Expo all thanks to the great people at Jensen Dental. You know, the makers of MIYO!. Come visit Elvis & Barb in the Jensen booth June 7 & 8 in Orlando. Register today at FDLA.NET!

We are back to the episodes we got while in the Ivoclar Ballroom at LMT Lab Day Chicago 2024.

First up is a group of designers from Ziemek Dental Lab out of Washington State. What's cool is that only one for them actually works in the lab. Nichoel Burdge is the cad/cam manager and currently has 13 remote designers around the country. Joining her in Chicago is Kay Fritze from Michigan and Allison Cook from Nebraska. They all talk about the dynamic of having remote workers, communicating between themselves and the dentists, and staying disciplined when you can work in your pajamas.

Then we are joined once again by Jen Ludwig who talks about her new role at her new home, Renstrom Dental Studio. She's also joined by Mike Claugherty who has a unique story of being the only dental technician stuntman when he was used for the dental scenes in "A Serious Man". Check out the scene here: https://youtu.be/Rru5jRWqj0c?si=aRgoI2rMCZO8YSoJ

We wrap up the episode with two technicians that have made the better articulator. Scott Gallacher & Dee Grimm from Black Diamond Innovations talk about their extensive history in the industry, why and how they made a better articulator, and how they keep in relevant with digital models.

Wanting to take your knowledge and skills to the next level? If you are looking for the best education dedicated to dentistry in both the labs and clinics, check out Ivoclar Academy.

From on-demand webinars to in-person training, Ivoclar Academy has a program to meet your busy schedule. Check out all they have to offer HERE!

Whether you are looking to elevate your craftsmanship or looking to cut back costs, look no further – VITA MFT Teeth are the ultimate solution for creating lifelike and stunning smiles.

Crafted with precision and backed by cutting-edge technology, VITA MFT Teeth offers unparalleled esthetics and durability. And since VITA believes in the power of experiencing excellence firsthand, for a limited time only, they’re offering you the chance to get a complimentary case sample. That’s right, a full case, absolutely free. Just visit vitanorthamerica.com/freemft

Don’t wait any longer to start providing your customers with a premium tooth at an economy price. Redeem your free case sample and if you’re ready to buy, VITA will even give you an extra 10% discount by shopping online on their newly launched online store.

Join the VITA family today.

Special Guests: Allison Cook, Dee Grimm CDT, Jennifer Ludwig, CDT, Kay Fritze, Mike Claugherty CDT, Nichoel Burdge, and Scott Gallacher.

Ivoclar is having two amazing in-house training sessions in September featuring Jurgen Seger.
September 7 & 9 in Mississauga, Ontario, Canada
September 11& 12 in Amherst, NY, USA

SAVE 30% by using the code: VFTB30

You and a friend can each save 50% by emailing Nicola.Kowal@ivoclar.com and telling them you heard it on Voices From the Bench!

TOPICS INCLUDE:

• Choice of zirconia material related to strengths, esthetics and efficiency
• Design nesting and milling strategies for Multi Zirconia
• Infiltration options
• Processing monolithic restorations surface finish, staining
• Gingiva microlayering different pink ceramic colors
• Tooth microlayering management of color and 3D effects.
• Key tips related to firing aspects for zirconia bridge structures
• Micro and macrotexture of the tooth surface

On August 27th many brave and fearless dental technicians will take to the water and road to participate in the 2023 Chicago Triathlon. They don't do it for fame or personal gain, but to raise money for the Foundation For Dental Laboratory Technology.
PLEASE head over to dentallabfoundation.org and click the DONATE TODAY button. Log in and choose the “Race for the Future” option. There you can put the name of a racer you want to sponsor. You can put:

Barb Warner
Team Abutments (Elvis Dahl, Mark Williamson, Bobby Kennedy)
Voices From the Bench (50/50 split between Barb and Elvis' team)

It’s always sad when good things come to an end and this week we bring you the last of all the amazing conversations Elvis and Barb got when Ivoclar partnered up with us to record at LMT Lab Day West 2023. First up is a 45-year veteran of removable dentures, Glen Smith. Glen comes on to talk about how his lab, Robertson Lab (part of the Apex Dental Laboratory Group) can do so much of their removables digitally. Even after all this time, Glen is full of excitement and passion for this workflow. He talks about the workflow, automating certain steps, and training the next generation of lab technician. Then a “movie star” in our industry stops by, Gary Archer. Gary makes custom dental prosthetics for movies and television shows. He talks about what shows he is working on, some recent movies where his teeth have been featured, the stories behind them, and how he makes some with removable teeth for gory scenes.

Did you know that not all Zirconia is the same?

ZirCAD Prime Zirconia from Ivoclar is uniquely produced with Gradient Technology which allows two powders that normally sinter at different intervals, to be combined into one material which sinters uniformly. The manufacturing process not only optimizes the translucent properties but also creates a seamless progression of shade while maintaining optimal strength.

ZirCAD prime is now more affordable than ever and will give you results that your Dentists will notice! Contact your local Ivoclar Sales representative today to find out more about Prime and how Ivoclar can support your success! Tell them you heard it on the podcast and get a FREE Prime disc to try – just use promo code 723!

Special Guests: Gary Archer and Glen Smith CDT TE.

This week brings us 4 conversations with 6 people! First up is Tobias Specht who is a Master Dental Technician and has been with Ivoclar for 23 years. He gives us some insight into Empress, emax, Ivotion, the "red lips", and so much more.

Then we catch up with the two newest employees of Oaks Dental Design. Eiron Simmons come back on to talk about all that she is learning and Olivia Davis, who recently joined the lab, talks about what she is learning and inspiring to do next.

After that we chat with Crystal Heung from Sumc Dental Lab in China. Crystal talks about this LARGE operation and her goal of creating relationships in other countries.

We wrap up the episode with two past guests that come on to talk about life and lab. Christina Heaslip and Dora Rodrigues (sharing almost the same birthday) update us on labs and family. Dora just got done speaking and is getting ready to do it again at Ladies of the Mill and Christina updates us on all the exciting and different things happening at this years summit being held in Chattanooga, Tennessee on July 21-22.

Are you attending the LMT Lab Day West show in Garden Grove California?

Join Ivoclar as they continue to celebrate their 100 Year Anniversary in the dental industry.

At Lab Day West you can get up close and personal with Ivoclar digital technology, materials, and an EPIC speaker lineup. Learn first hand from many of the industry’s leading dental professionals as they share their tips and tricks for success. Come and hear from Rafael Santrich, Jed Archibald, Steve Hatch and experience hands-on courses from Jenelle Tabakovic, and Pat Coon. For a full listing of speakers simply visit LMTmag.com and register today!

Also, come and see us, Voices from the bench, as this will be our home from May 12-13th. Come by to say Hi and tell us what inspires you or give Ivoclar a ”Happy 100 year“ message.

Candulor a dental supply company from Switzerland has solutions no matter if you are analog or digital

Check out their PhysioSet TCR tooth line that has been complemented with 18 new shapes. A total of 48 age-appropriate anterior tooth shapes are available for the laboratory or dental practice to select from.

The Swiss School of Prosthetics in Springfield, Missouri is the place to learn all things removable. America with get supported and supplied by the only authorized partner Edmonds Dental Supply

Candulor, High End Only

Special Guests: Christina Heaslip, Crystal Heung , Dora Rodrigues, Eiron Simmons, Olivia Davis, and Tobias Specht.

If efficiency and performance are what you are looking for in a milling system, then the high-performance PrograMill PM7 from Ivoclar is the right choice for you.

Equipped with a high-performance spindle, this high-power 5-axis milling machine efficiently produces both wet and dry restorations.

Ivoclar provides white glove delivery service, training, choice of service contracts and their outstanding after sales service and support.

Contact your friendly Ivoclar sales representative today and create a digital solution that’s right for you!

Candulor a dental supply company from Switzerland has solutions no matter if you are analog or digital

Check out their PhysioSet TCR tooth line that has been complemented with 18 new shapes. A total of 48 age-appropriate anterior tooth shapes are available for the laboratory or dental practice to select from.

The Swiss School of Prosthetics in Springfield, Missouri is the place to learn all things removable. America with get supported and supplied by the only authorized partner Edmonds Dental Supply

Candulor, High End Only

Special Guest: Alexandra (Allie) Williamson, AAS, BS, CDT-E.

Participate or Cheer on the racers in Chicago at the Race For the Future 8.0 August 28, 2022

When Texans do anything, they do it big. This year’s conference definitely didn’t disappoint. The podcast was set up next to the Preat booth all weekend recording some wonderful attendees, board members, and vendors. This week we talk to three amazing people in or around our field. First up is Wade Davenport from Alan’s Dental Lab in Austin. Wade and Barb nerd out over ceramics. Then we chat with then president of theDLAT, Richard Wills. And we end the episode with AJ Sheek from American Business Incentive Services who is a member of the DLAT to bring tax savings to lab via the R&D tax credit.

If you want to save, and also grow, Gro3X is, where you should go!

Resins to print night guards, for high-impact and flex, look no further, because we have them at Gro3X.

Burs for your mills, Zirconia for your crowns, with Gro3X you will be the hottest lab in town!

And last but not least, if you seriously want to grow, add Gro3X Aligners, and your doctors will say Wowww!

There are 3D Print resins for models that do a decent job, then there is Whip Mix VeriModel OS.

Dr. Michael Scherer, a prosthodontist from Sonora, CA says “Whip Mix VeriModel OS is one of the finest model resins I have ever worked with. It’s amazing”.

The popular resins offer the dental laboratory a high quality, smooth surface finish, extreme precision, reliable accuracy, and fine detail. They can be used in 385 and 405 nanometer printers, and are compatible with silicone-base separators. VeriModel OS print resins are available in Ivory, Golden Brown, Grey, and White colors for any model application.

For more information, call (800) 626-5651, or visit www.whipmix.com.

Special Guests: AJ Sheek, Richard Wills, CDT, and Wade Davenport.

If you want to save, and also grow, Gro3X is, where you should go!

Resins to print night guards, for high-impact and flex, look no further, because we have them at Gro3X.

Burs for your mills, Zirconia for your crowns, with Gro3X you will be the hottest lab in town!

And last but not least, if you seriously want to grow, add Gro3X Aligners, and your doctors will say Wowww!

Is your lab in a position to take on new customers? Do you have the capacity to service more doctors? AmericaSmiles has helped hundreds of labs across the country to acquire new dental accounts.They're the biggest name in Dental Laboratory marketing. Don't waste time mailing and calling hundreds of doctors just to see poor results and hear overwhelming rejection. Let AmericaSmiles do all the heavy lifting for you. For just $195 a month, the AmericaSmiles One Voice program will help you skip to the front of the line. They'll prospect your local or target area, produce your creative marketing, and do all of the cold calling to leave you with extremely qualified appointments; guaranteed to help you find your ideal clients and grow your business.

Visit AmericaSmiles.net/One-Voice to learn more about how you can increase your lab's bottom line. Use promo code VOICESFROMTHEBENCH during checkout to qualify for a month-to-month agreement enabling you the freedom to cancel the marketing service any time! If you’d like to speak with an agent who can answer your questions about a time-tested, completely done-for-you approach to marketing, please call 708 279 9031. Join AmericaSmiles One Voice today - Getting new dentists to try your lab has never been easier.

Whip Mix is very excited to announce the new PRO 4K large format 3D printer from Asiga. It’s ideal for printing any kind of model, dentures, splints, surgical guides, impression trays and more.

The Asiga Pro 4K DLP printer is priced at under $25,000, has a large build plate and is available in both 65µm and resolution versions. For information about the Asiga Pro 4K, visit www.whipmix.com.

Special Guest: Dennis Kalashnik CDT.

Vision 21: https://nadl.org/events/v21/2022/
Cal-Lab: https://cal-lab.org/
LMT Lab Day Chicago: https://lmtmag.com/lmtlabday
DLAT Southwest Conference: https://members.dlat.org/membership/
FDLA Southern States Expo: https://www.fdla.net/symposium
Ladies of the Mill: https://www.ladiesofthemill.com/

This week we are talking to two amazing ladies who came together during the pandemic to open the lab of their dreams. Vicki Thomas and Carolynn Capps come from different laboratory backgrounds but found a common ground with their unique skills they each bring. That’s why they opened up She Designs Dental Studios in Matthews, North Carolina. This all pink, female owned, and operated lab is different than the labs you usually see out there. Vicki and Carolyn talk about their backgrounds, how they met, and how they put together a different experience for their clients and patients, all under the light of a giant chandelier.

Whip Mix offers you the ultimate in ease, material flexibility and unattended production with the Roland DGA DWX-52DCi milling machine. The popular mill’s automatic disc changer expands your lab production and profit, using a 6-slot Automatic Disc Changer, 15-station Automatic Tool Changer and several other automated features.

The DWX-52DCi dental milling machine now comes with performance visualization software and other intelligent updates. The 5-axis mill even knows which tool to automatically swap out when tools have reached their designated lifespan. Just power it on, let it go, and automatically and accurately mill numerous dental restoration jobs with complete unattended confidence.

If you want to save, and also grow, Gro3X is, where you should go!

Resins to print night guards, for high-impact and flex, look no further, because we have them at Gro3X.

Burs for your mills, Zirconia for your crowns, with Gro3X you will be the hottest lab in town!

And last but not least, if you seriously want to grow, add Gro3X Aligners, and your doctors will say Wowww!

Special Guests: Carolynn Capps CDT and Vicki Thomas.

Register for the Ladies of the Mill Summit - July 23-24, 2021 - Chattanooga, TN

Look no further for your design or milling needs other than right here in our galaxy. Alien Milling Technologies is a cutting-edge Dental Milling Center known for using the latest methods and technologies in milling top dental prosthetics. They can help your lab by milling everything, like crowns, abutments, partials, guards, titanium bars, and even digital dentures. Best part is that they are all milled right here in the USA. Plus they also provide the same zirconia they mill in-house. Give them a call at 844-ZIRCONIA or visit them at alienmilling.com.

Whip Mix offers you the ultimate in ease, material flexibility and unattended production with the Roland DGA DWX-52DCi milling machine. The popular mill’s automatic disc changer expands your lab production and profit, using a 6-slot Automatic Disc Changer, 15-station Automatic Tool Changer and several other automated features.

The DWX-52DCi dental milling machine now comes with performance visualization software and other intelligent updates. The 5-axis mill even knows which tool to automatically swap out when tools have reached their designated lifespan. Just power it on, let it go, and automatically and accurately mill numerous dental restoration jobs with complete unattended confidence.

If you’re interested in learning more about the Roland DGA DWX-52DCi, visit whipmix.com or call 800-626-5651.

Special Guests: Christina Heaslip and Jillian Swafford.

Illinois Denturist Association (IDA) Website
Denturism for Illinois Facebook page

Come see Elvis and Barb for a full day of recording LIVE face-to-face at LMT LAB DAY EAST.
Saturday Oct 12 · Philadelphia, PA

Check out the Zahn Expo October 18-19 in West Palm Beach, Florida

A BIG thank you to Digital Dental for supporting the podcast. Be sure to check out the their FDA-approved custom abutment solution that you can bring into your lab. https://digitaldental.com/abutment/

Whip Mix has been supporting the industry for over 100 years and they truly believe that quality products and excellent customer service is what sets them apart. Be sure to check out their first FDA cleared 3D printable hard splint material VeriSplint OS Resin as heard on this episode. Thanks for your support of the podcast Whip Mix!

Special Guest: Katie Rinaldo.