The Technology Evangelist Podcast

Hosted by Dr. John Flucke, this weekly podcast delivers practical insights & expert conversations on the latest dental technologies - from AI and digital workflows to 3D printing & practice innovation - helping clinicians elevate care & efficiency.

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Medidenta Dental Solutions

In Episode 38 of The Technology Evangelist Podcast, sponsored by Medidenta Digital Solutions, Dr. John Flucke speaks with Dr. Brett Kessler—Past President of the American Dental Association (ADA), practicing dentist since 1995, and one of the most influential voices in organized dentistry. This episode explores dentist wellness, advocacy, healthcare reform, and how organized dentistry is shaping the future of oral health delivery.

Dr. Kessler shares a deeply personal and professional journey, offering insight into leadership, recovery, public policy, and the evolving role of dentistry within overall healthcare.

Key Takeaways from Episode 38

From Engineering Path to Dentistry & Comprehensive Care
Dr. Kessler discusses his unconventional path into dentistry, beginning with an engineering background and a pivot toward dental school. He built a fee-for-service practice in Denver focused on comprehensive and esthetic care and met his wife during dental school, shaping both his personal and professional foundation.

Recovery, Leadership, and Dentist Wellness
A central and powerful theme is Dr. Kessler’s personal recovery journey. Entering dental school with substance use challenges, he ultimately achieved long-term sobriety—now over 27 years. He credits recovery principles such as mindfulness and accountability as foundational to his leadership style.

Community Impact Through the Smile Again Foundation
Dr. Kessler helped launch and grow a Denver-based initiative providing free dental care to individuals recovering from substance use disorders and domestic violence. This effort evolved into the Smile Again Foundation, engaging hundreds of volunteers and gaining national media attention.

Path to ADA Leadership and National Advocacy
His work in community care led to congressional testimony and subsequent leadership roles within organized dentistry, including President of the Colorado Dental Association and ultimately President of the American Dental Association.

Dental Benefits Reform and Systemic Change
A major focus of the episode is dental benefits reform. Dr. Kessler explains the ADA’s multi-step strategy, including efforts to improve transparency in dental loss ratios, modernize benefit structures, and advocate for increased annual maximums that have remained unchanged for decades.

Integrating Oral Health with Systemic Health
Dr. Kessler emphasizes the growing connection between oral health and overall systemic health. He envisions a future where dental visits routinely include screening for conditions such as diabetes, sleep apnea, and microbiome imbalances, with appropriate reimbursement models to support preventive care.

AI in Dentistry as a Clinical and Administrative Assistant
The episode explores how AI is already reshaping dentistry by supporting diagnostics, automating documentation, assisting with insurance workflows, and improving patient communication. Rather than replacing clinicians, AI is positioned as a tool that enhances efficiency and decision-making.

Shifting from Procedural Dentistry to Preventive Care
Dr. Kessler discusses a long-term transition from procedure-driven dentistry toward prevention, regeneration, and chronic disease management. Emerging materials and technologies may allow earlier intervention and less invasive treatment models.

Oral Health 2050 Initiative
As chair of the ADA’s Oral Health 2050 project, Dr. Kessler is leading a multi-disciplinary effort with the Boston Consulting Group to envision the future of dentistry across education, practice models, technology, insurance systems, and workforce wellness.

The Role of Organized Dentistry in the Future
A key message is the importance of engagement in professional organizations. Dr. Kessler emphasizes that organized dentistry is actively working on behalf of clinicians to shape policy, expand access, and improve the profession’s long-term sustainability.

A Future-Forward Vision of Dentistry
Despite current challenges, Dr. Kessler expresses optimism about the future of dentistry—highlighting advancements in technology, AI, systemic integration, and advocacy efforts that collectively position the profession for growth and improved patient care.

Learn more about dentist wellness and ADA support programs at ADA.org. Tune in to Episode 38 of The Technology Evangelist Podcast to see how Medidenta Digital Solutions supports innovation, wellness, and the evolving future of oral health care.

Sponsored by Medidenta