Little Teeth, BIG Smiles

LTBS Host Dr. Joel Berg is joined by Dr. Brian Martin for a robust conversation focused on the integration of dentistry and medicine. Dr. Martin shares his unique perspective as a pediatric dentist now in hospital administration, delving into the shift to value-based care, which is a more discreet measurement of…

Host Dr. Joel Berg is joined by American Dental Association (ADA) President Dr. Thomas Paumier for a conversation focused on the work of the ADA and how specialty practitioners can benefit from maintaining a connection with the organization. Speaking to the importance of that connection and teamwork from the AAPD 2026…

In this episode of little teeth BIG Smiles, Dr. Joel Berg sits down with Dr. Ann Bynum to explore what it takes to build a strong, thriving pediatric dental practice. From the power of language and creating a true team culture to transparency, mentorship, shared decision-making and fostering a growth mindset, Dr…

Dr. Bobby Elliott returns to the podcast to chat about burnout as it relates to patient and practice management and education. He and Dr. Berg talk through solutions focused on his mantra – “Educate, don’t convince.” – that support office culture and patient/family satisfaction and trust. Dr. Elliott shares his tools…

Host Dr. Joel Berg speaks with Dr. Chelsea Fosse, Vice President of the AAPD Research & Policy Center (RPC) on the current hot topics in public health and how the RPC is working to make an impact. Dr. Fosse delves into the impacts of federal updates on pediatric dentistry and the organizations advocating for the…

Incoming AAPD CEO Dr. Jessica Y. Lee joins host Dr. Joel Berg for an engaging discussion of her goals and vision for the Academy’s future. She shares her journey through pediatric dentistry, delving into what excites her most as she shifts from academia to leader of the AAPD. In this heartfelt and genuine…

In this very special episode of little teeth, BIG Smiles, host Dr. Joel Berg is joined by Dr. John Rutkaushas on the verge of his retirement after 27 years as American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and AAPD Foundation CEO. Dr. Rutkauskas shares his personal highlights from his career, many of which made a profound…

Host Dr. Joel Berg is joined by Dr. Juan Yepes, a distinguished professor and AAPD 2026 featured speaker, for a discussion focused on Dr. Yepes unique journey to become both a pediatric dentist and medical primary care physician. Dr. Yepes shares his stories from studying in numerous programs around the globe and how…

Dr. Cody Masts joins host Dr. Joel Berg for a conversation on the importance of building relationships with your pediatric patients. Dr. Mast shares his winding journey that led him to choosing dentistry and why working in pediatrics appealed to him after first treating adults. He also discusses how cultivating…

On this episode, host Dr. Joel Berg is joined by Dr. Jorge Castillo, past president of the International Association of Paediatric Dentistry (IAPD) to discuss Dr. Castillo’s session at AAPD 2026 in Las Vegas. The session, featuring Dr. Castillo and other international experts, delves into the global perspectives on…

This episode of Little Teeth, BIG Smiles explores how co-locating pediatric dentistry and orthodontics under one roof advances dentistry’s version of the Triple Aim: improving patient experience, enhancing population oral health, and reducing per-capita costs. Dr. Christina Carter joins our host Dr. Joel Berg for a…

Pediatric dentist and entrepreneur Dr. Ashley Lerman joins little teeth, BIG Smiles to chat with Dr. Berg about her company First Grin and how its unique approach to teaching families about oral health care. Dr. Lerman shares how First Grin was born out of her experience right out of residency, working in a clinic…