In The Technology Evangelist Podcast Episode 6, part of Medidenta’s Digital Solutions Podcast, Dr. John Flucke sits down with Dr. Bryan Kariya, a forward-thinking dentist from Huntsville, Alabama. Practicing alongside Dr. Ben Kellum at Transcend, Dr. Kariya shares his journey from traditional dentistry to embracing cutting-edge digital tools like intraoral scanners, 3D printers, and facial scanners. Learn how these technologies improve patient care, reduce costs, and make dentistry more accessible, all while reigniting his passion for the profession.
Dr. Kariya’s Path to Digital Dentistry
Dr. Kariya’s story begins with an initial dream of becoming an ER doctor, inspired by the TV show ER. However, after majoring in Mandarin Chinese and shadowing his brother-in-law, a dentist, he found dentistry’s blend of patient care and business ownership to be the perfect fit. His early career lacked digital exposure, but a pivotal moment came in private practice when he used a CEREC scanner for same-day crowns, sparking his enthusiasm for digital workflows. After completing an AEGD residency focused on implants and digital dentistry, Dr. Kariya joined forces with Dr. Kellum to establish Transcend, a practice built around advanced technology to serve diverse patient needs.
Key Takeaways from Dr. Bryan Kariya
- Digital Tools Enhance Precision: Intraoral scanners provide detailed feedback, allowing Dr. Kariya to refine preparations and deliver precise restorations like crowns and dentures.
- 3D Printing for Accessibility: With in-house 3D printers, Transcend produces cost-effective solutions like immediate dentures, costing as little as $15–$20, making care affordable for patients in need.
- Facial Scanners for Comprehensive Care: Facial scanners aid in planning full-arch cases, ensuring proper occlusion and aesthetics, especially for complex implant rehabilitation.
- Lab Collaboration is Key: Close communication with lab technicians, leveraging digital files, ensures optimal outcomes, as seen in Dr. Kariya’s ability to quickly adjust dentures based on lab feedback.
- Improving Access to Care: Transcend serves patients from challenging backgrounds, using technology to lower costs and provide high-quality care, such as extractions for those needing urgent medical procedures.
Listen to the Full Episode
Ready to explore the power of digital dentistry? Watch The Technology Evangelist Podcast Episode 6 here to hear Dr. Kariya’s insights on how digital tools can transform your practice and patient care.
Elevate Your Practice with Medidenta Digital Solutions
Inspired to integrate digital dentistry into your workflow? Medidenta Digital Solutions offers state-of-the-art intraoral scanners, 3D printers, and more to streamline your practice. Discover our products today to take your dentistry to the next level!
