This week on Dentistry Unmasked, Pam Maragliano and Brian Novy take a deep dive into one of dentistry’s most talked-about preventive materials: Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF). They break down what SDF is, how it works at the chemical and clinical levels, and how to thoughtfully select the right cases to ensure predictable, patient-centered outcomes. But the conversation doesn’t stop there. There’s a bigger issue at play—pending legislation that could eliminate a CDT code tied to preventive care, potentially impacting how practices implement and get reimbursed for SDF treatment. What could this mean for your preventive protocols and your bottom line. If you’re incorporating SDF into your practice—or considering it—this episode delivers the clinical clarity and policy awareness you need to stay informed and prepared and get involved.

This week on Dentistry Unmasked, Pam and Brian sit down with Dr. Uche Odiatu for a conversation that goes far beyond the operatory.

With RFK’s newly proposed inverted food pyramid making headlines, what does it actually mean for your patients—and for your own daily life? Dr. Odiatu breaks down how today’s heavily processed diet (now making up 55% of adults’ and 65% of children’s calories) is impacting systemic and oral health in ways we can no longer ignore.

You’ll hear:

The key nutrients almost everyone is deficient in

What to look for when choosing a high-quality fish oil

How the oral cavity is designed to protect itself—even when the diet is working against it

Practical, real-world strategies to reduce inflammation and support total health

Resources:

odiatudmd@gmail.com

https://static01.nyt.com/images/2026/01/08/well/08WELL-FOOD-PYRAMID1/08WELL-FOOD-PYRAMID1-superJumbo.png

https://epic.iarc.fr/

https://open.spotify.com/show/7iQXmUT7XGuZSzAMjoNWlX

In Part Two, the conversation expands beyond one individual’s story to examine what it means for all of us in dentistry.

Building on her lived experience, our guest shares insights on how transitioning reshaped her approach to patient care and why empathy is essential in creating trust and safety in the dental setting. Together, we discuss how dental professionals can better support transgender patients and colleagues, challenge unconscious bias, and foster more inclusive, affirming practice environments.

This episode offers thoughtful reflection and practical perspective for dental teams committed to compassionate care, deeper understanding, and continuous growth as healthcare providers.