Bruxism isn’t just “clenching and grinding”—it’s a symptom. In this episode of The Odontojam Podcast, Dr. Jesse Liang sits down with Dr. Damian Teo (TMD & dental sleep medicine clinician/educator) to unpack the modern understanding of bruxism and its relationship to TMD. They separate sleep vs. awake bruxism, explain why the sympathetic fight-or-flight system drives parafunction, and map common triggers—from stress, injury and hormonal changes to sleep-disordered breathing (snoring/OSA) and reflux.
Dr. Teo outlines practical, diagnosis-first management: when to choose permissive vs. non-permissive splints, the risks of splinting unrecognised OSA, and why multidisciplinary care (physio/osteo, psychology, ENT/sleep, TMJ-aware dentistry) matters. He introduces “bracing” (muscle tension without tooth contact), the BruxApp for daytime awareness, posture/SCM links, and strategies to mitigate mandibular advancement splint bite changes (morning exercises/aligner). We also explore acupuncture/low-level laser vs. dry needling.

Key takeaways

• Treat the cause, not just the teeth: screen sleep and reflux before splinting.
• Bracing is common in daytime bruxism—awareness tools can reduce pain quickly.
• Splints protect; they don’t “cure.” Diagnosis dictates design (muscle vs. joint).
• Informed consent and morning deprogramming help manage MAS bite changes.
• Multimodal care (manual therapy, psychological support, sleep medicine, acupuncture/laser) improves outcomes.

In this episode of The Odontojam Podcast, Dr. Jesse Liang sits down with Dr. Dilhan Rajasingham to explore how the skills we hone in dentistry — like problem-solving, communication, and adaptability — can open doors well beyond the clinic. From stepping into leadership roles and board positions, to pursuing an MBA and working with cutting-edge dental tech, Dilhan shares practical insights on career pivots, networking, and designing a professional life that supports the lifestyle you want. Whether you’re early in your career or feeling ready for a change, this conversation offers strategies, inspiration, and a reminder that your dental degree can be the start of many different journeys.

Time Stamps
00:00 – Introduction & setting the scene
02:18 – Problem-solving skills that translate beyond dentistry
08:14 – Taking a career break to pursue an MBA
14:39 – The power of communication in and outside the clinic
20:52 – Breaking out of the “four walls” mindset
29:22 – Getting comfortable with networking and building connections
37:18 – Embracing AI and digital tools in dental practice
44:45 – The role of scanners and patient education
47:55 – Serving on the ADA board and giving back to the profession
52:27 – Designing a career and lifestyle you actually want
59:36 – Final thoughts and takeaways

Learn more about Dr. Dilhan @ www.drdilhan.io

In this conversation, Dr. Derry Rogers discusses the importance of understanding patient personalities in dentistry, emphasising how effective communication can enhance patient care and treatment acceptance. He categorises patients into four personality types—directors, socialisers, relators, and thinkers—and explains how dentists can adapt their communication styles to meet the needs of each type. The discussion also covers the significance of creating a comfortable environment for patients, the necessity of developing both clinical and communication skills, and the role of vision and values in achieving a fulfilling dental practice. Dr. Rogers shares insights from his extensive experience and training programs aimed at helping dentists improve their practice and patient interactions.

KEY TAKEAWAYS!

• Understanding patient personalities is crucial in dentistry.
• Patients can be categorized into four personality types: directors, socializers, relators, and thinkers.
• Effective communication is key to patient acceptance of treatment plans.
• Creating a comfortable environment can help alleviate patient anxiety.
• Photography can enhance communication and understanding between dentists and patients.
• Dentists need to develop both clinical skills and communication skills for success.
• Having a clear vision and values is essential for a fulfilling dental practice.
• Training and development programs can significantly improve a dentist's practice.
• Understanding personality types can lead to better patient experiences.
• Dentistry can be a rewarding profession when approached with the right mindset.

TIME STAMPS

00:00
Understanding Patient Personalities in Dentistry

10:39
The Importance of Communication Skills

20:56
Creating a Comfortable Patient Environment

29:37
Navigating Patient Expectations

38:46
Training and Development in Dentistry

45:36
Life Lessons for a Fulfilling Dental Practice

Learn more about Dr. Derry Rogers and the DR Institute at www.drinstitute.com.au