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Oral Surgery Insights

Oral Surgery Insights is your front-row seat to real conversations between two of the Pacific Northwest’s leading oral and maxillofacial surgeons—Dr. Russ Lieblick and Dr. Brandon Rehrer of Beacon Oral Surgeons. This podcast is designed for patients, dental professionals, and anyone interested in learning more about oral surgery, dental implants, wisdom teeth removal, and the evolving science behind surgical dental care.

Each episode tackles essential topics like the dental implant process, bone grafting, sedation options, jaw surgery, facial trauma treatment, and post-operative care. Russ and Brandon break down complex procedures with clarity, humor, and deep clinical experience—sharing real patient stories and expert perspectives on what works, what doesn’t, and what’s coming next in the world of oral surgery.

Whether you’re considering a procedure, supporting someone who is, or simply want to demystify topics like TMJ surgery, oral pathology, or digital surgical workflows, Oral Surgery Insights helps you feel informed and empowered. Tune in weekly for trusted advice, practical tips, and a refreshing take on what it really means to restore oral health and confidence—one conversation at a time.

Episode 3

Episode 3

Why Do We Have Wisdom Teeth? A Look at Evolution.

Why do we have wisdom teeth if they so often cause problems today? In this episode, Dr. Russell Lieblick and Dr. Brandon Rehrer explore the fascinating evolutionary origins of third molars—and why they were once essential for survival. From our ancestors' tough, raw diets to the rise of cooking and tool use, we discuss how changing lifestyles led to smaller jaws while wisdom teeth stuck around. Learn how this mismatch contributes to common issues like impaction, infection, and jaw pain. We also break down the genetic factors behind why some people never develop these teeth at all.

Episode 2

Episode 2

Dental Implants: Restoring Smiles with Precision and Purpose

In this episode of Oral Surgery Insights, we explore one of the most transformative advancements in modern oral surgery—dental implants. We break down the science, process, and life-changing benefits of implant therapy. From explaining what a dental implant is and how it integrates with the jawbone, to who makes a great candidate and how bone grafting can expand eligibility, this episode offers a comprehensive, easy-to-understand guide for anyone considering tooth replacement options.

Episode 1

Episode 1

The Difference Between an Oral Surgeon and a Dentist

In this episode of Oral Surgery Insights, Dr. Russ Lieblick and Dr. Brandon Rehrer explore the fundamental differences between general dentists and oral and maxillofacial surgeons (OMS), emphasizing how specialized training leads to better patient outcomes. While both professionals complete four years of dental school, oral surgeons continue on to four to six years of hospital-based surgical residency, gaining experience in anesthesia, trauma care, and complex procedures. This advanced training allows them to manage impacted wisdom teeth, perform dental implant surgery with bone grafting, and treat conditions such as TMJ disorders, facial trauma, and sleep apnea. The episode also highlights the vital role of collaboration between oral surgeons, general dentists, and other dental specialists to ensure seamless care transitions. Patient comfort remains a top priority, with comprehensive consultations, effective anxiety management, and attentive post-operative support playing key roles in delivering high-quality, compassionate care.