Endodontic Innovation and Philanthropy: The Dual Legacy of Dr. Ben Johnson – Ep. 78
In this unforgettable episode of Endo Voices, host Dr. Marcus D. Johnson welcomes a true titan of endodontics — the ever-charismatic Dr. Ben Johnson. With a gentleman’s grace and a raconteur’s wit, Dr. Johnson takes us on a journey through the innovations that changed the game: from founding Tulsa Dental to the birth of Thermafil and NiTi rotary files, he shares the stories behind the breakthroughs — some born of resistance, others of serendipity, all fueled by relentless curiosity. But this isn’t just a tale of tools and techniques; it’s a master class in vision, grit and generosity. Dr. Johnson opens up about the values that shaped his path, the mentors who lit the way and the joy of giving back to a profession that gave him everything. His reflections are peppered with humor, humility and the kind of wisdom you only get from a life well-lived — and well-loved.
Episode Resources
- Walia, H. M., Brantley, W. A., & Gerstein, H. (1988). An initial investigation of the bending and torsional properties of nitinol root canal files. Journal of Endodontics, 14(7), 346–351.
- Schilder, H. (1967).Filling root canals in three dimensions. Dental Clinics of North America, 11(2), 723–744.
- Kakehashi, S., Stanley, H. R., & Fitzgerald, R. J. (1965).The effects of surgical exposures of dental pulps in germ-free and conventional laboratory rats. Oral Surgery, Oral Medicine, Oral Pathology, 20(3), 340–349.
- Engel, J. D. (1984).Endodontics: Principles and Practice. Philadelphia, PA: W.B. Saunders.
- Journal of Endodontics. (Established 1975). Official Journal of the American Association of Endodontists.
Disclaimer
Episodes of Endo Voices may include opinion, speculation and other statements not verifiable in the scientific method and do not necessarily reflect the views of AAE or the sponsor(s). Listeners should use their best judgment in evaluating the merits of any content.