Dr. Oscar Gonzalez’s journey: From a pediatric dentist in Seville to an internationally recognized expert in periodontics and prosthodontics, his career reflects dedication, curiosity, and resilience.
Innovation and technology in dentistry: A deep dive into how he integrates cutting-edge technology, digital tools, and artificial intelligence while maintaining the artistry of traditional dentistry.
Leadership and vision for the future: Insights into his leadership style, team development philosophy, and predictions for the evolution of dentistry, including interdisciplinary care and advancements in materials.
Dr. Gonzalez is a clinician, researcher, and educator whose career is deeply intertwined with a passion for learning and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Affiliated with Harvard Dental School and the University of Madrid, he has played a pivotal role in shaping modern dental practices. As the Editor-in-Chief of The Journal of Periodontics and Restorative Dentistry, he has also contributed significantly to academic discourse. Beyond academia, he manages a successful private practice in Madrid, demonstrating his ability to balance clinical work, research, and education.
A career defined by curiosity and determination
Dr. Gonzalez's professional journey is anything but linear. He began as a pediatric dentist in Seville, Spain, but soon realized that he yearned for something more. His deep curiosity and commitment to self-improvement led him to pursue advanced training in periodontics and prosthodontics at the University of Pennsylvania. This decision marked a defining moment in his career, requiring him to leave behind the comfort of an established practice and immerse himself in years of rigorous education.
His time in the United States exposed him to the concept of interdisciplinary dentistry, particularly the importance of combining periodontal and prosthodontic expertise. He was profoundly influenced by Dr. Morton Amsterdam, a pioneer of comprehensive dentistry, whose teachings emphasized the importance of a broad, holistic approach to oral health. Inspired by this philosophy, Dr. Gonzalez committed himself to developing a multidisciplinary vision for dental practice.
His academic journey did not stop there. A lecture by renowned professor Urs Belser in Princeton ignited his interest in further specialization, leading him to pursue an ITI scholarship in Geneva. This phase of his career, characterized by linguistic and cultural adaptation, further solidified his expertise in implant dentistry. His relentless drive for knowledge and professional growth is evident in the sacrifices he made, from selling his house and car to taking out additional loans to fund his education.
Passion for innovation and excellence in practice
At the heart of Dr. Gonzalez’s philosophy lies a dual commitment: to continually innovate while maintaining the highest standards of patient care. His Madrid-based practice, Atelier Dental, embodies this ethos, integrating cutting-edge technology with the artistry of dentistry. He firmly believes that while technology plays a crucial role in advancing treatment methods, the human touch remains indispensable.
His practice operates at the intersection of digital dentistry and craftsmanship. The name Atelier, meaning "workshop" in French, reflects his belief that dentistry is as much an art as it is a science. While he embraces digital tools for diagnostics, planning, and fabrication, he emphasizes that certain tasks—such as aesthetic and functional restorations—are best performed by skilled hands.
For Dr. Gonzalez, innovation is not about adopting every new technology that emerges but about discerning what truly adds value. He follows a structured approach when considering new techniques: preparation, critical thinking, and common sense. He underscores the importance of thorough study and training before implementing any new approach, advocating for an evidence-based, cautious integration of advancements into clinical practice.
One notable example of his forward-thinking approach is his involvement in artificial intelligence in dentistry. Recognizing the transformative potential of AI, he has actively collaborated with industry leaders to explore its applications in diagnosis and treatment planning. However, he remains critical of unproven innovations, emphasizing the need for rigorous testing and validation.
The role of leadership and team development
Leading a successful practice requires not just technical expertise but also effective team management. Dr. Gonzalez emphasizes the importance of mindset over skillset when recruiting and mentoring his team. He believes that technical skills can be taught, but the right attitude—one of loyalty, enthusiasm, and a willingness to grow—is essential for long-term success.
To foster a culture of continuous improvement, he invests heavily in team development. Regular retreats, training sessions, and open discussions ensure that every member of Atelier Dental shares a common vision and remains aligned with the clinic’s philosophy. He values honest communication, recognizing that constructive feedback is crucial for both personal and professional growth.
Reflections on the future of dentistry
Looking ahead, Dr. Gonzalez envisions a future where dentistry becomes even more interdisciplinary and patient-centered. He hopes to see a greater integration of dental and overall health care, with a focus on comprehensive, preventive approaches. He also predicts that artificial intelligence will revolutionize diagnostics and treatment planning, allowing for more precise and efficient care.
However, he sees significant room for improvement in restorative materials. He argues that while implant designs have evolved, the materials used in prosthetics still have limitations. Developing stronger, more biocompatible, and aesthetically superior materials remains a key challenge for the industry.
A legacy of learning and contribution
When asked about his most valued mentors, Dr. Gonzalez names three individuals who profoundly influenced his career: Dr. Morton Amsterdam, Dr. Urs Belser, and Dr. Mariano Sanz. These figures, each a pioneer in their respective fields, shaped his approach to dentistry, research, and education. If given the chance, he would cherish the opportunity to engage in one final conversation with them, listening and learning as he has throughout his career.
His parting advice to young dentists is simple yet profound: embrace curiosity, remain resilient, and never stop learning. He stresses that success is not about reaching a destination but about continuously striving for improvement. His own journey—from a young dentist in Seville to an internationally recognized expert—stands as a testament to the power of dedication and passion.
Relentless pursuit of excellence: Oscar Gonzalez exemplifies a commitment to lifelong learning, blending clinical expertise, academic research, and technological innovation to advance modern dentistry.
Balance between technology and craftsmanship: While embracing digital advancements, he emphasizes the irreplaceable value of human skill and the artistry involved in dental restorations and patient care.
Inspiration for future generations: His career serves as a model for young dentists, demonstrating that true success comes from curiosity, resilience, and an unwavering dedication to continuous growth.
Stay in touch with Oscar Gonzalez: click here
The Straumann ProTalk hosts
Andreas Utz: Global Head of Business Unit Implantology at Straumann Group. A leading expert in implant dentistry, Andreas brings a wealth of knowledge and a passion for innovation to the podcast.
Dr. George Raeber: Global Head of Research & Development and Innovation at Straumann Group. With his extensive experience in the dental industry, George offers unique insights and thought-provoking perspectives.
