Hosted by Ahmed Issa
In this Specialist Series episode, Ahmed sits down with Dr Omar Ikram to explore the journey behind becoming a specialist endodontist, educator and innovator. From his early years in New Zealand to his time training at King’s College London. Dr Omar reflects on the moments that shaped his clinical confidence, his decision to specialise and the challenges that come with mastering one of the most technically demanding areas of dentistry.
This conversation goes beyond root canals. It unpacks the fear many dentists feel around endodontics, the pressure of treating patients in pain and the emotional responsibility that comes with making clinical decisions under uncertainty. Dr Omar shares what it takes to move from fear to confidence, how difficult cases shape clinicians and why humility remains essential even at the highest levels of practice.
A powerful and reflective episode for dental students, new graduates/clinicians who want to better understand endodontics, manage clinical pressure and build a career grounded in mastery, teaching and service.
[00:00] Endo Under Pressure
[01:29] Why He Became a Dentist
[05:40] Struggling With Prosthodontics
[13:58] Starting Practice in New Zealand
[15:33] Finding His Calling in Endo
[22:02] Dark Days in the NHS
[32:06] Complications and Hard Lessons
[36:53] Building a New Practice
[41:05] Legacy and Work Family
[50:36] Talking Patients Through Fear
[55:30] Closing Thoughts
Dr Omar Ikram is a specialist endodontist based in Sydney and the founder of Specialist Endo Crows Nest. Born in Christchurch, New Zealand, Dr Omar completed his Bachelor of Dental Surgery at the University of Otago before moving to London, where he gained extensive experience in emergency care, prosthodontics, cosmetic dentistry and endodontics. He later completed his Fellowship with the Royal Australasian College of Dental Surgeons and undertook specialist training in Endodontology at King’s College London. His research using micro-computed tomography to investigate tooth tissue changes following root canal treatment and post space preparation was published in the International Endodontic Journal and presented internationally. Omar is passionate about helping patients in pain, educating dentists and making endodontics more approachable for clinicians. He is also the co-creator of the EndoPrep App, designed to help dentists plan endodontic cases with greater confidence.
Dr Omar Ikram – @specialistendo
Ahmed Issa – @drahmedissa
Dental Protection have proudly been supporting the Dental Head Start podcast since day one! The Dental Protection team understands the ever-changing challenges faced by dental professionals and we take our responsibility to members seriously. Our professional protection package helps you practise with confidence, safe in the knowledge that we are always by your side if things go wrong. With over 40 years protecting Australian dental professionals, we have the global stability and financial resilience to be by you
The OrthoED Institute_ is the leading orthodontic educator for general dentists._
Founded by Specialist Orthodontist Dr Geoff Hall — with over 36 years of clinical experience and treating over 15000 cases — OrthoED has trained more than 2,500 dentists in orthodontics across Australia, New Zealand and internationally. Dr. Hall is widely respected for his structured approach to treatment planning and his ability to teach sound orthodontic principles in an understandable fashion
OrthoED’s courses are comprehensive, evidence-based and focus on sound biomechanical principles — teaching the entire gamut of orthodontics whether it be braces and /or clear aligner therapy with hands-on learning, case reviews, mentoring and long-term support.
With a reputation built on clinical excellence and hundreds of 5-star reviews, OrthoED is trusted by general dentists who want to confidently integrate orthodontics, expand their scope, and deliver exceptional patient outcomes.
Exclusive Offer for Dental Headstart Listeners
Dental Headstart listeners can receive 5% off any OrthoED signature course.
T&Cs: Valid until 30 June 2027 . Not valid in conjunction with any other offer. Exclusions apply.
To redeem, use a coupon code at checkout.
Go to orthotraining.com.au
The post The Journey behind the specialist #3: From fear to mastery with Dr Omar Ikram appeared first on Dental Head Start.