James Wanamaker

James Wanamaker

Dr. James Wanamaker earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from SUNY Buffalo School of Dental Medicine in 2016 with a concentration in pediatric dentistry.

While at Buffalo, he served in multiple roles in organized dentistry, including the National Chair of the Council on Advocacy for the American Student Dental Association (ASDA).

Following dental school, he then completed a General Practice Residency at SUNY Upstate Hospital and the Syracuse VA Hospital. He has completed additional training at the Dawson Academy, Invisalign, and surgical implant placement at the Brighterway Institute. Dr. Wanamaker is a partner in his dream private practice, Smiles of Skaneateles, located outside of Syracuse, NY.

Dr. Wanamaker began working with IgniteDDS as a 3rd-year dental student. Since then, he has spoken at dental schools and conferences across the country on interview skills and finding your ideal private practice.

He is heavily involved in organized dentistry on a local, state, and national level. Dr. Wanamaker currently serves as the Chair of the New Dentist Committee for the New York State Dental Association. In 2020 Dr. Wanamaker was inducted as a Fellow of the American College of Dentists.

Fellows have exemplified excellence through outstanding leadership and exceptional contributions to dentistry and society and only 3% of dentists are Fellows. Dr. Wanamaker resides in Upstate New York with his wife, Francesca, their young daughter, and Goldendoodle, Chewbacca.

dental photography

Why Dental Photography Is Essential in Modern Dental Practice

By: James Wanamaker, DDS – IgniteDDS Clinical Coach In my private practice centered on esthetics and function,…

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Variolink Esthetic System Review

Variolink Esthetic System Review

By: Dr. James Wanamaker When I became a dental practice owner, one of my goals was to…

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Direct Restorative Workflow Kit from Ivoclar

Systems & Simplicity: Two Words that Come to Mind When Working with the Direct Restorative Workflow Kit from Ivoclar

By: Dr. James Wanamaker I have been a fan of Ivoclar products since I was a student…

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Tooth Extractions: Simple vs. Surgical Procedures for Dental Students

By Michael Eid | April 1, 2025

By: Michael Eid Tooth extractions are typically a “last resort” option when there are no other better alternatives. However, you quickly realize that not all extractions are the same—understanding the distinctions between simple and surgical extractions is crucial. This article explains the indications, techniques, and importance of not only knowing how but WHEN to use…

Ain’t Got Time for Perio Charting? Try Finding Time for a Board Hearing and Investigation

By Candy Velez - CRDH, BSDH | March 31, 2025

The Importance of Comprehensive Periodontal Evaluations – Lessons from Dr. A.R. By: Candy Velez – CRDH, BSDH Take a moment to reflect on your approach to periodontal charting. How often do you find yourself rushing through an exam, assuming that if a patient looks stable, they probably are? Do you rely on quick assessments, visual…

Help! My Dental Assistant Isn’t Putting the Treatment Rendered on the Patient’s Ledger

By Ronda Holman | March 26, 2025

By: Ronda Holman Running a smooth and profitable dental practice depends on accurate record-keeping, and one common frustration among dentists is when treatment rendered isn’t properly entered into the patient’s ledger. This small oversight can lead to big problems, including incorrect billing, insurance claim delays, and lost revenue. Let’s say Dr. Smith, a busy dentist,…

Hybrid Dentures: When Their Lifespan Runs Out

By Dr. Lee Ann Brady | March 26, 2025

By: Lee Ann Brady DMDThis topic originally appeared on Pankey.org. Dr. Brady granted permission for igniteDDS to share with our readers. Over time, even the best dental work needs attention, nothing is guaranteed for life. Recently, I saw a patient who had chipped a tooth on her lower hybrid denture and loosened an implant screw….

Back to the basics….What is Dental Insurance Credentialing?

By Angela Holland | March 25, 2025

By: Angela Holland If you’re a dentist or dental practice owner, you’ve likely encountered the term “insurance credentialing” at some point. While this process may seem daunting, understanding dental insurance credentialing is crucial for your practice’s financial success and the quality of care you provide to your patients. Whether you are just starting your practice,…

The Big Bad Board of Dentistry: What Power Do They Really Have?

By Candy Velez - CRDH, BSDH | March 24, 2025

Understanding the Authority of the Florida Board of Dentistry By: Candy Velez – CRDH, BSDH For many dental professionals, the Florida Board of Dentistry feels like a looming presence, often associated with disciplinary actions, complaints, and investigations. The very mention of an inquiry can strike fear into even the most diligent practitioners. But what authority…

Are All Dental Whitening The Same? 

By David Rice | March 19, 2025

By: Dr. David Rice As a young dentist, hygienist or assistant, it’s easy to be overwhelmed with teeth whitening today. We have:  So, are they all the same? Which delivery system is best? As a dental pro, how do I make the best recommendations to my patients?  Future Dentists Take on Teeth Whitening Options Have…

No Prep Veneers: Minimal Intervention, Maximum Impact

By Michael Eid | March 19, 2025

By: Michael Eid As dentists, preserving natural tooth structure is a top priority. No Prep Veneers offer a way to enhance smiles without sacrificing precious enamel. In this blog, I’ll share insights on how this innovative approach can help achieve the dream smile while keeping your natural teeth intact.  What Are No Prep Veneers?  No…

Compensation Doesn’t Have to Be Complicated

By Garrett Wilson | March 18, 2025

By: Garrett Wilson You’re trying to set competitive pay for your staff, but finding accurate compensation data is a challenge. So, you call a few peers at other dental offices to compare notes. The problem? Not only is this approach unreliable, it’s also illegal. Employers cannot legally collaborate to set wages, so relying on peer…

Are You Just a Bare Minimum Dentist? The Truth About the Standards You’re Held To

By Candy Velez - CRDH, BSDH | March 17, 2025

Upholding the Standard of Care in Dentistry By: Candy Velez – CRDH, BSDH As dental professionals, we are responsible for our patients’ health and well-being. However, demanding schedules, high patient volumes, and ingrained habits can create unintended gaps in care. Dentists may go years without scrutiny—until a reported incident places every aspect of a patient’s…