Dental unfiltered

In this episode of Management Unfiltered, Kirk Teachout and Zach Shelley dive into the essential strategies for retaining top hygienists in dental practices. They explore how streamlined systems, clear communication, and a culture of empowerment can make all the difference. From the importance of positive reinforcement and continued education to the vital role of the front office and teamwork, this conversation unpacks what it tru

In this episode, Matt Brown and Dr. Todd Fleischman explore the vital relationship between hygienists and dentists — and why collaboration and mutual respect are key to a thriving practice. They discuss the evolving role of hygienists in a post-COVID world, the shift toward a wellness-focused hygiene model, and the power of education and communication in improving patient outcomes. Dr. Fleischman shares insights on empowering hygienists to take ownership of their roles, creating a more unified, patient-centered approach to care.

In this episode, Kirk Teachout and Zach Shelley dive into how purposeful, well-structured meetings can transform a dental practice. They discuss the importance of clear communication, leadership, and consistent team alignment to improve both workflow and patient care. From defining departmental priorities to using KPIs effectively, this conversation offers practical insights for creating meetings that actually matter and drive real results.

In this episode of Dental Unfiltered, Matt Brown sits down with Dr. Todd Fleischman to unpack the vital relationship between general dentists and specialists. Together, they explore how trust, communication, and collaboration drive better patient outcomes — and why general dentists should act as the “quarterbacks” of care. The conversation also dives into how evolving dental technology and continuous learning are reshaping the modern dental landscape.

In this episode of Dental Unfiltered, host Matt Brown sits down with Dr. Todd Fleischman, a Philadelphia-based dentist, to explore his journey into dentistry and the realities of running a practice in a bustling city. They dive into the challenges and rewards of urban dentistry, the value of patient relationships, and the role of community in building a lasting legacy. Dr. Fleischman also shares his insights on practice acquisition and why patience and trust are key to long-term success in dentistry.

In this episode of Dental Unfiltered, host Matt Brown sits down with Dr. Todd Fleischman, a Philadelphia-based dentist, to explore his journey into dentistry and the realities of running a practice in a bustling city. They dive into the challenges and rewards of urban dentistry, the value of patient relationships, and the role of community in building a lasting legacy. Dr. Fleischman also shares his insights on practice acquisition and why patience and trust are key to long-term success in dentistry.

In this episode, host Kirk Teachout shares practical scheduling strategies for dental practices, including how to reverse-engineer annual goals into daily targets, structure the day using a three-column system, apply 48- and 24-hour rules to reduce no-shows, and use morning huddles to boost team efficiency and preparedness.

In this re-released episode, Matt Brown and Dr. Andrew Vallo revisit how dental practices can gear up for Black Friday promotions. They share timeless tips on early marketing planning, crafting enticing specials, and using social media to engage patients—strategies that are still just as effective in 2025. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned pro, tune in for practical ideas to boost your practice's holiday revenue and get your team ready for success this year!If needed, here are the original links to the first time we posted this ep (YouTube | Apple | Spotify)

In this episode of Dental Unfiltered, host Matt Brown sits down with Dr. Todd Fleischman, a Philadelphia-based dentist, to explore his journey into dentistry and the realities of running a practice in a bustling city. They dive into the challenges and rewards of urban dentistry, the value of patient relationships, and the role of community in building a lasting legacy. Dr. Fleischman also shares his insights on practice acquisition and why patience and trust are key to long-term success in dentistry.

In this episode, Matt Brown and Dr. Andrew Vallo dive into the pressing issue of burnout in the dental profession. They share personal stories and insights on self-care, work-life balance, and protecting mental health. Learn why intentional self-care and seeking support are vital for long-term success and get practical advice to help dental professionals thrive both in and out of the practice.

In this episode, Zach Shelley dives into the key elements of being an effective office manager in a dental practice. He shares insights on building strong relationships with doctors, engaging with team members, and managing time with intention. The conversation explores setting clear expectations, fostering open communication, creating a supportive team culture, and handling mistakes constructively to strengthen workplace dynamics.

In this episode, host Kirk Teachout shares practical scheduling strategies for dental practices, including how to reverse-engineer annual goals into daily targets, structure the day using a three-column system, apply 48- and 24-hour rules to reduce no-shows, and use morning huddles to boost team efficiency and preparedness.

In this episode, Matt Brown and Dr. Andrew Vallo dive into the pressing issue of burnout in the dental profession. They share personal stories and insights on self-care, work-life balance, and protecting mental health. Learn why intentional self-care and seeking support are vital for long-term success and get practical advice to help dental professionals thrive both in and out of the practice.

In this episode, host Kirk Teachout shares practical scheduling strategies for dental practices, including how to reverse-engineer annual goals into daily targets, structure the day using a three-column system, apply 48- and 24-hour rules to reduce no-shows, and use morning huddles to boost team efficiency and preparedness.

In this episode, Matt Brown and Dr. Andrew Vallo dive into the innovative blend of orthodontics and creative marketing, focusing on how Pokémon-themed strategies can engage younger patients. They discuss the introduction of mixed dentition clear aligners and the importance of offering in-house services to enhance patient experience. The conversation also covers the balance between creative outreach and the practical considerations of expanding dental services. The episode wraps with a teaser for future updates on the rollout of these new offerings.

In this episode, Dr. Sausha and Dr. Mark McCawley discuss the benefits of dental lasers in periodontal and implant dentistry. They cover laser applications in socket management, nerve regeneration, and depigmentation. The conversation highlights how lasers improve healing, disinfection, and outcomes in modern dental care.

In this episode of Dental Unfiltered, Matt Brown and Dr. Andrew Vallo explore the vital role of production audits in dental practices. They highlight the significance of accurate production reporting and the common challenges practices face during the auditing process. Dr. Vallo offers firsthand insights into how regular, detailed audits can enhance financial transparency, improve associate compensation structures, and streamline operations. The discussion also covers the importance of tracking production trends to make informed decisions and drive long-term practice success.

In this episode, Dr. Sausha and Dr. Mark McCawley explore the revolutionary role of Nd:YAG lasers in modern periodontal therapy. They trace the evolution of laser technology, discuss compelling research backing its effectiveness, and share real-world clinical experiences that showcase its benefits for patient outcomes. The discussion also clears up common myths about dental lasers, looks ahead to the future of dental innovation, and underscores the importance of embracing advanced technologies in clinical practice. Both doctors advocate for continuous education and adaptability as essential tools for success in the ever-changing landscape of dentistry.

In this episode, Matt Brown and Dr. Andrew Vallo delve into the evolving role of artificial intelligence (AI) in the dental industry. They discuss cutting-edge AI tools and platforms that are reshaping dental practices, from diagnostics and treatment planning to patient communication. The conversation emphasizes how AI can enhance both operational efficiency and patient care. They also explore future trends in patient engagement, underscoring the need for dental professionals to embrace innovation while keeping patient experience at the forefront.

In this episode, Zach Shelley and Kirk Teachout dive into the hidden standards that influence behavior and decision-making in leadership and team dynamics. They explore the importance of discipline, self-reflection, and clear communication in effective leadership. They stress that leaders must define and vocalize their standards, hold themselves accountable, and build systems that reinforce these expectations. By doing so, they create a productive, cohesive team culture grounded in clarity and consistency.

In this episode, Matt Brown and Dr. Andrew Vallo celebrate the milestone of opening Dr. Vallo's 10th practice. They explore the internal competitive culture driving performance among their dentists, the critical role of hiring passionate team members, and a strategic pivot from traditional dental office build-outs to more efficient, scalable practice models. The discussion also touches on the group's record-breaking financial success and outlines plans for sustainable, long-term growth—underscoring the importance of consistency in achieving lasting results.

In this episode, Dr. Sausha explores the transformative role of 3D printing surgical guides in implant dentistry. He shares his personal journey into the field and emphasizes the value of surgical guides for precision and efficiency. The discussion covers the workflow for creating guides, common challenges in implant placement, and the advantages of in-house 3D printing. Dr. Sausha also discusses costs, ROI, and advanced techniques, including the benefits and limitations of full arch implant guides. He closes with a forward-looking perspective on dental technology and encourages practitioners to embrace innovation to elevate patient care.

In this episode of Dental Unfiltered, Matt Brown and Dr. Andrew Vallo dive into the value of hosting a dental summit to enhance team engagement and growth. They share insights into the planning process, highlight impactful presentations, and discuss creative strategies for team building. The episode underscores the importance of investing in team development—no matter the size of the practice. They also address ways to overcome public speaking nerves and offer tips on securing sponsorships to help offset event expenses.

In this episode, Kirk Teachout and Zach Shelley delve into the challenges of implementing change within organizations. They examine why people often resist change and stress the importance of clear communication, well-defined goals, and strong leadership. The discussion highlights how leaders can create a supportive environment by keeping team members informed and involved in the change process. Personal growth and accountability are also emphasized as critical components for achieving lasting, successful change.

In this episode of Dental Unfiltered, hosts Matt Brown and Dr. Andrew Vallo delve into the role of charitable giving in the dental field, spotlighting the No Hungry Pets initiative. They discuss how expanding a dental practice can amplify its impact on the community, how younger dentists' views on charity are shifting, and how to strike a balance between personal time and philanthropic efforts. The episode also offers practical tips for launching a charitable program and emphasizes the value of community involvement through giving back.

In this episode, Dr. Sausha explores the complexities of implant surgical guides through in-depth case studies. Focusing on two challenging anterior cases, he shares firsthand experiences that underscore the obstacles and clinical decision-making involved in managing intricate dental scenarios. The discussion highlights the critical role of meticulous planning, patient-centered care, and the integration of advanced technologies in ensuring predictable and successful outcomes in implant dentistry.

In this episode of Dental Unfiltered, hosts Matt Brown and Dr. Andrew Vallo sit down with Dr. Alexandra Kantor and Dr. Eric Appelsies, co-hosts of the podcast Just a Couple of Dentists, to discuss their distinctive journey in dental practice ownership. The conversation highlights the realities dental professionals face, including the decision to step away from multi-practice ownership due to burnout. The group reflects on how COVID-19 shifted marketing strategies and underscores the importance of seeking professional advice and managing the emotional demands of ownership. The episode wraps with a focus on the challenges of growing a practice, the responsibilities of selling one, and the importance of strong leadership and communication in creating a thriving dental business.

In this episode of Management Unfiltered, Zach Shelley and Kirk Teachout explore ways dental practices can cut down on advertising expenses. They focus on the power of community involvement, patient referrals, and delivering standout patient experiences as essential elements of successful marketing. The discussion draws a clear line between marketing and advertising, stresses the importance of tracking where referrals come from, and highlights the need for intentional strategies to grow a practice. Through personal stories and actionable advice, the hosts demonstrate how building strong relationships with patients and the local community can drive long-term growth without depending heavily on traditional advertising.

In this episode of Dental Unfiltered, Matt Brown sits down with Dr. Paul Goodman from Dental Nachos to discuss the distinctive approach of the Dental Boost Camp. They delve into the camp's origins and the significance of fostering authentic connections among dental professionals. Dr. Goodman offers his perspective on prioritizing collaboration over competition, the importance of community, and the thoughtful planning that goes into creating impactful events. The discussion highlights how fun plays a crucial role in learning and the immense value of networking within the dental field.

In this episode, Zach Shelley and Kirk Teachout delve into the challenges of front desk staffing in dental practices. They address the frequent problem of overstaffing, highlight the critical role of patient experience, and examine key factors to consider when expanding the front desk team. Their discussion underscores the value of streamlined systems, cross-training staff, and leveraging practice metrics to improve efficiency and boost patient satisfaction.

In this episode, Dr. Andrew Vallo talks about recent updates to his dental practice's bonus structure, focusing on the need to align team performance with the practice's profitability. He introduces a new accountability measure that links bonuses to meeting a minimum revenue target, promoting teamwork and collective responsibility. The discussion also explores how to strike a balance between recognizing individual efforts and maintaining the practice's financial stability.

In this episode of Management Unfiltered, hosts Kirk Teachout and Zach Shelley dive into the core aspects of crafting a personal leadership style. They discuss influential books that have shaped their leadership approaches, the importance of putting learned lessons into practice, and the need to both celebrate successes and reflect on obstacles. The conversation highlights leading in times of uncertainty, the value of actively listening to team members, and the crucial role emotional intelligence plays in leadership. They also touch on owning decisions and nurturing a culture of ongoing learning and development.

In this episode of Dental Unfiltered, Matt Brown and Dr. Andrew Vallo dive into the vital role of oral cancer screenings, with a focus on BioScreen technology. They discuss the importance of early detection, share personal experiences, and stress the need for dental practices to incorporate this service. The conversation underscores the cost-effectiveness and life-saving potential of offering these screenings in dental offices, aiming to enhance proactive patient care.

In this episode of Clinical Unfiltered, Dr. Sauscha continues his conversation with Dr. Pauline Le. Dr. Le dives deeper into how she transformed her practice by blending aesthetics with dentistry. She opens up about refining her injectable techniques, navigating industry skepticism, and developing a patient-centric model that prioritizes trust and education. Dr. Le also shares how she leveraged content creation to grow her brand and why a well-trained, cohesive team is critical to offering seamless aesthetic services within a dental setting.

In this episode, Matt Brown and Dr. Andrew Vallo delve into the use and value of weekly scorecards in dental practices. They examine how monitoring key performance indicators (KPIs) can drive greater accountability, transparency, and overall efficiency, particularly in multi-location operations. The discussion underscores the critical role of measurement in striving for excellence and addressing emotional resistance that can interfere with performance tracking. The hosts also point out how scorecards help establish a data-driven feedback loop, enabling dental teams to make more objective, informed decisions.

In this episode of Management Unfiltered, Kirk Teachout and Zach Shelley delve into the essential role office managers play in dental practices. They discuss when and why to bring an office manager on board, the financial impact of the decision, and the value of investing in their training and motivation. The discussion highlights the importance of setting clear expectations and illustrates how a well-integrated office manager can lead to substantial cost savings and greater operational efficiency.

In this episode, hosts Matt Brown and Dr. Andrew Vallo explore different equity models for dental associates and executives, focusing on how ownership opportunities can help retain top talent. They explain the steps involved in offering equity, the qualifications associates must meet to earn it, and the valuation methods used for equity purchases. The discussion also emphasizes the importance of a strong hiring and onboarding process, along with clear communication about equity expectations. Additionally, they address the potential for extending equity opportunities to executive roles, especially as a dental organization expands.

In this episode of Management Unfiltered, hosts Zach Shelley and Kirk Teachout dive into their unconventional journeys from skateboarding and music into the field of dentistry. They explore how to craft memorable patient experiences, define their ideal patient base, and lead effectively within a dental practice. The discussion also addresses the realities of burnout and the importance of personal outlets for maintaining mental well-being. Throughout the episode, they stress the importance of fostering a positive, collaborative culture rather than running a top-down, rigid practice.

In this episode, Matt Brown and Dr. Andrew Vallo dive into the role of authority in social media advertising for dental practices. They discuss a range of marketing strategies, such as video ads, mailers, and the value of producing tailored content. The discussion highlights the importance of building authority through personal branding and strong communication skills. It also compares the cost-efficiency of social media marketing to traditional advertising methods. Listeners will gain actionable insights on crafting compelling ads that connect with potential patients and help grow their practices.

In this episode of Clinical Unfiltered, Dr. Pauline Le shares her journey from dental school to building a successful aesthetic practice. She talks openly about the challenges she's faced, how social media helped her grow her brand, and the way she blends facial aesthetics with traditional dentistry. Dr. Le also shares why it's so important to provide well-rounded patient care and manage expectations when it comes to aesthetic treatments. She touches on training her team, the business side of things, and wraps up by announcing some exciting new educational resources she's launching to help other practitioners bring aesthetics into their own practices.

In this episode of Dental Unfiltered, Matt Brown and Dr. Andrew Vallo delve into the vital role of conflict resolution in dental teams. They examine how unresolved issues can negatively impact team morale and patient care, stressing the importance of having clear, structured approaches to address conflicts quickly. Drawing from a leadership seminar, Dr. Vallo offers practical strategies, including the use of conflict resolution forms and encouraging respectful, adult-level communication. Their discussion highlights the value of investing in leadership development to create a healthier workplace culture and reduce staff turnover.

In this episode of Clinical Unfiltered, Dr. Sausha and Dr. Varisha Parikh tackle the real-life challenges behind implant dentistry when things don't go as planned. From tricky removals to unexpected complications, they share candid stories, hands-on tips, and practical advice for managing setbacks in the operatory. The discussion highlights the importance of staying adaptable, knowing when to ask for help, and using the right tools for the job. With a focus on honest conversations and continuous growth, this episode is a must-listen for any clinician navigating the ups and downs of implant work.

In this episode of Dental Unfiltered, Matt Brown and Dr. Andrew Vallo dive into the value of understanding your dental team through assessments like DISC and the Kolbe Index. Matt shares his insights from a recent leadership retreat, while Dr. Vallo breaks down how Kolbe testing has transformed the way he structures his team, hires, and assigns responsibilities. From identifying quick starts to fact-finders, they explore how aligning roles with personality and cognitive strengths can reduce frustration, improve performance, and help team members reach their full potential. Whether you're building a new team or want to optimize your current one, this episode is packed with practical advice you can apply immediately.

In this episode of Clinical Unfiltered, Dr. Sausha and Dr. V explore the complexities and potential complications of wisdom teeth extractions. They discuss worst-case scenarios, common issues like dry sockets and hematomas, and stress the importance of effective patient communication and follow-up care. Dr. V shares her protocols for managing complications and emphasizes the need for dental professionals to have a solid emergency plan and maintain hospital privileges. The conversation also highlights the importance of understanding patient behavior and implementing preventive measures in oral surgery.

In this episode of Dental Unfiltered, Matt Brown and Andrew Vallo dive into the topic of sales in dentistry. They stress that every dental professional is involved in sales, as establishing trust with anxious patients is key to success. The discussion touches on the importance of tracking treatment acceptance, managing team performance, and fostering strong communication between doctors and patients. They also explore the value of having skilled treatment coordinators and the need for effective sales talent to drive better patient outcomes and revenue growth. The episode wraps up with insights on recruiting, developing a dedicated sales team, and evaluating talent to enhance practice success.

In this episode of Management Unfiltered, Zach Shelley interviews Kirk Teachout, who shares his unexpected path from the music industry into dentistry. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Kirk and his wife took the opportunity to reimagine their dental practice, placing a strong emphasis on improving the patient experience and refining how appointments were scheduled. The conversation highlights the importance of having a clear mission, fostering a supportive team culture, building reliable systems to ensure consistency, and committing to strong leadership and continuous growth.

In this special 100th episode of Dental Unfiltered, hosts Matt Brown and Dr. Andrew Vallo reflect on their podcast journey, celebrating how far they've come and the many guests they've featured along the way. They explore key lessons learned from conversations with experts across the dental field, the importance of adapting strategies to fit different practice models, and how ongoing collaboration fuels professional growth. The episode also highlights the vital role their audience has played in shaping the show, reinforcing the value of connection and shared learning within the dental community.

In this episode of Clinical Unfiltered, Dr. Sausha chats with Dr. Elizabeth Dy again - this time, diving into the world of airway and sleep dentistry. They explore therapeutic approaches for patients of all ages, discuss the importance of assessing dysfunction, and share insights on tongue tie release techniques. The conversation emphasizes the significance of a holistic approach to patient care, integrating various therapies to enhance overall well-being.

In this episode of Dental Unfiltered, Matt Brown interviews Paul Lowry from Dental Menu about the growing role of dental membership programs. They discuss the challenges of self-managed plans, the benefits of Dental Menu's solutions, and the importance of proper accounting and sales strategies. The conversation highlights how subscription-based models can boost patient retention, improve financial stability, and streamline operations through technology.

In this episode of Management Unfiltered, host Zach Shelley chats with Cory Pinegar about the changing world of dental office management and the role of virtual assistants (VAs). They dive into the perks and challenges of using VAs, stressing the importance of communication and empathy in patient care. The discussion also covers how to set clear expectations when hiring VAs to boost efficiency and enhance patient satisfaction.

In this episode of Dental Unfiltered, Matt Brown chats with Kevin Tallman, CEO of Mango Voice, about the role of VoIP technology in dental practices. They dive into how AI can transform patient communication and improve front desk operations, stressing the importance of integrating technology thoughtfully rather than just using off-the-shelf solutions. The conversation also touches on customer service, number porting, and the balance between automation and human interaction to enhance the overall patient experience.