Podcasts about Dental

Is running a dental practice the most stressful part of your life? Does hiring and retaining the right people seem impossible? Do you question whether dentistry was the right choice for you? Kiera reflects on DAT's recent CEO Dentist Webinar, including what dental leadership ideally looks like — from an individual and team perspective. Episode resources: Subscribe to The Dental A-Team podcast Schedule a Practice Assessment Leave us a review Transcript:   Kiera Dent (00:00) Hello, Dental A Team listeners. This is Kiera. And today I am so giddy to be recording this podcast. If you missed it, you missed out. We did our CEO dentist webinar workshop and it was so rad. We did it in August and just kudos to all the doctors that were there. If you missed it, you're in luck. I'm going to give you the highlight reel. But I really hope that you plan to join us. It was a three day, ⁓ full playful out workshop that I just thoroughly loved. had doctors.   joining us every single night and really just having that mindset shift of how do I go from being this day in day out operator to a CEO owner of my business? Like what are the things that I really should be doing as a CEO versus what should I be doing as a founder? Like how do we shift that mindset? And we did it based on our proven model, the yes model. You guys have heard me chat about that. The focusing on you and your vision, earnings and profitability, and then systems and team development. So it was just really, really fun. This really was something to help.   Honestly, like afterwards, had so many calls with so many people that were there. And it was just joyful because they said, Kiera, I really want to learn how to be the CEO. Like as you talked about it, I finally understood like what my role should look like and how I should be evolving. And so just really fun. So just want to say thanks for our entire team. Thanks to everybody who joined. And for all of you, if you didn't ⁓ get to be there, you missed out. It was like full blown. And I did a little surprise. I wasn't expecting it, but I actually ended up ⁓   like doing an after party and it was really fun to just have real conversations. So ⁓ really, truly just a highlight. And today I'm going to kind of like break this down into what we did. I'll give a couple of highlights from each day of just for you to kind of get the highlight reel of it. And then, Hey, if you ever want to chat about how to become the CEO dentist of your practice, this is what we're doing for a lot of offices. I've kind of been shifting our model to help dentists and teams really elevate to have practices that run with team.   leadership to have dentists to truly run in their realm of being that healthcare provider that you love and or exiting and going out of the chair. No, there's no set path. It's your path and really helping dentists ⁓ just elevate to that level of like, do I own this business and not have it own me? So just super jazz. That's what we're working on. Just really, really, really fun and exciting things and getting your team bought into this as well. So with that, I'm just excited. Welcome. If you're new to the podcast, I'm Kiera. It's super nice to meet you.   ⁓ I love all things dentistry, including my last name is Dent. ⁓ I came from self-made, ⁓ being able to help practices grow to the level, the growth, the fulfillment, the joy that they want, helping doctors and teams align. And this is coming from real life, all of my experiences, all of our collective experience of our consulting team, bringing you tactical practical tips to make your life and your business work for you and not against you. So with that,   ⁓ was just a jazz. Like it was so fun. So the first day we really talked about, ⁓ just some topics of like who can relate. So if you can relate to this great, this podcast is for you. number one is running a dental practice is the most stressful part of your life. hiring and retaining the right people seems almost impossible. Some months so great. Others feel like you're drowning. Your patients are canceling last minute, leaving your team and you helpless. know how to be a dentist, but you have no clue how to run a business. You're alone with your problems.   You question if dentistry was the right choice for you. You feel like everyone has it together, but you don't. ⁓ and I hope if you answered yes to any of those questions, you realize that truly, truly, truly, you're not alone. And every single dentist feels this at some point and some survive and others thrive. And so the whole goal of the CEO Dennis workshop was to help you thrive. And so on the first day we really went through like, what exactly is a CEO? I remember there was this aha moment in my career where I'm like,   what does a CEO actually do? I'm not joking, I Googled this and I was like, what is a CEO? Like, what do they do? And it was a good, I would say a good, ⁓ probably identity shift for me. To realize like a CEO is your chief executive officer. So like, this is the person who executes. So you oversee the execution of day to day, but you don't do it all. So your job is to lead the vision, plan for the future.   Create and protect the culture and do big opportunities, but stay out of the weeds. Like that's genuinely what you're supposed to do. And a lot of dentists, we'll add one more Asherick. A lot of times you do the dentistry. Sometimes you do it full time and other times you hire associate dentists to do it with you. So like, that's what it means. It means you oversee. You think about a CEO of Amazon, they are not packing the boxes and shipping it out. They are not calling on all the customer service things. They are not creating the bots and the software.   Their job is to look over the vision. Their job is to keep people accountable. Their job is to plan for the future, look for the big opportunities, ⁓ really truly protect the culture and stay out of the weeds. So I think when I looked at that, I'm like, how many dentists actually live like this? Probably not a lot. So what we did is we like went through an audit and then we worked on like the key foundation and this might feel a little fluffy and I'm sure some participants might have thought this, but if we don't get the you portion of the yes model correct, we can't say yes to things.   The number one, and I purposely built the yes model in the pillars in the exact formula of you first earning second systems third. And if you will follow this model, you really truly can get there. And so what we talked about is how like how you show up as a leader directly impacts the success, the relationships, your financial and personal freedom and the overall happiness and fulfillment you have in your practice. So when I look at this, like, okay, great. You have to take care of you and   We talked about like actually how to shift your identity. And so a lot of times people identify themselves today. But if you knew like Tony Robbins said, the strongest force in the human personality is the need to stay consistent with how we define ourselves, not who we actually are, but how we define ourselves. So what we actually had ⁓ everybody doing the workshop on day one was to create this new identity of being the CEO dentist. Like what would the CEO dentist do or not do? ⁓ you're still checking charts at night. What a CEO handle end of day task like that.   Yes or no. No one's held accountable. What does CEO allow chaos to become culture? Your team's just clocking in. How would a CEO reignite motivation? You're bleeding cancellations. How would a CEO oversee the systems to prevent that? Your schedule's full, but your profits don't show it. How would a CEO fix that? Cashflow is unpredictable. How would a CEO create stability? You're doing busy work and have no time to look at the big picture. How would a CEO solve it?   So just again, it's like when we shift our identity, not from who you are, but to a CEO. So I now am, I'm not Kiera, I'm not dentist Kiera. I am now, you guys, I was never dentist Kiera. I was dental assistant Kiera, I'm consulting Kiera. But for you, like you're dentist John, you go in, you do the fillings, you are this practice owner. But what would CEO John or CEO Kiera or CEO Sarah or CEO Marsha or CEO Tom or CEO Tony or CEO Kevin, what would they do or not do?   And when you can shift this identity, you can actually start to see, and you can look at the delegation ladder. And we talked about the delegation ladder of what tasks, because when you're a small business versus when you expand and become a larger business, you actually have different, like it's literally in a tier of what you're going to delegate and when, because as a founder is a new startup, as a CEO, you're doing a lot of the work. You don't have the cashflow. You can't afford it. You're going to do all the work. So at that point, that CEO is doing that.   But as the practice builds and evolves, a lot of CEOs stay there and they don't actually evolve into delegating the tasks that they should be. And so when we go through the entire delegation ladder from like administrative tasks, a patient experience, treatment coordinator, and selling cases to marketing, to leadership, these are all the zones of where is your name out on that delegation ladder and where should it be based on the current size of your practice. And then what, even if you're small, what's your next hire? Well, first hires administrative tasks. So it's either a front office team member, it's a personal assistant, or it's an office manager.   that's going to immediately delegate all of those front office tasks for you, but they're going to do all of that. And then you move into, you're doing the patient experience, you're doing the closing of the cases, you're doing the marketing, you're doing the leadership, like, but you, you offload that first and then you offload the next and the next and the next. And so really looking at this of like, we, it was really cute. We had this fairy godmother and it's like, you are now the CEO. It's time to be the CEO. And I think for us on day one of people just being highlighted of   you now have this new identity. And so looking at it of when I look at this, what's standing in my way of being the CEO? What does my dream business look like? What does that vision timeline look like for me? And what must change now to become the CEO? So as you go through that, that was a quick recap of day one. And then we rolled right into day two, which day two is a lot more tactical. Day one's a bit more of you, you becoming and taking on this new identity. And I will tell you,   when I got on calls afterwards, because it was actually real fun. We had a lot of calls, really excited to welcome the new offices to our company and to our group. And they're already shifting and changing. had some people text me after that of saying, I'm now committing to being the CEO dentist. And when you take and embody a new identity, like, because I thought through this and we were brainstorming as we were prepping this webinar or this workshop. And I thought, how am going to get people to recognize that the you portion is the most pivotal pillar of this whole success model?   And how do get them to do it quickly? And I realized change identity is the fastest way to change. But like changing identity can feel hard. But if I tell you like, it's like putting on a t-shirt and I say, all right, today you're wearing CEO t-shirt. How are you going to act? Just like I can be Kiera, the executor. I can be Kiera, the consultant. I can be Kiera, the sales. I can be Kiera, the customer service. Those are just t-shirts and hats. But if I'm going to put on my main t-shirt, my main hat, I change my identity and I walk into that office every day. And I'm now the CEO dentist.   you will start to act quicker and faster. It's just like the person who wants to get healthy read Atomic Habits. say what they do is they don't ask them to like become healthy. They say, what would a healthy person do? Well, they would walk to their car instead of driving and get the closest parking spot. They would eat snacks like celery sticks for snacks rather than other things. They would have their tennis shoes by the side of their bed. They would go walking every day. you don't, and that's how you'd be able to like, what would a CEO dentist do? What would a CEO dentist not do?   That's how you can start to shift this identity and become that. So that was just a quick, like I said, quick recap of day one and then day two is just fun. It's about numbers. ⁓ Numbers are one of my favorite things because you've got to really understand numbers because numbers are your superpower. Not knowing your numbers, believe it or not, causes more stress than knowing them. Even if they're bad, even if they're good, not knowing because you're getting this constant fear of like, are they good? Do we have money? I don't know. It's also helping you make confident decisions.   develops the steps of where you need to go. And it also helps you track progress to take action before it's too late. So really numbers to me are the proactive approach in a business rather than the reactive. And it's okay, it does not matter where we start. It always helps us then become more proactive as we're going through. So we went through KPI. So a key performance indicator, which one should you be looking at? What are some common ones? We went through stats and KPI spreadsheets, how we look at these, like what we need to do on the daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly. So like daily we're looking at month.   Today production collections, we only have that 98%. We also want to look at our end of day sheet, making sure we've got all of those procedures built out weekly. We're looking at our KPIs to review during doctor and OM weekly meetings. So looking at trends, creating action items before things get too late, like literally our entire team and our clients, they track stats every single week. Cause we're looking for trends. The offices that do this are always my profitable offices. The offices that don't are the not profitable. Like it is science though, like what you track and measure improves. So track.   Monthly, you do your month and number review, like all the KPIs, what were the trends and what are we going to do better next month? Where are we at? I just talked to an office the other day. We realized we're a hundred thousand behind where we want to be for end of year. We have four months left or two months left or one mother, wherever you are. But if you plan and you look ahead. Four months, trying to make up a hundred grand is way easier to do than two months, trying to make up a hundred grand. So when we look at that and you just change the game, you change how we schedule, we change how we're going to do our block schedules. All of it is really easy, but if you don't look at this and you don't measure it.   Huh, you're in stress. This is stress. ⁓ We look at our overhead, we look at our PNL, and then quarterly we look at our year to date, where are we at? What are the gaps? We're gonna set reach goals or quarterly goals, and then we track weekly and make sure we're on track for that. So we went through a monthly cost spreadsheet too. This is honestly my most favorite spreadsheet of all time. So legit, I love it, and it's here, and it's something that I have of what is our monthly BAM, our bare ACE minimum? What does it cost us to run the practice?   on a high end, low end and where we currently are. So if I've got to scale and add more people, if I need to reduce in times of chaos or hard times, I at least know those numbers and that will give you so much confidence because now you've got a piece of the puzzle to then know what do we need to produce? What do we need to collect? We went through an overhead calculator and what are the benchmarks? What should my payroll be? What should my supplies be? Labs, advertising, all of that. What's my overhead? What's my doctor salary and where can I cut? Because the way to fix your numbers are three things. One, decrease what we're spending.   That's one, two, increase production and three, increase collections. If our collections, cause you can be producing and if you're not collecting, guess what your overhead sky high strip, like that's a stressful zone. Just go collect the money. You've already done it. Collect the money. If we're not producing enough to cover our bills, well, we need to increase our production and build block schedules and different pieces like that to make sure what we need to produce for our practice is actually there. And then like looking at our costs, what can we cut? What things could be more efficient in? do we maybe need to delay a hire or do we need to make the hire?   whatever it is, but knowing those areas, like that's where math becomes very fun. Numbers become fun. It's just a simple math equation. It's not hard. We're not going into algebra and geometry and calculus and all of that trig. No, it's literally simple, basic math where we can say, okay, this is what I'm making. This is what I'm spending. And this is what we're collecting. Which of those levers do I need to turn? And so showing offices how like collections matter and different pieces like   going through an overhead calculator, had actual spreadsheets for KPIs, for a monthly cost spreadsheet, for our overhead calculator. All of that was actually really, really lovely. And then showing offices like we're aiming for you to be 20 % profitable after doctors paid, after all expenses are paid, 20 % profit is what we aim for with our practices. And so when you look at your profit, and if right now you're like, I don't even know profit, hey, let's chat. Let's talk about it because you gotta make the money and keep the money. We're gonna make sure we're not spending more money than we're making. And then we're prepping and preparing and we're working towards that profit margin.   having cash flow, having profit at the end of the month will lower your stress radically. So we went through all that. We also had like a whole KPI checklist to have, and it was really fun because when we look at these numbers, this is where the stress stops. And we actually went through like a real life example with the people that were participating with us and they could quickly see, you don't even know this practice. Look at this KPI scorecard. What do you see and what should this practice take immediate action on? Again, a CEO hat, a CEO shirt.   That person's going to look at the trends. They're not going to go dig into the weeds. Most of the time, they're going to look at this and say, okay, well, if my production's 160 and my collections are a hundred right now, even you listening on the podcast, you can tell that's my gap. We're producing 160, but we're collecting a hundred now that one succeed because we're putting in our numbers in gross, not net production. That's a problem. Fix that. Maybe our collections are good, but if we're producing that in net and we're only collecting a hundred thousand, that's a huge gap. What do we need to do to fix our collections?   Our year to date collection presented 62%. You know right there. And when this office had an overhead of 85%, well, to me looking at that without even knowing this practice, they have a collections problem right there. They increase the collections, their overhead goes down, money instantly becomes available. So many offers like, here, we don't have the money. And I look and I'm like, you got 500,000 in AR, you've got the money. We just need to collect the money. You're producing well, your expenses are in line. Or other times like our expenses are high. Let's reduce that. Let's figure out how we can get it.   So giving some parameters in that and really knowing like, when you look at as a quick review for you, do you actually use your numbers as super power? So one, do you have KPIs? Two, do you review them weekly? Three, does every team member have their own number and do they track them? So meaning like a number that's going to move the business forward that they know that they can impact that they own as ownership. Does your team know how they can impact the numbers? Do you know your overhead? Do you know what's in your AR right now? How much money is sitting out?   And do you have a plan to get to ideal profit? So answering those questions really will help you kind of have an overview of, all right, got it. These are the things. And I will say for anybody, you want, we actually gave away a lot of these worksheets. So to anybody who scheduled the call. So if you're like, Hey, I'm just curious, like, how can you help me with like maybe my you portion, maybe my earning portion or the last person of systems and team development. Hey, schedule a call with us. I'm happy to share a lot of these spreadsheets with you in a lot of the pieces, because why not? I know you weren't there and I know you didn't get all of it.   But I would love to help you out and I'd love to give you a lot of these resources. So book a call. Hello@TheDentalATeam.com or go to our website, TheDentalATeam.com click book a call. I think it's really something lovely to be able to help. And honestly, Hey, why not? You're going to get all the resources and we're to be able to give you a true roadmap for your practice. actually do. ⁓ it's about an hour long complimentary call where we actually go through your practice. give you a highlight, ⁓ of where to go. What are kind of the big pieces in your practice and then also give you resources. So really it's a no risk for you.   ⁓ It's no pressure, just truly clarity and momentum. So, ⁓ and like I said, the KPI scorecard, the monthly spending, the overhead calculator, those types of things I think are just so powerful to be able to access those and to even see what you should or could be doing. So then as a wrap, day three of the workshop was so fun. It was one of my favorite days. Shout out to Eve, our marketer. She said, Kiera.   I want you to really try something for me. And I'm all here for innovation creation. Like let's try something new. And she said on systems, I want us to do like a rapid fire. And so what we did, because what I found is one, you have the vision, you take on this, this, this new hat, new identity of I'm the CEO dentist. You now know that numbers are your superpower and you're going to use your numbers to not be used by your numbers. So you're to look at the numbers and we're going to see where are the gaps.   whatever your numbers are. So the numbers need to lead to the vision and whatever numbers tell us, the numbers tell us a story. Just like that example I gave you, there was a collections problem. Well, great. If there's a collections problem, that's the system that we now go implement into a practice. So it's really, really great to see like, my gosh, I don't have to like eat this whole elephant. It's very simple based on the vision and the numbers to tell you which systems are broken, which systems are lacking and what things we need to implement, improve or optimize. So the last part was systems and Dental A Team, I   I like cadences. like to see like a map. So I put 12 systems for the 12 months of the year. And some of you have heard these things in the past. You can look these up on our website. We've got lots of them, but basically just like, okay, what's my kind of outlook for every single month? So January's office management mastery and leadership, February's doctor optimization. So making sure like endo, CE, Botox, like whatever it is, we're just optimizing our doctor procedures in-house, looking to see what could we do to optimize that more.   March is billing with ease, April's five-star patient experience, May is smooth sailing scheduling, June is maximized case acceptance, July is dynamite dental assistance, August is elevated hygiene, September is confident marketing, October is complete operations manual, so get that thing done, November is practice profitability, what we just discussed, and December, yes, pun intended, A-Team hiring and onboarding. So like a little calendar for you to, as you're going through as a CEO,   Now you don't have to think of like, I've got to do all the systems. You've got a checklist of, all right, let me go look at this system. Let me go look at this system. Let me look at this category and see what could I optimize? What could we improve? What could we enhance? So what we did is we actually did a speed round and it was a yes or no. You weren't allowed to have anything gray and we had three questions under every system. So they went through 36 different areas of their practice and it was either yes or no to then say, how are your systems in those areas?   So for example, and people were giving a zero out of three, a one out of three, a two out of three or a three out of three. So let's go to management mastery. This would be your office manager. I review weekly KPIs to ensure we're on track to hit goals. It's either a yes or no. There's no in between. My leadership team runs effective meetings and follows up on action items. Yes or no. know each team members receiving regular one-on-one coachings for growth monthly. Yes or no. And I'll give you a trickier one. Cause why not? Let's like, people were like, I was doing so good. And then I got into.   Some of these other ones, so let me grab, let's do maximize case acceptance. This one would be our practice maintains at least a 75 % patient case acceptance and tracks it daily. Yes or no? You might be having that. And if you don't know, then it's a no. We have a solid follow-up system for unscheduled treatment and offer easy financing options. Yes or no? Next, visits are scheduled in the back office to help increase case acceptance. Yes or no? So what we did is there's so many things within every single system, but tried to break it down so people could quickly see.   of the 12 systems, where am I maybe lacking to then maybe take execution and action and also as CEO. then no great. have a focus for every single month that I can really look at. I can have a checklist. I can look at this and then we actually take action to improve our practice consistently. So we worked through that. And then we said that the piece is we can talk about you as a leader. We can talk about money and profitability and systemization, but for excellent systems to stick.   You have to have extraordinary leadership. And this is where it was like, but wait, what about the CEO dentist? Do I have to do all of this? And the answer is again, as a CEO, your job is to lead the vision, plan for the future, create and protect the culture, big opportunities and stay out of the weeds. That's your job. That's what you're supposed to do. And maybe we can add in their clinical dentistry if you want to, but like that is what you do. So for that, Britt and I actually then went into their, their two dimensions of leadership because we started thinking about this and in that delegation ladder,   There is this zone of leadership and one side is going to be the executive and that's the future planning, the vision, the culture. Like that is truly the CEO dentist, but there's a split side to it. And the other side is the management side. So Britt and I actually make the yin and yang of the leadership team. I've got the executive side. Britt's got the management side. And management side is operations and systems, people, and then nitty gritty details. Britt is amazing at this. I'm amazing at vision and you need both of those pieces to work in harmony together.   to have it and it's usually not the same person. And so helping people go through that and to see where am I strong? And as the CEO of your practice, you might actually flourish in the management side and that's a okay. You need to hire somebody who's a visionary next to you. Or you might be freaking awesome at the visionary side. You need a strong manager that does all the pieces that you are actually not naturally good at, nor should you be spending your time on to pair gently with you and perfectly with you.   This way your practice can flourish and you can actually be the owner of your business rather than being owned by your business. So looking at this, was really like, where do you actually fall as a CEO dentist, executive leader? Where are you doing? What needs to change in your practice? And as we go through this for you to even kind of do an assessment of how am doing on my vision and owning and being the CEO dentist and that identity and truly sitting in that seat. Then what about my numbers and how's the profitability of my business, the future progress and growth?   And then looking at my systems, how are we on those 12 systems? What needs to happen? And then on my executive leadership, am I on the visionary side or on the management side? And who do I need to have? And do I have a strong person? Is that the right person in the right seat there? Or does that need to be evolved? And so it's one of those pieces of like, we have all the pieces, like we, we know, but how do we actually make this go from like knowledge to action? And I think that was the piece of really helping people.   ⁓ recognize that time is so fluid and so fast. And when I look back, I shared a story of where I truly was sitting in a room of a bunch of really smart business owners and I'm like, I don't even know what they're talking about. And I think so many times when we hear a podcast like this or we listen, we know we should be doing it, but we don't actually know how and we feel inferior. It's what we do is we just keep doing the same thing. And rather than that, I would maybe suggest you take a pause and you say, are you really the best person as a CEO to do this? Or...   Is it maybe worth it to hire somebody who knows how to do it and has been there, done that and done it successfully to help you and your team. I really, really dislike coaching for myself. So that's why I built that only team the way I did. I don't like to be coached as the CEO and then have to try and take that back to my team. That's exhausting. There's things that I need to know. And there's things that my team needs to know. And that's actually why we built Dental A Team the way we did. We coach doctors and teams. We teach doctors how to be the executive.   We teach you how to be the CEO, how to get out of the weeds, how to empower your team. And then we teach teams how to follow up so dentists can actually let go. We can build the leadership. We build the tracking. We build the numbers so you can sit there and confidently run your business rather than being ran by your business. And to think about like when I took the leap of faith to hire a coach, when I didn't know and was so scared to do it, I look, and that was six years ago that I hired her. And in those six years, things that happened like Dental A Team,   has definitely grown. Like we have hundreds of clients that we're able to serve on a very personal intimate level. I was very adamant as we built this company that I would never go to a spot where people just felt like a number and not a person. And so being able to scale it to grow, because my mission is to positively impact the world of dentistry and to do it in the greatest way possible. Like truly, how do I do this, but make people still feel like a person and to be seen. So Dental A Team, you want to be here? If I would have not like taken the leap and.   gotten the help that I needed and truly owned that I'm a CEO. I'm not expected to know everything. And I need to hire people that are smarter than me, better than me, and help me grow and optimize in areas that I don't even know. ⁓ My confidence wouldn't be here. My passion, the certainty of myself, my growth, my purpose, my freedom of life, like the life that I get to live now versus the life I was living, the ability to say yes to everything I need, want, and deserve. And that's why I built the yes model, because to help other doctors, other team members be able to say yes.   to everything you need, want and deserve is life changing. That's why we've got the Yes model. And so for that, it was just a really fun, like it was such a beautiful thing to walk people through a complete workshop to help them see where am I at? And I hope today you took kind of the notes and you look to see like, am I at? And just know that being the CEO and owning your business is not a destination, but it's a journey.   It's a space and you'll get more and more into that, but it's a forever evolution. You're never fully systematized. You're never always profitable. You're never always going to sit perfectly in the CEO seat. You're going to ebb and flow and it's just like a mountain and climbing the mountain. There's peaks and valleys and there's highs and there's lows and that's the game of business that we signed up for, but not doing it alone, not trying to figure it all out on your own, not trying to solve all the problems. I think is one of the most beautiful things. So if that resonates with you, we really talked about like joining consulting.   is only for offices that want to thrive and not just survive. It's you want strong systems in your practice that work with or without you there. You want to improve your leadership skills and actually learn how to be the CEO dentist. You want to be the CEO dentist that you were meant to be. You want to have a team that enjoys their work and owns their work. You want to be with peers like other dentists, other office managers, other leadership teams that make you better. Not that of like comparison and competition, but out of true genuine lifting each other up.   bringing part of a bigger community that's more that gives you hope, gives you help, gives you ⁓ benchmarks to look forward to, gives you ideas of how to do it differently and better. And you know that there must be a better, easier way because you know that there truly is. And so if that's something that you're interested in, like I'd love for you to reach out. Like I know you weren't able to attend the workshop. I hope you tend next year. Cause it was like so much more than I could even give on this podcast. But if that resonates with you.   Schedule the practice growth call. Like truly we're going to go through it. It's complimentary. We're going to dig through all the pieces of your practice. Look at a lot of things we just discussed and the added bonus is you will get all of the resources. So KPI scorecard, KPI checklist, fixed cost spreadsheet, ⁓ our monthly cost spreadsheet, the overhead calculator, the cashflow guide, some really, really incredible things that I think are just so valuable and powerful for you. But more than that, you're going to get clarity and momentum. And I think right now that's one of the greatest gifts you could give yourself. So book the call.   take action. You don't have to do it all yourself. And I think that that's like get out of the weeds because we need your vision. We need you to be the leader of the business. We need you to actually be looking at the numbers, having a team, driving that forward because no one else is doing that. You're the leader at the helm and it's either you or it's got to be someone else. But generally speaking, it's you, the dentist, the owner. And so let's help you out. Let's give you that freedom. Let's give you that confidence. Let's give you that roadmap.   and do it in a way that's for you and your practice. So reach out, head to the website, TheDentalATeam.com, book a call, email us, Hello@TheDentalATeam.com. And truly let's help you out. Let's do a complimentary call and just see where are you at? How can we help you? And like I said, as an ad bonus, let them know you listened to the CEO Dennis Workshop ⁓ podcast and we will happily give you those downloads. ⁓ They are tactical, they're practical, they're able to be put into place right away because you all know I love tactical, practical, and you know that my biggest passion is you.   It's you being successful. It's you having the life that you want. It's being able to have life on your terms, to be able to say yes to everything that you want, need and deserve. That's why you did this. That's why you went to dentistry. And so let's give you the life that you had always envisioned. And let's take that from a dream and a wish to a reality. And with that, thanks so much for listening. I'll catch you next time on the Dental A Team Podcast. ⁓  

Ever wonder why you're constantly busy but your practice isn't growing? The answer lies in understanding the critical difference between maintenance work and true business building.As dental practice owners, we often mistake activity for productivity. We spend countless hours handling payroll, ordering supplies, managing schedules, and answering endless staff questions. These tasks give us the satisfaction of checking boxes, but they're merely keeping the lights on rather than creating growth or freedom. They're what I call "playing office" rather than working on your business.Take Control of Your Practice and Your Life We help dentists take more time off while making more money through systematization, team empowerment, and creating leadership teams. Ready to build a practice that works for you? Visit www.DentalPracticeHeroes.com to learn more.

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 of the Dental Boardroom Podcast, host Wes Read, CPA and financial advisor, explores how money impacts happiness, especially for dental practice owners facing financial stress and responsibility. Drawing on landmark studies by Daniel Kahneman, Angus Deaton, and Matthew Killingsworth, Wes uncovers the surprising truths about income, emotional well-being, and life satisfaction and how dentists can build both wealth and contentment.He explains that while money does increase happiness, it does so only up to a point, and then its effect plateaus. Beyond that threshold, happiness depends less on income and more on mindset, purpose, and how money is used. He warns that chasing more income without aligning it to personal values can lead to burnout, not fulfillment.This episode helps dental practice owners reframe how they view money as a tool, not the driver and offers practical guidance on creating both financial security and happiness.The episode breaks down five key concepts:Emotional well-being vs. life satisfactionEmotional well-being (daily happiness) improves with income until basic needs are met (~$100K), then flattens.Life satisfaction (big-picture fulfillment) continues rising with higher income.Diminishing returns of incomeAbove ~$200K especially in high-cost areas like San Diego, extra income produces smaller happiness gains.More money reduces stress, but doesn't guarantee joy.Dentists' unique challengesHigh student debt, business pressures, and lifestyle expectations create financial anxiety.Intentional planning, not just earning more, drives peace of mind.Money amplifies your mindsetQuote from Epictetus: Wealth consists not in having great possessions, but in having few wants.Quote from Ayn Rand: Money is a tool. It will take you wherever you wish, but it will not replace you as the driver.Purposeful financial planningAlign spending with values and long-term goals.Build systems that reduce stress, provide security, and support a balanced life.Key PointsMoney increases happiness only until basic needs are met; after that, returns diminish.Life satisfaction rises with income, but daily happiness levels out.More income alone doesn't solve unhappiness; mindset and purpose are crucial.Dental practice owners face unique financial stress that requires intentional planning.Use money as a tool to support your values, not define your success.Build wealth through consistent habits (saving, reducing taxes, managing expenses).True fulfillment comes from aligning financial choices with personal priorities.

Sain baina uu! Today, travel medicine specialists Drs. Paul Pottinger ("Germ") and Chris Sanford ("Worm") answer YOUR travel health questions, including:Did RFK Jr. demand a journal retract a vaccine article?Humira and Mongolia--how to prepare?What's up with chikungunya vaccines this week?Can I get Salmonella infection from a pet bearded dragon?How to reduce drowning risk, and what to do if you rescue a struggling swimmer?Dental injuries in the wild–what to do in the Canadian wilderness?Heat exhaustion vs heat stroke?We hope you enjoy this podcast! If so, please follow us on the socials @germ.and.worm, subscribe to our RSS feed and share with your friends! We would so appreciate your rating and review to help us grow our audience. And, please send us your questions and travel health anecdotes: germandworm@gmail.com. And, please visit our website: germandworm.com. Our Disclaimer: The Germ and Worm Podcast is designed to inform, inspire, and entertain. However, this podcast does NOT establish a doctor-patient relationship, and it should NOT replace your conversation with a qualified healthcare professional. Please see one before your next adventure. The opinions in this podcast are Dr. Sanford's & Dr. Pottinger's alone, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the University of Washington or UW Medicine.

In this Practice Under Water episode, George sits down with Tom, a Canadian dentist navigating the challenges of ownership, financial pressure, and work-life balance. With high new patient flow and untapped expansion potential, Tom faces a critical crossroads: pursue group practice now or optimize his solo practice for sustainability and personal goals. This episode explores the nuanced considerations of timing, clinical growth, and long-term strategy.

Big O talks Miami Hurricanes 091525

How do top dental practices fill their chairs without spending thousands on ads?This episode is your practical roadmap for launching an effective ground marketing strategy on a razor-thin budget, leveraging your time in the community instead of spending big. We'll demystify the process, showing you how to dedicate just 90-120 minutes per week, split into manageable sprints, to create a steady stream of trusted local connections. From simple permission tools like business cards and flyers to proven, step-by-step scripts, you'll discover exactly how to build lasting community relationships that work for you long after you've left a location.You'll get the inside scoop on the reciprocity ladder: a powerful system for giving micro-values to local businesses, tagging them on social media, and leaving value-packed resources. Learn the art of outreach through the spotlight, insider, and connector formulas, designed to naturally open doors and facilitate real collaboration. By the end of the episode, you'll understand how to sidestep common pitfalls, tailor your approach to any local business, and repeat your efforts each month for compounding trust and visibility. If you're ready for a marketing approach that prioritizes relationships over spend, this episode is your starting line!What You'll Learn in This Episode:How to ground market your practice effectively on a tight budgetA weekly structure for maximizing impact in just 90-120 minutesThe key “permission tools” that quietly work for you 24/7The reciprocity ladder: a strategy for giving before askingConcrete scripts for opening doors with local businessesTargeting and rotating business types for consistent recognitionCommon ground marketing missteps and how to avoid themHow to tailor strategies to gyms, offices, schools, stores, and moreWhy consistency and trust-building outcompete one-off effortsReady to turn a few focused hours each week into a steady stream of new local patients? Press play and plot your path to genuine community growth!‍‍Learn More About the Ground Marketing Course Here:Website: thedentalmarketer.lpages.co/the-ground-marketing-course-open-enrollment‍Host: Michael AriasJoin my newsletter: https://thedentalmarketer.lpages.co/newsletter/‍Join this podcast's Facebook Group: The Dental Marketer Society‍Love the Podcast? Let Us Know How We're Doing on Apple Podcasts!

The race is OVER! Thank you to everyone that donated to this wonderful organization. But the fundraising doesn't end at the race, you can donate all year long at: https://fdlt.memberclicks.net/donor-form#/ This week wraps up the collection of conversations we got at the Jensen Dental (https://jensendental.com/) booth at the FDLA Symposium and Expo (https://www.fdla.net/). Thank you Jensen Dental (https://jensendental.com/) for hosting us at this wonderful event. First we talk to Leah Gold, an assistant turned dental technician. Leah got into assisting while in Ohio and during the pandemic, she moves down to Florida and starts working in a in-office lab for a prosthodontist. Basically having to teach herself most of the skills, she was soon setting teeth, using exocad, and doing custom shades with MIYO (https://miyoworld.com/). Then as a BONUS, not at the FDLA, we bring back on Jade Connors, denturist out of Canada. We just talked to Jade last March at IDS and she was a day away from finding out if she won the CANDULOR KunstZahnWerk Award (https://www.candulor.com/en-us/kzw-winners-2025). Well, it turns out she did win and she comes on to talk about the process, the pains, and the wins, all while learning a new skill. Looking for a way to unlock the full potential of your digital dentistry workflow. Take it from Elise Heathcote, associate manager of digital services with Ivoclar. This is all about the Cam Academy. They have a new in-person training experience designed specifically for dental technicians. This hands-on course explores the full potential of programmable Cam software, helping you take your digital workflow to the next level. Learn directly from Ivoclar experts, refine your skills and bring new precision and efficiency to your lab. Cam Academy is more than a course. It's your next step in digital excellence. To reserve your spot, visit the Ivoclar Academy website (https://www.ivoclar.com/en_us/academy/learning-opportunities?page=1&offset=12&filters=%5B%7B%22id%22%3A%22dateRange%22%2C%22selectedLowerBound%22%3A%222021-12-09T07%3A30%3A45.534Z%22%2C%22selectedUpperBound%22%3A%222022-06-09T06%3A30%3A45.534Z%22%7D%2C%7B%22id%22%3A%22type%22%2C%22advancedFilter%22%3Afalse%2C%22values%22%3A%5B%22In-house+trainings%22%5D%7D%5D) or contact your local Ivoclar sales representative today. Take your Full Arch game to the next level! On October 11th, 2025 the people that brought us the Locator attachment, Zest Dental Solutions (https://www.zestdent.com/) is putting on their first-ever ZEST LAB MASTERSHIP (https://info.zestdent.com/labmastership) program! You'll master the art of creating life-changing full-arch restorations, discover streamlined protocols, and develop the diagnostic skills that will revolutionize your practice. Plus, you'll get hands-on experience with LOCATOR FIXED (https://www.zestdent.com/locator-fixed-now-available?srsltid=AfmBOoo_v9_ANsrYCMncz0XWLf5401jx3ezw_Dgq16lTov7fkI4iMeK9). Head over to zest.pub/labmaster25 (https://education.zestdent.com/events/zestdental/1779555) or visit the full calendar at zestdent.com (https://www.zestdent.com/) right now and secure your spot. Use the code VOICESLAB to save $100!! Special Guests: Jade Connors, DD, RDT and Leah Gold.

Unlocking Value: The Power of Sale Leasebacks in Dental Real Estate. Don Bingham III, Co-founder & Managing Partner of CrownPoint Partners joins the show to discuss: What a sale leaseback is and how it works The benefits of separating real estate from practice assets during M&A transactions Strategies for funding de novo practices through sale leasebacks Common mistakes to avoid in real estate transactions To learn more visit https://crownpoint.co/  You can connect with Don Bingham on Linkedin  https://www.linkedin.com/in/donbinghamiii/ or email him at don@crownpoint.co Subscribe to our channel for more episodes and stay updated on the latest DSO news, insights, and events! If you like our podcast, please give us a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review on iTunes https://apple.co/2Nejsfa and a Thumbs Up on YouTube.    

The reality is, many patients simply can't afford traditional, lab-fabricated veneers. And without a more affordable option, they do nothing and continue living with a smile they're not happy with. But now, there's a solution. With a product called VeneerNow, dentists can offer a beautiful, life-changing makeover that's easy to do, completed in a single visit, and well within reach for most patients. Dr. Lundon Albrecht shares with us how this easy-to-use veneer system has been a game-changer for his practice.

In a field where precision and stamina are paramount, poor ergonomics can lead to chronic pain, fatigue, and long-term health issues. But it doesn't have to be this way. By understanding and implementing ergonomic practices, and choosing the right kind of operatory delivery systems and equipment, we can transform our work environment into a space that supports our bodies as much as our skills. To tell us more about it is our guest, Katrina Klein. Katrina is a registered dental hygienist for 16 years, national speaker, author, competitive bodybuilder and certified personal trainer. She's the founder of ErgoFitLife, where ergonomics and fitness are a lifestyle to prevent, reduce or eliminate pain. Thanks to our episode sponsors: GC America - https://www.gc.dental/ NSK America - https://www.nskdental.com/ VOCO America - https://www.voco.dental/us/

Dave talks about having his teeth cleaned by his daughter Sarah. He has an odd request, and also causes some laughter. 

In this episode of Dental Drill Bits, Sandy Pardue and Dana Salisbury continue their step-by-step Hiring Series with a focus on reference checks. Too many dental practices skip this step because it feels awkward or unnecessary, but failing to do so can cost you money, morale, and even legal trouble. Sandy and Dana share true stories from the field (including embezzlement cases that could have been avoided), compliance tips that keep you safe, and the exact questions that reveal whether your next hire is reliable or risky. From separating personal vs. professional references to knowing what you can ask—and what you should only confirm—you'll leave this episode with a clear system for protecting your practice from a bad hire. Plus, they tackle a listener question about how to manage new hires who want to “change everything,” and why systems are the antidote to chaos. If you want to safeguard your hiring process and build a stronger team, this episode is a must-listen. Takeaways: Skipping reference checks exposes your practice to unnecessary risk. Always separate personal references from professional ones. Confirm dates, pay, and rehire eligibility when giving a reference; ask open-ended questions when checking references. New hires with “big ideas” need structure—systems first, suggestions second. Reference checks = protection for your million-dollar business.

Alan is once again joined by Dr. Matt Standridge. The episode was recorded live at a Voices of Dentistry event following Matt's presentation on "Simplified Smile Design." Matt and Alan explore how a person becomes an expert, from their beginnings on forums like Dentaltown to Matt's current role as an industry educator. They discuss the difference between genuine experience and the illusion of expertise created by social media, and how both can impact the way dentists learn. Matt shares valuable lessons learned from his own journey, including the importance of setting boundaries and the value of detaching from the stress of a clinical practice. He also opens up about his recent decision to sell his practice and what it's like to transition from an owner to an associate. Some links from the show: Voices of Dentistry Matt's website with all his course info Matt's "Clear Aligner Therapy" course at 3D Dentists The AOS Clear Aligner Bootcamp Matt's Instagram   Join the Very Dental Facebook group using the password "Timmerman," Hornbrook" or "McWethy," "Papa Randy," "Lipscomb" or "Gary!" The Very Dental Podcast network is and will remain free to download. If you'd like to support the shows you love at Very Dental then show a little love to the people that support us! -- Crazy Dental has everything you need from cotton rolls to equipment and everything in between and the best prices you'll find anywhere! If you head over to verydentalpodcast.com/crazy and use coupon code “VERYDENTAL10” you'll get another 10% off your order! Go save yourself some money and support the show all at the same time! -- The Wonderist Agency is basically a one stop shop for marketing your practice and your brand. From logo redesign to a full service marketing plan, the folks at Wonderist have you covered! Go check them out at verydentalpodcast.com/wonderist! -- Enova Illumination makes the very best in loupes and headlights, including their new ergonomic angled prism loupes! They also distribute loupe mounted cameras and even the amazing line of Zumax microscopes! If you want to help out the podcast while upping your magnification and headlight game, you need to head over to verydentalpodcast.com/enova to see their whole line of products! -- CAD-Ray offers the best service on a wide variety of digital scanners, printers, mills and even  their very own browser based design software, Clinux! CAD-Ray has been a huge supporter of the Very Dental Podcast Network and I can tell you that you'll get no better service on everything digital dentistry than the folks from CAD-Ray. Go check them out at verydentalpodcast.com/CADRay!

So you have started dental hygiene school and have already begun to feel a bit overwhelmed by how much information you have to learn right out of the gate. There is so much information coming at you so fast that it can easily begin to feel like you are lost in the basics.In this episode, I cover some of the very basics at the beginning of dental hygiene school that begin to make students feel stuck right at the beginning. Give yourself some grace, you have never done this before! Take action steps to learn things and stick with it. Things will get better and you will get better at learning. Enjoy the opportunity to try something new that you have dreamed about. Additional resources:Tutoring with Me: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://calendly.com/d/cszb-s4r-hy4/tutoring-with-billie⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Leave me a message or send a question I can share on the Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Time Management Prioritization Quiz - Find out how you rate ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠HERE ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Study Sheets: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://thehappyflosserrdh.etsy.com/ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Specialized Course: How to be successful in Dental Hygiene School⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://billie-lunt-s-school.teachable.com/p/how-to-be-successful-in-dental-hygiene-school⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Other Podcasts: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠blog.feedspot.com/dental_hygiene_podcasts/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  Email Me: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠HappyflosserRDH@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Leave me a message or ask a question I can share on the Podcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Here ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Time Management Prioritization Quiz - Find out how you rate ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠HERE ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Check out my free scorecard for students - you can rank yourself on how you are doing to take action on the steps toward being a successful college student. Sign up on the Google doc ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠HERE⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - I will send along your scorecard to use the entire time you are enrolled in school. Study Sheets: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://thehappyflosserrdh.etsy.com/ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Specialized Course: How to be successful in Dental Hygiene School⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://billie-lunt-s-school.teachable.com/p/how-to-be-successful-in-dental-hygiene-school⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Other Podcasts: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠blog.feedspot.com/dental_hygiene_podcasts/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Tooth fairy escape room ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Here ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Email Me: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠HappyflosserRDH@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Billie Lunt Media Kit: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.canva.com/design/DAGaiUvmKTI/R8NEtEIUAwS9pptthWb6QQ/view?utm_content=DAGaiUvmKTI&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=uniquelinks&utlId=hb5fb9186b2⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Re-releasing a DAT listener favorite! Kiera is all about key performance indicators in this episode, and why they're important. When framing KPIs as the vitals of your practice, it makes a lot more sense! Some of Kiera's favorite KPIs are … Production (net, not gross) Collection (at least 98%) How many new patients you're getting Average diagnosis Acceptance rate Overhead There are a lot more indicators she talks about in this episode, so whether you're a beginner with KPIs or elite status, there's something you can learn. Episode resources: Subscribe to The Dental A-Team podcast Schedule a Practice Assessment Leave us a review Transcript: Kiera Dent (00:05) Hey everyone, welcome to the Dental A Team podcast. I'm your host, Kiera Dent, and I had this crazy idea that maybe I could combine a doctor and a team member's perspective, because let's face it, dentistry can be a challenging profession with those two perspectives. I've been a dental assistant, treatment coordinator, scheduler, pillar, office manager, regional manager, practice owner, and I have a team of traveling consultants where we have traveled to over 165 different offices coaching teams. Yep, we don't just understand you, we are you.   Our mission is to positively impact the world of dental. And I believe that this podcast is the greatest way I can help elevate teams, grow VIP experiences, reduce stress, and create A-Teams. Welcome to the Dental A Team Podcast.   Hello, Dental A Team listeners. This is Kiera. And you guys, how's your day today? You guys loving it? Are you crushing it? I hope you are, wherever you are. I am actually sitting in my bedroom. I ⁓ rarely ever podcast here, because usually my husband's home. But tonight, I have some friends over there in the front room, and I definitely needed to get some podcasts done. Sissy was asking me, I just love having team members that are great at what they do. And I hope you guys take time to acknowledge the team members that make you great. The team members that are   just awesome at what they do. guys, Sissy keeps me so on the ball and I love her for it. Shelby does, Tiffany does, Brittany, Dana, Kylie, they are just an incredible bunch of people. And guys, if you ever get the opportunity to meet any of them, you are one lucky person. So I hope you're having a great day. I hope you're loving it. So podcasting today from the bedroom. I hope the audio is great. I hope you're loving it. Sun's just going down and today I just wanted to dive into a topic that I think is really awesome and it's KPIs.   So what the heck is a KPI? A KPI is Key Performance Indicator. I'll be completely honest. You guys, know I'm like authentic Kiera Dent. People when they call me and they chat with us, like interested in working with us, the number one thing I get told is, Kiera, you sound just like you do on the podcast. And I'm like, this is really great because it is me.   I don't shake it up, I don't change it. The only thing I do differently is I talk in a microphone so my voice sounds a little bit like smoother, if you will, on the podcast than in real life. But beyond that, same cadence, same tones. This is Kiera real life. So you guys know I am always, I try really hard to just be authentic Kiera. So if you ever come meet me in person, you peel back the Wizard of Oz current, I would be the exact same person as I am on the podcast as I am in real life. So when I first started as an office manager,   I did not know what a KPI was. I did not know why they were important. I didn't know that I should be tracking these things. I literally had no idea. So guys, if you're in my boat, hey, welcome, welcome to the CureDent No KPI Boat. If you know what they are, welcome, welcome to the Elite Boat. And if you are using them, welcome to the Rockstar Amazing Boat. Let's make you even better. So KPIs, I call them, the way I describe a KPI is they are the vitals of your practice.   So just like when you go to the doctor and they take your blood pressure, your temperature, they listen to your heart rate, all those things, those are the vitals. They take your weight. ⁓ I just went to the doctor the other day and it's super cool, like, right? You sit on the chair and they say they'll take your weight. And it was funny, the gal asked me, she said, do you wanna know your weight today? I was like, wow, thank you. Like, thank you for not making me have a bad day if I don't want to or thank you for giving me the opportunity. It just made me giggle.   But bottom line is the vitals, we go to the doctor and they take those vitals first because if any of those are out of alignment, that's the first sign that we have trouble. So that's what I think of with KPIs in a practice. These are the core pieces that are going to show you, is your practice healthy or is it not healthy? So yes, it's tracking and there's lots of different KPIs you can track. That's why it's called a key performance indicator. I am a firm believer that you should be able to change these up.   I think there are certain things that you should be tracking consistently. But I also think as human beings, we get stagnant and bored. So give yourself a decent amount of time to track and then shake it up. That way you're growing constantly and we don't get bored with KPIs. So for me, some of my favorite KPIs, this is a question every consultant who comes to Dental A team to work with us, we ask them, what is your favorite KPI to measure? One, I'm checking to see if they know what a KPI is. Guys, I probably would have flunked the consulting test if I would have come on.   We're a more elite company, guys. I have to keep these consultants on their top notch. They can't be lower than us now. So I ask what your favorite KPI is to track and why. Most of the time I get production and collection. Production is a great KPI to track. It's something, and again, be careful on production. Make sure you're tracking it on net, not gross. A lot of people wanna tell me that they have.   These huge successful practices, but guess what guys, if you can't collect it, don't even tell me that number. I don't care. It does not impress me because guess what? That high gross number feeds your ego. Your net number feeds your family. So I don't care about it. So report that number in net. Next up is your collection percentage. I want to know how you're collecting. So if you're a $1 million practice and you're only collecting 700,000, that's stressful. That means you're at a 70 % collection rate. I am aiming for a 98 % collection rate. Now,   There are lots of other KPIs and I will say there are some great softwares out there. Practice by numbers, dental intel, divergent. Those are my top three favorites. I'd probably put them in the order of dental intel, divergent, practice by numbers. I think all three of them are great. I love them all for different reasons. The reason I'm pro-ing for dental intel is because they just merged with Medento and guess what? They are kicking it. So I love that. I love what they do and I love Medento as a company. So any company with Medento, that's going to be my favorite company right now. But bottom line is a lot of these track KPIs.   What I found that gets tricky and what a lot of offices do is we often track too many things that we don't actually move the needle on anything. I'm guilty of this. So in our company, was having Cissy track how many Instagram followers we were getting every single week. At first, I thought it was a great marketing metric. I thought it was great to see how our marketing was doing. Guess what? It was actually just feeding my ego. So guys, if you want to feed my ego, please just go follow us on Instagram. I would love it. Get your friends, get your family, get your siblings, get your kids. I don't care who.   You can boost that number just to feed my ego. At the end of the day, do the Instagram followers actually matter? No, they don't. They don't move our company forward. What matters, just like you guys, how many new patients we're getting. So don't actually care about social media followers. Yes, it's a fun number to track, but what I care is how many new patients are we getting? Then after that, I actually care about if I'm going to the elite boat or to our rock star boat on how many new patients you're getting. Do you know how much each patient's value is?   Do you also know what our average diagnosis is on each patient? And do we know what our acceptance rate is on each patient? If you don't know that and you're already tracking some of these numbers, that might be a fun zone for you to go to, to be 2.0 or 3.0 of KPI tracking. If you're just starting out, don't go there. Let's just get you tracking new patients and where they're coming from. Bottom line is these are the vitals. So first steps first, I want you with your KPIs to make sure that you have the vitals of your practice. Production, collection, new patients.   case acceptance, reappointment percentages. Those are like your main shebangs that are really gonna tell you where you're going. If you wanna add in your overhead, I also love that because that's gonna pull in the business side of it to make sure that we're actually profitable as a business and we're not just running around trying to serve, but not even being profitable as a practice. We need our practice to be profitable. Otherwise we can't serve more in our community. Those are my main things I love to focus on. So if you're just starting out, start tracking those.   I prefer you track them at a minimum every week at best. I actually like these ones to be tracked on your morning huddle. It's great. Everybody has it, have it on a whiteboard. Everybody can see it. That is the vital heartbeat of your practice. I would love you to do it. Just like on my Apple watch, I'm watching the rings on my Apple watch. That's honestly the only thing on my watch face guys, because it'd be really fun. But I decided I don't want to get distracted by other things. I need to master these items before I move on.   So that's why I love it to be front and center. Get these KPIs front and center. Get a whiteboard, guys, they're real cheap. Put it up, track these items. Production, we talked about it. Net, not gross. Collections, we wanna make sure we're collecting at least 98 % if not higher. And then I want you to know how many new patients you're getting out of goal, what your case acceptance is. A healthy practice, if we're talking dollar for dollar, I'd like you to be anywhere from 35 to 65%. Now there's a wide range on that because I actually, if you don't...   diagnose a lot of ortho and you're not diagnosing a lot of implants in larger cases, your dollar for dollar should be way up higher. If you're diagnosing these huge treatment plans constantly, you actually should be hanging out lower because we're presenting so much treatment that I'm okay with a lower case acceptance. If we're one for one, meaning one thing accepted off of our treatment plan, no matter how large it is, I want you actually to be sitting at at least a 90 % case acceptance. If you're not, we got to talk.   That's right, you and me, we're going to have a date, we're going to chat. We need to get that case acceptance up because what we're doing is we're dis-serving our patients. We're not helping them find a way to get this treatment done. You as a treatment coordinator, your job is to be a solution creator with the patient. So do your job, find the solution, get those patients accepted. That way we can help them have healthy mouths and a better life, right? That's what it's all about. Hey, Dental A Team listeners, how was your 2021? Have you reflected back? Where did you really win?   Where did you really not win? If 2021 was a year of years, congratulations. I am celebrating with you and I would love to invite you to take it to the next level. If 2021 wasn't quite your year, hey, it's all right. I'm there for you. And I would love to invite you to make 2022 the year for you. That's right, guys. If you're ready to take massive action, if you're ready to take your practice and your team to the next level, increase your profitability. Yeah, guys, through an easy way.   Get your entire team aligned and you're ready to just have your life be different. That's right. Team development, top to bottom system development, top to bottom, changing and shifting your culture, improving your team morale. If that sounds like what you're interested in guys, I'd love to invite you to join us in our Dental A Team platinum group. It's the exclusive group where we physically fly to your practice. We give you insider tips. We share with you. have a quarterly newsletter that goes to that shares all the updates we're coming up with and we share it with our platinum group.   We'd love to have you and I would like to invite you because guys remember you're always one decision away from a completely different life. So reach out guys. I'd love to chat with you. I'd love to see if you're a great platinum client or what works best for you. Email me Hello@TheDentalATeam.com and I can't wait to welcome you as our newest platinum client. Take massive action. This is your year. Let's make sure 2022 is your year. Hello@TheDentalATeam.com. Can't wait to welcome you. So those are my main KPIs that I love to track.   Once you get those dialed in and you're consistent on those and you know, then we're going to start diving into even more data. I want to know how well our hygiene department's doing. They should be producing at least three times their pay. So if I'm a hygienist making $10 an hour, wouldn't that be a dream guys? Welcome to 2022. Hygienist $10 an hour. Yeah, right. You guys are like a hundred and a billion dollars an hour. Like it's crazy how much hygienists are at right now, but let's say for the sake of this podcast, it's $10 an hour. Okay. I should be producing at least   $30 per hour as a healthy hygienist. That's on a PPO. If I'm fee for service, I like you producing at least four times your pay. So if I'm in a fee for service practice, I'm producing $40 an hour, okay? So that would be another great KPI to track. You can also break it down per department. So we might have our doctors. Great KPI to track on our doctors is what are they producing per hour? Most doctors should be producing at least $500 per hour at a minimum, okay?   So if we're working in an eight hour day, that's a $4,000 day per doctor, again on net, not gross. So that's a great metric to put in there. What are our doctors producing per hour? What's our doctor case acceptance? What's our doctor diagnosis? Great KPIs for you to start tracking. If we move on to our hygiene department, you can track fluoride, you can track perio. Perio is a great set to track. We can track ⁓ how many night guards they're doing. We can track how many orthostarts they're doing.   Great KPIs to track, again, if you're in the elite rockstar status. ⁓ Dental assistants, I like to track how many same day conversions you get. Also, how many times you leave the room is a great KPI to track. Also, how many Google reviews do dental assistants get? Those are all really, really great ones that you can do. For front office, scheduling. How often are we scheduling our hygiene and doctors to goal?   So I usually like between 80 and 90 % that they're scheduled to go. Schedulers can be how many openings they have in hygiene. It can also be how many new patients you're scheduling. For our treatment coordinators, case acceptance, right? We want to make sure that we're getting those cases up there. For office managers, what's our collection percentage that can also go to our billers? Billers, I love you to be tracking your AR. Also outstanding claims. ⁓ How long it's taking us to get our claims paid. It's a fan-freaking-tastic KPI to be tracking.   because we want to be paid quicker. Guess what? If I'm tracking that, I can see, are we not sending our claims clean and are we having errors? Could we fix that? Could we enter data better so we don't have these issues happening? Could also track how long our patients are waiting in the waiting room. If we're working on VIP new patient experience. As I just listed, there are a myriad of KPIs you could do. What happens is we often try to track too many things that were actually focused on nothing. So I suggest you usually have at least one primary KPI per   person in the practice. It's their primary. That's the one that no matter what, they're going to hit that. And we make sure it moves our needle forward. So what's going to move our doctors forward? What's going to move our hygienist forward? It's going to move our dental assistants, our scheduler, our biller, our office manager. What is the one thing if we could only focus on one thing, what's going to move each of those people forward the most and move our practice forward the most? Focus on that. Master that. Set a goal of what you should be hitting and report either weekly or daily.   on those. I'll be honest, if you report it daily, just like working out daily, you will probably see greater results than if you do it weekly or just monthly. So I also have with KPIs that you should really, really, really, really be ramping those up and making sure you're reporting consistently and that people know the goals. If we miss it, let's find out why. What's going on? Let's diagnose the problem. Let's find out what can we do to improve that. Again, I want you to think of these as vitals. KPIs are vitals of a practice.   If you don't track these, if you don't check them, you will die. Okay? If you think about it that way, well, instantly I'm like, maybe I don't need to track that. Maybe I don't need to focus on that. If you're already tracking it and you're breathing imperfect, guess what? What happened to the doctor? They start checking other things. They run blood tests on us and they check a thousand different things in that. Okay? So there are lots of KPIs you can do, but I would say keep it simple. Do the kiss method. Keep your KPIs simple. Then add to it. Maybe each quarter we add something.   Maybe each month we add something. It's also fun if you have your team help create these KPIs with you. What do they think is going to the practice board? What did they get excited about? Maybe they want to make social media posts. Maybe they care about how many followers we actually have. Maybe you guys want to do that. Maybe they do it on how many new patients they can get. I just had an office, super fun. The team decided that they were going to try and get more family members scheduled. So on average, this practice was averaging about 35 new patients. Guess what?   Guess what? Just by focusing on asking for referrals from patients and getting more family members scheduled, they use the phrase, what other family members can we get scheduled for you today? They have increased their new patients with no marketing to 50 new patients a month. Is that not rad? That's because they focus on a vital that the practice needed to do. They focus on where they were weak and they're able to move their practice forward. So guys, I would encourage each of you.   Look at these KPIs, get them set. If you don't have a regular KPI tracking, let's start there. If you do, I want to bump it up. Are those KPIs being reported weekly by all team members? And does the doctor and office manager review this? I will tell you at our company, Shelby, she's a rock star. Our whole team reports on a Google drive. We call our leadership scorecard. Those are where our KPIs hang out. Every person has a number that they're tracking. We review these, we make sure that they're the vitals of our company and they're moving us forward.   Every person reports on this every single Friday. We have a reminder that goes out, so everybody fills it in. Shelby then makes sure it comes over to me. I then with Shelby review this leadership scorecard. Then on our leadership team, we look at this every single month and make sure that those are vitals. And then we look to see where are we weak? What do we need to move forward? This is how you start to track. Also, if you want to stamp out and do more practices and you want to have more growth, having a leadership scorecard where you track these KPIs consistently.   allows you to then be able to manage and oversee multiple locations because everybody's tracking. And at a second, you can glance at this and you'll be able to know where your practice is weak and where it's strong and where you need to dive in and give it massive help. So guys, I strongly encourage you, if you're not doing it, do it. If you're doing it already, where can you ramp it up? If you're already ramping it up, get your team members involved and ask them where they want to take it to the next level. KPIs are magic. They're vitals. Also, if you're in that top, top tier,   Maybe I challenge you and say, where could you simplify? Are you overtracking? Sometimes when I look at dental intel, I'm like, holy guac. That's a lot of items you're tracking. How do they know where to focus? I think about the book, Essentialism. If you haven't read it, I would strongly encourage you to do it. If we're focused on too many things, we actually don't make a lot of progress anywhere. We make minimal progress. If we're focused on one thing, we kill it. We knock it out of the park. We dominate it. So I challenge each of you, look at those KPIs. Could you simplify them if you're already doing them?   What are the main drivers of the practice? Keep it to three per department is my recommendation. Make sure that what we're truly focused on is actually going to move you guys forward. If you need help getting those KPIs set up, if that's something you want to start doing, we make sure our practices are all tracking. Our offices have vitals. We look at them. We actually call it their vital scorecard. Truth. That's really what we call it. So if you guys want to help with this, if you'd love somebody to help hold you accountable, email me. Hello@TheDentalATeam.com. I'd love to help you out.   nothing else guys, go get these KPIs in place and know that you guys are in control of this. You can see your practice at a glance. You can know if you're healthy or not just at a glance, just like the doctor does when we go in for our medical doctors. So guys, try it out. I'd love to hear it. I'd love to hear your successes. Post your KPI scorecards and tag us. We'd love to see it. Share. If you guys want to, you can start to get on our Facebook group, Donuts with Dana. She's literally going around and she's pulling these ideas and she's sharing and she's answering questions.   So join her, she's on Facebook Live every Friday, Donuts with Dana. So hop on over there if you have questions getting this set up, she's there, she'll help answer questions. And as always guys, just take action, do it. Don't be afraid of KPIs, they're very easy. And if we can help you, email us, Hello@TheDentalATeam.com. I'd love to share it with you guys. If you need a sample, email us, Hello@TheDentalATeam.com. And as always, thanks for listening. I'll catch you next time on The Dental A Team Podcast. And that wraps it up for another episode of The Dental A Team Podcast.   Thank you so much for listening and we'll talk to you next time.  

Join Elevated GP: www.theelevatedgp.com Net32.com  Follow @dental_digest_podcast Instagram Follow @dr.melissa_seibert on Instagram In this episode of Dental Digest, Dr. Melissa Seibert sits down with Dr. Kim Schlam, prosthodontist and Spear Education faculty member, to explore how thoughtfully integrated digital workflows can transform clinical practice. Dr. Schlam shares her journey from traditional analog techniques to leveraging digital tools like intraoral scanning, photogrammetry, and in-house printing, emphasizing not just efficiency but also precision and predictability. She highlights how these technologies—when paired with intentional delegation and structured team roles—streamline data collection, improve patient onboarding, and reduce chair time, all while maintaining a focus on aesthetics and patient-centered outcomes. A central theme of the conversation is collaboration—both within the dental team and across specialties. Dr. Schlam describes the power of “co-discovery,” using visual tools such as full-face photography and SmileCloud's AI-driven smile design to engage patients in their own treatment planning. She also details how cloud-based platforms enhance interdisciplinary communication with surgeons, orthodontists, and lab technicians, ensuring alignment from diagnosis through execution. Listeners will come away with practical insights into how digital workflows can elevate dentistry beyond technology for its own sake, serving instead as a catalyst for better communication, stronger teamwork, and superior patient care.  

Dr. Audrey Kershaw returns to chat with Dr. Linda Bluestein and demystify wisdom tooth extraction, appliances for TMJ disorder, and everyday oral health habits for people with EDS/HSD. We cover when third molars should be removed (and when they shouldn't), why local anesthetic can fail in some patients, how to approach dental procedures when CCI (craniocervical instability) is a concern, and what truly drives gum disease vs “EDS-specific” issues. We also address periodontal EDS (a rare subtype), toothpaste choices (fluoride vs hydroxyapatite vs chelators), and the surprisingly powerful habit of “spit, don't rinse.” Stay to the end for practical Hypermobility Hacks you can implement tonight. Takeaways Is wisdom teeth surgery happening too often… or dangerously too late? What if the biggest risk during oral surgery isn't the tooth—but how your neck is positioned? Why do some people with EDS feel every cut and drill—even after “getting numb”? Could one cheap hack—“spit, don't rinse”—protect your teeth better than $30 toothpaste? Are sharks hiding the secret to stronger enamel in your bathroom cabinet? Find the episode transcript here. References: 2012 Paper- The effects of NICE guidelines on the management of third molar teeth: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22955790/ 2020 RCS Guidelines on Third Molars: https://www.rcseng.ac.uk/-/media/files/rcs/fds/guidelines/3rd-molar-guidelines--april-2021-v2.pdf AAOMS Guidelines on Third Molar Management: https://aaoms.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/management_third_molar_white_paper.pdf Bendy Bodies Podcast on Preparing for Surgery with Linda Bluestein, MD: https://www.bendybodiespodcast.com/58-preparing-for-surgery-with-linda-bluestein-md/ GIRFT RCS TMD Document: Comprehensive-guideline-Management-of-painful-Temporomandibular-disorder-in-adults-March-2024.pdf Dr. Mike Harrison's Talk on EDS Support UK: https://www.ehlers-danlos.org/information/webinar-with-dr-mike-harrison-on-why-dental-issues-occur-with-connective-tissue-disorder/ EDS and Dental Issues Talk by Ines and Ulrike: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lsf0YEeps5c&t=65s EDS Society on Periodontal EDS: https://www.ehlers-danlos.com/peds/ Austrian Conversation on pEDS (PubMed): https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28836281/ Genetics Home Reference on Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome: https://ghr.nlm.nih.gov/condition/ehlers-danlos-syndrome#statistics Perioperative Care in Patients with Ehlers Danlos Syndromes (SCIRP): https://www.scirp.org/journal/paperinformation?paperid=97524 Want more Dr. Audrey Kershaw? Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/audrey.kershaw.3⁠ Want more Dr. Linda Bluestein, MD? Website:  ⁠⁠https://www.hypermobilitymd.com/⁠⁠. YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠youtube.com/@bendybodiespodcast⁠⁠⁠  Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/hypermobilitymd/⁠⁠⁠  Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/BendyBodiesPodcast⁠⁠⁠  X: ⁠⁠⁠https://twitter.com/BluesteinLinda⁠⁠⁠  LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/hypermobilitymd/⁠⁠⁠  Newsletter: ⁠⁠⁠https://hypermobilitymd.substack.com/⁠⁠⁠ Shop my Amazon store ⁠⁠⁠https://www.amazon.com/shop/hypermobilitymd⁠⁠ To check out all of my favorite products, please click on this link: ⁠⁠https://www.hypermobilitymd.com/productswelove Thank YOU so much for tuning in. We hope you found this episode informative, inspiring, useful, validating, and enjoyable. Join us on the next episode for YOUR time to level up your knowledge about hypermobility disorders and the people who have them. Join YOUR Bendy Bodies community at ⁠⁠https://www.bendybodiespodcast.com/⁠⁠. YOUR bendy body is our highest priority!⁠⁠ Learn more about Human Content at ⁠⁠⁠http://www.human-content.com⁠⁠⁠ Podcast Advertising/Business Inquiries: ⁠⁠⁠sales@human-content.com⁠⁠⁠ Part of the Human Content Podcast Network FTC: This video is not sponsored. Links are commissionable, meaning I may earn commission from purchases made through links Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this week's episode of the Group Practice Accelerator Podcast, Jamie welcomes Polaris Founder & CEO, Diwakar Sinha, back to the show for a foundational discussion covering the principles and considerations around ownership, control, and options for offering equity to top performing associates and executives. Grab a pen and notepad as Diwakar walks listeners through timing, equity structures and key elements that help secure and even grow the value of your business!

"You need to understand what you're about to sign." Connect With Our SponsorsGreyFinch - https://greyfinch.com/jillallen/A-Dec - https://www.a-dec.com/orthodonticsSmileSuite - http://getsmilesuite.com/ Summary In this conversation, Rob Montgomery shares his extensive experience in legal work focused on the dental and orthodontic space. He emphasizes the importance of legal guidance for young dentists, particularly when navigating contracts, lease agreements, and partnerships. Rob discusses common pitfalls in lease agreements, the significance of understanding personal guarantees, and the challenges associated with associate agreements and partnerships. He also addresses the misconceptions surrounding DSOs and encourages young dentists to pursue ownership opportunities while being mindful of the legal implications of their decisions. Connect With Our Guest Robert H. Montgomery, III, Esquire, P.C. - https://www.yourdentallawyer.com Takeaways Rob Montgomery has been practicing law for 30 years, focusing on the dental field.Young dentists must understand the importance of legal guidance when entering contracts.Lease agreements can be complex and often favor landlords, requiring careful review.Personal guarantees in leases can pose significant risks for practice owners.Associate agreements should clearly outline paths to partnership to avoid future disappointments.Partnerships and buy-ins are often the riskiest transactions in dental practices.Minority buy-ins in DSOs can lead to unfavorable conditions for dentists.Dentists should not feel pressured to work for DSOs; ownership opportunities still exist.Having a strong legal and financial team is crucial for success in dental practice ownership.Understanding the business side of dentistry is as important as clinical skills.Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background of Rob Montgomery02:53 The Importance of Legal Guidance for Young Dentists06:00 Understanding Lease Agreements and Common Pitfalls09:11 Navigating Associate Agreements and Partnerships11:58 The Risks of Practice Buy-Ins and Partnerships24:04 Understanding DSO Partnerships and Their Implications31:17 Navigating Associateship Agreements and Partnership Promises38:40 Advice for Young Dentists in a DSO-Dominated Market  Episode Credits: Hosted by Jill AllenProduced by Jordann KillionAudio Engineering by Garrett LuceroAre you ready to start a practice of your own? Do you need a fresh set of eyes or some advice in your existing practice?Reach out to me- www.practiceresults.com.    If you like what we are doing here on Hey Docs! and want to hear more of this awesome content, give us a 5-star Rating on your preferred listening platform and subscribe to our show so you never miss an episode.    New episodes drop every Thursday!   

Is it time to say goodbye to your DSLR? Are mirrorless cameras really the future of dental photography? If your DSLR is still working perfectly, should you upgrade now or wait for the right time? Jaz is joined by Dr. Ashish Soneji in this game-changing episode to discuss the death of the DSLR and why the shift to mirrorless cameras is inevitable. They break down whether you should proactively switch or strategically hold off, plus what this means for your existing lenses. You'll also learn the rules of mix and match—can you use your current DSLR lens on a mirrorless body? And most importantly, which mirrorless lenses are worth buying and which ones to avoid (hint: if they don't have markings, you might be in trouble!). If you care about consistent, high-quality dental photography, this episode is a must-listen! https://youtu.be/Y29Mnz26ZIU Watch PDP239 on Youtube Protrusive Dental Pearl: Jaz introduces the 21-Day Photography Challenge for beginners, featuring 21 short videos to help dentists take clear, well-framed photos. In just three weeks, participants will master essential shots, including tricky occlusal views, at their own pace. Key Takeaways: Investing in quality equipment pays off in the long run. Mirrorless cameras offer significant advantages over DSLRs. Lighting is crucial for capturing quality images. Standardized images require barrel markings on lenses. Second-hand DSLRs can be a cost-effective option for beginners. The evolution of camera technology impacts photography practices. Choosing the right lens is essential for dental photography. Flash consistency is vital for accurate representation in images. Upgrading to mirrorless is a smart move for future-proofing photography. Upgrading your camera setup should align with your clinical progression. Mirrorless cameras are lighter and offer better image quality. Consider the size and transportability of your camera kit. Timing for upgrades can be linked to job changes or equipment failures. Image quality is influenced by megapixels, especially for presentations and printing. Using the right tools, like smaller mirrors and retractors, can improve photography outcomes. Testing second-hand cameras before purchase is crucial to avoid issues. Mobile photography is improving, but may not match the quality of dedicated cameras. Investing in good photographic equipment is essential for quality results. Highlights of this episode: 00:00 Teaser 00:47 Intro 01:41 Protrusive Dental Pearl 03:30 Ashish's Journey into Photography 09:06 The Shift from DSLR to Mirrorless Cameras 13:33 Choosing the Right Camera Setup 15:32 Upgrading to Mirrorless Cameras 19:22 Camera Recommendations for Beginners 27:23 Investing in Reliable Flash Equipment 32:20 Investing in Reliable Flash Equipment 33:48 When to Upgrade Your Camera Setup 38:08 Getting HQ Images: Mirrorless vs DSLR 42:03 Avoiding Newer Lenses 43:23 Posterior Quadrant Photography 47:50 Tips for Buying Second-Hand Cameras 49:54 Mobile Dental Photography: Are We There Yet? 53:20 Getting Your First Mirrorless Camera 55:40 Course Information 57:53 Outro

On this episode, hosts Casey Hiers and Jarrod Bridgeman tackle a topic many dentists would rather avoid: the unexpected death of a practice owner. They stress the critical need for proactive financial and estate planning, not just to protect your business but also to spare your loved ones from a complicated and stressful process.Jarrod and Casey emphasize the immense value of having a comprehensive team in place to manage both your personal and professional affairs. They share real-world examples of how their clients' foresight has protected their practices and families, ensuring a smooth transition during an otherwise difficult time. Tune in to learn how to secure your legacy and give your loved ones peace of mind.Interested in more info on how to: Earn More, Save More, and Retire EarlyUpcoming Tour Dates: Go to our EVENTS page for infoFacebook: Four Quadrants AdvisoryInstagram: @fourquadrantsadvisoryLinkedIn: Four Quadrants Advisory

Dr. Audrey Kershaw returns to chat with Dr. Linda Bluestein and demystify wisdom tooth extraction, appliances for TMJ disorder, and everyday oral health habits for people with EDS/HSD. We cover when third molars should be removed (and when they shouldn't), why local anesthetic can fail in some patients, how to approach dental procedures when CCI (craniocervical instability) is a concern, and what truly drives gum disease vs “EDS-specific” issues. We also address periodontal EDS (a rare subtype), toothpaste choices (fluoride vs hydroxyapatite vs chelators), and the surprisingly powerful habit of “spit, don't rinse.” Stay to the end for practical Hypermobility Hacks you can implement tonight. Takeaways Is wisdom teeth surgery happening too often… or dangerously too late? What if the biggest risk during oral surgery isn't the tooth—but how your neck is positioned? Why do some people with EDS feel every cut and drill—even after “getting numb”? Could one cheap hack—“spit, don't rinse”—protect your teeth better than $30 toothpaste? Are sharks hiding the secret to stronger enamel in your bathroom cabinet? Find the episode transcript here. References: 2012 Paper- The effects of NICE guidelines on the management of third molar teeth: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22955790/ 2020 RCS Guidelines on Third Molars: https://www.rcseng.ac.uk/-/media/files/rcs/fds/guidelines/3rd-molar-guidelines--april-2021-v2.pdf AAOMS Guidelines on Third Molar Management: https://aaoms.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/management_third_molar_white_paper.pdf Bendy Bodies Podcast on Preparing for Surgery with Linda Bluestein, MD: https://www.bendybodiespodcast.com/58-preparing-for-surgery-with-linda-bluestein-md/ GIRFT RCS TMD Document: Comprehensive-guideline-Management-of-painful-Temporomandibular-disorder-in-adults-March-2024.pdf Dr. Mike Harrison's Talk on EDS Support UK: https://www.ehlers-danlos.org/information/webinar-with-dr-mike-harrison-on-why-dental-issues-occur-with-connective-tissue-disorder/ EDS and Dental Issues Talk by Ines and Ulrike: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lsf0YEeps5c&t=65s EDS Society on Periodontal EDS: https://www.ehlers-danlos.com/peds/ Austrian Conversation on pEDS (PubMed): https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28836281/ Genetics Home Reference on Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome: https://ghr.nlm.nih.gov/condition/ehlers-danlos-syndrome#statistics Perioperative Care in Patients with Ehlers Danlos Syndromes (SCIRP): https://www.scirp.org/journal/paperinformation?paperid=97524 Want more Dr. Audrey Kershaw? Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/audrey.kershaw.3⁠ Want more Dr. Linda Bluestein, MD? Website:  ⁠⁠https://www.hypermobilitymd.com/⁠⁠. YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠youtube.com/@bendybodiespodcast⁠⁠⁠  Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/hypermobilitymd/⁠⁠⁠  Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/BendyBodiesPodcast⁠⁠⁠  X: ⁠⁠⁠https://twitter.com/BluesteinLinda⁠⁠⁠  LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/hypermobilitymd/⁠⁠⁠  Newsletter: ⁠⁠⁠https://hypermobilitymd.substack.com/⁠⁠⁠ Shop my Amazon store ⁠⁠⁠https://www.amazon.com/shop/hypermobilitymd⁠⁠ To check out all of my favorite products, please click on this link: ⁠⁠https://www.hypermobilitymd.com/productswelove Thank YOU so much for tuning in. We hope you found this episode informative, inspiring, useful, validating, and enjoyable. Join us on the next episode for YOUR time to level up your knowledge about hypermobility disorders and the people who have them. Join YOUR Bendy Bodies community at ⁠⁠https://www.bendybodiespodcast.com/⁠⁠. YOUR bendy body is our highest priority!⁠⁠ Learn more about Human Content at ⁠⁠⁠http://www.human-content.com⁠⁠⁠ Podcast Advertising/Business Inquiries: ⁠⁠⁠sales@human-content.com⁠⁠⁠ Part of the Human Content Podcast Network FTC: This video is not sponsored. Links are commissionable, meaning I may earn commission from purchases made through links Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This is part 2 of a 2-parterWe decided to check out the series premiere of Real Housewives of London, and we loved it, obvs. Come join us as we enter a world of Wham! romances and dentistry dustups. To watch this recap on video, listen to our bonus episodes, and participate in live episode threads, go to Patreon.com/watchwhatcrappens. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This is part 1 of a two-part recapWe decided to check out the series premiere of Real Housewives of London, and we loved it, obvs. Come join us as we enter a world of Wham! romances and dentistry dustups. To watch this recap on video, listen to our bonus episodes, and participate in live episode threads, go to Patreon.com/watchwhatcrappens. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What if you could dramatically improve your dental practice without working harder or longer hours? The secret lies in understanding the butterfly effect – how small, strategic changes create massive ripple effects throughout your practice.Most dentists make the same critical mistake: believing that increased production requires more patients, more procedures, or more associates. They chase these "big wins" while overlooking dozens of small levers hiding in plain sight – levers that could multiply profitability with minimal effort.Take Control of Your Practice and Your Life We help dentists take more time off while making more money through systematization, team empowerment, and creating leadership teams. Ready to build a practice that works for you? Visit www.DentalPracticeHeroes.com to learn more.

Ever heard of travellers being stopped at check-in because their Vietnam visa didn't match their flight?Sadly, it happens more often than you'd think. In this no-holds-barred episode of the What About Vietnam podcast, I take you step by step through the visa maze — from exemptions to e-visas — so you can avoid the heartbreak of being denied boarding before your holiday even begins.With new rules for 2025, e-visas are now open to all nationalities, and exemptions have been extended. Sounds simple, right? Well, the devil is in the details. A single typo or misunderstanding can cost you precious time and money. That's why I've put this episode together: to give you clear guidance, in plain English, so you know exactly what to do.In this episode, I become the devil of detail explaining in simple language;-The latest visa exemption updates for 2025 (the official Vietnam Immigration link for the full country list below).The two types of e-visas available and which one best suits your trip.Common pitfalls that stop travellers at the airport — and how to avoid them.How to prepare your application with the right documents and photos.The timeline for applying, and why leaving it too late is a risky move.What “visa runs” really mean Real-life stories from travellers who got caught out — and how it was resolvedI have tried to cover all kinds of instances to help make sure you “Get it right”, first go. No sweat!Check out the page on the website for more details - https://www.whataboutvietnam.com/visa-infoAnd if all of this still feels like a bit too much — that's exactly where I can help. Through What About Vietnam travel services, I can arrange fast-track arrivals, curated itineraries, and personal guidance with fixes if needed, so feel free to reach out to me at whataboutvietnam@gmail.comTo check your country status as either being exempt or requiring an Evisa ( including making your application go to https://evisa.gov.vn/  The best way to connect with me is not via text, it is through the website www.whataboutvietnam.com website and email.Follow on your favourite pod channel, email directly to whataboutvietnam@gmail.com Keep abreast of news on our social pages on FB, IG,LinkedIn and TikTokLet me design your #customised #private tour of Vietnam - See our Travel ServicesDo you need a #Dental Procedure? Why not find out what's possible through our Dental and #Cosmetic Medical partner Worldwide Beauty Hospital. Mention #whataboutvietnam to receive 5% discount at Worldwide Beauty Hospital

Toni answers these questions: Does Medicare provide dental coverage; does Medicare provide coverage for eye glasses? What's NOT covered by Medicare Part A and Part B? Toni addresses these questions and more on this episode of Medicare Moments. Need more information? Take advantage of Toni's brand new video series now a available at www.tonisays.com Remember - with Medicare it's what you don't know that will hurt you! There's so much good information in this podcast, please be sure to share this podcast with your friends! Recognized by feedspot.com as one of the best Medicare Podcasts in the nation! Write Toni - info@tonisays.com. Toni's book is available at www.seniorresource.com and www.tonisays.com You can call Toni at 832-519-8664 Toni welcomes all Medicare questions. Toni now offers informative Medicare Webinars for all of your Medicare needs at www.Tonisays.com You can find Medicare Moments wherever you find your favorite podcasts, such as: Apple: https://apple.co/44MoguGSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7c82BS4hb145GiVYfnIRsoAmazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/884c1f46-9905-4b29-a97a-1a164c97546b/medicare-moments?refMarker=null Toni's new book: Maze of Medicare is now available at www.tonisays.com Combining Scripture with Medicare, it is the only book of its kind. Toni's columns appear weekly in about 100 newspapers across America. If you would like Toni's column to appear in your local paper, or if you would like Toni to speak at an event - contact Toni King at 832-519-8664 Thank you for listening and be sure to tell your friends about Medicare Moments! Blessings!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, host Gary Bird shares the five biggest dental marketing mistakes that nearly sank his career and how dentists can avoid them. These insights are critical for any dentist looking to improve dental practice growth, new patient acquisition, and marketing ROI. The last one is the biggest growth killer:1. Not knowing the difference between the three points of entry for a practice2. Not knowing the gap between high-intent vs low-intent patients3. Not realizing how leaky the patient journey really is4. Not seeing how some dentists treat insurance above the patient5. Not respecting the competition

Shameek Popat takes us on a remarkable journey from his early days as a Ugandan-born dentist to becoming a serial entrepreneur disrupting the oral care industry. After 23 years of successful practice ownership, Shameek sold to Portman Dental and launched Tooth Angel, a luxury, eco-friendly oral care brand that's challenging the sustainability narrative in dentistry. Now he's back with Disruptive Smiles, partnering with renowned educators to bring premium composite materials to UK dentists. This conversation reveals a man who's never lost his childhood curiosity, whether he's crafting whisky blends, designing sustainable toothbrushes, or simply asking the big questions about contentment versus pleasure.In This Episode00:02:35 - Philosophy and losing senses 00:05:10 - Personal adaptability 00:07:40 - Contentment versus pleasure 00:09:10 - Beauty in imperfection 00:11:40 - Tooth Angel sustainability mission 00:16:50 - Research-backed product development 00:20:15 - Manual versus electric preference 00:24:30 - Dentist-made products 00:34:25 - Investment and funding strategy 00:50:35 - Uganda origins and Idi Amin 00:53:15 - Education journey to Manchester 00:57:50 - Dental school with Avi Banerjee 01:00:30 - Early practice ownership 01:04:30 - Kois transformation 01:15:20 - Team retention philosophy 01:20:10 - Whisky passion projects 01:24:00 - Practice sale emotions 01:26:40 - Disruptive Smiles launch 01:35:40 - Blackbox thinking 01:47:00 - Fantasy dinner partyAbout Shameek PopatShameek Popat is a Kois-trained dentist who spent 23 years building and running successful practices before selling to Portman Dental. He's the founder of Tooth Angel, a luxury eco-friendly oral care brand, and co-founder of Disruptive Smiles, which distributes premium composite materials alongside clinical education. Born in Uganda and educated across three continents, Shameek brings a unique global perspective to everything he creates.

Flossing takes only minutes yet slashes health risks, with regular flossers showing up to 44% lower odds of certain strokes and reduced chances of irregular heart rhythms Long-term research following more than 6,000 adults found flossing even once a week is linked to healthier arteries, fewer strokes, and protection against atrial fibrillation (AFib), a dangerous heart rhythm disorder Scientists concluded that flossing itself stood out as protective, offering benefits independent of brushing, dentist visits, or other lifestyle habits that usually influence cardiovascular and overall health outcomes Gum bacteria that escape into the bloodstream trigger inflammation, artery hardening, and clots; flossing interrupts this chain reaction, giving your heart and brain measurable protection over time Beyond heart health, studies show flossing daily reduces all-cause mortality by lowering systemic inflammation, suggesting this habit not only extends life but also safeguards brain function and memory

Dr. Len Tau, aka the Reviews Doctor, is on the podcast. With Kiera, he goes into the most critical nuts and bolts of making sure your practice stands out (or at least keeps pace with) online reviews amid AI. He explains jargon terms like ranking power and factors and velocity of reviews, whether or not you should actually be responding to reviews of your practice, and a ton more. Visit SuperchargeYourDentalPractice.com and enter the code RAVING to save $100 on registration for Dr. Tau's annual conference. About Dr. Tau Dr. Len Tau thrives on helping practices maximize their online reputation, marketing, and social media strategies. As a speaker, Len is known for his lively and engaging presentations packed with ready-to-use strategies. He regularly travels the country sharing his marketing brilliance and passion for practice growth with audiences. As a consultant, he offers practice leaders with real-world solutions tailored to fit their specific challenges and opportunities. Len loves to help doctors and their teams understand and implement successful online systems to build their practice. He currently serves as general manager of the Dental for Birdeye Reputation Marketing Software. Selected as one of Philadelphia's Top Dentists by Philadelphia Magazine, he continues to experience growth year after year in his fee-for-service practice focusing on general, cosmetic, reconstructive and implant dentistry. Following his father into the dental profession, Len graduated from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine and continues to pursue ongoing continuing education opportunities. He has had the privilege of serving patients for two decades. He is an active member of numerous professional organizations including the American Dental Association, the Pennsylvania Dental Association, the Academy of General Dentistry, the Eastern Dental Society, the Northeast Philadelphia Dental Implant Study Club, and the American Academy of Clear Aligners. Episode resources: Subscribe to The Dental A-Team podcast Schedule a Practice Assessment Leave us a review Kiera Dent (00:00) Hello, Dental Team listeners. This is Kiera and today I am so excited. This is one of my dear friends. We've known each other for several years in the industry. I'm super freaking pumped. I'm going actually be at his event next year in September. Little teaser. Stay tuned. He's got an amazing event he does every year in September. I have Dr. Len Tau. He is one of my faves. He is better known ⁓ as an authority in the dental consulting world, reputation marketing, and a practice growth. He's recognized by dentistry today as a top dental consultant for eight straight years.   He is the author of Raving Patients and 100 plus tips to 105 star reviews in a hundred days. Like this man knows how to do it. He's one of my faves. We really do collaborate on so many fun things. After 20 plus years in clinical practice, he now helps dentists nationwide, increase revenue, case acceptance and visibility. He leads the dental vision at BirdEye, hosts the Raving Patients podcast and runs the Supercharger Dental Practice Conference, which is the one I was alluding to that we're gonna be at next year in September, empowering practices to thrive in today's competitive landscape.   He's truly one of my faves. And today we're gonna dig into like, how do you get online reviews? But Len, welcome. I'm so happy to have you on the podcast. How are you today?   Dr. Len Tau (01:06) I'm good, thanks for having me, I'm excited to be here.   Kiera Dent (01:08) Of course. And this just came about because Len like, let's just do a little teaser. You're prepping full like steam ahead right now for your event that's coming up in September in Florida. ⁓ I love like the last time you and I were on the podcast, we talked about you in clinical dentistry. And then we reconnected after some time and you've left the chair, you're living your best life and you full blown gone into the event space. So just like, I know we're gonna get into like online reviews and how AI is changing that it's going to be just a really, really fun episode today. But tell us a little bit like   How is it going from like full blown dentist in the chair to now full blown events, like running these awesome events that we're super excited to be a part. Just kind of give me a little insight to that.   Dr. Len Tau (01:46) Well, it's been, it's been a lot of, a lot of fun. It's been very different, obviously, you know, for 23 years, I practiced dentistry, um, for about 12 of those, 13 of those who was full time. And then I went part time in 2017 until I sold and retired in 2022. Um, but one of the things I've grew up on in dentistry was going to dental events and, the big, the ones, the small ones, you know, all over the country and as a dentist first, and then as a vendor.   Kiera Dent (02:08) Mm-hmm.   Dr. Len Tau (02:15) Um, since 2013 or 14, so a long time in the space. know, one of the things that really hit me was that the events are not really put on very well. They're not, um, you know, whether you, if you're a dentist, there's issues when you're a vendor, there's issues. And I said, you know what? I want to change the game. And, um, one of my goals when I retired from dentistry was to start putting on events. So in 2023, um, in, in September, we did an event in Delray had 208.   Kiera Dent (02:25) Right.   Dr. Len Tau (02:44) Dennis there, 33 sponsors. was, first day was business, second day was marketing. Excuse me. First day was marketing. Second day was business. Had a 13, 14 speakers. It went off better than I could ever imagined. I then moved to the last year in 2024 to Scottsdale. And we were at the Scott Resort and Spa, which is a beautiful hotel and the event was good. It wasn't great. Definitely moving to different coasts.   I felt there was not as much, know, engagement, excitement about the event. So I, my family and my wife and I decided, Hey, we're going to do this. Let's have people come down to me. I live in beautiful, you know, part of Florida. we're having this year's event and the next three of them at super at, ⁓ at pure 66, a brand new hotel, ⁓ in Fort Lauderdale. It's literally half hour from my house, five miles from the airport, easy to get to. So this year event is September 26th and 27th.   Kiera Dent (03:32) Bye.   you   No.   Mm-hmm.   Dr. Len Tau (03:45) We've got 14 speakers, ⁓ mixture of business and marketing. So we've got people talking about social media, about content. We have people talking about saving money on taxes. We're talking about how to become a fee-for-service practice. ⁓ So a lot of different great content and top speakers, Steve Rasner, Paul Goodman, ⁓ Jeff Buski, ⁓ Richard, Rich Maddow. So some real, real heavy hitters. And then some people who people haven't really heard of, Melanie Diesel, who's new in the dental industry.   So, but I like to do it differently and my events are very high end. You come, you're going to see things you probably have never seen before. I give a ton of time to the vendors so the vendors love me because they make sure that they get integration or interaction with the attendees. So you're going to be speaking in 2026, same weekend at September 25th and 26th in 2026, same hotel, pure 66.   Kiera Dent (04:28) Sure.   Yeah.   Dr. Len Tau (04:40) We're ramping things up right now. We're literally a month out from the events. still have people signing up. I still have people wanting to reach out as sponsors. And it's, it's, it's, is the fun time for me. Cause when I'm done, I'm, you know, I get a couple of months of break and then I start promoting 2027 again. So ⁓ it's been a good time. I really enjoy it. And I find that I've kind of ⁓ created something that's very different and the attendees really enjoy it and the vendors really enjoy it. So if I can make everybody happy,   Kiera Dent (04:45) No.   Dr. Len Tau (05:09) That's all I'm looking to do here.   Kiera Dent (05:11) ⁓ and Len, I hope the audience, if they can't see it, they can hear it. I think it's so fun because I mean, I've seen you in different spaces in your career, in your life. And there is just this like giddy, like younger version of Len that I feel is emerging of like, it's like giddy boyhood, like excitement of I'm excited to put these on. I'm excited to do these events. And it just makes me so happy for you. And what I think I'm hearing is yes, attendees are happy. Vendors are happy. But I also hear that Len is very happy and to do something   in dentistry is just very, very fun. It's very exciting. And so we're jazzed. I'm really excited. I love good events. I love great time. I love to help. love business marketing. Everybody can take that. That's not Kiera's jam. Like I, that's why I wanted to bring you on. You guys are very good at marketing. You're very good at that space. but to talk about how to help people have their best lives to grow the practices that they want to grow. I think you and I are so synergistic in that. So we're super excited and I love, I mean, I'm not going to highlight the fact that there were   a couple of sixes in that is September 26 at Pier 66. You guys hopefully like, I like the alliteration. Don't put anything weird on it guys, but I do appreciate that you made it easier. September six and nines flipped upside down are a six. Like hopefully everybody can remember September 26, Pier 66. It'll be a good time in 2026. I mean, we got four lines, so we're okay. We've at least got four sixes, not we didn't end on three, but I really hope an exciting step. We'll make sure we put some info for people.   For this year and for next year, I think it'll be a fun time. Dental A Team will be there, so come hang out with us. ⁓ Len, I'm super excited. I will not spoil secrets, but a lot of the things he told me for the events, I will say he does put his heart and soul into it. So Len, excited about that. Thank you for sharing. Good luck for this year. We're gonna be rooting you on this year and next year. And now let's pivot. Let's go into like your jam. You're in BirdEye, you're in marketing, you're on online reviews. AI has come into the scene. Practices are changing.   I also will say, I hope everybody listens to you of their like succession story. You hung up the hand piece, but you are still full steam ahead in dentistry. And so I hope people see that like there is no path to dentistry. Like you just, it's a, it's a beautiful world that you're in. So let's talk though, online reviews, AI, how is this working? How do we make sure that practices are still being visible? Chat GPT is on, on the prowl.   There are clients signing up with us now that have found us on chat. GPT, which is so random. It's changing how people have been doing things. Walk me through. What are you seeing with these online reviews? The importance, how to bring AI in? Like, let's just kind of go in a rift on how practices can still be visible with AIs. Like just showing up to the scene.   Dr. Len Tau (07:43) So I wanna talk about chat CPT for a second. ⁓ I refer to it as my best friend. ⁓ It helps me edit. No, I haven't named it yet. No, I haven't named it. ⁓ you have?   Kiera Dent (07:50) Have you named it? I've got to just ask Len. Have you named? I have! Me and Chet,   I had a name and now her name is Wanda. I don't know why, I don't even know where Wanda came, but people are like, here, are you hanging out with Wanda again? Cause I agree. Like they're our best friends. So go on Len. I can't wait to hear what you name your Chet GPT cause mine is currently Wanda.   Dr. Len Tau (08:06) I'll have to, I   have to name it now that I have to think of something. ⁓ but no, I started using it. I'm like, this is really helpful and it's only gotten better. And, just to give you an idea is, ⁓ my wife and I, and my son, my son just graduated high school. He's literally just started his freshman year at, university of Florida on a free ride. ⁓ smart, smart ass kid. I'm very proud of him. But, you know, and I travel a ton, but I travel a ton for business and I made a commitment. I think I told you that,   Kiera Dent (08:25) Boo? Yeah.   Dr. Len Tau (08:35) during the summer when he was going away for school, I was not going to travel. So from March to literally next week, beginning of September, I haven't traveled at all for business. we did plan some really great travel for our personal lives. And one of the things we did was we had a cruise, a 17 day cruise to Europe. ⁓ And when I decided I did not want to do the excursions to the cruise, cause they're really expensive and you're with all these people. I prefer to kind of just go and tour myself.   Kiera Dent (08:44) It's awesome.   Dr. Len Tau (09:05) So I use ChatGPT in every city. And I said, I'm going to the city. This is what I'm going to get in. This is the cruise I'm going on. It got the cruise itinerary. And I said, I want to set up private tours in every city with different people. And it helped me pick the best tour guides. They referred me to a website called Tours by Local, which is an amazing website that you can meet people who are local that will take you around.   show you the city and it was amazing. It was amazing. So I thank Chachi PT for doing that because I wouldn't have known about half these things if I didn't do it. And in fact, one of the women, and actually the very first place you went to, which was in Split, Croatia, which was beautiful. I told her that literally that's kind of how I went down this road was I asked Chachi PT, what should I do in Split? And they said, you need to use this tour guide. She's the highest rated tour guide and has the best reviews on tours by local. like,   What's towards by local? And that started this whole thing. So she was, she was amazed to hear that. So, ⁓ I have been using Chad GPT for a long time, like I said, and even now it is people I know type in, know, get me to the best dentists in the area. And it's very much based on reviews. So you have to be a highly rated practice. you may not believe in reviews and if you do, think you're not smart, but you know, if, if you want to be at the forefront of where people are looking,   Kiera Dent (09:58) Yeah.   Yes.   Dr. Len Tau (10:25) You have to generate reviews in a significant amount. Velocity now, which is how often you're getting them, is one of the biggest ranking factors on Google, whether you want to believe chat GPT or not. ⁓ But you have to get reviews. You can't, you know, rest on your laurels and say, well, I have enough because you never have enough. Okay. And, ⁓ and you've got to let Google rank you high. And there's been a big discrepancy in the industry, a big, I don't want to say a misunderstanding.   Kiera Dent (10:43) read.   Dr. Len Tau (10:52) But I've been in the review space now since 2013, so 12 years. And in the past, dentists thought that if they get reviews, they're going to rank. And that's not the way it is anymore. If you have reviews, but don't pay attention to the other ranking factors, you actually don't rank well. And that's a problem. So, chat GPT AI is so important, but you still got to dominate Google. You still got to get to the top of the pages.   And that's really where the direction is going. and if you aren't there now and you are ignoring it, you're never going to get there. So I would love to talk to you about our list in instruct or educate the listeners and viewers of these ranking factors that they need, need to pay attention to, or they're going to be left behind when it comes to ranking on Google.   Kiera Dent (11:27) Yeah.   absolutely. And I'm excited for this too, because, I did notice that you've got to like, AI is just crawling the web. That's where it's getting, it's being taught. It's crawls it. It looks through all of it. And so agreed with you. have a lot of clients and like, we want the secret pill of marketing. And I might get your reviews up. Like it is constant and consistent that if you get those reviews up and you bring pieces to the table, that people literally like that's what's going to rank you higher. So I'm excited, Len to, to dig in deeper because it is like how   getting more reviews, but to hear that there's more beyond just the reviews really can help these offices like get the best bang for their buck, help more practices. And I'm like, it used to be when I first started consulting when I used to tell offices get to like 100 Google reviews. It is now I'm pushing people like five, six, 700 reviews that you need to be getting ranked into. And I don't know if you're seeing like a cutoff line or if it matters on that. So I'm really excited to dive into like, what are the rankings? What are the pieces? Is there a difference? But I'm like now   100 reviews, when I look at somebody I'm like, hmm, like if there's another dental practice that has maybe 400, 500 new clients come on, the first thing I do is I go look them up to see how many reviews do you have? And I'm shocked at how many dental practices actually are not showing up when I Google their names and they're like, no, no, care, we're here. And I'm like, but if I'm a prospective new client that doesn't work in your practice and I don't see you all the time and I just tried to find you and I'm looking for you.   How many patients who are not looking for you are not finding you as well. So yeah, take us away, and I'm super curious, very intrigued by this. It's fascinating. And I'll also say, because AI is new, feel like people got like a reset slate. Like, hey, you can actually get back into the game if you haven't been into the game, if you just start playing now. If you don't, I agree with you. I do think that you will unfortunately get obliterated without trying if you don't get into the game now.   Dr. Len Tau (13:28) 100 % so and I couldn't agree with you more. So the best thing to do here is if you're listening to this, I want you to go to a Google search and I want you to type your practice name in. Okay, so that's the first thing to do. Right.   Kiera Dent (13:39) and not in your office. Don't do it in   your office. Go somewhere else. Like try it somewhere else.   Dr. Len Tau (13:44) Right, well, and 100%, that's another thing is that if you're gonna look up your ranking specifically, you do not wanna do that from your office location, okay? Because you're not gonna get real results. You also wanna go into incognito mode or private browsing mode on your phone or your computer if you're doing that to check ranking. But this is not specifically about ranking. This is more about how you appear online. So go to Google and type in your practice name. Not your name unless it's the name of the practice, but your business name, okay?   Kiera Dent (13:52) Yes.   Mm-hmm.   Dr. Len Tau (14:13) and it doesn't have to be what's registered with the state board. It's how you, when you answer the phone, what you say, okay? Pennsylvania Center for Dental Excellence was my practice name, okay? So you wanna look yourself up. So these are some of the ranking factors that Google looks at. Obviously one of them is your total number of reviews you have. Definitely a ranking factor, but the total number has not been as important as some other factors as well. So.   Kiera Dent (14:20) Mm-hmm.   Dr. Len Tau (14:40) Average number of reviews in the industry right now is about 350. It used to be like 100 was the golden number. Now 350 is the average in the industry. So are you average? Are you below average or are above average? Okay, that's something to look at. The second ranking factor, which is even more important is the velocity of reviews. So how many reviews, how often you're getting them. Okay, so if you're getting once every two weeks, not enough. If you're getting them once every week,   Kiera Dent (14:46) Yes.   Dr. Len Tau (15:10) Not enough. You don't need them every single day, but two or three every single week is ideal. Okay, because you think two or three every week gives you eight to 15 a month times 12 months is 100 reviews a year, which is a nice number. Okay, so you have to have that velocity. All right. Third ranking factor is the total score, your average number of stars. So   I would like you to be anywhere from 4.6 to five stars. Okay. I don't think you have to be only five stars. think there's a negativity related to that. If you're only five star reviews, but I also don't want you to below 4.5. Okay. ⁓ And if you're at 4.3, 4.2, or even 4.1, another better review or two, and you're to be in the threes. And that's really where you don't want to go. Cause you lose a huge percentage of patients who may come in if you're less than four stars. Okay. Another ranking factor.   is the primary category. So how do you know your primary category? If you look under your Google, your name, will say right where the stars is, will say, hopefully dentist in your town or dentist in your county or dentist in your city. Okay. So your primary category should be dentist because we're a dental practice. Okay. If you're an oral surgeon, you may want it to be oral and actual facial surgeon. If you're an endodontist, want it to say endodontist. You don't want it to say dentist if you're a specialist. Okay.   ⁓ That's a big ranking factor and I'll give you an example. I, ⁓ my wife had some plastic surgery over the last couple of years and we were referred to that doctor. So we didn't need to search for him. We were referred to him. went in, we liked him, we used his services. ⁓ And of course, being a plastic surgeon, I talked to him about reviews. He now uses BirdEye, but he had me speak in an event that he holds down here in Boca Raton.   And I talked about this exactly. And I asked everybody, cause it was a small group. What is your primary category? And he goes, he said to me, literally, he says, I'm listed as a nurse practitioner. He wasn't listed as a plastic surgeon. He was listed as a nurse practitioner. So his categories were all messed up. So when you actually typed in plastic surgeon near me, he never showed up because his category was wrong. So primary category is a very important ranking factor as well. Now you also have to make sure your secondary categories are also. ⁓   Kiera Dent (17:15) No.   Dr. Len Tau (17:35) ⁓ under ⁓ are there as well as under the proper categories. So secondary categories, if you're a dentist, dental clinic, teeth whitening services, denture care center, orthodontist, if you're doing aligners, if you're endo, you're doing root canals, you can have endodontist. If you do periodontist, can do periodontist. You want to make sure you have nine secondary categories. Okay, if you don't have them, you want to add them.   Now, how do you add them? It's very easy. You go to Google using ChatGPT or anything and say, how do I add secondary categories to my Google business listing? Okay. It will tell you exactly like a recipe how to do it. You need to add those secondary categories. All right. And if you want help doing it, you can always reach out to me. The last ranking factor, which is really important is making sure that the practices name, address, and phone number is consistent. Okay. So just to be clear, most   website companies do not do local SEO. They do website SEO, which is making sure the website is SEOed so the website ranks higher on the organic rankings. We're talking about getting the Google business page ranking higher, which the website companies are not focused on. So when it comes to the name, address and phone number, is it consistent? You have to be consistent. And this is a Google requirement.   It is not a patient thing. It's not a me thing or you thing. It's a Google requirement that this data is consistent. So the name is obviously important. So if you have the and or the ampersand, you may find things inconsistent. When it comes to the address, if you have, you know, South State Streets, Unit 510, you can have South or S, you can have Street or ST, and then you can have Suite, Unit, Number, or STE.   All these variations need to be consistent. So one of them has to be done and one and stuck with. And then if you are using a tracking number for whatever reason on your Google business listing, you may find your inconsistent there as well. So when you make everything consistent and you get a higher velocity of reviews, guess what happens over time? You rank higher on the maps. And when you rank higher on the maps, you get more visible for patients to find you. So that's where the secret sauce is. And   Not that this is a sales pitch about BirdEye, but that's exactly what BirdEye does. BirdEye does those. We check all those boxes for you. And then what ends up happening is a practices get more reviews. But more importantly, when they ask patients how they find them, they're going to see that they found them because of their ranking online and the reviews drove them to the practice. So that's how this whole thing plays a role in getting a practice more visible and credible.   Kiera Dent (20:06) Thank   Wow. So I was over here like taking a lot of notes, which I really loved. I love the number, the 350 at the average, the velocity, like three to five per week you were saying. It doesn't need to be an everyday, but I do agree like them consistently coming through the total score, the 4.6 to five primary category, secondary category, making sure we have nine. And then you were talking about like the practice name, phone number, all of that has to be consistent. So the addresses have to be the same. And that's going to help you rank higher.   Did I miss anything? Those are my notes, Len. And I'm just curious, like, did I catch them all? Because there was a lot of pieces to consider. And then I have some follow ups as well. So like, did I miss anything in that list?   Dr. Len Tau (21:02) No, I   think you got it all there.   Kiera Dent (21:06) Okay, so hopefully that was a good recap for everybody. If you were listening, I tried to like summarize everything he said, because I really feel that those are super valuable pieces to know. Now, Len, there's a couple of things that happen and I'm very curious of what you've seen. Maybe you know, maybe you don't know. It's just a riff for me genuinely curious over here. Does it impact for the business to respond to the reviews? Because I know there was like a big misnomer out there like for a while, like you have to respond to every single review that helps you rank higher. What's the   What's kind of the lay of the land right now responding to the reviews that come in?   Dr. Len Tau (21:39) So there's been a big push over the years to respond to reviews. And there's also been those naysayers who don't want you to respond to reviews. So I want to make this very clear. When you respond to a review and you acknowledge them as a patient, you are technically violating HIPAA. Okay. Now by the letter of the law, if you do that, you violated HIPAA and can be in trouble. Now in all the years I've been doing this, I've only seen one   Kiera Dent (21:49) Mm-hmm.   Dr. Len Tau (22:08) example of a positive review being responded to and the dentist got in trouble. Okay. So if someone writes a review for you and it's five stars and you say, thank you so much for your feedback. We were glad you had a great experience in our practice. Okay. You technically violated HIPAA there because you acknowledged that they came into the practice. I don't think you'll ever run into any problems with that. I don't, I've never seen any instance when a, when a practice has got into trouble. But again, by the letter of the law, it's a violation.   Here's where the person ran into a problem. Okay. So the review in question, the patient wrote, I'm so happy with my appearance after I went to so-and-so's dental office. I think they were in Texas. The dentist responded, we're so happy that you, thank you so much for your review. We're so happy that you loved our magic needles. Okay. So it, from what I understand is the patient had Botox or   dermal fillers placed and that's what they call their magic needles. So the patient wrote, wrote a letter to the practice saying, I didn't appreciate you letting the world know that I had Botox done and asked for the review response to be taken down, which the dentist immediately did. Took it down and apologized, but it really pissed the patient off and the patient sued the dentist and won. Okay. Because the dentist went out of their way to   Kiera Dent (23:08) Mm-hmm.   Right.   Dr. Len Tau (23:33) you know, release private information that wasn't supposed to be done. So in that case, you shouldn't be doing that. Okay. Now on the same note, I would be very careful responding.   Kiera Dent (23:37) Mm-hmm.   Dr. Len Tau (23:45) to a review that's left by a negative, a negative review that's written by a patient. I would be very careful responding publicly to that because it's very hard to respond without violating HIPAA. So a simple response like, we're sorry to hear about your experience. Please contact the office to discuss the concerns as we're unfortunately unable to comment due to HIPAA release privacy stuff. That's fine. But.   Again, I just not sure it's the best thing to do. So you have to be careful with negative reviews. What it doesn't do is we really haven't found any relationship between responding and ranking. Okay, so you have to, I always leave it up to the people to respond. I like using AI to respond as well, because I think it comes up with HIPAA compliant and really good responses. ⁓ But you have to decide what you want to do for your own practice.   Kiera Dent (24:16) Mm-hmm.   Interesting.   That's actually really helpful to know. ⁓ Okay, good feedback for people to ponder and decide what they want to do on. The second piece is   some people lose their Google My Business and they're not able to be found. ⁓ And I don't know if you have reasons why. I don't know if it's from like a name change or it's inconsistent. So like a lot of offices have a lot of reviews, but when you go to search them, they're hidden on Google My Business. Like it will show up on the person's side, but nobody externally can find it. Do you have any ideas of like what causes that or what offices can do if they're struggling with that?   Dr. Len Tau (25:11) So I want to clarify that what question you asked there. I'm sorry to ask a question when you asked the question was when you say that you're saying that when they search for their Google business listing, they can't find it or when someone is searching for the office, they're not visible on the maps.   Kiera Dent (25:15) Hey, that's okay.   So when they're searching, so if I just go into Google and I type in like my perfect smile, the website might link, but the Google My Business with all, and they might have like 150 Google reviews, like it might be, like they've got them all and the office can see it when they like log in as like, this is, you own this, but they've lost it and it's no longer visible publicly. Do you know what causes that or how they can get that back? It's okay if you don't, I'm just genuinely curious. Cause I know some offices struggle with this, especially with like name changes of practices.   going through different ownerships. ⁓ Some of them have told me it's like when I changed the name of my practice, it no longer showed up. Like we have all these reviews, but we're not showing up. Do you know what causes that or how practices can get back being visible?   Dr. Len Tau (26:02) Yep. Now that you   asked it that way, so that usually means that your Google business listing has been suspended. And if you can't find it on search, but you see it, means it's suspended in most cases. Name changes, address changes, other things you do can cause it to be suspended. There are, if you look up on use chat GPT, ⁓   and say, why is, why can your Google business page be suspended? There is a list of different reasons why it can get suspended. ⁓ if you're getting reviews the wrong way is a big one. So, like you should not be incentivizing for reviews. And I'm talking about incentivizing the patients. You shouldn't be getting reviews in your physical office space because there's IP address conflicts and location services on the patient's phone. So if you're doing that, not only will you can potentially lose reviews, but you can't get it suspended, but you can look on.   Kiera Dent (26:37) Mm-hmm.   Dr. Len Tau (26:55) on chat GPT or Google and just say, what are the reasons that your business page can be suspended? And they're there. So usually you have to ⁓ re-approve it or re-verify that page. And there's certain things you do. You'll have to take a video of yourself in front of the practice, showing the address, showing the name of the business on the door. So there's things you will have to do to get it over to Google. So they'll re-verify you. And then once it happens, there's a good chance they'll unsuspend the listing. But that happens for that reason.   Kiera Dent (27:24) Gotcha. Okay. That's super helpful because I know a few offices have struggled with that. So was just curious for that. All right. This has been so helpful to figure out rankings. It's been helpful to understand. ⁓ My last question as we wrap up today on reviews has been so helpful, Len, is how do offices go about like, what are your recommendations? Yes, bird eye, swell, podium. Like there's a lot of review in Weave. I do, I usually recommend using an external one outside of things. think that they like, if they're just, if that's what they do, they're going to be experts at it.   But how can offices ethically and appropriately, like obviously great patient experience, but how do they increase these Google reviews? What are some of the best tactics you've seen to help these offices out?   Dr. Len Tau (28:04) So being biased, I mean, I'm a true believer in BirdEye because we help with the reviews and the ranking part. ⁓ Swell, which is a great product. know the guys who swell really well. A lot of their doctors don't rank well because they don't focus on the listings part of it or the ranking part of it. ⁓ I'm not a fan of Wee from a review perspective because they swell BirdEye and Podium, make it very easy. Weave doesn't. It's just the way we do it with our three other products. ⁓   I always say this, you can get reviews any way you want. The most effective is gonna be use some software, simple as that. But it all starts with the practice and it all starts with, I like to create a reputation culture in the practice, which means you know that every time a patient comes in the practice, that they're going to be evaluating you and reviewing you potentially. And you've gotta be on your best behavior, you've gotta put a happy smile on your face, you gotta treat them like they're the...   Kiera Dent (28:40) Mm-hmm.   Dr. Len Tau (29:00) king of the world, okay? You gotta roll out the red carpet. And if you don't do that, they may write a bad review, okay? But if you don't create that reputation culture, I think it's gonna be hard to get the practice to really accelerate the reviews. So creating that reputation culture using great verbiage skills. I love calling it feedback, not a review. If you call it a review, it sounds like you're begging for it. ⁓ The feedback conversation is much more comfortable to have. So, you know, it's an interesting situation, but if you don't ask, you don't get.   So you've got to ask. I think if you ask and you combine it with a really good software, you'll get a really good number of reviews. If you don't ask, you don't get. It's that simple.   Kiera Dent (29:30) Mm-hmm.   Yeah.   ⁓ well, that was so great. I appreciate this so much. And it's fun to hear about how AI is helping. It's fun to hear about how you still have to be great on Google. So ⁓ I just appreciate you. I appreciate you being here. I appreciate the knowledge you shared. appreciate for offices. I hope they take action and Len any last thoughts, how people can connect with you if they want more help on this. know ⁓ like truly in my opinion, this is the simplest marketing. Everybody wants to like sexy magic pill of marketing. And I'm like, no, it's like really great experience. Ask for the reviews, ask for the feedback.   like rank so that way people can find you I've had offices that had like three four or five new patients and they're like I need this marketing I need all these things which I'm not here to say not to do it but I will say great reviews will boost you very quickly so Len any last thoughts you've got how people can connect with you because it's been truly just an incredible episode today   Dr. Len Tau (30:26) So ⁓ I'm around the country a lot. So you can always connect with me in person if I'm at some of these events. If you wanna come to Supercharge, you can connect me there. SuperchargeYourDentalPractice.com You can use the code RAVING to save $100 on registration. ⁓ We also have some scholarships available. So if you do wanna come, you can reach out to me personally. So ⁓ my cell phone's all over the internet. The easiest way, if you have any questions, you want advice, you want help, I'm the guy to reach out to. My phone number is 215.   Kiera Dent (30:40) Awesome.   Dr. Len Tau (30:55) 292-2100. And my best email is Len, L-E-N, at drlentau.com, which is D-R-L-E-N-T-A-U.com. And you can email me, you can text me, you can call me, tell me you heard about me here and you need some advice. I'm more than happy to offer it to you. I do it all the time. ⁓ I love when people reach out to me because they know I'm an expert. So I do it kind of as a favor to people. ⁓ But no, you reach out to me, I'm happy to give advice.   Kiera Dent (31:23) amazing. Len, thank you so much for being on the podcast. I'm super excited for Supercharge 2025 and especially 2026. So everybody snag that. And truly, I hope you take action from today's podcast. This is easy ways for you to boost your marketing, be found and seen online. And Len, thank you for joining me today. I truly, truly appreciate you.   Dr. Len Tau (31:41) Thank you for having me, Kiera, I appreciate it.   Kiera Dent (31:43) Of course. And for all of you listening, thank you for listening and I'll catch you next time on the Dental A Team Podcast.  

On today's episode, Dr. Mark Costes welcomes Vishal Bhalla, founder and CEO of Wieldy.ai, an innovative AI platform transforming revenue cycle management in dental practices. Vishal shares how observing inefficiencies in his brother-in-law's orthodontic offices during the pandemic sparked the idea for Wieldy. With a background in AI and machine learning, he explains how Wieldy's suite of AI agents automates claims posting, denial management, EFT reconciliation, and is soon expanding into insurance verification.  The conversation covers how AI is reducing manual labor, improving collections, and boosting operational efficiency across both private and DSO practices. Vishal also opens up about the startup journey, the importance of preserving human empathy in patient interactions, and the future of scalable, tech-driven dental practice management. Stick around for a personal story swap about climbing Mount Kilimanjaro—proof that both entrepreneurship and dentistry require stamina, strategy, and vision. Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast! EPISODE RESOURCES https://wieldy.ai https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast

Licorice root is a time-honored herbal remedy with a sweet side. Beyond its role in teas and tonics, licorice root has been used for centuries to support digestion, ease respiratory illnesses, and calm everyday inflammation. It is well- known for its synergistic effects with other herbal therapies. Join us as we talk about how licorice root can fit into your wellness routine, the traditions behind its medicinal use, and simple ways you can explore these benefits safely. Today on The Lab Report: 4:00 Licorice root – the plant, not the candy 7:15 Powerhouse synergizer herb 9:45 Bioactive constituents – pharmacologic overview 13:45 Clinical uses – starting with the respiratory tract 16:40 Google it – Dental caries 19:15 In vitro cancer studies 21:30 Estrogenic activities 23:22 Cortisol, fluid retention, electrolytes, blood pressure 25:45 “What’s in a Name?” Subscribe, Rate, & Review The Lab Report Thanks for tuning in to this week’s episode of The Lab Report, presented by Genova Diagnostics, with your hosts Michael Chapman and Patti Devers. If you enjoyed this episode, please hit the subscribe button and give us a rating or leave a review. Don’t forget to visit our website, like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Email Patti and Michael with your most interesting and pressing questions on functional medicine: podcast@gdx.net. And, be sure to share your favorite Lab Report episodes with your friends and colleagues on social media to help others learn more about Genova and all things related to functional medicine and specialty lab testing. To find a qualified healthcare provider to connect you with Genova testing, or to access select products directly yourself, visit Genova Connect. Disclaimer: The content and information shared in The Lab Report is for educational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. The views and opinions expressed in The Lab Report represent the opinions and views of Michael Chapman and Patti Devers and their guests.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Wes Read, CPA and financial advisor, highlights a common mistake among dental practice owners: treating financial planning as a one-time task instead of an ongoing cycle. Just like dental hygiene requires regular checkups, financial hygiene needs consistent monitoring, updating, and adjustment.Wes explains the fourth phase of financial planning: Implement → Monitor → Revise → Repeat. Following a structured rhythm ensures clarity, accountability, and faster progress toward financial independence.Seven Key Activities for Dental Practice Owners:Review monthly financial statements (profit & loss, balance sheet, cash flow).Update long-term personal financial plan annually (ideally in January).Revisit personal spending plan annually to track expenses accurately.Complete tax projections twice yearly (June and October/November).Update family payroll annually in January to optimize taxes and 401(k) contributions.Adjust doctor payroll three times yearly (January, June, October) for taxes and retirement.Complete cash flow forecasts and allocate surplus capital in June and October.Wes notes that traditional CPAs often focus on historical data and compliance, while dental-specific financial advisors help align practice cash flow with personal financial goals, creating real traction toward wealth.Key Takeaways:Financial planning is an ongoing cycle, not a one-time event.Monthly reviews and annual updates keep you proactive.Semi-annual tax and cash flow planning prevent surprises.Working with a dental-specific advisor accelerates wealth building.Consistency compounds into financial freedom and lifestyle flexibility.Resources Mentioned:Financial Activity Cadence

Episode 203 of The Hitstreak, a podcast where we talk about anything and everything!  This week we are joined by the Co-Founder of Smiles For Recovery, Justin Lowry!Episode in a Glance:This episode of The Hitstreak features Justin Lowry, co-founder of Smiles for Recovery, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing free dental care to individuals recovering from substance use disorders. Justin and I explore the profound impact of dental health on recovery, the importance of mental health, and personal stories of transformation. Justin shares insights into the organization's mission, the patient demographics they serve, and the training programs for young dentists. We emphasize the need for community support and the financial aspects of providing dental care, ultimately calling for action to help those in need.Key Points:- Smiles for Recovery provides free dental care to those in recovery.- Dental health significantly impacts mental health and recovery outcomes.- Personal stories highlight the transformative power of a smile.- Training young dentists is crucial for the future of dental care in recovery.- Mental health is a critical component of addiction recovery.- Community support is essential for sustaining nonprofit efforts.- Smiles for Recovery aims to reverse the stigma associated with addiction.About our guest: Justin Lowry, a Nashville native and MTSU graduate, transformed his 25-year battle with addiction into a mission to help others. In 2023, he partnered with longtime friend Dr. Aaron Pryor to launch Smiles For Recovery, a program providing free dental implants to those in need while training young surgeons.What started as a simple idea quickly grew into a movement. In January 2024, their team of doctors placed over 100 implants in a single day, giving patients life-changing smiles. Since December 2023, they have provided over $4.5 million in free dental care and placed more than 700 implants for individuals who could never afford such treatment.On July 4, 2024, Smiles For Recovery became an official nonprofit with a dedicated Board of Directors. Justin and his team remain committed to restoring confidence and transforming lives—one smile at a time.Follow and contact:Instagram: @smilesforrecovery | @therealjustinlowrysmilesforrecovery.orgSubscribe to Nick's top-rated podcast The Hitstreak on Youtube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/NickHite⁠rFollow and Rate us on Spotify: ⁠https://spotify.com/NickHiter⁠Follow and Rate us on Apple Podcast: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/NickHiter⁠Follow and Rate us on iHeartRadio: ⁠https://www.iheart.com/NickHiter

In this episode of Ignite, Alex Membrillo, CEO of Cardinal, sits down with Emily Rose, VP of Marketing at Lightwave Dental. If you're a healthcare marketer, this episode is packed with actionable insights on how to drive growth in multi-location practices by leveraging doctor engagement, optimizing your tech stack for lead tracking and online scheduling, and embracing both traditional and digital marketing channels. You'll hear firsthand how a unique organizational structure empowers clinicians, how they've implemented AI and advanced lead tracking to boost scheduled appointments and lower acquisition costs, and why building a strong, field-based marketing team is essential for local success. Tune in to learn strategies you can apply to improve patient experience, streamline operations, and maximize your marketing impact in healthcare. RELATED RESOURCES Top Dental & DSO Marketing Trends for 2025 - https://www.cardinaldigitalmarketing.com/healthcare-resources/blog/dental-dso-marketing-trends-2025 Harnessing the Power of AI Marketing for Healthcare - https://www.cardinaldigitalmarketing.com/healthcare-resources/blog/harnessing-ai-marketing-for-healthcare/ 5-Step Paid Media Strategy to Attract Your Ideal Patients - https://www.cardinaldigitalmarketing.com/healthcare-resources/blog/paid-media-patient-acquisition-guide/ When & How to Expand Your Healthcare Media Mix - https://www.cardinaldigitalmarketing.com/healthcare-resources/blog/expanding-channel-media-mix-strategy/

Doorbell prankster that tormented residents of apartment complex turns out to be a slug, Dental nurse wins $25,000 from employer because a co-worker 'rolled her eyes at her'...More crazy Charlie Sheen stories roll out to promote his memoir and Netflix documentary: Loch Ness Monster hunting

Production represents the services rendered and the value created by a dental and/or medical practice. Without adequate production, there wouldn't be anything to collect, regardless of how efficient the collections process is.Terry welcomes Dental consultant, Callie Ward, to discuss that robust collections are absolutely crucial to translate production into actual revenue and profit. A practice with excellent production but weak collections will struggle financially and how to make sure practice success.

In this episode of Ask George, Richard and George discuss the difficult decisions that come with dental practice ownership. They cover real-life examples of failed partnerships, premature hiring, and costly expansions, offering insights on how to navigate and recover from these challenges.

Who was The Murias Dental MVP of the Night 090725

In this powerful episode of Healthy Mind, Healthy Life, host Sana sits down with Dr. Whitney Wright—orthodontist, former Chief Clinical Officer of Reza's Dental & Braces, and bestselling author of Men Under Pressure. Together, they unpack the silent struggles men face with anxiety, depression, PTSD, and the crushing expectations of masculinity. Dr. Wright shares his personal journey through debilitating panic attacks, the breaking point that forced him to stop, and the healing practices that brought laughter and life back to his home. This is a raw conversation about the stigma surrounding men's emotions, the dangers of silence, and how men can reclaim their health without shame. Whether you're a man navigating pressure or someone supporting a man you love, this conversation will shift how you see strength, vulnerability, and true wellness. About the Guest   Dr. Whitney Wright is a practising orthodontist, entrepreneur, mental health advocate, and the bestselling author of Men Under Pressure. Drawing from his lived experience with anxiety, depression, and PTSD, he now speaks and writes about redefining strength, breaking stigma, and guiding men toward healthier lives. Learn more at menunderpressure.com. Key Takeaways   Silence around men's mental health is dangerous—unspoken pressure often leads to destructive coping mechanisms like addiction. Panic attacks forced Dr. Wright to face his limits, showing that ignoring mental health red flags has severe consequences. Healing begins with simple, non-negotiable steps: movement, self-care, and making time for wellness. Sharing openly with family, partners, and peers helps reduce shame and builds crucial support systems. Social media culture glamorizes wealth, power, and performance while hiding pain—real strength comes from honesty and balance. Wellness isn't about extremes like biohacking; it's about consistent care and showing yourself you matter. Healing has a ripple effect—when men care for their mental health, families regain connection, joy, and laughter. True masculinity includes vulnerability, compassion, and the courage to seek help.   Connect with the Guest   Website: menunderpressure.com Book: Men Under Pressure (available on Amazon – ebook, paperback, audiobook) Connect with him on socials available on his website Want to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life? DM on PM - Send me a message on PodMatch DM Me Here: PodMatch Host Profile CHECK PODCAST SHOWS & BE A GUEST:   Tune to all our 19 podcasts: Podcast Network Subscribe To Newsletter: Substack Join Community: Nas.io OUR SERVICES   Business Podcast Management Individual Podcast Management Share Your Story With World STAY TUNED AND FOLLOW US!   Medium YouTube Instagram Facebook LinkedIn Page LinkedIn Twitter Pinterest SHARE YOUR REVIEW   Leave a Google Review Share a Video Testimonial #podmatch #healthymind #healthymindbyavik #wellness #HealthyMindByAvik #MentalHealthAwareness #StorytellingAsMedicine #PodcastLife #PersonalDevelopment #ConsciousLiving #GrowthMindset #MindfulnessMatters #VoicesOfUnity #InspirationDaily #podcast #podcasting #podcaster #podcastlife #podcastlove #podcastshow #podcastcommunity #newpodcast #podcastaddict #podcasthost #podatusepisode #podcastinglife #podrecommendation #wellnesspodcast #healthpodcast #mentalhealthpodcast #wellbeing #selfcare #mentalhealth #mindfulness #healthandwellness #wellnessjourney #mentalhealthmatters #mentalhealthawareness #healthandwellnesspodcast #fyp #foryou #foryoupage #viral #trending #tiktok #tiktokviral #explore #trendingvideo #youtube #motivation #inspiration #positivity #mindset #selflove #success

It's the 11th running of the Race For the Future in Fort Worth, TX on September 14, 2025. This is YOUR chance to make a difference in a industry we all love so much. Important links: All the money goes to The Foundation For Dental Laboratory Technology: https://dentallabfoundation.org/ All about the Race: https://dentallabfoundation.org/news-events/race-for-the-future/ Race website: https://fortworth.californiatriathlon.org/ TO DONATE: https://fdlt.memberclicks.net/donor-form#/ Select: Race for the Future Enter the name of the racer you want to support: BARB WARNER or THE CROWN JEWELS Enter the amount (One Million Dollars) A BIG thanks to Jensen Dental (https://jensendental.com/) for allowing us to record at the amazing FDLA Symposium & Expo! First up is a dentist turned sales rep and now 26 years with Jensen Dental (https://jensendental.com/), Nick Bathija. Nick talks about becoming a dentist, falling in love, and learning that he's not really suited to be a dentist. Starting with Jensen when it was still a mostly alloy company and being there when MIYO (https://miyoworld.com/) hit the scene, Nick can talk a lot about what makes MIYO so great! Then we are visited by past podcast guest, Shaana Gripp. Shaana went from an introverted in-office technician to leading education at Harvest Dental (https://harvestdental.com/). She talks about making the switch, getting used to being in front of a camera, and the joy of seeing people get better with techniques she taught them. We wrap up the episode with a conversation with long time lab manager at Drake Dental Laboratory (https://drakelab.com/), Mark Stueck. Mark talks about going from a McDonald's Manager to delivery driver, being recruited to another state, being there for 36 years, and why it was important for him to give back on the NBC board. Looking for a way to unlock the full potential of your digital dentistry workflow. Take it from Elise Heathcote, associate manager of digital services with Ivoclar. This is all about the Cam Academy. They have a new in-person training experience designed specifically for dental technicians. This hands on course explores the full potential of programmable Cam software, helping you take your digital workflow to the next level. Learn directly from Ivoclar experts, refine your skills and bring new precision and efficiency to your lab. Cam Academy is more than a course. It's your next step in digital excellence. To reserve your spot, visit the Ivoclar Academy website (https://www.ivoclar.com/en_us/academy/learning-opportunities?page=1&offset=12&filters=%5B%7B%22id%22%3A%22dateRange%22%2C%22selectedLowerBound%22%3A%222021-12-09T07%3A30%3A45.534Z%22%2C%22selectedUpperBound%22%3A%222022-06-09T06%3A30%3A45.534Z%22%7D%2C%7B%22id%22%3A%22type%22%2C%22advancedFilter%22%3Afalse%2C%22values%22%3A%5B%22In-house+trainings%22%5D%7D%5D) or contact your local Ivoclar sales representative today. Take your Full Arch game to the next level! On October 11th, 2025 the people that brought us the Locator attachment, Zest Dental Solutions (https://www.zestdent.com/) is putting on their first-ever ZEST LAB MASTERSHIP (https://info.zestdent.com/labmastership) program! You'll master the art of creating life-changing full-arch restorations, discover streamlined protocols, and develop the diagnostic skills that will revolutionize your practice. Plus, you'll get hands-on experience with LOCATOR FIXED (https://www.zestdent.com/locator-fixed-now-available?srsltid=AfmBOoo_v9_ANsrYCMncz0XWLf5401jx3ezw_Dgq16lTov7fkI4iMeK9). Head over to zest.pub/labmaster25 (https://education.zestdent.com/events/zestdental/1779555) or visit the full calendar at zestdent.com (https://www.zestdent.com/) right now and secure your spot. Use the code VOICESLAB to save $100!! Special Guests: Mark Stueck, Nick Bathija, and Shaana Gripp.

Today, we're zeroing in on something that often gets overlooked until it's too late: Standard Operating Procedures, or SOPs. Whether it's training new team members, navigating a vacation or unexpected sick leave, or simply making sure tasks get done the right way every time, SOPs are the foundation of a stable, resilient practice. Our guest is Sherrie Busby, a certified dental assistant, sought after speaker and expert on creating and maintaining SOPs in the dental practice.

Every year, millions of dollars in dental benefits expire unused, don't let your patients (or your practice) miss out. In this episode, Dayna Johnson dives into the importance of maximizing dental benefits before they reset in January. With the end of the year approaching, Dayna shares practical strategies for engaging patients who still have unused insurance benefits, highlighting how tools like Dentrix Treatment Manager can help teams track unscheduled treatments and fill the schedule. From outreach campaigns to proactive follow-ups, this conversation will give your practice the playbook to boost production and help patients get the care they need before it's too late.

Ian Mcnickle, Chief Executive Officer of Icon Dental Partners, shares his early beginnings in the DSO space and his unique transition from mechanical engineering to dental service organizations. He discusses adapting to Medicaid cuts, while also offering success tips for leaders, including the importance of maintaining a strong and supportive work culture.

On today's episode, Dr. Mark Costes welcomes Dr. Mark Tholen, a former dentist turned renowned dental office architect, to unpack the art and science of designing a practice that maximizes productivity and minimizes stress. With decades of experience and thousands of projects under his belt, Dr. Tholen explains how to right-size your office for long-term growth, avoid common design pitfalls, and keep construction projects on time and on budget.   He shares insights on ergonomics, workflow efficiency, and the critical role of complete plans in preventing costly change orders. Whether you're building from the ground up or renovating an existing space, this conversation is packed with practical advice to ensure your office becomes a powerful asset for your practice. Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast! EPISODE RESOURCES https://mynewdentaloffice.com https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast

On Today's episode of The Dog Walk, we are joined by Pediatric Dentist, Jerry Udelson. We discuss what peaked his interest in becoming a dentist and what that process was like (1:02). He tells us about working with kids (7:59) and the worst problems children face with their teeth (14:50). Next we talk about getting braces (17:17), the worst candies for your teeth, and the best brushing habits (22:16). Then we talk about how he decorates his office to be less intimidating for children (33:20) and gives us the inside scoop on the dentist giveaway bags (35:56). We get into some traumatic stories (38:22) and Jerry confirms that the milk myth is true (41:57). We close things out by hearing another traumatic case from one of Jerry's patients (45:13).You can find every episode of this show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or YouTube. Prime Members can listen ad-free on Amazon Music. For more, visit barstool.link/thedogwalk