Dental Slang

What does it take to overcome a life-altering setback and build one of the most successful perio practices in the state? In this episode of the Dental Slang Podcast, Dr. Marq Sams shares his story, from a serious car accident and weeks in a coma, to residency challenges, to creating a thriving multi-office practice in Wichita, Kansas. Hear how resilience, grit, and a commitment to team culture helped him turn trials into triumphs. Whether you're a dentist navigating your career or a team leader striving for excellence, Dr. Sams' story is full of lessons inspiration, and actionable insights. Whether you're a dental professional navigating your early career, a practice owner aiming to scale, or simply looking for a story of resilience and motivation, this episode offers practical insights and a powerful reminder that overcoming obstacles is possible when determination, compassion, and leadership guide the way. What lessons can you take from high-trust teams about motivating staff, fostering accountability, and creating an environment where everyone can excel? How does modeling attitude, consistency and integrity influence your team's performance, and what can you implement in your own office? How can seeking guidance from experienced mentors, and then mentoring others, accelerate your growth and strengthen your professional community? Tune in to hear Dr. Sams' story and discover how embracing challenges can lead to extraordinary success.

Curious about equity partnerships in dentistry? In this episode, Dr. Morven McCauley shares her journey from associate to partner, revealing how ownership can shape patient care, practice culture and your career. Learn how to evaluate partnerships, ask the right questions before buying in and maintain autonomy while growing within a group practice. Whether you're considering your first buy-in or exploring leadership opportunities, this episode is packed with actionable insights from one of dentistry's forward-thinking leaders. Top takeaways from this episode include: Clearly defining your core values and standards of care and knowing which ones are non-negotiable. Understanding partnership agreements and key terms to make informed decisions about equity and ownership. Choosing a managing partner with qualities you admire and planning the level of involvement that aligns with your goals. Recognizing how equity partnerships can shape patient care, practice culture and team development, while providing opportunities for leadership and innovation. Whether you're an associate considering your first buy-in or a seasoned dentist exploring leadership and ownership, this episode is full of practical advice, inspiring stories, and guidance from one of dentistry's forward-thinking leaders.   Dr. Morven McCauley graduated from her post-graduate qualification in implant surgery with Smiletube and Scottish Centre of Excellence in Dentistry, and is providing implant placements at Dentistry on the Clyde. McCauley provides flapless, surgical guided implant placement to provide a minimally invasive process for the patient when possible. Precise restorative and prosthetic planning is a key feature of all McCauley's comprehensive cosmetic cases. Implementing the latest technology from digital smile design, iTero, and Realguide implant planning software, to work backwards from the end result to ensure predictable, functional and aesthetic restorations.

In this episode of the Dental Slang Podcast, I sat down with Dr. Travis Campbell, the "Dental Insurance Guy," to break down the complex world of dental insurance and practice management. From navigating networks and maximizing fee schedules to using simple documentation strategies that protect your practice and educate patients, Travis shares actionable tips that can improve your bottom line and simplify your day-to-day operations. Whether you're a dentist looking to increase revenue, streamline your office, or stay ahead of insurance trends, this episode is packed with insights you won't want to miss. In this episode we discuss:  How many insurance networks should a dental practice realistically enroll with, and how can "umbrella" plans expand access while increasing fees? Three common mistakes practices make when dealing with PPO plans, what should they be doing instead. Why dentists should prioritize umbrella plans first, and how to decide which low-paying insurers to drop. Many dentists struggle with the decision to stay in-network or transition out-of-network. What factors should they consider before making this move? How can visual documentation, such as intraoral photos or x-rays, improve insurance appeals, patient education and legal protection? Upcoming policy changes in dental insurance that could significantly impact private practices.   Dr. Travis Campbell, widely recognized as the Dental Insurance Guy, is an author, speaker and business coach who has become one of dentistry's leading voices on navigating the challenges of dental insurance. He combines years of clinical experience with a deep understanding of insurance systems to help dentists reduce stress, increase profitability, and provide better care without being held back by red tape. In addition to running his own successful practice, Dr. Campbell is the author of Understanding Dental Insurance and a sought-after national lecturer. He is known for making complex topics simple and actionable, equipping dentists with the tools they need to master insurance, improve efficiency, and strengthen their practices.

Dr. Katie To is a trailblazer in cosmetic and wellness dentistry, known for her commitment to continuing education and her dedication to staying at the forefront of dental innovation. As one of the first dentists to earn a master's in biological dentistry while also mastering digital smile design, Dr. To combines advanced techniques with a holistic, biocompatible approach to patient care. She is highly trained in cosmetic bonding, non-invasive cosmetic dentistry, dental ozone therapy, biological dental therapy, and clinical nutrition, always prioritizing the safest, least toxic options for her patients. In this insightful podcast episode, Dr. To shares her expertise and experiences in biocompatible dentistry, addressing key questions about her practice and philosophy. Tune in to hear more about: The Origins of Biocompatible Dentistry: How Dr. To's journey began and what inspired her commitment to safer, non-toxic approaches in dental care. Material Choices: Specific examples of products she avoids, the reasons why, and the innovative alternatives she uses. Navigating Cost Concerns: Strategies for discussing the higher costs of biocompatible options with patients, especially those who are price sensitive. Top Learning Resources: Recommendations for resources and continuing education organizations leading the field of biocompatible dentistry. A Sneak Peek into Dr. To's Book: Hear more about the lesser-known innovations in biocompatible dentistry. The Art of Ceramic Implants: Learn about the unique techniques required to work with ceramic implants compared to traditional titanium ones. Marketing a Niche Practice: How she identifies and connects with an audience receptive to biocompatible dentistry concepts and products. Leading Companies in the Field: A look at suppliers offering comprehensive biocompatible product lines for general dentists. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of this growing movement and Dr. Katie To's passion for creating healthier smiles through biocompatible solutions. To connect with Dr. Katie To and stay updated on her journey, you can reach out via Instagram at @DrKatieTo or visit her website at drkatieto.com. 

Dr. Tommaso Ghedini is a highly accomplished dentist from Milan, Italy specializing in oral surgery, prosthetics, and restorative work. Dr. Ghedini works in his private practices in Milan and its province and currently teaches in the Humanitas Research Hospital, with a focus on oral and implant surgery. During this interview, Dr. Ghedini shares insights into his diverse clinical practice, his teaching experiences focusing on oral surgery, and the importance of hands-on learning through cadaver courses. Tune in to learn about Dr. Ghedini 's innovative approach to tooth extraction, combining technology and precision to improve outcomes. In addition to his professional achievements, Dr. Ghedini sheds light on his personal interests outside of dentistry, such as playing football, enjoying fine wines, and spending quality time with his family. He also touches on the evolving landscape of dentistry in Italy, emphasizing the role of digital dentistry as a vital tool for enhancing patient care and treatment planning. Key Highlights Include: The benefits of cadaver courses and understanding anatomy Dr. Ghedini's technique for using surgical stents for guided tooth sectioning The importance of continual learning as a dentist Digital dentistry and its expanding role How will corporate dentistry impact future generations of dentists in both the US and Italy The significance of maintaining work-life balance and staying grounded

Dive into the world of The Aurum Group with CEO Mark Maier as he shares the journey of Aurum's commitment to education, innovation, and exceptional service. Mark Maier, a seasoned professional with a diverse background in investment banking, money management, and venture capital, uncovers the story behind Aurum's success. With a wealth of international experience and academic accomplishments, Mark brings a unique perspective to Aurum's evolution and vision. In this podcast, explore Aurum's transformation from the groundwork of education to pioneering advancements in digital technology and orthodontics. Discover why Aurum stands as the premier dental solutions company, empowering dentists, reshaping education through the Aurum Academy, and embracing cutting-edge technologies to enhance patient care. Key highlights include: Unveiling Aurum's foundation built on education and innovation at the forefront of dentistry. The significance of adapting to new technology, fostering educational partnerships, and mastering diverse aspects of dentistry as a "Super GP." Insights into Aurum's global perspective and its impact on innovation and service delivery. Delving into the evolving landscape of dentistry towards functional aesthetics, wellness culture, and patient-centric care. Understanding Aurum's focus on leveraging digital technology for predictable outcomes and enhanced patient experiences. Exploring Aurum's commitment to education through initiatives like the Aurum Academy, empowering practitioners with the latest advancements. Aurum's expertise in orthodontics and strategic partnerships positioning them as industry leaders in orthodontic innovation. Emphasizing Aurum's strategic business acumen, market understanding, and adapting to emerging trends to drive growth and excellence. Join us as we uncover the exciting journey of Aurum's transformation and its pivotal role in shaping the future of dentistry. Stay tuned to learn more about the innovative directions ahead for Aurum and the dynamic opportunities in the dental industry. For more information on The Aurum Group, please visit: https://www.aurumgroup.com

Tune in to the latest episode of the Dental Slang Podcast featuring Drs. Nate Jeal and BT Nguyen from Fast Growth Dental, where they discuss strategies to amplify dental practice success. Discover the transformative power of coaching and continuous education as they unveil their online membership platform, FastGrowthDental.com, which offers exclusive access to monthly webinars, expert-led courses, and invaluable resources tailored to elevate your practice's conversion rates and overall performance. Unlock the key to working smarter, not harder, and discover the roadmap to creating your D.R.E.A.M. practice through dynamic leadership, real profits, expert conversion, achievable goals, and measurable marketing strategies. Learn to optimize your time, streamline processes, and achieve sustainable growth without succumbing to burnout. Gain invaluable insights into seeking solutions, embracing new ideas, and refining practice management strategies for unparalleled success. Don't miss out on their unwavering support and commitment to empowering dental professionals worldwide. After listening to the podcast, you can engage with them through webinars on FastGrowthDental.com and find them on social media @drnatejeal and @dr.baotran for more information on how to create long-term sustainable growth in your practice. Visit the TheNew.Dentist to read the full transcript. 

In this episode, we were honored to host Dr. Drew Ferris, a distinguished figure in the field of orthodontics. Dr. Ferris earned his DDS degree from the University of Missouri-Kansas City and completed his Certificate in Master of Science in Orthodontics and Dental Facial Orthopedics at Loma Linda University in Santa Barbara, California. Throughout his career, Dr. Ferris has established himself as a leader in innovative orthodontic practices, excelling in both clear aligners and fixed appliances. He is highly regarded as a lecturer, covering various orthodontic topics such as diagnosis, treatment, and practice management, both nationally and internationally. Dr. Ferris is renowned as one of the nation's top clear aligner providers, a published author, and an innovator who has developed products and techniques in his field. He currently serves as a faculty member in orthodontics at Loma Linda University and directs the Santa Barbara Dental Study Group, offering expertise in orthodontic diagnosis and treatment techniques. During the podcast, Dr. Ferris shared valuable insights into his professional journey and offered expert advice on various aspects of orthodontic practice: Transition from Golf to Orthodontics: Dr. Ferris humorously recounted his transition from being a college golfer with aspirations of becoming the next Tiger Woods to pursuing a career in orthodontics, inspired by his uncle's success in the dental field. Role of Mentors: He emphasized the significance of mentors in his professional development, highlighting the guidance he received from various mentors throughout his journey, including his orthodontist in St. Louis, mentors during residency, and esteemed colleagues like Dr. David Sarver. Focus on Innovation: Dr. Ferris discussed his passion for innovation and the integration of advanced technologies such as 3D printing and artificial intelligence in orthodontic practice, foreseeing a promising future for the field. Importance of Continuous Learning: He underscored the importance of continuous learning and engagement in interdisciplinary care, advocating for participation in study clubs and educational courses to enhance clinical and business acumen. Balancing Work and Family: Dr. Ferris candidly shared insights into balancing his professional commitments with family life, acknowledging the challenges and rewards of being a dedicated orthodontist and a loving father. Dr. Ferris's extensive experience, commitment to innovation, and dedication to mentorship serve as a testament to his leadership in the orthodontic community, inspiring practitioners worldwide to strive for excellence in patient care and practice management.

In this captivating episode, Dr. Ardalan sits down with Dr. Lisa Germain, an illustrious board-certified endodontist based in New Orleans. Together, they delve into Dr. Germain's pioneering work in integrating Botox® into dental practice, revolutionizing both therapeutic and cosmetic treatments. Discover the multifaceted applications of Botox beyond traditional medical realms, as Dr. Germain unveils insights from her book, which is a go-to guide for dentists seeking to incorporate Botox® into their repertoire. From enhancing smiles to alleviating pain, listeners are treated to a comprehensive exploration of how Botox® can elevate the standard of dental care. With Dr. Germain's expertise and passion shining through, this episode offers a deep dive into the transformative potential of Botox®, providing valuable knowledge for both seasoned professionals and curious enthusiasts alike. Whether you're intrigued by the evolving landscape of dentistry or simply seeking to expand your understanding of aesthetic treatments, this podcast delivers an engaging and enlightening experience that promises to leave a lasting impression. Dr. Germain's new book, Cosmetic Injectables and Therapeutics, is now available for purchase. You can find it on Amazon, or visit Berman Instruments to learn more about the book and purchase. 

In this episode of the Dental Slang Podcast, host Dr. Reza Ardalan welcomes Dr. Nick Fahey, a renowned prosthodontist and implant expert. Dr. Fahey shares insights into his journey in dentistry, particularly his expertise in digital dentistry and guided implant surgery. He discusses the evolution of guided surgery, its significance in ensuring precision and safety, and its potential to broaden opportunities for general practitioners entering the field of implant dentistry. The conversation also explores the Fitz-Fahey Academy, co-founded by Dr. Fahey and his wife, Dr. Sarah Fitzharris, focusing on global dental education and support. Dr. Fahey highlights the impact of New Zealand's culture on dentistry, emphasizing the country's innovative spirit and problem-solving mentality. The discussion extends to topics such as the All Blacks rugby team's influence, the future of dental education through online platforms, and the challenges and opportunities in dental practice marketing. Dr. Fahey also shares memorable fishing adventures, offering a glimpse into his adventurous side. To continue following Dr. Fahey's journey, follow him on Instagram: @nick_fahey_prosthodontist.  Dr. Nick Fahey, a prosthodontist and implant expert. He leads a referral practice with a specialized team focusing on a multidisciplinary approach to patient treatment. Dr. Fahey's expertise lies in digital dentistry, particularly utilizing CT scans for computer-guided surgery to streamline dental implant placement. He has lectured globally on computer-guided surgery and virtual implant planning and authored the book "Guided Surgery," aimed at simplifying implant placement. 

Dr. Alex Sanders, founder and CEO of Diagnocat, shares insights on artificial intelligence in dentistry. As a prosthodontist, he discusses the potential of Diagnocat, an AI solution for dental 2D and 3D images, comparing it to other products and highlighting its versatility. Dr. Sanders explains how Diagnocat aids clinicians with patient consultations, treatment planning, and streamlining processes, emphasizing its benefits for restorative dentists. He touches on communicating AI to patients and envisions the future of AI in dentistry. The interview provides a comprehensive overview, making it a must-listen for dental professionals considering AI adoption. For more information on Diagnocat, visit Diagnocat.com. 

In this impactful podcast interview, Dr. Emma Zennie shares her inspiring journey as a dentist in Haiti. Trained in the United States, she returned to Haiti to serve her community, facing challenges like earthquakes and limited resources. Emma emphasizes preventive dentistry, contributes to dental education, and details the unique aspects of practicing in a third-world country. Despite risks like crime and political instability, Emma remains committed to her home, determined to rebuild and uplift her community. For those wanting to support her efforts or follow her story, Emma can be reached on Instagram @dr.emmanuellezennie or via email at Dr.Zennie@gmail.com.

Dive into the world of endodontics with Dr. Nudera in this podcast episode, where he unravels the details of his groundbreaking book, "NuEndo ReThinking Endodontics," and introduces the revolutionary NuEndo Online educational platform. More than a textbook, Dr. Nudera's book offers systematic algorithms guiding practitioners from patient introduction to treatment decisions, simplifying the intricate process with scenario-driven case selection accessible even to those with basic dental education. Building on the diagnostic insights from his book, NuEndo Online provides on-demand courses, tip and technique videos, and full patient case episodes, breaking down root canal treatment into easily digestible segments. This platform acts as a mentorship tool, addressing challenges, demystifying endodontics, and fostering a community of continuous learning for both new and experienced practitioners. Beyond the clinical focus, the episode unveils Dr. Nudera's unique journey, from his Air Force background to his love for playing drums and his unexpected venture into photography. Discover how his curiosity led him to master the intricacies of camera settings and lighting, showcasing his artistic flair in his book and beyond. Returning to endodontics, Dr. Nudera shares insights into the transformative impact of new products on patient treatment approaches, drawing from his two-decade career. Join us for the full episode to gain a comprehensive understanding of the evolving landscape in endodontics and Dr. Nudera's multifaceted professional journey. Tune in now for an enlightening experience! Dr. Nudera's next webinar is on January 16th at 8:30pm ET. This webinar will showcase an actual clinical treatment case from Dr. Nudera's private practice. Listen in as he describes the details of his treatment approach and the steps he took to manage the case from start to finish. By the completion of this webinar, the clinician should have a better understanding of strategic endodontic treatment planning and root canal treatment sequencing. Secure your spot!  

  Dr. Reza Ardalan welcomes the renowned Dr. Amanda Seay. Dr. Seay, a prominent figure in the world of dentistry, discusses a wide range of topics that are both enlightening and inspiring. From comprehensive restorative dentistry to her roles at the Kois Center and the Seattle Study Club, Dr. Seay offers valuable insights that every dentist can benefit from. One of the key highlights of this episode is learning more about Dr. Seay's new book, "SEE: Art Esthetics Dental Photography," which focuses on dental photography. Discover how this book can transform your photography skills and help you capture the essence of your patients in a unique and personal way. Dr. Seay also shares her wisdom on balancing a demanding dental career with family life. As a mother of four, she provides invaluable advice for women in the dental profession, discussing the importance of planning, intention, and giving oneself grace. But here's the real twist: Dr. Seay unveils a groundbreaking new membership-based online education program in photography and cosmetic dentistry. Find out how this program can take your dental skills to the next level, whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your expertise. The episode takes a deep dive into the power of social media in dentistry, with Dr. Seay sharing her journey of connecting with a global audience, showcasing her expertise and personal side. If you're looking for tips on how to leverage social media effectively in your dental career, this is a must-listen. Last but not least, hear Dr. Seay's candid advice for young women dentists who are embarking on their careers. Her insights on finding the right balance between clinical excellence and the business side of dentistry are eye-opening and will set you on a path to success. So, whether you're a seasoned dentist, a recent graduate, or even just someone curious about the world of dentistry, this episode is a treasure trove of knowledge and inspiration. Dr. Amanda Seay's engaging conversation with Dr. Reza Ardalan will leave you eager to explore the full podcast and absorb the wisdom she shares. Don't miss this opportunity to elevate your dental journey. Tune in now! For more information on Dr. Seay's new membership website, visit SeayWithin.com. 

In this podcast, Dr. Lou Berman takes you on a journey through the dental industry, sharing the fascinating story of how Berman Dental Instruments came to be. Discover the driving force behind this venture, fueled by the desire to make high-quality dental instruments more affordable. Dr. Berman divulges the secrets to finding reputable instrument manufacturers and maintaining top-notch quality control. Explore the future of dental sales as he shines a light on the growing trend of online sales, empowering you to make informed choices for your dental practice, just as you would for any other product. As the conversation pivots towards continuing education, Dr. Berman discusses why he thinks hands-on courses are gaining prominence and how they fulfill the need for practical experience and certification requirements. Dr. Berman, the distinguished co-editor of "Pathways of the Pulp," unveils the evolution of this dental book, complete with chapters on cutting-edge topics like CBCT. Learn how this book champions evidence-based dentistry. Dr. Berman also provides invaluable insights into the decision-making process for endodontists considering selling their practices to corporate entities, underscoring the significance of financial evaluation. Intriguingly, he addresses the impact of implants on endodontic practices, demystifying the myth that they've replaced endodontic procedures. Discover how implants have elevated the standards of care and quality in the field. The podcast concludes with Dr. Berman's tribute to his clinical mentors, highlighting the importance of discerning when and why to perform a procedure, not just how to do it. For those eager to get in touch, contact information for Berman Instruments and Annapolis Endodontics is thoughtfully provided. Embark on an enlightening journey as this podcast uncovers Dr. Berman's rich experiences, invaluable insights, and indelible contributions to the dynamic landscape of the dental industry, with a focus on endodontics and the innovative world of dental instruments. To learn more about Berman Dental Instruments, visit BermanIntruments.com. As a podcast listener, please use code: SLANG for free shipping on your next order. *Limit one per customer

Dr. Courtney Lavigne's unique career path took her from a decade of practicing restorative dentistry to orthodontics. She holds accreditations and fellowships from the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, the Academy of General Dentistry, and the Pierre Fruchard Academy. Dr. Lavigne is a renowned lecturer in dental aesthetics and comprehensive care. She established a patient-centric, aesthetics-focused practice in the Boston suburbs before pursuing an orthodontic residency at Tufts University. Driven by her fascination with airway and occlusion, Dr. Lavigne transitioned to orthodontics, aiming to provide truly interdisciplinary care. She sold her cosmetic practice and embarked on her orthodontic journey in July 2020. In her orthodontic practice, Dr. Lavigne combines her restorative dentistry expertise with orthodontic training, prioritizing comprehensive treatment planning that considers both facial aesthetics and three-dimensional tooth alignment. Her ultimate goal is to achieve each patient's ideal outcome, going beyond just achieving a Class I canine occlusion. Dr. Lavigne also highlights the critical significance of early orthodontic evaluations, recommending that children undergo orthodontic assessments around age seven. She underscores factors such as crossbites, functional shifts, and crowding in primary teeth as potential indicators for early intervention. Shifting gears, Dr. Lavigne discusses the utilization of 3D printing for orthodontic brackets and the influence of artificial intelligence in enhancing treatment planning precision. She stresses that while aligner technology is a valuable tool, the practitioner's skill and understanding of the software play a pivotal role in achieving successful outcomes. Dr. Lavigne shares her perspective on AACD accreditation, emphasizing how it not only enhances clinical skills but also builds a robust referral network within the dental community. She notes that the journey of personal growth and improvement throughout the accreditation process is equally valuable as achieving the accreditation itself. As a practitioner who values continuous learning, Dr. Lavigne underscores the significance of mentorship. She advises younger dentists not to hesitate in reaching out to experienced colleagues for guidance and mentorship opportunities. She shares her own experiences with various study groups and organizations that have been instrumental in her professional growth. For more information, follow Dr. Lavigne on Instagram @courtneylavignedmd or email hello@courtneylavigne.com.

In this podcast episode, Dr. Reza Ardalan interviews Dr. David Sarver, an accomplished orthodontist known for his expertise in the field. Dr. Sarver has a wealth of experience and has received numerous accolades in his career. He discusses various aspects of his career, including his new online teaching community called "Mastering Orthodontics," his approach to interdisciplinary care, and the artistry involved in orthodontics. "Mastering Orthodontics" is an online platform where Dr. Sarver aims to share his knowledge and expertise with a broader audience. It provides a convenient way for dental professionals to access his educational material and learn from Dr. Sarver's extensive experience. The platform is designed to make orthodontic knowledge easily accessible and applicable for a wide range of dental professionals. Dr. Sarver emphasizes the importance of lifelong learning and the need for dental professionals to stay updated on the latest advancements in the field. He believes that even general dentists and practitioners who use clear aligners can benefit from the platform to improve their understanding of orthodontics and provide better care to their patients. Orthodontic treatment generally aims to improve the occlusion and smile esthetics of the patient. But the patient's overall facial appearance determines how they look to others, not just their smile. Mastering Orthodontics focuses on dentofacial esthetics, evaluating patients from macro to micro, focusing first on the big picture and then working your way to the minute details in order to treatment plan for the best possible outcome.  Throughout the podcast, Dr. Sarver highlights the significance of interdisciplinary care in dentistry. He discusses how he collaborates with other specialists, such as periodontists, oral surgeons, and cosmetic dentists, to provide comprehensive and holistic treatment for his patients. This approach ensures that the patient's needs are met from infancy to adulthood and considers factors beyond just teeth alignment. Dr. Sarver's artistry in orthodontics is also a crucial aspect of his practice. He discusses how his background in photography and a keen eye for aesthetics contribute to his ability to create beautiful smiles that harmonize with a patient's overall facial aesthetics. He shares a personal anecdote about a patient who, over time, decided to invest in veneers based on Dr. Sarver's artistic approach. In conclusion, Dr. David Sarver's podcast episode highlights his dedication to education, interdisciplinary care, and the artistic aspects of orthodontics. His "Mastering Orthodontics" platform aims to make orthodontic knowledge accessible to a wider audience, and he encourages dental professionals to embrace lifelong learning and collaboration for the benefit of patient care.

Welcome to another captivating episode of the Dental Slang Podcast! In this episode, we're delving into the fascinating world of tooth wear with none other than the esteemed Dr. Andrea Shepperson, a leading dentist and educator hailing from the picturesque shores of New Zealand. Dr. Shepperson has dedicated her career to the intricate study of tooth wear and the interdisciplinary reconstruction of worn dentition. As she takes us on her journey, her passion for unraveling the mysteries of this dental condition shines through, and she makes a compelling case for going beyond the conventional teachings. Tooth wear, she reveals, is not a one-size-fits-all phenomenon. It can range from mild to severe cases and is often erroneously attributed to bruxism. Dr. Shepperson emphasizes the critical importance of distinguishing between various forms of tooth wear, urging us to comprehend the nuanced differences between adaptive and active wear. This episode isn't just for seasoned dentists; it's a goldmine of knowledge for newcomers too. Dr. Shepperson dives deep into the multifaceted aspects of tooth wear – from its origins to risk assessment and management strategies. She's on a mission to overhaul the way we educate dentists, going well beyond what's traditionally covered in dental school. Dr. Shepperson's teaching facility on the enchanting Waiheke Island in New Zealand offers mentoring programs and courses dedicated to unraveling the mysteries of tooth wear. But it's not just about understanding the science – it's about communicating it effectively. Dr. Shepperson underscores the importance of using plain language to help patients grasp the causes and effects of tooth wear. Plus, she's got her sights set on patients' diets, including those tempting fad diets and acidic beverages that can exacerbate the condition. She also opens our eyes to the possibility of using salivary biomarker tests for diagnosing conditions like gastric reflux, taking dental diagnostics to a whole new level. And when it comes to tracking tooth wear progression, she's all in for leveraging digital technology. This isn't just about staying on top of the latest trends; it's about using these tools to ensure accurate diagnoses and data-driven treatment choices. In conclusion, this episode is your ticket to a deeper understanding of tooth wear. Dr. Shepperson's wisdom is a compass guiding us towards more effective patient communication, digital innovation, and, of course, better care. Oh, and don't forget to check out her comprehensive book on tooth wear, a must-have resource for dental professionals eager to expand their knowledge. And for those eager to connect with the brilliant Dr. Andrea Shepperson, head over to her website at andreashepperson.com and explore the wealth of wisdom she offers. If you're looking to dive deeper into tooth wear, her customized programs in New Zealand might just be the next step on your dental journey. Tune in, take notes, and get ready to revolutionize your approach to tooth wear – it's all right here on the Dental Slang Podcast!

In this podcast episode, get to know Chuck Cohen, the Managing Director of Benco Dental. Chuck tells us, first and foremost, that Benco Dental's perspective revolves around the concept of long-term thinking. Instead of fixating on quarterly results, they prioritize strategic decision-making and encourage dentists to view their relationship with distributors as partnerships rather than mere transactions. This entails sharing practice goals and objectives, with the distributor actively working to help dentists achieve these objectives, creating a value-added collaboration. "The interesting thing to me is that I think we are one of the best-kept secrets in dentistry. We're the third-largest player in the space and the largest family-owned, privately-held distributor. Patterson and Schein are bigger, but we're number three. Our market share is only 12%. So, that means, on average, eight out of 10 doctors may have heard of us but have never bought anything from us. I believe that we're a bit boutiquey in that way. We only want to grow as fast as we can provide great customer service, and that's been a conscious decision over the past 90 years—to maintain a high level of customer satisfaction. If we can also grow at the same time, that's good too. But customer satisfaction is what we live and die by." He goes on to explain how independent dental practices outperformed large dental chains and DSOs in the post-pandemic period, proving their resilience and efficiency. Despite initial fears of DSO dominance, independent practices demonstrated impressive survival and recovery. This highlights the effectiveness of dental infection control procedures and the entrepreneurial spirit of independent practices. Overall, the dental profession showcased its ability to adapt and thrive during and after the pandemic. In the ever-evolving landscape of dentistry, Benco Dental sees itself as a support system for both dentists and labs. A prime example is how to approach 3D printing. "3D printing is going to change every single thing about dentistry, no matter what specialty you're in, no matter whether you're a lab, a general dentist, an endodontist, you need a 3D printing strategy. There are many opportunities to make mistakes in a 3D printing strategy, and the 3D printing strategy for one practice is going to be different from somebody down the street. There are many opportunities to make a mistake. Who can you partner with that's willing to help you figure out how to apply all these new whiz-bang technologies effectively into your practice? You need someone who understands the landscape, someone who sees other offices, someone who says, 'You know what, that is what I would recommend for Dr. Smith down the street, but it's not for you. You need to do this instead because you're a smaller volume practice.' That's where a partner can come in and help guide you. There will be a lot of dentists who say, 'okay, I'm going to figure this out on my own,' and I can guarantee a lot of them are going to make mistakes along the way because it's complicated and it's changing quickly, and that's where a distributor rep and partner can make all the difference in the world," says Chuck. Moreover, Benco Dental places great importance on supporting small, innovative manufacturers. They actively seek out and champion these entrepreneurial companies, ensuring they receive the recognition and attention they deserve within the dental industry. Benco facilitates the entry of innovative products into the market and collaborates with larger manufacturers to provide cost-effective solutions, adapting to the industry's changing dynamics. Innovation is another cornerstone of Benco Dental's strategy. They actively seek out partnerships with innovative companies to bring cutting-edge products and services to dentists. One noteworthy example is their early collaboration with Overjet, a leading AI company in dentistry, enabling dentists to stay at the forefront of technological advances. Listen to the full podcast to hear all the details!  To learn more about Benco Dental, click here to read more about their history.  If you're interested in establishing a partnership with Benco Dental, click here to fill out the new customer setup form.  Benco Dental serves over 25,000 dental offices and dental laboratories across the United States. The company is based in northeastern Pennsylvania with locations in over 40 states. Benco Dental's approach centers on long-term thinking, a commitment to innovation, and fostering partnerships. These principles enable them to better serve the dental community and navigate the evolving landscape of the dental industry, ensuring they remain a key player in this dynamic field.

In this Dental Slang Podcast episode, we welcome Dr. Christopher Phelps. Dr. Phelps is an entrepreneur, general dentist, author, certified Colby trainer, and an expert in ethical influence and persuasion. He discusses his new role with Sunrise Dental Solutions, his extensive background in marketing, and his recently published book, "The Complete Book on Dental Marketing." Dr. Phelps shares his journey into the world of marketing and how he had to learn the hard way when he was spending $36,000 a month on marketing to acquire just 60 new patients. He eventually turned things around, increasing new patients to over 300 per month while reducing marketing costs by 74%. He emphasizes the importance of tracking marketing efforts to know what's working and what's not. Dr. Phelps also delves into the science of ethical influence and persuasion, discussing the principles that can help dentists improve case acceptance. His new book "The Complete Book on Dental Marketing" goes into detail describing the lead generation phase and the lost opportunity phase. Dr. Phelps explains the seven critical pillars for successful marketing, such as understanding the target market, crafting the right message, creating compelling offers, and selecting the right marketing medium. Learn more about the significance of addressing attrition in dental practices. He provides valuable insights into adapting marketing strategies during times of uncertainty. The episode concludes with Dr. Phelps sharing some dental slang terms related to marketing, including "A/B split testing" and "haystack marketing." He encourages dental professionals to reach out to him for coaching and offers a special gift for those interested in an hour-long consultation. Tune in to hear Dr. Christopher Phelps' expertise in dental marketing, his journey to success, the key principles outlined in his latest book, and valuable insights into improving dental practice marketing and case acceptance. To learn more about Dr. Phelps' lastest book, click here for more information.  "With this outstanding book, Dr. Phelps provides a masterclass on dental marketing. Employing compelling stories and convincing data, he reveals how powerful principles of marketing and psychology can be converted into actionable steps for increased patient satisfaction, loyalty, and growth. There's nothing else like it."