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The Thriving Dentist Show by Gary Takacs guides dental practice owners and dentists in creating a profitable practice with financial independence while delivering hallmark-level quality of care.
Gary's lively discussions run the gamut from eye-opening lessons for you to become successful.
Gary's lively discussions run the gamut from eye-opening lessons for you to become successful.
732 Episodes
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What does it truly take to be happy as a dentist? In this powerful and reflective episode of The Thriving Dentist Show, Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah explore why so many dentists feel burned out, unfulfilled, or disconnected from the profession they once loved and what can be done to change that. Drawing from decades of experience working with thousands of dental practice owners, Gary shares why chasing the wrong definition of success often leads to dissatisfaction, how comparison and PPO dependence contribute to burnout, and why clarity, purpose, and balance matter more than ever. Together, Gary and Naren unpack practical habits, mindset shifts, and systems that help dentists regain control of their time, energy, and professional joy.
In this episode of The Thriving Dentist Show, Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah explore how dental practices can grow without adding more dental insurance plans. They unpack the real cost of PPO participation, share proven systems that support insurance independence, and explain how strategic marketing attracts patients who value quality care. The episode also features a listener contribution from Dr. Darryl Burke, who discusses increasing clinical value through implant dentistry and investing in skills that elevate profitability and professional satisfaction.
Start 2026 with clarity and confidence. In this episode, Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah share five key decisions every dentist should make to build a more profitable, less stressful practice this year. From setting clear goals to reducing PPO dependence, these strategies are simple, actionable, and proven to work. You'll also learn how to track the right numbers, build a stronger team, and grow high-value services that patients want. Whether you're looking to grow by 10% or just gain more control over your time, this episode will help you create your best year yet.
In this special New Year's Eve episode, Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah reflect on the biggest lessons and transformations dental practices experienced in 2025. From navigating inflation, staffing shortages, and PPO pressures to leveraging marketing and AI, they unpack what set successful practices apart and where others fell short. Discover the key moves top practices made to not only survive but thrive, plus practical advice to make 2026 your most fulfilling and profitable year yet.
In this episode, Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah share a practical plan for dentists who want to move toward a 4-day workweek without sacrificing income. They explain the numbers behind cutting a day, how to raise production per day with smarter dental scheduling, stronger delegation, and a better procedure mix, and how hygiene production can drive steady practice growth—plus when adding an associate dentist actually fits. You'll also hear a quick clinical note from Dr. Omar Montaser on cleaning the isthmus in root canals using activated irrigation.
In this episode, Gary and Naren dive into a major growth opportunity for dentists—sleep and airway services. They talk about why sleep apnea is a serious but often untreated problem, and how dentists can help patients who struggle with CPAP machines by offering easier, more comfortable solutions. You'll also learn how to market these services using the right keywords, how to screen patients, and why this could be a great long-term fit for your practice. Whether you're just curious or ready to jump in, this episode is full of tips to help you start strong and grow with confidence.
In this inspiring conversation, Gary Takacs interviews Dr. Whitney Weiner, periodontist, multi-location practice owner, and Chief Growth Officer at Icon Dental Partners. They explore Whitney's journey from clinician to leader, the power of growing people from within, the oral–systemic connection, and the philosophy of "growth for the right reasons." With real stories of team members rising into transformative roles, insights on HR challenges, and a refreshing abundance-minded approach to dentistry, this episode is a must-listen for dentists committed to building meaningful, people-centered practices.
Your first impression used to happen at the front desk. Now, it happens online—before a patient ever calls. In this episode, Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah break down how your website, reviews, and Google profile shape trust in 2025. They explain how small online problems (like a slow site or outdated reviews) can silently push new patients away—and how to fix them. You'll also hear how to make your site faster, easier to use, and more welcoming—with tools like video, real photos, and better content. If you're ready to turn your website into your practice's best conversion tool, this episode is packed with clear, actionable tips to help you start now.
In this episode of The Thriving Dentist Show, Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah explore how dental teams can not only handle change - but thrive through it. From new technology to shifting patient behavior, change is everywhere. Gary shares real-life stories, mindset tips, and team strategies that help practices stay flexible, focused, and future-ready. You'll also hear a powerful marketing tip from Naren on the 3 biggest SEO mistakes most practices make (and how to avoid them). If you're looking to build a stronger, more confident team that grows with your practice - this episode is packed with simple, actionable advice you can use right away.
In this episode of The Thriving Dentist Show, host Gary Takacs sits down with Dr. Chris Phelps, dentist, entrepreneur, and certified trainer at the Cialdini Institute, to explore the science behind ethical persuasion and how it applies to dentistry. Dr. Phelps shares how understanding principles such as reciprocity, scarcity, consistency, liking, and social proof can elevate patient trust, improve case acceptance, and strengthen team communication. He also discusses the difference between persuasion and coercion, the power of creating the right mindset before communication (persuasion), and how to ethically apply these concepts in daily practice. Listeners will gain actionable insights into transforming their practice culture through psychology-driven communication and learn how to access training directly from the Cialdini Institute.
In this episode of The Thriving Dentist Show, Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah share how to fast-track your dental team's performance in just 90 days using a focused framework inspired by The 12-Week Year. Discover how short-term goals drive long-term success as Gary explains how to prioritize the right objectives, motivate your team through purpose-driven leadership, and use check-ins to sustain accountability. From improving case acceptance and handling emergencies effectively to measuring KPIs like the Accounts Receivable Ratio, this conversation offers practical, proven steps to help your team work smarter, stay aligned, and achieve measurable growth.
In this episode of the Thriving Dentist Show, Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah share real-world strategies to fix a weak dental schedule and keep your practice thriving all year long. Learn how to overcome slow months, reactivate hygiene patients, follow up on unscheduled treatment, and use same-day dentistry to fill your chairs fast. You'll also hear a powerful Clinical Tip from Dr. Raabiha Maan of London on how to build stronger patient trust by slowing down your exams and focusing on connection over pressure. Whether your schedule feels light or you just want to grow production, this episode gives you simple, proven steps to boost appointments, reduce stress, and achieve steady dental practice growth.
In this eye-opening episode of The Thriving Dentist Show, host Gary Takacs uncovers a shocking truth about dental insurance that most professionals aren't aware of — only 2.8% of patients with dental insurance use their full annual benefit. Gary explains why this matters, how insurance companies profit from unused benefits, and what steps dentists can take to better educate their patients. He also discusses practical strategies for reducing insurance dependence, improving call conversion rates, and creating stronger patient connections. This episode sheds light on the hidden dynamics of dental insurance and empowers dental professionals to take proactive steps toward greater independence and profitability. If you're ready to understand the real impact of dental insurance on your practice and how to create long-term success, this is an episode you don't want to miss.
In this episode of the Thriving Dentist Show, host Gary Takacs welcomes Dr. Wardah Inam, CEO and Co-Founder of Overjet, the global leader in AI-powered dental technology. Discover how artificial intelligence is transforming modern dentistry - from analyzing x-rays with remarkable precision to improving case acceptance, insurance verification, and credentialing workflows. Dr. Inam reveals how Overjet's cutting-edge innovations are helping dental professionals deliver better patient care, reduce administrative stress, and increase profitability. Whether you're a dentist, hygienist, or dental team member, this episode will give you actionable insights into how AI can simplify workflows, enhance diagnostics, and help patients truly understand their oral health. Tune in now to learn how Overjet is helping practices work smarter, save time, and elevate the overall patient experience.
In this powerful episode of The Thriving Dentist Show, Gary Takacs reveals the common traits shared by thriving dental practices. Drawing from over 45 years of coaching and consulting experience, Gary outlines the seven goals of a thriving practice—from achieving financial independence and reducing insurance dependence to strengthening leadership and team satisfaction. You'll learn how to measure what matters, build a high-performance dental team, and leverage AI-driven marketing to stay ahead in 2025. Whether you're a solo practitioner or leading a multi-doctor office, this episode offers a proven framework to create your own version of success. Tune in now to discover what it really takes to build a thriving, profitable, and fulfilling dental practice!
In this episode of the Thriving Dentist Show, Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah reveal how patients decide within seconds whether your dental office is the right choice for them. Discover why attention spans are shrinking, how website design and trust cues shape first impressions, and which visual elements instantly turn browsers into booked patients. You'll learn actionable strategies to help your practice stand out - including: • Using authentic team photos and full-face smile transformations • Adding short, friendly welcome videos to build patient trust • Creating a mobile-first website that converts visitors fast • Leveraging Google reviews (10+ "love letter" reviews per month!) to boost credibility and social proof Whether you want to attract more high-quality patients, improve SEO performance, or increase call conversion rates, this episode is packed with insights to help your practice thrive in today's digital world. Listen now and transform your website into a patient-converting powerhouse!
Running a successful dental practice in 2025 takes more than production numbers. In this episode of the Thriving Dentist Show, Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah share the five essential metrics every dentist should track to build a profitable, patient-focused, and stress-free practice. Learn how to shift from production to profitability, reduce PPO dependence, boost patient loyalty, and keep a high-performing dental team you truly enjoy working with. We'll also cover practical strategies to protect your work-life balance so you can thrive in and out of the office. If you're ready to grow your dental practice, strengthen patient relationships, and achieve lasting financial freedom, this episode is for you.
In this episode of The Thriving Dentist Show, host Gary Takacs talks with Ian McNickle, CEO of Icon Dental Partners, about the shift from DSOs to Dental Partnership Organizations (DPOs) and how they're reshaping dentistry. Discover how true clinical autonomy, stronger ownership opportunities, and smart staffing solutions help dentists reduce insurance dependence and build lasting profitability. Whether you're planning a transition, scaling your practice, or seeking financial freedom, this episode is packed with proven strategies to support your career and lifestyle goals.
Struggling with patients rejecting periodontal therapy? In this episode, Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah share proven strategies to increase patient acceptance of conservative periodontal therapy, highlight the oral-systemic health connection, and provide simple verbal skills for hygienists to boost gum disease treatment acceptance and grow hygiene-driven production.
By 2025, almost one-third of US dentists are expected to resign from PPO plans. In this episode, Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah reveal why rising costs, wage pressures, and shrinking reimbursements are making PPO participation unsustainable—and how many practices are unknowingly losing $500k+ each year in write-offs. You'll also learn Gary's proven six-step blueprint to reduce insurance dependence without losing patients. Listen now to discover how to build a profitable, patient-centered practice without being controlled by PPOs.
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I’ve listened to several episodes of The Thriving Dentist Show, and what really stands out is how much emphasis Gary places on providing an exceptional level of care while still running a profitable, sustainable practice. That mindset is exactly what separates a clinic that merely treats patients from one that truly serves them. In real life, you can actually see the same philosophy reflected in clinics that invest heavily in technology, patient comfort, and comprehensive care — like https://www.anestident.it/en Instead of treating dentistry as a quick-turnover business, they focus on long-term oral health using modern diagnostics, minimally invasive techniques and fully individualized treatment plans. Their services span preventive care, implants, orthodontics, prosthetics, and aesthetic dentistry, which means a patient doesn’t have to bounce between multiple offices — everything is done by specialists under one roof. What’s even more impressive is that the patient experience is tre
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If you're into dental podcasts, The Thriving Dentist Show is definitely worth a listen. It’s packed with real stories, expert advice, and helpful tips for growing a successful dental practice. As someone who cares about finding a trustworthy dentist Bay Ridge, I found it super helpful to hear from professionals who are genuinely passionate about what they do. The episodes cover everything from patient communication to new technology in dentistry. It’s kind of like having a coffee chat with industry pros who’ve been through it all. I’ve even picked up a few ideas to bring up next time I visit my dentist Bay Ridge. Highly recommend giving it a try! Look More Here; https://newwavedentistry.com/
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I really enjoyed the latest episode! The insights shared about patient care and the evolving role of technology in dentistry were truly eye-opening. As a fellow dental professional, I’m always looking for ways to improve both patient experience and office efficiency. If anyone is looking for an exceptional dental team in Florida, I highly recommend checking out this dentist in Fort Lauderdale: https://newstardental.org/ . They offer top-notch care with a focus on comfort and innovation. Keep up the great work on the show!
The Thriving Dentist Show is a fantastic resource for anyone looking to enhance their dental practice. If you’re searching for top-notch dental care, check out the best dentist in Peshawar—your one-stop solution for all dental needs. They combine expertise with a personal touch to ensure you get the care you deserve! https://dentistpeshawar.pk/