The TechDental Podcast

Dentistry has digitised records, imaging, compliance and reporting.Yet administrative pressure has never been higher. Clinicians are more burdened, clinical capacity is quietly eroding, and burnout continues to rise.So the real question is not whether we need more technology.It’s whether we’ve designed the operating system properly.In this episode of The TechDental Podcast, Dr Randeep Singh Gill speaks with Dr Suzan Abbas about why burnout in dentistry is not primarily a wellbeing issue, but a systems design failure.Suzan is a clinician by background and now works at enterprise level helping redesign documentation workflows using AI. This is not a conversation about hype or features. It is about reclaiming time, protecting clinical judgement and reducing hidden operational risk.Key themes discussed:• Why burnout is operational feedback, not personal weakness • How documentation functions as a silent capacity tax • The real difference between ambient AI and transcription • Why AI must support clinical judgement, not replace it • How leadership culture determines whether AI succeeds or fails • The governance questions every board should ask before adopting AI • The one metric that best reflects reclaimed clinical capacitySuzan explains that “you can’t mindfulness your way out of a broken operating model” and that AI does not remove responsibility, it concentrates it.For founders, DSO leaders and practice owners, this episode reframes AI not as a tool purchase, but as an operating system redesign.If you are serious about reducing burnout, protecting judgement and building scalable clinical systems, this conversation matters.Guest: Dr Suzan Abbas LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-suzan-a-9b3a05226/ Company: https://www.linkedin.com/company/heidiHost: Dr Randeep Singh Gill www.techdental.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-randeep-singh-gill-576580357/Email: info@techdental.comSubscribe for more conversations at the intersection of AI, systems design and dental business strategy.

Episode Title:Predictability Beats Growth: The Hidden System That Decides Who Wins Guest: Andy Sloan Managing Director, Dental EMEA, Agilio Software LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andysloanned/ Company: https://www.linkedin.com/company/agiliosoftwareHost: Dr Randeep Singh Gill Founder, The TechDental Podcast www.techdental.com info@techdental.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-randeep-singh-gill-576580357/Dentistry does not break because it grows.It breaks because it scales without control.In this episode of The TechDental Podcast, I sit down with Andy Sloan, Managing Director for Dental at Agilio Software, to unpack why scaling dentistry so often collapses under its own weight and what separates predictable, investor-ready organisations from reactive, firefighting ones.With more than 15 years operating inside high-growth dental technology environments and large-scale integrations, Andy brings lived experience from the sharp end of operational scale.We explore:What actually breaks first when a dental group moves beyond five practicesWhy variation compounds faster than leaders expectWhy you cannot buy growth before you buy controlHow technology adoption can amplify confusion instead of clarityWhy predictability beats growth in private equity conversationsWhere AI genuinely delivers value and where it is dangerously oversoldWhy operational AI often drives faster ROI than headline clinical innovationHow membership plans, recurring revenue, and structured systems influence valuationThe strategic thinking behind Agilio’s acquisition of Patient Plan DirectWhy systems thinking will become a core leadership skill in dentistryAndy is clear:“Predictability beats growth every time.”“AI will not fix unclear ownership and bad data. It will expose them.”“The value of AI is not intelligence. The value is focus.”This is a systems conversation.If you are building, acquiring, investing in, or governing dental organisations, this episode is essential listening.Subscribe to The TechDental Podcast for high-level discussions at the intersection of AI, data, governance, and business strategy in dentistry.

Episode SummaryDentistry does not have an AI problem.It has a workflow and decision-making problem.In this episode of The TechDental Podcast, Dr Randeep Singh Gill sits down with Adam Smith, Director at Boxly AI, to unpack where most practices quietly lose revenue and why simply adding more technology rarely fixes it.Drawing on real DSO data, Adam explains why missed calls, slow response times, and fragmented lead handling are symptoms, not root causes. The real leverage comes from understanding patient workflows end-to-end, standardising decision points, and deploying AI only where it meaningfully assists humans.This is a practical, systems-level conversation about how dental practices and groups can turn the front of house from a cost centre into a predictable growth engine without overwhelming teams or creating Frankenstein software stacks.What You’ll LearnWhy dentistry doesn’t have a phone problem, but a workflow problemHow response time alone can increase conversion by 3–7×The concept of assisted intelligence versus full automationWhere AI should replace admin and where humans must stay in the loopHow a DSO increased lead-to-seat conversion from 12% to over 33%Why most practices don’t need more marketing, just better follow-upThe single KPI leadership should track before deploying AIHow front-of-house roles will evolve into concierge-style positionsKey InsightAI does not create efficiency on its own.It amplifies the discipline of the systems underneath it.Practices that understand their data, workflows, and bottlenecks first will compound value.Those that don’t will simply automate inefficiency.GuestAdam SmithDirector, Boxly AILinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamsmithenquirybot/Company: https://www.linkedin.com/company/boxlyaiHostDr Randeep Singh GillFounder & Host, The TechDental PodcastWebsite: www.techdental.comEmail: info@techdental.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-randeep-singh-gill-576580357/About The TechDental PodcastThe TechDental Podcast is the strategic intelligence platform for leaders navigating AI, data, and operating-model change in dentistry.Each episode goes beyond tools and trends to explore the systems, decisions, and disciplines that determine who scales and who stalls.H0X4D1eqvHVVKpe0h1F1

AI Didn’t Fix Dentistry. Intelligence Will.How leaders cut through software noise, vendor hype, and AI confusionEpisode DescriptionThe dental industry isn’t short of AI tools.It’s short of intelligence about technology.In this episode of TechDental, Dr Randeep sits down with Andreas Augat, Founder of Viviscus Dental Partners and creator of DentAIware, the dental AI and software market intelligence platform mapping over 550 technologies across the global dental ecosystem.After a decade inside Straumann, Andreas saw the same pattern repeat itself:too many tools, too much hype, fragmented data, and leaders making high-stakes technology decisions without objective insight.This conversation goes beyond features and buzzwords.We explore why:AI adoption fails when foundations are weaksoftware overload is now a strategic risk for DSOs and multi-site groupsintelligence about technology matters more than the technology itselfinvestors increasingly view tech maturity as a proxy for operational qualityThis is a practical, high-signal discussion for practice owners, group leaders, operators, and investors navigating AI, data, and digital transformation in dentistry.Key Topics CoveredFrom Straumann to startup: lessons from scaling a €2bn global dental businessWhy the dental software market has become dangerously fragmentedThe real gap between “pen and paper” clinics and fully digital operationsWhy most AI tools fail: people, data, and operating foundationsArtificial Narrow Intelligence vs hype and replacement narrativesAI as a force for humanising dentistry, not dehumanising itHow leaders should evaluate technology through patient journeys and workflowsInteroperability, APIs, and why closed systems won’t surviveWhat investors really look for when assessing tech-enabled practicesWhy intelligence, not technology, is the new competitive edgeGuestAndreas AugatFounder – Viviscus Dental PartnersCreator – DentAIware (Dental AI & Software Market Intelligence)LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreas-augatDentAIware: https://www.linkedin.com/company/dentaiware/Viviscus Dental Partners:

Why Dental Education Is Broken And How AI Will Fix ItDental education was not designed for the world clinicians are operating in today.Clinical complexity has increased.Digital workflows are now standard.Patient expectations are higher than ever.Yet the way dentists are trained has not evolved at the same pace.In this episode of The TechDental Podcast, host Dr Randeep Singh Gill sits down with Dr Vishal Sharma, Director of Clinical Education and Operations at Spear Education, to unpack why dentistry has a structural education problem — and how AI, hybrid learning, and competency-based systems are reshaping the future of clinical training.This is a deep, operator-level conversation for founders, executives, and clinical leaders thinking about scale, consistency, and risk.Key Topics CoveredWhy dental education hasn’t kept pace with clinical and technological complexityThe post-pandemic skills gap facing early-career dentistsWhy traditional CPD and one-off courses fail at scaleThe limits of siloed, discipline-based trainingHybrid and decentralised learning models explainedHow AI enables objective, numerical skill assessmentCompetency-based progression vs hours-based educationWhy skill variance is a hidden risk when scaling dentistryHow DSOs can design role-based, standardised learning pathwaysThe future of immersive learning, AI, and VR in dental educationKey Insights from the ConversationDentistry does not have a motivation problem.It has a systems problem.As Dr Vishal Sharma explains, clinicians are graduating with less hands-on repetition, entering practices with higher expectations, and facing increasing complexity without structured pathways to build confidence and competence.AI does not replace education.It addresses the structural limitations education has struggled with at scale.By enabling objective skill measurement, decentralised practice with remote feedback, and progression based on demonstrated capability, AI-driven education systems improve predictability — the foundation of safe, scalable dentistry.Who This Episode Is ForDental founders and group ownersDSO executives and clinical directorsEducation leaders and innovatorsDentists navigating advanced workflows and AI adoptionInvestors and operators interested in scalable clinical systems Connect & Learn MoreHostDr Randeep Singh GillLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-randeep-singh-gill-576580357/Website: a...

The New Front Desk: How AI Turns Dental Admin into a Profit CentreThe front desk is no longer just an administrative function.It is becoming one of the most powerful growth levers inside modern dental practices.In this episode of The TechDental Podcast, host Dr Randeep Singh Gill sits down with Subhash Mishra, Managing Director UK & Ireland at Convene, to explore how AI, automation, and operational intelligence are transforming the dental front desk from a cost centre into a profit centre.Drawing on experience across consumer tech, healthcare, and large-scale enterprise systems, Subhash explains why front desk automation is not about replacing people, but about elevating teams, improving patient experience, and unlocking measurable financial returns.This is a practical, commercially grounded conversation for dental leaders, practice owners, DSOs, CFOs, and investors navigating the next phase of operational transformation.Key Topics CoveredWhy the front desk is the operational hub of the dental practiceHow AI and automation free up ~100 hours per practice per monthTurning reception teams into revenue and patient engagement teamsThe real ROI of front desk automation, beyond cost savingsWhy CFOs and investors increasingly see automation as a growth engineHow patient expectations from retail and hospitality are reshaping dentistryThe role of data standardisation in unlocking AI-driven workflowsWhy automation works best as augmentation, not replacementScaling technology across multi-site dental groups and DSOsWhat dentistry can learn from hotels, airports, and consumer techPractical Takeaways for Dental LeadersFront desk automation can deliver 6–7% revenue uplift when deployed correctlyManual admin hides significant costs in missed calls, underused capacity, and lost conversionsAI works best when paired with clear workflows and structured dataThe fastest ROI often comes from back-office and admin automation, not clinical toolsOperational consistency is a prerequisite for scaling any technologyLightning Round HighlightsThe biggest myth about AI in dentistryWhy AI should enhance teams, not replace themThe mindset shift the next generation of dental leaders must makeWhy borrowing best practices from hospitality can redefine patient experienceGuest...

Episode TitleHow Bupa is Redefining Tech-Enabled Dentistry Episode DescriptionIn this episode of The TechDental Podcast, Dr. Randeep Gill sits down with Mark Allan, GM of Bupa Dental Care, to unpack how one of the UK’s largest dental organisations is approaching AI, data, leadership, and workforce transformation at scale.This is a rare, behind-the-scenes conversation on what actually works when deploying technology across hundreds of practices, why data maturity matters more than shiny tools, and how leadership mindset shapes the future of corporate dentistry.A must-listen for dental executives, founders, investors, and operators building for scale.What We CoverWhy most large organisations fail at technology adoptionData maturity vs tool adoption – the real bottleneck in AIRolling out AI across 380+ practices with employed and self-employed cliniciansHow AI note-taking is already cutting admin time by ~50%Using X-ray AI to improve patient understanding and trustWhy structured data is the true long-term competitive advantageConnecting oral health data to whole-body healthcare insightsThe strategic intent behind Bupa’s Clinical Training AcademyWorkforce development as a driver of clinician attraction and retentionThe “Feeling at Ease” philosophy and patient trust at scaleLeadership lessons from running one of the UK’s largest dental networksWhy personalised, data-driven healthcare will arrive sooner than expectedKey TakeawaysAI does not fix broken processes; structure comes firstScaled dentistry requires flexibility, not rigid standardisationThe biggest gains from AI come from admin reduction and patient educationData silos are the silent killer of digital transformationLeadership alignment is built through listening, not mandatesDentistry is uniquely positioned to lead preventative, personalised healthcareGuestMark AllanGM, Bupa Dental CareMark leads nearly 400 practices across the UK, overseeing care for over one million NHS patients. His background spans insurance, finance, and healthcare leadership, bringing a rare blend of commercial discipline and purpose-driven strategy to corporate dentistry.Connect with Mark:LinkedIn Mark Allan - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-allan-02641b6/span...

Episode TitlePeople-First AI: The Leadership Framework Behind Scalable Dental TechEpisode SummaryAI adoption in dentistry is accelerating, but results remain inconsistent.In this episode of The TechDental Podcast, Dr Randeep is joined by Aleksandra Osipova, founder of Apricity Lab and former Chief AI Officer, to explore why most AI initiatives fail to scale and what leaders must do differently.This conversation focuses on people first AI, systems thinking, leadership maturity, and operational readiness. Aleksandra shares practical insights on how dental organisations can implement AI responsibly, build trust with teams, maintain data integrity, and create feedback driven systems that deliver measurable return on investment.This episode is essential listening for dental executives, founders, and leaders of growing groups who want to move beyond AI hype and build scalable, resilient technology strategies.What You Will LearnWhy AI does not fix broken processes and instead amplifies themWhat people first AI means in real organisational settingsHow systems thinking in dentistry applies directly to AI implementationWhy leadership mindset determines AI success more than technologyHow iteration, feedback loops, and KPIs drive sustainable AI outcomesWhy data integrity and governance are critical in healthcare AIHow to introduce AI without breaking culture, trust, or teamsThe leadership capabilities required to scale AI responsiblyKey Topics DiscussedAI hype versus operational reality in dentistryPeople first AI as a leadership frameworkSystems thinking and organisational readinessIterative AI rollout and continuous improvementMeasuring success through stable KPIsData bias, governance, and regulatory considerationsTrust, transparency, and employee engagementThe future of scalable, human centred AI in dental organisationsGuestAleksandra OsipovaFounder, Apricity LabFormer Chief AI OfficerFour time founder and AI strategistAleksandra advises organisations on how to design systems that allow AI to scale responsibly while enhancing human capability and decision making.Connect with the GuestLinkedIn (Personal): https://www.linkedin.com/in/aleksandra-osipova/LinkedIn (Company): a...

Episode TitleSubscription Dentistry, AI & the Playbook for Scalable Dental GroupsEpisode SummaryIn this episode of The TechDental Podcast, Dr. Randeep Singh Gill is joined by Matthew Hadman, Head of Dental Groups at Patient Plan Direct, to unpack what actually enables dental practices to scale into resilient, high-value groups.Matthew brings a ground-level view of consolidation, working closely with independent practices, emerging groups, and DSOs across the UK. This conversation moves beyond surface-level growth tactics and focuses on the operational foundations that determine whether scale creates leverage or chaos.You will hear a practical breakdown of:Why strategy and centralised teams must come before acquisition velocityHow subscription dentistry underpins EBITDA stability, valuation, and clinician retentionThe most common mistake practices make when converting NHS patients to private plansWhy white-labelled plans are a strategic asset for DSOs protecting brand equityWhere AI and automation will drive the biggest uplift in plan adoption and retentionThe leadership mindset required to scale without margin erosion or cultural driftThis episode is essential listening for practice owners, group leaders, operators, and investors navigating dentistry’s next growth phase.Key Topics CoveredScaling from 4–5 practices to 10+ without operational breakdownCentralised finance and operational teams as a growth prerequisiteSubscription revenue as an investor-grade signalNHS to private conversion without commoditising carePrevention-led dentistry as the core patient value propositionWhite-labelling vs corporate branding in DSOsAI-driven onboarding, nurturing, and retentionLeadership under consolidation and changeGuest BioMatthew Hadman is Head of Dental Groups at Patient Plan Direct, supporting hundreds of practices and DSOs with recurring revenue strategy, NHS-to-private conversion, and scalable membership plan infrastructure. He works closely with leadership teams navigating consolidation, operational maturity, and exit readiness.Connect with MatthewLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewhadman/Website: https://www.patientplandirect.co.ukAbout The TechDental PodcastThe TechDental Podcast explores how AI, automation, data, and modern operating models are reshaping dentistry’s business landscape. Featuring founders, operators, investors, and leaders building the future of dental care.Website: https://www.techdental.comEmail: info@techdental.comSubscribe, follow, and share to stay ahead of where dentistry meets technology and scalable business thinking.

Episode SummaryIn this episode, we explore one of the most overlooked drivers of success inside dental groups: the human architecture behind the leadership team. While DSOs invest heavily in equipment, digital tools and infrastructure, very few measure the psychological and behavioural alignment of the people responsible for scaling the organisation.Soma Pirityi, Forbes 30 Under 30, VC-turned-founder and CEO of Etter Technologies, joins us to break down how psychometric AI is transforming investment decisions, organisational performance and board-level dynamics. With over 10,000 startup teams analysed and 150 top-tier investors interviewed, Soma exposes why 70% of leadership teams are fundamentally misaligned without realising it.For dental CEOs, PE-backed groups and high-growth operators, this conversation reframes how you think about team chemistry, succession, roll-ups and valuation.What We Cover• Why 65% of businesses fail due to team-related issues, not strategy or capital• The “Big 20” traits that predict whether leadership teams succeed or collapse• How psychometric AI quantifies dynamics like resilience, risk appetite and alignment• How misalignment shows up in dental groups (vision, growth speed, hiring philosophy, leadership style)• The rich vs king paradigm and why founders often unknowingly pull in opposite directions• How private equity uses psychometric AI to de-risk deals and validate leadership teams• How DSOs can integrate ETA’s reporting into board meetings, hiring and scaling playbooks• Why perfectionism is the biggest hidden barrier in healthcare, biotech and med-tech founders• The future of due diligence: psychometric AI becoming a standard alongside financial DD• Leadership lessons from Jobs vs Gates: why culture-fit beats raw talentWhy This Matters for Dental LeadersDental groups make multi-million-pound decisions based on financials and operational data, but rarely measure the behavioural engine driving those numbers.Soma argues that the next five years will see psychometric AI become a standard requirement for investment, PE roll-ups and CEO evaluation.This is foundational listening for:• CEOs of private dental groups• PE-backed DSOs• Multi-site operators• Clinical directors transitioning to commercial leadership• Investors evaluating dental consolidators• Founders preparing for fundraising, exits or board restructuringGuest LinksConnect with Soma:• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/soma-benedek-pirityi/• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/eta-technologies/• Website: ETA Technologies – https://www.eta-technologies.com/About The TechDental PodcastHosted by Dr Randeep Singh Gill, The TechDental Podcast explores the intersection of dentistry, AI and intelligent business thinking, with conversations for founders, operators, investors and innovators shaping the future of dental care.www.techdental.cominfo@techdental.comListen, Subscribe & ShareIf you found this episode valuable, please share it with a dental leader or founder who needs to hear it.Follow for weekly insights on AI, leadership and the future of tech-enabled dentistry.AI in dentistry, dental leadership, DSO strategy, dental private equity, psychometric AI, leadership alignment, dental group scaling, startup teams, AI for dental business, dental M&A, DSO board strategy, behavioural...

EPISODE SHOW NOTESTitle: AI Doesn’t Fix Chaos — It Exposes It: The Clarity Blueprint with Alexander Michael GittensIn today’s episode, global strategist and AI researcher Alexander Michael Gittens joins me to break down one of the most important truths in modern dentistry:AI doesn’t solve chaos. It multiplies it.Across 400+ organisations and billions in value created, Alexander has seen the same pattern repeat:clarity, character and culture determine whether AI accelerates performance — or exposes every weakness in your operation.This conversation goes deep into strategy, trustworthy AI systems, scaling DSOs, valuation psychology, and the mindset that separates fragile organisations from scalable ones.If you’re a practice owner, DSO leader or operator navigating AI transformation, this is one of the most important episodes you’ll listen to this year.What You Will LearnClarity, operations & the “Clarity Gap”:Why undocumented workflows silently destroy ROIHow fragmented habits cause DSOs to lose control as they growThe difference between roles, responsibilities and outcomesWhy clarity is the real engine of scale — not technologyTrustworthy AI & system design:Why AI exposes your operational weaknesses before improving anythingHow “human-in-the-loop” and “feedback-loop” models reduce riskWhy clean, consistent data is non-negotiableHow AI amplifies culture — good or badScaling DSOs & multi-site organisations:Why AI fails without mapped workflowsHow to design systems that can be copied and pasted across sitesWhy private equity buys trust, not just profitHow micro-behaviours inside practices compound into valuation outcomesLeadership, mindset & performance:Why culture determines whether teams accept or resist transformationThe link between character, consistency and EBITDAHow to align change with outcomes staff already care aboutHow clarity turns leadership into a scalable disciplinePersonal philosophy and resilience:How Viktor Frankl’s work shaped AMG’s leadership worldviewWhy life is “10% what happens and 90% how you respond”The formula for being the “Best Possible Me × Biggest Positive Impact”How to choose what to say yes to — and eliminate everything elseKey Quotes“AI doesn’t fix chaos — it exposes it.”“Trust is competence × character × consistency.”“Clarity is the bridge between confusion and scale.”“Every action should be treated like it’s the only thing your legacy is judged on.”“AI will multiply your culture before it ever improves your operations.”Timestamps00:00 Intro01:00 Alexander’s journey from global strategy to AI research02:00 What separates scalable vs fragile organisations03:20 Why clarity is the foundation of all transformation05:00 AI reveals your operational weaknesses06:00 Trustworthy AI: human-in-the-loop & feedback-loop models08:30 The “I-AMG” digital twin & quality scoring framework10:00 The Clarity Gap inside DSOs12:00 How to build repeatable, copy-and-paste systems14:00 Private equity, trust and valuation psychology17:00 The cultural impact of AI19:00 Why teams resist change21:00 Aligning technology with staff outcomes23:00 Mindset, purpose and Viktor Frankl28:00 The formula: Best Possible Me × Biggest Positive Impact33:00 How to choose...

Title:AI, Data & The Future of Scalable Dentistry with Ross Drynan (Henry Schein One)Episode SummaryIn this episode, Ross Drynan, Head of Partnerships at Henry Schein One, joins us to break down the real mechanics of digital transformation in dentistry. After 11 years inside one of the industry’s most influential software organisations, Ross has seen thousands of practices scale, stall, and reinvent themselves. This conversation cuts through the noise and focuses on what actually drives performance: data quality, leadership, team engagement, and the right partnerships.We explore how AI is shifting from hype to measurable operational value, why data hygiene is now a strategic advantage, how cloud PMS ecosystems unlock innovation, and why people and behaviour change remain the hardest part of transformation. This is a practical, grounded and insight rich discussion for forward thinking dental leaders.What You Will LearnModern dental business transformation:Why consistency beats intensity in growthThe role of culture, team engagement and behavioural standardsThe two core KPIs that underpin every high performing practiceHow poor data hygiene blocks innovation and multiplies operational chaosAI, automation and the future of workflows:Where AI provides real value today inside dental practicesWhy AI cannot fix bad data and why data consistency is now essentialHow to use AI for admin reduction so humans can focus on patientsThe progression from LLMs to full ecosystem automationCloud PMS and the new innovation ecosystem:Why cloud unlocks integrations that legacy on premise systems cannotHow to migrate responsibly without disrupting patient trustHow DSOs can modernise at scale without “open heart surgery”The difference between specialised partners and PMS bloatLeadership and high performing teams:Why digital projects fail when humans are not preparedHow to build a vision and strategy with your teamThe importance of communication, training and shared purposeHow to eliminate friction by aligning people, workflows and missionKey Quotes“Technology is just a tool. What matters is leadership, vision and an engaged team.”“AI will touch everything in dentistry. Not next year, but definitely in the next 5 to 10.”“Without clean data, AI does nothing but multiply the chaos.”“You cannot be the best at everything. Partnerships are the growth engine for the next decade.”Timestamps00:00 Intro02:00 Ross on 11 years inside Henry Schein One03:20 What really drives practice performance05:40 Leadership, culture and behavioural standards06:50 No fluff business transformation09:40 Data hygiene and AI readiness10:20 Where AI provides value today12:30 The future of AI in dentistry15:20 Data consistency, cloud migration and modernisation20:10 Digital transformation for larger groups and DSOs25:00 Why software projects fail29:30 The 47 percent revenue uplift from integrated systems32:00 Partnerships, APIs and the new ecosystem35:00 Quick fire round39:00 Where to connect with RossAbout the GuestRoss DrynanHead of Partnerships, Henry Schein OneRoss has spent more than a decade helping practices modernise through technology, data standardisation and behaviour change. He works across cloud PMS, APIs, integrations and strategic partnerships that enable dental practices to innovate at scale....

In this episode, Dr Randeep Singh Gill sits down with Rasnaam Singh Tiwana, founder of Dentstock, to unpack how data, automation and AI are reshaping procurement, decision-making and operational efficiency in independent dental practices.Rasnaam shares the origin of Dentstock, built during the chaos of post-COVID supply chain disruption, and explains why procurement has remained overlooked for decades. He breaks down how practices routinely overspend, how small data points lead to huge operational wins, and why predictive, transparent, supplier-agnostic procurement is becoming a strategic superpower for the next generation of dental owners.This conversation goes deep into AI as a founder tool, the mindset required to build in the cognitive age, and what independents can learn from the corporate DSO playbook without losing their identity.What we coverWhy procurement has been overlooked and misunderstoodHow Dentstock helps practices save 15–25% on costsOperational blind spots in independent practicesHow small data points lead to large financial gainsThe rise of AI as a “co-pilot” in dental operationsHow to respect clinical freedom while improving efficiencyWhy corporates win on systems and dataHow independents can close the gap without losing cultureThe founder mindset needed to innovate in difficult timesRasnaam’s take on the future of procurement and automationKey insightsMost practices don’t know what they spend or whyCost control isn’t a spreadsheet task; it’s operational intelligenceAI is best used as an advisor, not an autonomous agentTransparency is the new currency in procurementCommunity-driven intelligence beats traditional supplier repsClinical freedom + data-driven decision-making = competitive advantageGuest Bio: Rasnaam Singh TiwanaRasnaam is the founder of Dentstock, a UK-based group purchasing and procurement optimisation company helping independent practices achieve DSO-level operational intelligence. He brings experience from clinical practice, health-tech and community leadership and is passionate about transparency, cost control and modernising dental operations.Connect with RasnaamWebsite: https://www.dentstock.co.ukLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/dentstockConnect with TechDentalWebsite: https://www.techdental.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/techdentalmediaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-techdental-podcastEmail: info@techdental.comIf you enjoyed this episodePlease follow, rate and review The TechDental Podcast on Apple Podcasts. It helps more dental innovators find conversations like this.

Why fear something when it could be your biggest advantage? In this episode of The TechDental Podcast, Dr Randeep sits down with Sophie Lovett and Ashley King from Pearl AI, the world’s leading dental AI diagnostics company, to explore how technology is transforming patient trust, clinical accuracy, and global compliance. What You’ll Learn:How AI improves diagnostic accuracy while strengthening patient relationshipsThe critical role of trust, regulation, and transparency in AI adoptionWhy education—not resistance—is key to responsible AI integrationHow to introduce AI into your practice ethically and effectivelyThe leadership lessons behind Pearl’s global growthWhy the future of dentistry is collaborative, not automatedAbout the Guests:Sophie Lovett is the International Channel Sales Manager at Pearl AI, working with dental practices and partners across Europe to implement AI-driven diagnostic solutions. With a background in logistics and finance, Sophie bridges the gap between technology and patient care, helping clinicians integrate innovation responsibly.Ashley King is the Head of International Partnerships at Pearl AI, leading the company’s global expansion and compliance efforts. With experience in healthcare technology startups, Ashley specialises in aligning AI innovation with ethical, regulatory, and clinical standards to improve patient outcomes worldwide.If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review it on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube Podcasts. Instructions on how to do this are here.

Dentistry is changing not only through digital tools but through a shift in how clinicians and founders think about time, trust, and technology.In this bonus conversation, Dr Randeep Singh Gill and serial entrepreneur Sergey Osipov, founder of Placy, go deeper into what AI means for the real world of practice building. Sergey draws on his experience in real estate and tech to explain how automation is transforming entire sectors, while Dr Randeep connects those lessons to the dental profession.They discuss how AI can reallocate human potential, moving team members from repetitive administrative work to strategic, revenue-driving roles. Both agree the true challenge is not replacing people, but helping them trust AI enough to use it fully.Dr Randeep also shares a behind-the-scenes look at building DentCFO, his AI-powered financial intelligence platform designed to give independent dental practices the same insights and capabilities as large corporate groups. He opens up about investing his own savings, working with fractional teams, and navigating compliance and scalability challenges in healthcare tech.They also touch on what success and sustainability mean for founders today, the long, often misunderstood journey of entrepreneurship, and how AI might shorten that path without stripping away the human element that makes it worthwhile.This is a rare and honest exchange between two founders at the frontier of AI, leadership, and trust.Bonus Episode Highlights00:02:10 Automation and the “High-Friction, Low-Judgement” RuleSergey describes how AI is transforming real estate by automating repetitive tasks. He introduces his concept of “high-friction, low-judgement jobs”—routine, manual actions like sending links or handling listings—which are the first to be automated. His perspective illustrates how industries beyond dentistry are preparing for similar workforce shifts.00:04:59 Founding Dent CFO: Building AI from the Ground UpDr Randeep shares his entrepreneurial journey behind DentaCFO, an AI-powered financial platform for dental practices. After a neck injury ended his clinical career, he channelled his industry knowledge into building a truly AI-first product from scratch, prioritising scalability, GDPR compliance, and robust data security. His story highlights resilience and the power of turning adversity into innovation.00:10:40 The True Cost of Building an MVPDrawing on his own startup experience, Sergey reveals the steep costs of developing an MVP (minimum viable product), estimating that even early-stage prototypes can exceed €500,000–€1 million. He notes that investors primarily back people rather than ideas at this stage, as tangible products barely exist. His comments emphasise the gap between AI hype and the financial realities of building real, scalable solutions.00:14:15 The Long Game of EntrepreneurshipReflecting on startup culture, Dr Randeep discusses how entrepreneurship is often romanticised as a quick win, when in reality, building something meaningful takes time and trust. He highlights the importance of nurturing markets, educating users, and earning credibility—reminding aspiring founders that sustainable success is a marathon, not a sprint.00:16:11 The Evolution of Start-Ups: From Servers to “LEGO-Style” CompaniesSergey compares launching a startup twenty years ago with today’s streamlined process. He recalls when founders had to manually configure servers and emails, whereas now platforms like Google Workspace and AWS make setup almost instantaneous. He celebrates the new “fractional approach”—assembling a company like LEGO using affordable, modular tools—which has democratised...

As industries built on trust begin to intersect with artificial intelligence, new questions emerge about what should be automated and what must remain human. In this episode of The TechDental Podcast, Dr Randeep Singh Gill speaks with Sergey Osipov, co-founder of Placy AI and one of Europe’s most seasoned tech entrepreneurs, to explore how automation is redefining both real estate and dentistry. Drawing on his experience building and exiting multiple companies, including a billion-dollar prop-tech IPO, Sergey explains how AI agents are changing the way businesses operate, recovering up to 30% of lost leads, improving front-desk efficiency, and creating the transparency modern clients expect.Sergey shares why trust remains the greatest barrier to AI adoption and why simply adding tools will not deliver transformation. Together, they outline what an AI-ready business looks like: clear systems, measurable data, and a culture that balances automation with empathy. For dental leaders, this episode offers a grounded roadmap for building scalable, tech-enabled practices that keep the human touch at the centre of care.What You’ll Learn:How AI agents are redefining customer experience across real estate and healthcareWhy up to 30 per cent of leads are lost, and how automation can close that gapWhat it means to build a truly AI-ready practice rather than add another toolHow trust, transparency, and data discipline drive sustainable adoptionThe difference between replacing people and reallocating human focusWhy leadership mindset, not technology, determines the success of automationHow human connection remains the foundation of every future-proof businessAbout the Guest:Sergey Osipov is a seasoned technology entrepreneur and co-founder of Placy AI, a company transforming real estate through intelligent automation. With over twenty years of experience building and scaling tech ventures, Sergey has led companies across ad-tech, digital marketing, and prop-tech. He co-founded Cian, one of Europe’s largest real estate platforms, which achieved a $1.1 billion IPO on the New York Stock Exchange. Known for his ability to anticipate and act on industry shifts, Sergey has a track record of turning emerging technologies into practical, high-impact businesses. At Placy AI, he focuses on creating AI-powered agents that enhance efficiency, capture missed opportunities, and redefine how traditional service industries operate. Driven by curiosity and precision, Sergey continues to explore how human intelligence and artificial intelligence can work together to build smarter, more scalable enterprises.If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review it on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube Podcasts. Instructions on how to do this are here.

Most dental students are focused on passing exams. Afeef Hadi is building platforms, hosting events, and leading teams while still in his second year at King’s College London. In this exclusive TechDental bonus episode, he explains the philosophy and systems behind that output, from moving the clock off his screen to enter 12-hour deep-work sessions, to switching between Einstein’s “objective time” and Bergson’s “experiential time” to stay both productive and fulfilled.Afeef also discusses his med-tech projects, including an AI-driven ambulatory blood pressure monitor, and how these experiences inform his vision for applying AI across both the clinical and business sides of dentistry. He sees AI not just in radiograph analysis but in treatment planning, phone systems, and business functions where young professionals can leverage technology to make smarter decisions earlier.Networking is another cornerstone of his approach. Having logged over 400 high-quality conversations, Afeef explains why the key to connection is understanding intention, not ticking off contacts. He also shares why dentistry can and should grow to the scale of pharmacy and veterinary medicine, with greater consolidation, investor appetite, and specialist hubs worldwide.This is a candid, behind-the-scenes look at how one young leader is reframing time, technology, and networks to shape the future of dentistry.About the GuestAfeef Hadi is a second-year dental student at King’s College London and co-founder of The Young Dentist, a fast-growing platform designed to bridge the gap between dental school and real-world practice. Beyond his studies, Afeef has led international med-tech projects, won innovation challenges, and hosted over 400 networking conversations to understand how health, business, and technology intersect. He has held leadership roles from Director of Finance at a Young Enterprise UK finalist company to coordinating international teams on AI-powered solutions. Afeef is passionate about helping young clinicians develop the non-clinical skills, from branding to business thinking, that will define the next generation of dental professionals.

Many dental students graduate highly skilled in clinical techniques but underexposed to the wider realities of business, technology and communication that shape modern practice. While education has advanced, too few opportunities exist for young clinicians to learn the professional and entrepreneurial skills needed to lead with confidence.In this episode of The TechDental Podcast, host Dr Randeep Singh Gill speaks with Afeef Hadi, co-founder of The Young Dentist and one of the most promising emerging voices in UK dentistry. Now in his second year at King’s College London, Afeef is already helping students bridge the gap between dental school and real-world practice through community, collaboration and technology. He shares how his experience developing an AI-powered documentation concept, MedEcho, shaped his belief that innovation can enhance patient care, and why communication, branding and networking are fast becoming core skills for the next generation of clinicians. From his reflections on student life at King’s to the growing appetite for technology among young professionals, Afeef offers a grounded perspective on how the future of dentistry is being built by those still in training.What You’ll Learn:Why The Young Dentist was created and the gap it addresses between education and practiceHow AI and digital innovation are helping shape the next generation of cliniciansThe role of communication and ethical selling in building patient trustHow networking and personal branding accelerate early career growthWhy non-clinical skills are as essential as clinical competenceWhat dental schools can learn from entrepreneurial thinkingHow curiosity and community are transforming the path from student to professionalAbout the Guest: Afeef Hadi is the co-founder of The Young Dentist, a fast-growing platform helping dental students and young professionals bridge the gap between education and real-world practice. A second-year dental student at King’s College London, Afeef is already recognised as one of the most promising emerging voices in UK dentistry, combining curiosity, communication and innovation to inspire his generation of clinicians. His early career includes co-developing MedEcho, an AI-powered documentation concept designed to streamline NHS note-taking and save clinical time. Beyond dentistry, Afeef has held leadership roles in student enterprise, reaching the UK finals of Young Enterprise and earning national recognition for sustainability and business innovation. He also holds Bronze, Silver and Gold Duke of Edinburgh Awards. Through The Young Dentist, Afeef champions the non-clinical skills that define modern dentistry in communication, technology and community. His work connects students, educators, and industry leaders, showing that the next generation of clinicians can lead with clarity and confidence long before graduation.If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review it on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube Podcasts. Instructions on how to do this are here.

Partnerships in dentistry are changing. Gone are the days when suppliers could rely on trade shows to build relationships. Instead, Adrian Dray argues, practices and DSOs are now looking for visible ambassadors who represent their companies with authenticity, credibility, and commitment. Senior leaders aren’t waiting at the booths; they’re watching on LinkedIn, Facebook, and digital communities where reputation is built in real time.Adrian also explores the high-stakes world of compliance, sharing stories of ransomware attacks, “data lemons” in acquisitions, and why a risk-based approach with clear accountability protects both patient data and practice value. He warns that poor compliance isn’t just about fines; it can destroy trust and even derail deals.Finally, Adrian reflects on the hype cycle around AI. From FOMO (fear of missing out) to FOMU (fear of messing up), he explains why early adoption without due diligence can damage reputations, but also why practical AI tools, from telephony to recall automation, will become essential for efficiency. The human touch, however, will always remain central to patient care.About the GuestAdrian Dray is the UK Director of Partnerships at CareStack, the all-in-one cloud platform transforming how dental practices manage operations and patient engagement. A trusted voice in UK dental tech, Adrian brings a rare mix of compliance expertise, AI innovation, and strategic growth insight. Before joining CareStack, he served as Group Data Protection Officer at IDH (mydentist), advised dental groups on GDPR, acquisitions, and systems integration, and later held senior privacy roles in the financial sector, including the Royal Bank of Canada. This cross-sector experience gives him a sharp perspective on how risk management and technology adoption intersect in dentistry. At CareStack, Adrian helps practices and dental groups move beyond outdated, fragmented systems by implementing cloud-native tools designed for scale. He also leads the rollout of VoiceStack, the UK’s only AI phone system trained on millions of real dental patient calls, giving practice leaders visibility into patient demand and front-desk performance like never before. Known for his straight-talking, practical approach, Adrian is passionate about helping dental leaders cut through hype, avoid costly compliance mistakes, and adopt technology that delivers measurable results.

Many dental practices are still running on outdated systems that create bottlenecks, limit growth, and leave compliance gaps unaddressed. While technology has advanced, too many practices are left paying the ‘dental tax’ for software that was never designed with dentistry in mind.In this episode of The TechDental Podcast, host Dr Randeep Singh Gill speaks with Adrian Dray, UK Director of Partnerships at CareStack and one of the leading voices in UK dental tech. With a career that spans group data protection at IDH, GDPR consultancy, and senior privacy leadership in the banking sector, Adrian brings a rare combination of compliance expertise and strategic insight. Today, he helps dental groups and practices adopt CareStack’s cloud-native platform and its AI-powered phone system, VoiceStack, tools designed to solve the real pain points of growth, efficiency, and patient engagement. From uncovering why so many practices don’t know how many new patient calls convert into appointments, to explaining how scalable architecture helps micro-DSOs grow from five to fifty sites, Adrian offers a clear-eyed look at where technology is genuinely helping and where complacency holds practices back.What You’ll Learn:Why legacy systems create risk and waste in dental practicesHow CareStack’s cloud architecture supports fast, scalable growthThe compliance pitfalls to watch when adopting new technologyWhy telephone calls are the most overlooked growth lever in dentistryHow AI telephony exposes conversion leaks and guides better decisionsThe role of continuous improvement in avoiding complacencyWhat separates practices that thrive with AI from those that fall behindAbout the Guest:Adrian Dray is the UK Director of Partnerships at CareStack, the all-in-one cloud platform transforming how dental practices manage operations and patient engagement. A trusted voice in UK dental tech, Adrian brings a rare mix of compliance expertise, AI innovation, and strategic growth insight. Before joining CareStack, he served as Group Data Protection Officer at IDH (mydentist), advised dental groups on GDPR, acquisitions, and systems integration, and later held senior privacy roles in the financial sector, including the Royal Bank of Canada. This cross-sector experience gives him a sharp perspective on how risk management and technology adoption intersect in dentistry. At CareStack, Adrian helps practices and dental groups move beyond outdated, fragmented systems by implementing cloud-native tools designed for scale. He also leads the rollout of VoiceStack, the UK’s only AI phone system trained on millions of real dental patient calls, giving practice leaders visibility into patient demand and front-desk performance like never before. Known for his straight-talking, practical approach, Adrian is passionate about helping dental leaders cut through hype, avoid costly compliance mistakes, and adopt technology that delivers measurable results.If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review it on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube Podcasts. Instructions on how to do this are here.