The Golden Age of Orthodontics

We're excited to welcome Philippe Salah, a dental industry innovator, to the show today. He is the CEO of DentalMonitoringⓇ, a company leading the way in transforming orthodontic care. Their groundbreaking Smart STL solution is changing the game in digital orthodontics, from creating retainers to managing adjustments during treatment. This Smart STL technology has the potential to revolutionize the future of orthodontics. Philippe and his team recognized the current system's inefficiency for both treatment and the environment, and their goal was to create a more streamlined process. Take advantage of this episode to improve your practice's efficiency and patient satisfaction. Please note: Product availability, claims and regulatory status may differ across countries depending on local regulations. Contact your local DentalMonitoringⓇ representative for further information. IN THIS EPISODE: KEY TAKEAWAYS: RESOURCE LINKS People + Practice - Website Leon - Email Amy - Email People + Practice - Email Dental Monitoring - Website

What can be said to a patient who cannot afford braces due to financial constraints within their family? Fortunately, there are resources available to help. On today's episode, we'll introduce you to Smiles Change Lives, a non-profit organization dedicated to making braces accessible to children. For 27 years, Smiles Change Lives has helped countless children achieve healthy, beautiful smiles. The Vice President of Operations, Alexis Barclay, will delve into the program's details and explain how you can apply. We will also hear from Dr. Victoria Lynskey, an orthodontist with a decade of experience working with Smiles Change Lives. She'll share heartwarming stories about the program's impact and the joy of transforming a child's life through the gift of braces. Tune in and discover how Smiles Change Lives can bring a brighter future to children in need. IN THIS EPISODE: KEY TAKEAWAYS: RESOURCE LINKS People + Practice - Website Leon - Email Amy - Email People + Practice - Email Smiles Change Lives - Website Alexis Barclay - Email BIOGRAPHY: Alexis Barclay Raised across the pond in North London, Alexis moved to the US when he was just 17 years old. After living in Florida, he eventually made his way to Kansas City, where he’s been ever since. In 2007, Alexis joined Smiles Change Lives, working at its sister company, Embrace Smiles, a promotional products company. From there, he served as Director of Provider Services for 11 years. Currently, he serves as Vice President of Operations. When he’s not at work, you can find Alexis playing bass with one of Kansas City’s notable bands. He resides in Riverside, MO, with his wife, Brooklyn and three kids. QUOTES: “We work with our orthodontists, figuring out what the best thing for the practices are. We are very...

Have you had a lifelong vision to establish your own orthodontic practice, only to find obstacles such as financial constraints, roadblocks, and a scarcity of available practices hindering your pursuit? In 2020, Dr. Maggie Law embarked on her entrepreneurial journey, and she is eager to divulge insights into her experience. Maggie will candidly discuss the advantages of managing your own practice, shedding light on the positive aspects and the hurdles she encountered along the way. Tune in to this conversation, and you'll find inspiration and see Maggie's apparent joy for seeing her dream come true. Remember, there has never been a better time to be an orthodontist. IN THIS EPISODE: KEY TAKEAWAYS: RESOURCE LINKS People + Practice - Website Leon - Email Amy - Email People + Practice - Email Maggie Law - Instagram Orthodontics Startups - Facebook QUOTES: “I think one of the main reasons orthodontists want to have their practice is that we are hard workers, high achievers, goal-oriented and ultimately, working for somebody else long term is not what makes us happy.” Dr. Maggie Law “I always say that being an associate is great until one day it's not. And then when you get to that day where you're like, wow, I could be working hard for myself, or I can be working hard for somebody else, it's like this flip, and I think most people don't choose to do startups because it is the harder path.” Dr. Maggie Law

Feedback is the cornerstone of your practice’s professional standing. Both patients and referring doctors actively search for reviews, underscoring the pivotal role that effective review management plays in shaping and maintaining your good reputation. Today, Jessie Pressman, the Head of Consulting at People + Practice, will impart crucial insights into navigating patient reviews. Drawing upon her extensive experience in overseeing the reputations of orthodontists, Jessie will provide proven strategies for addressing negative feedback and offer guidance on responding to positive reviews. And remember, for forward-thinking Orthos, there has never been a better time to be an Orthodontist. It’s the Golden Age, so take advantage of it. IN THIS EPISODE: [0:00] Dr Leon introduces today’s topic: Managing Your Reviews with Jessie Pressman. [3:06] Jessie explains how managing a practice’s reputation has changed over the years and ways that you can collect positive feedback. [7:04] Jessie discusses what strategy and approach she has made to the People + Practice Program and gives examples of how her approach has resolved issues. [11:20] Jessie explains what to do and say when you get a negative review and why you never apologize. [15:47] Jessie outlines the times you don’t respond to a review and when to report them to Google. [19:31] Jessie recommends some tips regarding getting reviews and responding to them. KEY TAKEAWAYS: [4:13] There are ways to collect positive feedback from your patients. The tip is to ask for a review. When someone is happy, they don’t think of leaving a review. You have to ask by prompting the client for a review. [4:53] Google is the search engine where you should spend your time and energy cultivating and responding to reviews. Facebook is no longer the preferred platform to use. Google is King. [14:10] There are legal reasons you should never apologize for a patient's bad experience in the office. Be very careful that you do not violate HIPAA laws. RESOURCE LINKS People + Practice - Website Leon - Email Amy - Email People + Practice - Email Jessie Pressman - Email People + Practice Blog - Jessie Pressman BIOGRAPHY: NEW YORK, Oct. 3, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- People + Practice LLC, a leading marketing agency specializing in strategic consulting and brand development for healthcare practices, is thrilled to announce the appointment of Jessie Pressman as Head of Consulting. This strategic step signifies an ongoing commitment to enhancing consulting services, coupled with a robust...

Our special guest is Steven McEvoy, an IT Professional and Project Manager for MME Consulting, a computer company specializing in serving dental practices nationwide. Steve is here to discuss cyber security. He exposes the loopholes, but he also provides solutions. Orthodontic practices are lucrative, making them a prime target for hackers who can leverage you and hold your data as ransom. This episode is a must-listen-to protect your data from ransomware and bad actors. IN THIS EPISODE: [0:00] Dr Leon introduces today’s topic: Cyber Security. [4:04] Steve explains why an orthodontic practice is ripe for cyber attack. [6:53] Steve discusses antivirus programs and has suggestions on next-gen antivirus software for orthodontic practices. [11:19] Steve describes how a hacker can fool a staff member. [17:14] Listener, Mark Bronski, asks how to start protecting your practice from cyber attacks? [22:28] Steve discusses the value of staff training and using a password manager. [28:25] Steve discusses the question of having your information in the crowd. KEY TAKEAWAYS: [3:35] Why is an orthodontic practice a target for cyber security threats? [7:00] Do we still need antivirus software on my computer, and is it effective to fight off the next-gen cyber attacks? [11:11] How do you define this phenomenon? Is it phishing scams or social engineering? How do you define it? RESOURCE LINKS People + Practice - Website Leon - Email Amy - Email Steve McEvoy Email MME Consulting - Website QUOTES: “Every new ransomware attack is a unique thing. So an old school antivirus program was used to look for a particular pattern, an executable file that's coming in attached to an email. If it matched that pattern, it would stop it. But now it's a hacker that makes something that's completely dynamic. So there are better antivirus tools that are out there today. I refer to them as next-gen antiviruses, and they're available from multiple companies.” Steve McEvoy “All practices should be monitored. If someone's out shopping for one, the buzzword is an EDR. An EDR solution stands for endpoint detection and response. They're available from multiple companies like Sentinel 1 and WatchGuard.” - Steve McEvoy

We're thrilled to welcome Trey Lawrence today as our special guest. Trey serves as the General Counsel for the American Association of Orthodontists. While AI-generated images are commonplace in daily marketing, it's essential to consider the potential risks associated with this advertising approach. Trey will delve into the legal aspects, obstacles, and potential pitfalls of incorporating AI in your orthodontic practice advertising. Additionally, he will touch upon the insights provided by the FTC and state dental boards. If you have an orthodontic practice, this episode is a must-listen, and as always, there has never been a better time to be an orthodontist. IN THIS EPISODE: [3:34] Trey explains the legislation regarding AI is still unsettled. [5:17] Looking at the FTC and state dental boards will give some guidance until further legislation comes forward. [8:00] Trey gives an example of implied claims in advertising, and he also discusses stock photography. [11:51] A listener asks a question about the AAO's position on AI usage. [14:21] A discussion regarding AI and written content, as well as the penalties involved in false advertising. [22:27] Trey admits to his knowledge nothing has ever been as revolutionary to the industry as AI and discusses the pitfalls. KEY TAKEAWAYS: Dentistry has always been held to a higher standard by the FTC regarding truth in advertising. An advertisement using a white coat or a microscope must have evidence supporting its claim. Advertising can mislead the public if the patient shown in a before and after picture is not a patient of that practice. RESOURCE LINKS People + Practice - Website Leon - Email Amy - Email Trey Lawrence - TikTok Trey Lawrence - Instagram QUOTES: “The approach that we have to take is to start from the law that currently exists, which, because it's behind the technology, is going to be outdated, but from that law, kind of extrapolate it out and then predict as to what we think the safest course of action is going to be.” Trey Lawrence “When we look at the ads, is the picture an AI-generated picture that will imply a material fact about the practice? Does it show somebody with perfectly straight teeth or someone wearing braces, but they're not a patient of the practice? Because, of course, it's an AI-generated image, and they don't exist at all. Those are the things that the FTC could look at.” Trey Lawrence

We are thrilled to have Dr. Ravindra Nanda as our guest on the podcast. During our conversation, Dr. Nanda will explore groundbreaking advancements in the field of aligner orthodontics. He will provide insights into the innovative technology enabling orthodontists to sustainably produce aligners in their offices. While minimal training is needed, the mechanics behind this process are remarkably straightforward. It's never been a better time to be an orthodontist. IN THIS EPISODE: [04:32] Dr. Leon and Dr. Ravindra reminisce over their days at university and changes between now and then. [06:19] Dr. Ravinda shares how he got involved with Graphy and how the process works. [11:25] Dr. Ravinda discusses the cost of the aligners and functionality and shares the benefits to the patient. [17:05] Treatment can accelerate the therapy and affect the impact on the environment. [23:02] A listener asks a question of Dr. Ravinda regarding the mechanics of printing an aligner. [27:32] Dr. Ravinda discusses the downside of the process. KEY TAKEAWAYS: Graphy produces aligners with shape memory. Graphy can print aligners in 32 minutes. A benefit of Graphy aligners is that you don’t need as many attachments to the teeth. RESOURCE LINKS People + Practice - Website Dr. Ravindra Nanda - Facebook Dr. Ravindra Nanda - Instagram BIOGRAPHY: Dr. Ravindra Nanda is at present UConn Alumni Endowed Chair, and Professor and Head of the Department of Craniofacial Sciences and Chair of division of Orthodontics, University of Connecticut, Farmington, Connecticut, U.S.A. He received his dental training from Lucknow University, India and orthodontic training first at Lucknow, India and then from Nymegen, The Netherlands and the University of Connecticut. He also received a Ph.D. for the University of Nymegen in 1969. He was an Assistant Professor of Orthodontics at Loyola University, Illinois from 1970 to 1972 and since 1972 he has been associated with the University of Connecticut. He is editor-in-chief of Progress in Orthodontics and an associate editor of Journal of Clinical Orthodontics. He is on the editorial board of ten different national and international orthodontic journals. He is an active member of AAO, EOS, IADR and Edward H. Angle Society. Dr. Nanda is a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics. He has given numerous named lectures at national and international societies including Mershon Lecture at American Association of Orthodontics and Sheldon Friel Lecture at 2011 EOS Congress. Dr. Nanda has authored six orthodontic books and more than 200 scientific articles in major journals. His most recent books are Biomechanics in Clinical Orthodontics and Biomechanic and Esthetic Strategies In Clinical Orthodontics, Temporary Anchorage Devices in...

Today, we are excited to talk with Dr. Jep Paschal, the CCO at Braces On Demand. During our discussion, Jep elaborated on the advantages of Braces on Demand and discussed the monolithic product line and the results he has seen with this new product. The Braces on Demand approach to orthodontics holds multiple benefits for patients, primarily in the precise placement of the dental appliance, minimizing the possibility of errors and the duration required for teeth adjustment is expedited. Don’t miss this informative episode of the Golden Age of Orthodontics. IN THIS EPISODE: [01:12] Introduction of People and Practice hosts and their services, and Amy introduces Dr. Jep Paschal. [05:16] How does a Sugar Daddy candy bar equate to orthodontics? [07:15] Jep talks about Braces on Demand and describes the product. [11:30] Jep outlines the value to the patient. [14:57] A comparison between Braces on Demand and other competitors and a discussion about the printer. [21:15] Jep shares what an orthodontist is purchasing with Braces on Demand. [24:00] Jep answers a question from a listener regarding his experience in the past with indirect bonding and remembering a horrible experience. [27:37] What is the future, and what are the new products for Braces on Demand? KEY TAKEAWAYS: The monolithic clear system is almost undetectable. This eliminates the look of a mouth full of silver. Braces on Demand can produce a prescription for braces much faster than past methods. Braces on Demand provides a 3D model which ensures more accurate placement. RESOURCE LINKS People + Practice - Website Jep Paschal - Email Braces on Demand - Website

In this installment of The Golden Age of Orthodontics, we are excited to visit with Dr. Glenn Krieger, founder of the Orthopreneurs Facebook group. This group boasts over 6,000 members to date. What are the pros and cons of a DSO and an OSO? How are they structured, and who should consider joining? He has invaluable insight into partnering with another doctor in your practice. Don’t miss this informative episode. Why? Because there’s never been a better time to be an orthodontist! IN THIS EPISODE: KEY TAKEAWAYS: RESOURCE LINKS People + Practice - Website Dr. Leon Klempner - Email Orthopreneurs Podcast with Dr. Glenn Krieger

In this installment of The Golden Age of Orthodontics, we are hosting Jonathan Martin, an expert assisting dentists during the transition phase of selling their practice. With a remarkable record of overseeing dental practice sales totaling more than a billion dollars, Jonathan imparts invaluable insights into the intricacies of selling your practice. He shares four essential elements determining the success or failure of an enticing offer to acquire your business. There’s never been a better time to be an orthodontist. IN THIS EPISODE: [01:01] Introduction of People and Practice and its message and Jonathan Martin’s background. [03:27] Jonathan describes how the economics have impacted the sale of dental practices and explains EBITDA in detail. [11:09] What are favorable KPSs, and how cash comes into play on an offer. What things have changed in the last 12 months? [15:39] How do cash, stock, hold-out money and seller financing impact your sale? [22:00] What are the critical items to evaluate as you are looking at an offer to purchase your business? [24:28] Jonathan discusses whether a seller would receive more money from a DSO or an OSO versus a private transaction. [29:51] What should a Dr. do if they receive unsolicited offers from a DSO or an OSO? [33:53] The bottom line is to do your due diligence and get professional help. KEY TAKEAWAYS: Inflation, labor costs and the interest rate rise have slowed down dental practice sales. Cash at closing, stock, holdback money and seller financing comprise the four components of an offer to purchase your practice. Hire a professional to look over the contract when you are selling your business. RESOURCE LINKS People + Practice - Website Dr. Sercan Akyalcin - Harvard Website Harvard Orthodontics Dentistry - Website Jonathan Martin - Website Jonathan Martin - Linkedin BIO: Jonathan joined McGill & Hill Group in September of 2005. He earned bachelor's degrees in both accounting and finance, and a Master of Accountancy degree from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. Jonathan works with dentists and dental specialists across the United States assisting them with their transition needs, and speaks regularly at dental schools and study clubs. He is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the North Carolina Association of Certified Public Accountants. QUOTES: “If you are...

Dr. Alfred Griffin, the co-founder of LightForce Orthodontics, is our guest on this episode of The Golden Age of Orthodontics. Dr. Griffin shares how LightForce has benefited patients and orthodontists in ways even the developer finds surprising. In addition, Amy introduces a new podcast for team members of the orthodontic office called Practice Talk. The host will be Lacie Ellis, and she is excited to share answers on topics staff members find challenging in their day-to-day office experience. Enjoy today's podcast with Dr. Griffin, and stay tuned for Practice Talk. IN THIS EPISODE: [04:25] Dr. Griffin explains his opinion on the best way to market a business and the products they have developed. [06:42] LightForce just opened a factory in Wilmington, Massachusetts. [08:41] Dr. Griffin discusses the benefits of LightForce to a patient. [12:23] Dr. Griffin explains why this industry will grow in the future. [14:49] The new features LightForce plans to integrate in the future. [19:32] The practice benefits from implementing LightForce and the importance of the outcome to the patient. [23:27] Amy describes how Dental Monitoring can help orthodontists. [26:57] Amy introduces Lacie Ellis, who will be the host of Practice Talk. KEY TAKEAWAYS: Products and their developers used in orthodontic practices need to be those you trust. LightForce has proven to reduce both treatment time and the number of visits needed by the patient. A new podcast geared toward the staff members of the orthodontist's office is on the horizon. Don’t miss Practice Talk coming next month! RESOURCE LINKS People + Practice - Website LightForce Orthodontics - Website Dr. Alfred Griffin - Linkedin Dr. Leon Klempner - Instagram BIOGRAPHY: Dr. Griffin founded LightForce Orthodontics in 2015. He received his BS in Biochemistry from the University of Virginia, after which he completed a DMD and PhD at the Medical University of South Carolina while lecturing internationally in craniofacial biology. Dr. Griffin also has a Masters of Medical Science and Certificate in Orthodontics from the Harvard School of Dental Medicine, where he currently serves as faculty, and he is an ABO-certified practicing orthodontist. QUOTES: “You need to work with companies you trust because the impact of something going wrong is quite high. So building trust is something that we are driving towards because that becomes the standard that orthodontists stake their business on.” - Dr. Alfred Griffin “The tools that enable doctors to have a better treatment plan and diagnoses will be the focus for LightForce in the future.” - Dr....

Dr. Bill Layman, the owner of Straighten Up Orthodontics in Clearwater, Florida, is our guest on this episode of The Golden Age of Orthodontics. Dr. Layman talks about the advantages of using a 3-D Treatment Letter, demonstrating the potential outcomes of orthodontic treatment using virtual technology. This gives patients the assurance they require to move forward with treatment. Additionally, he discusses the advantages of remote monitoring and employing uLab for aligners. There’s never been a better time to be an orthodontist. IN THIS EPISODE: KEY TAKEAWAYS: An animated representation of a patient's teeth after correction instills motivation and confidence, encouraging them to undergo the necessary treatment Teamwork between an Orthodontist and a GP assures patients they are working with the right professionals Patients highly appreciate having remote check-ups as it saves significant time RESOURCE LINKS People + Practice - Website Dr. Bill Layman - Website DrBill@suortho.com BIOGRAPHY: Raised in a small Virginia farm town, Dr. Bill Layman worked during high school as a farmhand, loaded dog feed, mowed church lawns, and was a full-service gas attendant. After graduating from The Citadel with a Bachelor of Science in biology, he served as a paratrooper with the Army’s 82nd Airborne. While in dental school at the Medical University of South Carolina, he was elected and served four years as class president while earning his Doctorate in Dental Medicine. He has lived and worked in Clearwater since opening Straighten Up Orthodontics in 2005. He and his wife Andrea have one son who is now attending Tulane University and majoring in Finance and Real Estate. Dr. Layman recently completed his Masters of Business Administration at the Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania, where he also received the Ben Franklin Award for leadership.

On this episode of The Golden Age of Orthodontics, we are joined by Dr. Sercan Akyalcin, the head of Orthodontics at Harvard School of Dental Medicine. What is the future of Orthodontics, and how does digital dentistry play a role? What are the educational requirements for admittance to Harvard’s Orthodontic program? Dr. Sercan will discuss these topics and share his perspective on Do-It-Yourself Dentistry. There’s never been a better time to be an orthodontist. IN THIS EPISODE: Dr. Akyalcin discusses the variety of modalities studied to complete the training of an orthodontist and how the field of technology has drastically changed the tools available. The Covid pandemic affected clinical hours of training; however, online teaching platforms adapted to change. Dr. Akyalcin relates how the curriculum needs to include more classes focusing on the business side of orthodontics and states that there is a shortage of educators. Discussion of the Do It Yourself Approach and why specialists will always be needed. What does success look like for the next generation of orthodontists, and what is the importance of communication Dr. Akyalcin advises the steps required to be accepted into the Orthodontic Program and the vision he sees for the Harvard Orthodontic program. KEY TAKEAWAYS: Learning the business side of an orthodontic practice is just as important as knowing the skill of dentistry. Harvard is looking for well-rounded individuals to enter their Orthodontics Program. Therefore, although grades are important, they are not the determining factor. Educators need to teach their students the business side of their practice. RESOURCE LINKS People + Practice - Website Dr. Sercan Akyalcin - Harvard Website Harvard Orthodontics Dentistry - Website BIO: Dr. Sercan Akyalcin joined the School as a member of the faculty in the department of Developmental Biology and program director for Advanced Graduate Education (AGE) in Orthodontics on March 1, 2022. Akyalcin, a native of Turkey, received his DDS and PhD degrees from Ege University School of Dentistry. Soon after completing his PhD degree, he began his teaching career in Canada. He then went on to receive his clinical training in the Orthodontic Program at The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston. In addition, he served as Bonham Magness Endowed Professor and Graduate Program Director at the same institution until 2016. He was a faculty member at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine in Boston, where he also served as the interim chair and graduate program director of Orthodontics before joining HSDM. In his career as a dental educator and orthodontist, Akyalcin has published numerous peer-reviewed papers, contributed to published books and textbooks, and serves on the editorial boards of orthodontic and dental journals. He has been recognized with several

On today’s episode of The Golden Age of Orthodontics, co-hosts Dr. Leon Klempner and Amy Epstein, MBA, celebrate four years of their podcast with their listeners. They share clips of podcasts from those years and revisit the highlights of various episodes. Christopher Bentson, Suzanne Wilson, Dr. Sky Naslenas, Wes Lyon and Trey Lawrence are featured in this dynamic episode. A variety of relevant topics you will want to hear again are covered. At the end of this episode, there is a surprise announcement you won’t want to miss. IN THIS EPISODE: KEY TAKEAWAYS: RESOURCE LINKS People + Practice Website Chris Bentson - Website Suzanne Wilson - LinkedIn Dr. Sky Nasleenas - Website Wes Lyon - Website Trey Lawrence - Facebook

On today’s episode of The Golden Age of Orthodontics, we are joined by Dr. Barry Benton, a board-certified orthodontist based in Oxford, Alabama. His practice, Designer Smiles by Benton, is in two locations. During Covid, Dr. Benton implemented Dental Monitoring to keep in touch with his patients and learned that it benefited both his practice and the patient. Today he shares how features like remote monitoring and dynamic scheduling have played a part in the success of his business. Don’t miss the informative conversation. IN THIS EPISODE: KEY TAKEAWAYS: RESOURCE LINKS Website - Designer Smiles by Benton Facebook - Dr. Barry Benton DrBarry@bracesbybenton.com https://www.bracesbybenton.com/ BIO: Dr. J. Barry Benton, D.M.D., M.S.D., is a board-certified orthodontist based in Oxford, Alabama, where he cares for patients at two locations of Designer Smiles by Benton, where he has worked since 2016. He received his Bachelor of Science at Furman University, his Doctorate of Medical Dentistry at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, and his Certificate in Orthodontics and Master of Science in Dentistry at Louisiana State University. Dr. Benton is also one of the youngest orthodontists in the country to be a diplomat on the American Board of Orthodontics.

On today’s episode of The Golden Age of Orthodontics, we are joined by Dr. Scott Law, co-founder of Smile Doctors, an Orthodontist-owned Orthodontic group. Smile Doctors has grown to over 360 orthodontist-only partner practices in more than 25 states. Smile Doctors is a collaborative effort that combines the talents of many doctors to offer strengths and identify weaknesses, always putting patient needs first. In addition, Dr. Law will share the benefits of being affiliated with an OSO and cite reasons why it may not be a good fit or experience for every doctor and the OSO. IN THIS EPISODE: KEY TAKEAWAYS: RESOURCE LINKS Website - Smile Doctors Linkedin - Dr. Scott Law BIO: Dr. Scott Law is a wet-fingered orthodontist charged with overseeing the clinical processes and responsibilities for Smile Doctors, an orthodontist-owned orthodontic group. After completing residency at Jacksonville University School of Orthodontics in 2009, he and his wife Jessica purchased a small practice from a retiring orthodontist in Killeen, Texas. Using techniques based on customer service, fun, empowerment, and excellence, they grew that location to one of the largest practices in the U.S. Looking out on the horizon in 2015 and seeing the threats and opportunities facing orthodontics; they decided to scale their business based on the principle of Love On People First. Together with partners Dr. Dana Fender and Dr. Greg Goggans, Smile Doctors has grown to over 360 orthodontics-only partner practices. As an organization, we are constantly seeking transitioning doctors and or associates that align with our culture of loving people and seeking excellence as we deliver the Ultimate Patient Experience.

Today on The Golden Age of Orthodontics, we are joined by Ren Menon, the CEO of OrthoFX. Before founding OrthoFX, Ren spent 13 years in leadership roles at Align. Ren is also the co-founder of other startups and sits on the board of several fast-growing early stage companies. Join us as we bring you insights from Ren and chat about how OrthoFX can support orthodontists and their patients through their entire treatment journey. IN THIS EPISODE: KEY TAKEAWAYS:

On this episode we welcome back Trey Lawrence, as our special guest. Trey is the VP and general council for the AAO and he leads the organization's advocacy and legal teams. Trey is passionate about the legal, ethical, and regulatory issues around teledentistry and other emerging technologies that will impact the future of dentistry and orthodontics. Tune in to learn more from Trey as we chat about retreating DTC patients among other current topics concerning orthodontists and the possible legal ramifications IN THIS EPISODE: KEY TAKEAWAYS: QUOTES: “Obviously you want to take responsibility for your own treatment, but you don't want to be on the hook legally for some harm that a patient has experienced because of treatment that somebody else has provided.” -Trey Lawrence

On today’s episode of The Golden Age of Orthodontics, we are joined by Wes Lyon, President and CEO of the newly rebranded McGill and Lyon Dental Advisors. They provide specialized tax business and financial planning exclusively to Orthodontists and dental specialists. Wes is a CPA and certified financial planner, tune in as he offers objective advice to improve practice profitability and help practitioners achieve financial independence. IN THIS EPISODE: KEY TAKEAWAYS: RESOURCE LINKS McGill and Lyon Dental Advisors Website McGill and Lyon Dental Advisors LinkedIn BIO: Wes Lyon, CPA, CFP, is a graduate of Virginia Tech and holds degrees in both accounting and finance. He has obtained his Certified Public Accountant Certificate as well as his Certified Financial Planner™ certificate. He is President and CEO of McGill and Lyon Dental Advisors. a member of McGill & Hill Group. Prior to joining the group as a tax and business planning advisor, Mr. Lyon worked for a global asset management firm. Before relocating to Charlotte, he served as a financial planner and business advisor to high net-worth individuals in the Washington, D.C. metro area. Mr. Lyon began his career in public accounting specializing in tax and audit for non-profits.

On today’s episode of the Golden Age of Orthodontics, Dr. Sky Naslenas joins Amy and Dr. Leon to share her experience with using uLab Clear Aligners. Dr. Naslenas has years of experience not only in orthodontics in general, but delivering the treatment utilizing the most aesthetic (invisible) orthodontic braces. Tune in to hear more on how to provide the proper treatment plans for patients who wish to use clear aligners and how to integrate uLab into your practice. IN THIS EPISODE: KEY TAKEAWAYS: RESOURCE LINKS Orthodontic Studio BIO: Dr. Sky Naslenas is an orthodontist from Toronto, owner of Orthodontic Studio with two locations in Canada. She earned her Masters of Science degree and Orthodontic certification in 2005 from the University of Toronto. Dr. Naslenas has been a presenter and invited speaker at several of the industry’s top events, including the annual meetings of the Canadian Association of Orthodontists, the American Association of Orthodontists, and the American Cleft Lip and Palate Association. She has also spoken at the general annual meeting for Dental Assistants and Hygienists. In addition to her work at Orthodontic Studio, Dr. Naslenas also works at the Hospital for Sick Children. There she’s committed to working with children with craniofacial anomalies, cleft lips and palate syndrome, and other developmental challenges.