The Best Practices Show with Kirk Behrendt

754: Dental Zen: 3 Tips to Conquer Insurance Frustrations – Robyn TheisenDealing with insurance is not fun. It’s frustrating, time-consuming, and the least enjoyable part about dentistry. But there are ways to make it tolerable! To share how, Kirk Behrendt brings back Robyn Theisen, one of ACT’s amazing coaches, with three tips to get your team aligned and ready to have the insurance conversation with your patients. To increase your team’s confidence when talking about insurance, listen to Episode 754 of The Best Practices Show!Learn More About Robyn:Send Robyn an email: robyn@actdental.com Follow Robyn on ACT’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/actdentalSend Gina an email: gina@actdental.com More Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:Subscribe to The Best Practices Show: https://the-best-practices-show.captivate.fm/listenJoin The Best Practices Association: https://www.actdental.com/bpaJoin ACT’s To The Top Study Club: https://www.actdental.com/tttSee the ACT Dental/BPA Live Event Schedule: https://www.actdental.com/eventGet The Best Practices Magazine for free: https://www.actdental.com/magazinePlease leave us a review on the podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-best-practices-show-with-kirk-behrendt/id1223838218Episode Resources:Watch the video version of Episode 754: https://www.youtube.com/@actdental/videosRegister to access ACT’s Say This, Not That: https://form.jotform.com/221665137804153Main Takeaways:Make sure your patient is the main focus, not their insurance.Be aligned with your team about your relationship with insurance.Your entire team must know the ins and outs of insurance, not just admin.Level up your verbal skills. Be intentional with words when talking to patients.Utilize technology wherever possible to save yourself time and increase accuracy.There is a time and place for outsourcing. But try to keep certain processes in-house.Snippets:0:00 Introduction.1:37 Why this is an important topic.3:25 Set aside time to align with your team.4:01 Define your relationship with insurance.7:12 Align on communication to develop trust with patients.8:35 Develop your verbal skills.9:23 Eliminate “but”, “however”, and “unfortunately”.12:29 Utilize technology to your advantage.14:49 Should you outsource certain processes?17:32 Final thoughts.Robyn Theisen Bio:Robyn Theisen brings an entire life and legacy of dental experience to the team and every team with which she works as the daughter and sister of dentists. With almost 20 years of experience in dentistry, her roles ranged from practice management to operations at Patterson Dental to coaching teams. Robyn’s passion is empowering teams to realize that they can dramatically impact the lives of the people they serve by implementing skills and systems to remove barriers to life-changing dental treatment. She has done it for decades and does it every day with dental teams.Outside of coaching, she enjoys time with her husband, Rob, and two daughters, Emerson and Ruby. She loves traveling, music, fitness, and cheering on the Michigan State Spartans.

753: Maximize Your Margins: Slash PPO Write-Offs and Skyrocket Your Dental Profits – Dr. Barrett Straub & Miranda BeesonDo you want to own a practice just for someone else to control it? If not, don't miss this episode! Kirk Behrendt brings in Dr. Barrett Straub, ACT’s CEO, and Miranda Beeson, ACT’s director of education, with a treatment plan to get you out of the thumbs of insurance so you can achieve financial freedom and personal fulfillment. With careful, strategic planning you can start removing some — or all — PPOs and reshape your future! To learn the steps to a better practice and a better life, listen to Episode 753 of The Best Practices Show!Learn More About Dr. Straub & Miranda:Send Dr. Straub an email: barrett@actdental.com Join Dr. Straub on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/barrett.d.straubRegister for Dr. Straub’s live workshop (August 23, 2024): https://www.eventbrite.com/e/act-dental-gaps-method-the-formula-for-financial-freedom-tickets-776572418007Send Miranda an email: miranda@actdental.com Follow Miranda on ACT’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/actdentalMore Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:Subscribe to The Best Practices Show: https://the-best-practices-show.captivate.fm/listenJoin The Best Practices Association: https://www.actdental.com/bpaJoin ACT’s To The Top Study Club: https://www.actdental.com/tttSee the ACT Dental/BPA Live Event Schedule: https://www.actdental.com/eventGet The Best Practices Magazine for free: https://www.actdental.com/magazinePlease leave us a review on the podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-best-practices-show-with-kirk-behrendt/id1223838218Episode Resources:Watch the video version of Episode 753: https://www.youtube.com/@actdental/videosRegister to access ACT’s PPO Roadmap: https://www.actdental.com/free-resources/ppo-roadmapRegister to access ACT’s Say This, Not That: https://form.jotform.com/221665137804153Email Dr. Straub for ACT’s Capacity Tracker and Patient Segment Scorecard: barrett@actdental.com Main Takeaways:Whether you're looking to drop PPOs or not, try out ACT’s PPO Roadmap.Insurance isn't what's killing your practice — but they will if you let them.You don't need to become anti-insurance to achieve financial freedom.Don't start indiscriminately dropping PPOs. Plan and be strategic.Clearly define what growth means for you and your practice.There isn't a singular path to reach financial independence.Know which data points to track to start slashing write-offs.Follow the 12 steps to align and strategize with your team.Snippets:0:00 Introduction.6:52 About ACT’s TTT, BPA, and Pro Coaching.10:26 Why this is an important topic.12:15 Objectives.13:52 Insurance independence, explained.21:22 Improve your thinking and mindset about dentistry.23:04 Figure out your overhead percentage.25:26 Figure out your capacity.26:59 Figure out your new patient referral sources.28:22 Figure your new patient hygiene re-appointment percentage.29:53 Figure out your annual patient value.31:53 Figure out your unscheduled active patients.33:14 Why you need to join the BPA.36:50 Figure out your hygiene reappointment percentage.38:23 Figure out which segment your patients belong to.40:53 Rank and identify the PPOs you want to remove.43:32 Read your contracts!44:48 The 12 important steps to align and strategize with your team.52:17 Final thoughts.54:06 Q&A: Navigating plans not allowing out-of-network benefits.58:02 Q&A: Advice for negotiating fees.1:02:00 Q&A: Differentiate yourself before dropping bigger PPOs.1:06:02 Q&A: Advice for limiting PPOs in your schedule.1:08:24 Name, number, knowledge.1:11:55 Q&A: How do you juggle growth during this process?1:14:22 Try the PPO Roadmap today!Dr. Barrett Straub Bio:Dr. Barrett Straub practices general and sedation dentistry in Port Washington, Wisconsin. He has worked hard to develop his practice into a top-performing, fee-for-service practice that focuses on improving the lives of patients through dentistry.A graduate of Marquette Dental School, Dr. Straub’s advanced training and CE includes work at the Spear Institute, LVI, DOCS, and as a member of the Milwaukee Study Club. He is a past member of the Wisconsin Dental Association Board of Trustees and was awarded the Marquette Dental School 2017 Young Alumnus of the Year. As a former ACT coaching client that experienced first-hand the transformation that coaching can provide, he is passionate about helping other dentists create the practice they’ve always wanted.Dr. Straub loves to hunt, golf, and spend winter on the ice, curling. He is married to Katie, with two daughters, Abby and Elizabeth.Miranda Beeson, MS, BSDH Bio:Miranda Beeson, MS, BSDH, has over 25 years of clinical dental hygiene, front office, practice administration, and speaking experience. She is enthusiastic about communication and loves helping others find the power that words can bring to their patient interactions and practice dynamics. As a Lead Practice Coach, she is driven to create opportunities to find value in experiences and cultivate new approaches.Miranda graduated from Old Dominion University, and enjoys spending time with her husband, Chuck, and her children, Trent, Mallory, and Cassidy. Family time is the best time, and is often spent on a golf course, a volleyball court, or spending the day boating at the beach.

752: 5 Things Nobody is Telling You About Profit in Your Dental Practice – Dr. Barrett StraubIf you work more hours, you make more money — except you don't! More dentists are spending more time in the office, only to wonder where their money went. There's a way out of this scenario, and Kirk Behrendt brings back Dr. Barrett Straub, ACT’s CEO, to demystify the five key things to know about profit so you can make educated decisions and gain control of your practice. Stop working harder for less! To learn how, listen to Episode 752 of The Best Practices Show!Learn More About Dr. Straub:Send Dr. Straub an email: barrett@actdental.com Join Dr. Straub on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/barrett.d.straubRegister for Dr. Straub’s live workshop (August 23, 2024): https://www.eventbrite.com/e/act-dental-gaps-method-the-formula-for-financial-freedom-tickets-776572418007More Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:Subscribe to The Best Practices Show: https://the-best-practices-show.captivate.fm/listenJoin The Best Practices Association: https://www.actdental.com/bpaJoin ACT’s To The Top Study Club: https://www.actdental.com/tttSee the ACT Dental/BPA Live Event Schedule: https://www.actdental.com/eventGet The Best Practices Magazine for free: https://www.actdental.com/magazinePlease leave us a review on the podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-best-practices-show-with-kirk-behrendt/id1223838218Episode Resources:Watch the video version of Episode 752: https://www.youtube.com/@actdental/videosDownload ACT’s GAPs at a Glance resource: https://www.actdental.com/gaps-at-a-glanceMain Takeaways:Remember that your P&L won't tell the whole story about your finances.Understand and close the different gaps you have in your practice.Profit isn't profit. There are three levels of profit to understand.High overhead isn't always about spending too much.Chasing money rarely works out.Get to the “I'm good” mindset.Snippets:0:00 Introduction.1:16 The GAPs method and its origins.7:00 Increasing profitability doesn't have to be difficult.10:32 The effort gap, explained.13:37 The collections gap, explained.18:13 The three levels of profit, explained.21:58 Gross production, explained.25:49 Annual patient value, explained.28:16 High overhead isn't always about spending too much.31:05 Three reasons your overhead is too high.35:19 The cash flow gap, explained.37:23 The “I'm good” mindset, explained.40:13 About ACT’s GAPs at a Glance and Dr. Straub’s future seminar.Dr. Barrett Straub Bio:Dr. Barrett Straub practices general and sedation dentistry in Port Washington, Wisconsin. He has worked hard to develop his practice into a top-performing, fee-for-service practice that focuses on improving the lives of patients through dentistry.A graduate of Marquette Dental School, Dr. Straub’s advanced training and CE includes work at the Spear Institute, LVI, DOCS, and as a member of the Milwaukee Study Club. He is a past member of the Wisconsin Dental Association Board of Trustees and was awarded the Marquette Dental School 2017 Young Alumnus of the Year. As a former ACT coaching client that experienced first-hand the transformation that coaching can provide, he is passionate about helping other dentists create the practice they’ve always wanted.Dr. Straub loves to hunt, golf, and spend winter on the ice, curling. He is married to Katie, with two daughters, Abby and Elizabeth.

If you need new patients but don't know how to bring them in, don't miss this episode! Kirk Behrendt brings back Dr. Jim McKee, founder of Chicago Study Club, to share five of the best ways he’s learned to attract new, high-quality patients that will stay for the rest of your career. To learn what patients want and how you can provide it, listen to Episode 751 of The Best Practices Show!Learn More About Dr. McKee:Send Dr. McKee an email: jim@mckeedds.com Join Dr. McKee on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jim.mckee.104Register for Dr. McKee’s Advanced Occlusion workshop (July 25-27, 2024): https://campus.speareducation.com/workshops/advanced-occlusion/details/syllabusRegister for Dr. McKee’s TMD course: https://courses.phelandentalseminars.com/tmd-pdsLearn about Chicago Study Club: https://chicagostudyclub.comMore Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:Subscribe to The Best Practices Show: https://the-best-practices-show.captivate.fm/listenJoin The Best Practices Association: https://www.actdental.com/bpaJoin ACT’s To The Top Study Club: https://www.actdental.com/tttSee the ACT Dental/BPA Live Event Schedule: https://www.actdental.com/eventGet The Best Practices Magazine for free: https://www.actdental.com/magazinePlease leave us a review on the podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-best-practices-show-with-kirk-behrendt/id1223838218Episode Resources:Watch the video version of Episode 751: https://www.youtube.com/@actdental/videosWatch Dr. McKee’s previous episode, 649: The Restorative Diagnostic Practice: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lX6oU7cnDQUMain Takeaways:Think about the quality of patients you're bringing to your practice, not just quantity.Patients are looking for two things: answers to problems and options for solutions.Trade your marketing dollars for CE dollars. Gain a skill set other dentists need.Establish a presence in your dental community. Market your skill sets to them.Be involved in your local community, knowing it will be a slower build.Market your value to existing and prospective patients.Consider joining an insurance plan.Snippets:0:00 Introduction.1:32 Why this is an important topic.3:30 Who are you the answer for?7:16 Market to your existing patients.15:01 Market to patients you don't know.18:09 Marketing can be cost and time prohibitive.19:30 Be involved in your local community.21:09 Establish a presence in your professional community.29:25 The importance of trust in your professional community.32:57 Have a “give greater than get” mindset.35:11 Should you keep everything in-house?38:44 Join an insurance plan.47:29 Final thoughts.50:03 More about Chicago Study Club and Dr. McKee’s future courses.Dr. Jim McKee Bio:Dr. Jim McKee is a member of the Spear Resident Faculty. He has maintained a private practice since 1984 in Downers Grove, Illinois, where he treats a wide variety of cases with a focus on predictable restorative dentistry. He is a member of the American Academy of Restorative Dentistry and former president of the American Equilibration Society. He has lectured both nationally and internationally for over 25 years and directs several study clubs. Dr. McKee graduated from the University of Notre Dame in 1980 and earned his dental degree from the University of Illinois College of Dentistry in 1984.

750: The 15 Nightmares of Every Lab When You Scan – Dr. Christian CoachmanA scanner can do amazing things — if you know how to use it! If you don't, it leads to frustration for you, your patients, and your lab. To help you overcome the barriers and become a master at scanning, Kirk Behrendt brings back Dr. Christian Coachman, founder of Digital Smile Design, to reveal 15 scanning nightmares that you can learn to identify and avoid. To start improving your scans and have a better relationship with your lab, listen to Episode 750 of The Best Practices Show!Learn More About Dr. Coachman:Join Dr. Coachman on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/christiancoachmanFollow Dr. Coachman on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chriscoachmanLearn more about Digital Smile Design: https://digitalsmiledesign.comRegister for the DSD Provider course (October 7, 2024, and November 11, 2024): https://digitalsmiledesign.com/dsd-providerRegister for DSD Residency 1 On Demand: https://digitalsmiledesign.com/dsd-residency-1-on-demandListen to Dr. Coachman’s podcast, Coffee Break with Coachman: https://open.spotify.com/show/4ADCrWhqsUKbHmZtkhhgoBIOS-F1 Festival (May 2025, the weekend of F1): Registration TBAMore Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:Subscribe to The Best Practices Show: https://the-best-practices-show.captivate.fm/listenJoin The Best Practices Association: https://www.actdental.com/bpaJoin ACT’s To The Top Study Club: https://www.actdental.com/tttSee the ACT Dental/BPA Live Event Schedule: https://www.actdental.com/eventGet The Best Practices Magazine for free: https://www.actdental.com/magazinePlease leave us a review on the podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-best-practices-show-with-kirk-behrendt/id1223838218Episode Resources:Watch the video version of Episode 750: https://www.youtube.com/@actdental/videosRead Digital Dental Revolution by Alessandro Agnini and Andrea Mastrorosa Agnini: https://www.quintessence-publishing.com/usa/en/product/digital-dental-revolutionTry Loom: https://www.loom.comMain Takeaways:You need to be a great dentist before mastering the scanner.Be upfront with your lab about limitations and challenges.Always analyze your scans before sending it to the lab.In the digital world, there is no excuse for bad scans.Don't pretend like you don't see scanning problems.Modernize your communication by utilizing AI.Utilize your CAD software for the best scans.Train your assistants in proper scanning.Snippets:0:00 Introduction.1:04 Why this is an important topic and about IOS-F1 Festival.5:14 A scanner isn't a magic solution.9:25 Two-thirds of cases sent to the lab should be rejected.12:43 Master the process of creating a precise patient avatar.14:29 Find the real problems that need to be solved.21:13 Lab nightmares: Poor mesh resolution.24:20 Lab nightmares: Interproximal scan distortion.28:34 Lab nightmares: Finishing lines that are not visible.31:00 Modernize your communication.37:37 Lab nightmares: Sharp angles.39:29 Lab nightmares: Clearance.41:25 Lab nightmares: Prep margin designs.44:19 Lab nightmares: Undercuts.47:33 Lab nightmares: Not getting the ideal soft tissue information.51:22 Lab nightmares: The bite.56:29 Lab nightmares: No scans and pictures of the provisional.58:13 Lab nightmares: The picture and scan of the provisional is bad.58:54 Lab nightmares: Noise on the scan body region.59:54 Lab nightmares: Wrong height of scan body.1:00:05 Lab nightmares: Scan body is wrongly scanned or placed.1:00:35 Lab nightmares: Poor choice of scan body.1:01:09 Lab nightmares: Full-arch scan distortion.1:02:42 Types of scans and teaching team members to scan.1:06:39 The vision of IOS-F1 Festival and 2025 course dates.Dr. Christian Coachman Bio:Combining his advanced skills, experience, and technology solutions, Dr. Christian Coachman pioneered the Digital Smile Design methodology and founded Digital Smile Design company (DSD). Since its inception, thousands of dentists worldwide have attended DSD courses and workshops, such as the renowned DSD Residency program.Dr. Coachman is the developer of worldwide, well-known concepts such as the Digital Smile Design, the Pink Hybrid Implant Restoration, the Digital Planning Center, Emotional Dentistry, Interdisciplinary Treatment Simulation, and Digital Smile Donator. He regularly consults for dental industry companies, developing products, implementing concepts, and marketing strategies, such as the Facially Driven Digital Orthodontic Workflow developed in collaboration with Invisalign, Align Technology. 

749: When is the Right Time to Take the Right CE? – Dr. Christopher MazzolaContinuing education is critical for your practice. But if you don't take the right ones at the right time, it could be harmful for you and your team! To help you optimize your CE experience, Kirk Behrendt brings in Dr. Christopher Mazzola, a CE provider from the Pankey Institute, to share his insights into when, where, what, and how to take courses that will elevate your practice. To learn how to stop wasting time and money when taking CE, listen to Episode 749 of The Best Practices Show!Learn More About Dr. Mazzola:Join Dr. Mazzola on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/christopher.d.mazzolaFollow Dr. Mazzola on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/christopherdmazzoladdsRegister for Dr. Mazzola’s Mastering Dental Photography: From Start to Finish course (October 10-12, 2024): https://pankey.org/course-category/mdpRegister for Dr. Mazzola’s Mastering Treatment Planning course (October 2-4, 2025): https://pankey.org/course-category/mtpMore Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:Subscribe to The Best Practices Show: https://the-best-practices-show.captivate.fm/listenJoin The Best Practices Association: https://www.actdental.com/bpaJoin ACT’s To The Top Study Club: https://www.actdental.com/tttSee the ACT Dental/BPA Live Event Schedule: https://www.actdental.com/eventGet The Best Practices Magazine for free: https://www.actdental.com/magazinePlease leave us a review on the podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-best-practices-show-with-kirk-behrendt/id1223838218Episode Resources:Watch the video version of Episode 749: https://www.youtube.com/@actdental/videosRead The Song of Significance by Seth Godin: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/736958/the-song-of-significance-by-seth-godinRead Hidden Potential by Adam Grant: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/719611/hidden-potential-by-adam-grant/?ref=PRH0ACEFFE3D63E&aid=43830&linkid=PRH0ACEFFE3D63EMain Takeaways:Are you going to CE for education or edutainment?Work on the health of your practice before taking any CE.CE can drive a wedge into your team if you're not aligned first.Remember that your team can become overwhelmed very quickly.Take time to implement your learnings. Don't see patients the day after CE.Don't take CE just to take it. You won't gain anything by speeding through it.There are amazing webinars out there, but CE should all be taken in-person.Snippets:0:00 Introduction.1:27 Dr. Mazzola’s background.3:14 Dr. Mazzola’s CE courses at the Pankey Institute.4:22 Why this is an important topic.7:52 Figure out the type of dentistry you want to do.10:43 Don't see patients right after taking CE.13:24 CE challenges in a multi-doctor practice.15:32 Know what you're investing in beforehand.17:32 What CE has taught Dr. Mazzola about himself.18:45 Get rid of limiting beliefs and imposter syndrome.20:36 Work on your practice culture before taking CE.23:40 How core values are relevant to CE.25:54 Get your significant other on board.30:57 Why CE should be taken in-person.33:32 The importance of connection and relationships in CE.35:19 The future of CE.37:58 Start your own study club.39:03 Final thoughts.42:20 Write your struggles down.Dr. Christopher Mazzola Bio:Dr. Christopher Mazzola was born and raised in Ann Arbor, Michigan. He attended the University of Michigan for his undergraduate studies where he graduated with honors with a Chemical Engineering Degree. During his undergraduate studies, he conducted research with dental school faculty on materials to aid in patients’ healing after dental surgery. He then continued his education at Michigan where he completed his Doctor of Dental Surgery Degree. While in dental school, he was awarded the University of Michigan American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry Award for his research in the clinical application of CAD/CAM technology in dentistry.Prior to joining Traverse Dental Associates, Dr. Mazzola owned a practice in Colorado Springs, Colorado, where he was named one of the area’s 2013 TopDentists™. He continued with education focusing on communication and technology in private practice. He has also served as an instructor and mentor for new graduates focusing on patient interactions and CEREC CAD/CAM Technology.In his spare time, Dr. Mazzola enjoys spending time with his wife, Christina, his children, Baylor and Eliana, and his three dogs, Isabelle, Lola, and Aspen. He tries to stay active through competitive CrossFit, golfing, running, and skiing. He is looking forward to watching his family grow in the amazing community that is Traverse City!

748: Breaking Millennial Stereotypes in Dentistry – Dr. Sully SullivanWhat is slow-moving, parasitic, and dwells in basements? Millennials — depending on who you ask! But the reality, for the most part, is very different. To debunk some common myths and stereotypes and to share his insights into the millennial mindset, Kirk Behrendt brings back Dr. Sully Sullivan, host and creator of the Millennial Dentist Podcast. To hear what this generation has to offer dentistry, listen to Episode 748 of The Best Practices Show!Learn More About Dr. Sullivan:Join Dr. Sullivan on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sully3Follow Dr. Sullivan on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/millennialdentistLearn more about the Millennial Dentist: https://millennialdentist.comListen to the Millennial Dentist Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/1c1EeLi9XrrpQ9zPsLiT7PLearn more about 3D Dentists: https://3d-dentists.comSend Meredith at 3D Dentists an email: meredith@3d-dentists.com Learn more about Smile 3D: https://smile-3d.comMore Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:Subscribe to The Best Practices Show: https://the-best-practices-show.captivate.fm/listenJoin The Best Practices Association: https://www.actdental.com/bpaJoin ACT’s To The Top Study Club: https://www.actdental.com/tttSee the ACT Dental/BPA Live Event Schedule: https://www.actdental.com/eventGet The Best Practices Magazine for free: https://www.actdental.com/magazinePlease leave us a review on the podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-best-practices-show-with-kirk-behrendt/id1223838218Episode Resources:Watch the video version of Episode 748: https://www.youtube.com/@actdental/videosMain Takeaways:Level up your clinical skill sets.Train your team to be patient-centric.Understand the consumer’s buying process.Learn to pivot how you sell based on consumer pain points.Keep investing in and pouring into yourself. That return will be invaluable.Your time is valuable. Set your fees around your time rather than other costs.Snippets:0:00 Introduction.2:36 Dr. Sullivan’s background.4:30 The story behind the Millennial Dentist.6:42 Get off the hamster wheel of misery.10:00 How to become a $100,000-month dentist.11:10 About 3D Dentists and Smile 3D.12:41 Understand the buying process.19:49 Set your fees around your time.21:50 Train your team to be patient-centric.26:39 Give patients options.29:41 Understand how consumers buy products and services.31:24 Get rid of your limiting beliefs.32:54 Why you need to level up your clinical skills.34:56 Final thoughts.36:47 More about 3D Dentists and recommend courses.39:29 More about the Millennial Dentist Podcast.Dr. Sully Sullivan Bio:Dr. Sully is a fourth-generation dentist from Nashville, Tennessee. After receiving his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of Tennessee, he moved back to Nashville to practice with his father. By continuing to invest in his education through adult orthodontics, soft tissue grafting, dental implants, third-molar extractions, and obstructive sleep apnea, he helped double his practice in just 24 months. As a millennial, he truly believes in “working smarter, not harder”, which has led him to utilize technology to not only deliver better patient care but more efficient care.Dr. Sully regularly uses CEREC, 3D imaging with Galileos, 3D printing, and multiple lasers. In addition to his practice, he started the Millennial Dentist Podcast in February of 2017 to help push his fellow colleagues to take their dental careers to the next level. He lectures around the country on cone beam technology, CAD/CAM dentistry, obstructive sleep apnea, and practice management. He is also an ambassador for the 3D Dentist teaching facility in Raleigh, North Carolina.

747: 3 Keys to Maximizing Collections – Ariel JudayTake a handful of money and put it in the trash. Every time you don't collect, that's exactly what you're doing. If you want to keep more of what you earn, don't miss this episode! Kirk Behrendt brings back Ariel Juday, one of ACT’s amazing coaches, to share three keys that will raise your team’s confidence when collecting from your patients. To start collecting what you're worth, listen to Episode 747 of The Best Practices Show!Learn More About Ariel:Send Ariel an email: ariel@actdental.com Follow Ariel on ACT’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/actdentalMore Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:Subscribe to The Best Practices Show: https://the-best-practices-show.captivate.fm/listenJoin The Best Practices Association: https://www.actdental.com/bpaJoin ACT’s To The Top Study Club: https://www.actdental.com/tttSee the ACT Dental/BPA Live Event Schedule: https://www.actdental.com/eventGet The Best Practices Magazine for free: https://www.actdental.com/magazinePlease leave us a review on the podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-best-practices-show-with-kirk-behrendt/id1223838218Episode Resources:Watch the video version of Episode 747: https://www.youtube.com/@actdental/videosWatch Episode 662: Work Less, Earn More: The Dentist’s Blueprint to a Dream Practice & Life: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YL1-tiIzBssRead ACT’s 5 Tips for Billing Your Full Fee: https://www.actdental.com/blog/5-tips-for-billing-your-full-feeACT’s 9-Step Checklist to Improve Collections at Your Practice: https://www.actdental.com/free-resources/9-step-guide-to-improve-collectionsMain Takeaways:Set a clearly defined financial policy.Have a clearly defined billing process.Align with your team on what collection means.Understand the barriers your admin team faces.Have countermeasures in place for difficult patients.Train and develop your team’s communication skills.Take time to practice collection techniques with your team.Get rid of your limiting beliefs about patients who can't pay.You should be collecting 100% or more. It’s what you deserve.Snippets:0:00 Introduction.2:08 Why maximizing collections is important.3:58 Have a clearly defined financial policy.8:22 Have a clearly defined billing process.10:13 Your admin team are the gatekeepers.11:25 Friends don't owe friends money.13:14 Train your team on communication techniques.14:26 Take time to train and develop team members.17:16 Know your blind spots to overcome them.19:41 Final takeaways.20:34 What should your net collections percentage be?Ariel Juday Bio:Ariel has a master’s in healthcare administration and several years of dental experience in all aspects of the administrative roles within the dental office. Her passion is to work with dental teams to empower team members to realize their full potential in order to better serve patients, improve office systems to ensure a well-functioning team/office, and to help everyone have fun in the process!

746: Culture Catalyst: Igniting Practice Growth Through Leadership! – Miranda Beeson & Adriana BoothA great practice culture doesn't just happen — it all starts with leadership. But what does it mean to be a strong leader? Who can become one? How do you do it? To answer these questions, Kirk Behrendt brings back Miranda Beeson and Adriana Booth, two of ACT’s amazing coaches, so you can improve your practice culture and enjoy being at work. When leaders get better, practices get better! To become the leader you deserve to be, listen to Episode 746 of The Best Practices Show!Learn More About Miranda & Adriana:Send Miranda an email: miranda@actdental.com Follow Miranda on ACT’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/actdentalSend Adriana an email: adriana@actdental.com Join Adriana on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/adriana.boothFollow Adriana on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adrimariebSend Gina an email: gina@actdental.com More Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:Subscribe to The Best Practices Show: https://the-best-practices-show.captivate.fm/listenJoin The Best Practices Association: https://www.actdental.com/bpaJoin ACT’s To The Top Study Club: https://www.actdental.com/tttSee the ACT Dental/BPA Live Event Schedule: https://www.actdental.com/eventGet The Best Practices Magazine for free: https://www.actdental.com/magazinePlease leave us a review on the podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-best-practices-show-with-kirk-behrendt/id1223838218Episode Resources:Watch the entire webinar here: https://www.actdental.com/115Watch the video version of Episode 746: https://www.youtube.com/@actdental/videosRead The Work of Leaders by Julie Straw, Mark Scullard, Susie Kukkonen,, and Barry Davis: https://bookshop.org/p/books/the-work-of-leaders-julie-straw/11221614?ean=9781118636534Read Primal Leadership by Daniel Goleman, Richard E. Boyatzis, and Annie McKee: https://bookshop.org/p/books/primal-leadership-unleashing-the-power-of-emotional-intelligence-richard-e-boyatzis/9050044?ean=9781422168035Read Difficult Conversations Don't Have to Be Difficult by Amy P. Kelly and Jon Gordon.: https://bookshop.org/p/books/difficult-conversations-don-t-have-to-be-difficult-amy-p-kelly/18963080?ean=9781394187171Main Takeaways:Understand the six leadership styles and identify the type of leader you are.Championing culture is the most important thing you will do as a leader.Develop emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and social awareness.Core values is also critical to having a great culture in your practice.Be aware of negative emotions and find ways to regulate them.Work on these soft skills like you do with your clinical skills.CE and equipment will only take your practice so far.Everyone is a leader in the practice.Leadership is a learned skill.Practice mindfulness.Snippets:0:00 Introduction.1:33 About ACT’s TTT and BPA.7:01 Culture, explained.10:09 Leadership, explained.12:20 Who is considered a leader?14:31 Intentionally champion positive culture.19:36 Create vision and alignment.21:50 What type of leader are you?23:01 CE alone won't get you very far.25:21 Six leadership styles: The visionary.28:26 Six leadership styles: Coaching.29:55 Six leadership styles: Affiliative.31:18 Six leadership styles: Democratic.33:03 Six leadership styles: Pace setting.35:51 Six leadership styles: Commanding.38:51 What would your team say is your leadership style?39:21 IQ versus EQ.40:19 Emotional intelligence and self-awareness, explained.45:39 Find ways to regulate your emotions.51:22 Develop self-awareness and social awareness.54:11 Ways to improve self-awareness.58:43 Final thoughts.Miranda Beeson, MS, BSDH Bio:Miranda Beeson, MS, BSDH, has over 25 years of clinical dental hygiene, front office, practice administration, and speaking experience. She is enthusiastic about communication and loves helping others find the power that words can bring to their patient interactions and practice dynamics. As a Lead Practice Coach, she is driven to create opportunities to find value in experiences and cultivate new approaches.Miranda graduated from Old Dominion University, and enjoys spending time with her husband, Chuck, and her children, Trent, Mallory, and Cassidy. Family time is the best time, and is often spent on a golf course, a volleyball court, or spending the day boating at the beach.Adriana Booth, BS, RDH Bio:Adriana Booth is a Lead Practice Coach who partners with dentists and their teams to cultivate leadership skills, build practice growth, and streamline business practices. After spending nearly two decades in the dental industry working with top-notch dental teams, Adriana came to ACT to share her passion for professional growth, high-level training, and systems creation with our clients. As a dental hygienist with a love for continuing education and personal growth, helping a practice become successful is at the heart of her passion for dentistry.Adriana has a B.S. in Dental Hygiene from West Liberty University/O’Hehir University. By being involved in several Columbus, Ohio, study clubs, Adriana maintains strong relationships within her local dental community. She enjoys a variety of fitness activities, family time, good books, and at the top of her list, her fur babies.

745: The 7 Steps to Move From Traditional Dentistry to Ideal Dentistry – Dr. Christian CoachmanYour practice may be great. But you can always make it better! To help your business improve and evolve, Kirk Behrendt brings back Dr. Christian Coachman, founder of Digital Smile Design, to talk about his upcoming DSD Provider course and to share seven steps to move toward ideal dentistry. To learn the best way to give your patients a better experience and better outcome, listen to Episode 745 of The Best Practices Show!Learn More About Dr. Coachman:Join Dr. Coachman on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/christiancoachmanFollow Dr. Coachman on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chriscoachmanLearn more about Digital Smile Design: https://digitalsmiledesign.comRegister for the DSD Provider course (October 7, 2024 to November 11, 2024): https://digitalsmiledesign.com/dsd-providerRegister for DSD Residency 1: https://digitalsmiledesign.com/dsd-residency-1-on-demandListen to Dr. Coachman’s podcast, Coffee Break with Coachman: https://open.spotify.com/show/4ADCrWhqsUKbHmZtkhhgoBMore Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:Subscribe to The Best Practices Show: https://the-best-practices-show.captivate.fm/listenJoin The Best Practices Association: https://www.actdental.com/bpaJoin ACT’s To The Top Study Club: https://www.actdental.com/tttSee the ACT Dental/BPA Live Event Schedule: https://www.actdental.com/eventGet The Best Practices Magazine for free: https://www.actdental.com/magazinePlease leave us a review on the podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-best-practices-show-with-kirk-behrendt/id1223838218Episode Resources:Watch the video version of Episode 745: https://www.youtube.com/@actdental/videosMain Takeaways:Think broadly, big picture, and beyond your biased mindset.Integrate interdisciplinary software and interdisciplinary thinking.Empower visualization. Leverage 3D software and new technology.Engage in collaborative, structured communication and decision-making.Perform standardized, efficient, guided clinical execution for optimal results.Find a digital lab to work with. They will help you diagnose, plan, and sell better.Use imaging, technology, and communication skills to ethically onboard patients.Improve your leadership skills to be a better leader. Ideal dentistry is a team sport.Snippets:0:00 Introduction.2:28 About Dr. Coachman, DSD, and his DSD Provider course.6:49 Find your spark in dentistry.9:41 Step 1) Move beyond the biased mindset.13:27 The super generalist, explained.16:01 Step 2) Move into integrated, interdisciplinary software and thinking.20:51 Step 3) Empower visualization.21:45 Why image utilization is so low.23:51 Step 4) Move to collaborative, structured communication and decision-making.25:11 The value of asynchronous communication.30:09 Step 5) Move into efficient, guided execution.34:59 Step 6) Find a modern, digital lab.37:27 Step 7) Engage in ethical patient onboarding.39:13 More about Dr. Coachman’s online education platform.40:28 Final thoughts.41:31 More about DSD.Dr. Christian Coachman Bio:Combining his advanced skills, experience, and technology solutions, Dr. Christian Coachman pioneered the Digital Smile Design methodology and founded Digital Smile Design company (DSD). Since its inception, thousands of dentists worldwide have attended DSD courses and workshops, such as the renowned DSD Residency program.Dr. Coachman is the developer of worldwide, well-known concepts such as the Digital Smile Design, the Pink Hybrid Implant Restoration, the Digital Planning Center, Emotional Dentistry, Interdisciplinary Treatment Simulation, and Digital Smile Donator. He regularly consults for dental industry companies, developing products, implementing concepts, and marketing strategies, such as the Facially Driven Digital Orthodontic Workflow developed in collaboration with Invisalign, Align Technology.