The Best Practices Show with Kirk Behrendt

734: Chronic Oral Wounds in Your Dental Practice – Tanya DunlapGetting patients healthy is your number-one role. But are you focusing on the disease that matters most? It’s time to address the most undiagnosed and untreated condition — gum disease — and now there's an easier way. To help you start the conversation, Kirk Behrendt brings in Tanya Dunlap, vice president of Perio Protect, to showcase Perio Tray, a convenient way to treat, prevent, and manage gum disease. To learn more about Perio Tray and how it can improve your patients’ lives, listen to Episode 734 of The Best Practices Show! Learn More About Tanya:Join Perio Protect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PerioProtectFollow Perio Protect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/perioprotectLearn more about Perio Protect: https://www.perioprotect.comRegister for a free product demo of Perio Protect: https://www.hatchbuck.co/NTUeJLMore 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 734: https://www.youtube.com/@actdental/videosMain Takeaways:Patients need better home care.Brushing, rinsing, and flossing is not enough.Systemic antibiotics are not long-term solutions.Perio Protect makes home care easy and convenient.Be honest with patients about their gum disease findings.You have the opportunity to change patients’ lives for the better.Snippets:0:00 Introduction.1:32 Why this is an important topic.6:24 The problem of diagnosis and treatment planning.10:10 How to be honest with patients about gum disease.12:46 Health benefits of treating gum disease.15:04 Put periodontal disease into remission.18:03 The Perio Protect process.19:32 More about Perio Protect.Tanya Dunlap Bio:Tanya Dunlap, PhD, is the vice president at Perio Protect, where she has worked since 2005. For several years, she served as the research liaison for the company, working with researchers and investigators who were testing Perio Tray® therapy in controlled clinical trials and microbiological studies. Her expertise on this adjunctive periodontal therapy is grounded in the data, explaining how the prescription trays work and which patient candidates can benefit from them.

733: Health Habits to Wind Down for Deep Sleep – Dr. Uche Odiatu & Loren KingAre you exhausted before the day is done? Do you wish you had more sleep? Better health, a better life — even being a better dental professional — is tied to a more restful night. To help you be your best self at home and the office, Kirk Behrendt brings back one of ACT’s favorite health and wellness gurus, Dr. Uche Odiatu, and Loren King, an international speaker, life coach, and dental hygienist, to reveal a few simple hacks and habits to start sleeping better today. To learn the foundation for better sleep, listen to Episode 733 of The Best Practices Show!Learn More About Dr. Odiatu & Loren:Join Dr. Odiatu on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UcheOdiatuFollow Dr. Odiatu on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fitspeakersLearn more on Dr. Odiatu’s website: http://www.druche.comRegister for the 2024 Bulletproof Summit (June 14-15, 2024): https://reg.bravuratechnologies.com/events/47000020/ae8c3cd7-475c-2bb7-92f0-2pqr33700290/openFollow Loren on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lorenthecoachforhumansSchedule a call with Loren: https://calendly.com/thehumanexperiencecoach/schedule-a-call?month=2024-05·   Watch Loren’s Human Trafficking and Dentistry course: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eNnOI7eGpd4More 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 733: https://www.youtube.com/@actdental/videosTry the Oura Ring: https://ouraring.comRead Sapiens by Yuval Noah Harari: https://bookshop.org/p/books/sapiens-a-brief-history-of-humankind-yuval-noah-harari/15277101?ean=9780062316110Learn about ToothPillow: https://www.toothpillow.comMain Takeaways:Sleep is critical to overall health.A $10,000 mattress won't fix your problem.Proper sleep helps ward off chronic diseases.Limit, if not eliminate, your alcohol consumption.Eat light — if anything at all — shortly before bed.Reduce your exposure to blue light before bedtime.Be mindful of EMF exposure. It can disrupt your sleep.Keep your room and body temperature cool for better rest.Snippets:0:00 Introduction.3:18 Loren’s background.4:20 Why this is an important topic.7:44 The quick fix never works.11:16 Eat light before bedtime.13:47 The world is set up for morning larks.15:39 Deep sleep versus REM sleep.16:54 How EMF affects sleep.18:48 How blue light and orange light affects sleep.22:41 The ideal hours to sleep for men and women.26:28 How alcohol impacts sleep.30:43 How body temperature and room temperature affects sleep.33:34 Final thoughts.36:43 How to get in touch with Dr. Odiatu and Loren.Dr. Uche Odiatu Bio:Dr. Uche Odiatu has a DMD (Doctor of Dental Medicine). He is a professional member of the ACSM (American College of Sports Medicine), a Certified Personal Trainer (National Strength & Conditioning Association) NSCA, and the Canadian Association of Fitness Professionals (canfitpro). He is the co-author of The Miracle of Health (c) 2009 John Wiley (hardcover) & (c) 2015 Harper Collins, and has lectured in Canada, the USA, the Caribbean, the UK, and Europe. He is an invited guest on over 400 TV and radio shows, from ABC 20/20, Canada CTV AM, Breakfast TV, to Magic Sunday Drum FM in Texas. This high-energy healthcare professional has done over 450 lectures in seven countries over the last 15 years.Loren King Bio:Loren King is an international speaker who brings awareness to topics such as human trafficking, airway health, and dental hygiene performance. She is a published author, registered dental hygienist, and life coach for women. She also happens to be a licensed skydiver who has jumped out of a perfectly good airplane — solo, 34 times – which speaks to her resilience to conquer hard things

732: Empowering the Owner-Associate Synergy – Dr. Sean BahramiFor a practice to be successful, it needs great owner-associate synergy. But how do you find the right owner or associate? To guide both sides through this process, Kirk Behrendt brings in Dr. Sean Bahrami, founder of Dental Wellness Society, to share his strategies for becoming and finding the ideal candidate. To learn the secrets to a successful owner-associate relationship, listen to Episode 732 of The Best Practices Show!Learn More About Dr. Bahrami:Send Dr. Bahrami an email: bahramidds@gmail.com Follow Dr. Bahrami on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drseanbahrami Learn more about Dental Wellness Society: https://www.dentalwellnesssociety.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 732: https://www.youtube.com/@actdental/videosMain Takeaways for Owners:Have a clear vision for your practice.Find associates that believe in your vision.Choose associates who have drive and motivation.Test associates early to decide if they are the right fit.Empower associates through teamwork. Let go of your ego.Involve your team and associates in the decision-making process.Be open to new ideas. There will always be something you can learn.Main Takeaways for Associates:Identify your area of interest in dentistry.Seek out mentorship. It is crucial in dentistry.Find a practice you want to make your dental home.Show up early, be an active member, and be a role model.Respectfully introduce new ideas, systems, and procedures.Do follow-up calls to show patients that you care about them.Focus on elevating the practice that you join, not just the money.Snippets:0:00 Introduction. 5:24 The owner-associate relationship, explained. 7:57 Dr. Bahrami’s background. 9:08 A tale of two dentists: Dr. Ben and Dr. Sean. 13:53 The challenges of owning a practice. 19:02 The challenges of DSOs. 20:57 Things that make dentistry amazing. 24:07 The four moments of associate onboarding. 24:59 Moment 0 & 1: Build a clear vision and recruit accordingly. 28:53 Moment 2: Test whether the associate is a good fit. 38:09 Moment 3: Empower your associate. 42:04 Moment 4: Partnership. 43:40 The many challenges of recent grads and young dentists. 47:20 The three moments of associate career development. 48:11 Moment 1: “Getting your hands wet”. 49:04 Moment 2: Find mentorship. 50:58 Moment 3: Find your dental home.52:56 How to become the ideal associate. 53:53 Five techniques to become invaluable: Show up early. 56:57 Five techniques to become invaluable: Be an active member and role model. 57:21 Five techniques to become invaluable: Introduce new ideas and procedures. 59:26 Five techniques to become invaluable: Do follow-up calls with patients. 1:00:48 Five techniques to become invaluable: Think bigger picture. 1:02:02 Summary, final thoughts, and how to get in touch with Dr. Bahrami. 1:05:41 Q&A: Figure out how to make your dentistry unique. 1:07:38 Q&A: The complexity of family in business. 1:10:05 Q&A: How is associate compensation determined? 1:11:26 Q&A: Vocalize your vision and goals. 1:13:54 Q&A: You can't teach drive or motivation. 1:17:11 Q&A: Your leadership is reflected in the success of your practice. 1:17:46 Q&A: What is a realistic timeline to find the right associate? 1:18:56 Q&A: How long should you be an associate prior to a partnership opportunity? 1:19:41 Q&A: Adjust the value of your practice. 1:20:52 Q&A: Should you split the team between dentists? 1:22:16 Q&A: About Dental Wellness Society. Dr. Sean Bahrami Bio:Dr. Sean Bahrami, a native of Germantown, Maryland, obtained his dental education at the University of Maryland School of Dentistry. His academic and clinical achievements led to his acceptance into the Diamond Scholars program at the University of Maryland, where he received education on complex restorative dental procedures and full-mouth rehabilitation cases. Upon completing his dental degree, Dr. Bahrami embarked on his professional journey at Supertooth Dental Group, a practice founded by his uncle. Together, they successfully expanded the practice to four locations within a span of five years.Dr. Bahrami's primary focus lies in cosmetic dentistry, where he integrates technical expertise with a deep commitment to enhancing a patient's smile. In addition to his clinical practice, Dr. Bahrami is the founder and president of the Dental Wellness Society, a nonprofit organization that focuses on inspiring and empowering dental professionals to achieve holistic well-being and career longevity through comprehensive health education, community support, and lifestyle advocacy. Dr. Bahrami maintains active membership in the American Dental Association, Omricon Kappa Upsilon, and the American Academy of Clear Aligners. 

731: Turning the Numbers into Dollars: Data Mastery in Your Practice! – Dr. Barrett StraubDo you hate tracking numbers? Are you confused about what to track and why you need to track them? To help you change that, Kirk Behrendt brings back Dr. Barrett Straub, ACT’s CEO, with another framework for mastering the key data in your practice. Start making better business decisions with the help of data! To learn which numbers to track and countermeasures to improve your profitability and culture, listen to Episode 731 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-776572418007Send 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 731: https://www.youtube.com/@actdental/videosRegister to access ACT’s PPO Roadmap: https://www.actdental.com/free-resources/ppo-roadmap/Register to access ACT’s Say This, Not That resource: https://form.jotform.com/221665137804153Main Takeaways:Know your gross production and net collection numbers.Assess, categorize, and track all of your write-offs.Evaluate and maximize your schedule.Improve your communication skills.Upgrade your hand-off system.Rework your financial policies.Reassess your AR system.Don't do this on your own.Snippets:0:00 Introduction.2:07 About ACT’s TTT Study Club and BPA.6:06 Why this is an important topic.10:06 Data point #1: Net production.13:54 Countermeasure #1 for low net production: Assess your write-offs.15:13 How you handle adjustments will impact your data.16:43 Elective write-offs, explained.18:16 Don't lump all insurance write-offs under the same heading.21:01 Countermeasure #2 for low net production: Assess your schedule.23:37 Time is the new rich.25:09 Schedule to maximize your mood, effort, time, and energy.27:58 Data point #2: Net collections percentage.32:26 Countermeasure #1 for low net collections: Assess your financial policies.35:32 Countermeasure #2 for low net collections: Assess the AR system.39:34 The beauty of systems and habits.40:44 Data point #3: Case acceptance percentage.46:16 Countermeasure #1 for low case acceptance: Improve your verbal skills.51:33 Countermeasure #2 for low case acceptance: Assess your handoff.55:35 Know why you're tracking the numbers.57:52 Q&A: Help with getting clean numbers on Eaglesoft.1:00:49 Q&A: Always bill your office rate.1:05:49 Final thoughts.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.

Do you feel stressed from running your practice? Are you ready to give up ownership? Before you do, listen to this episode! Kirk Behrendt and Dr. Christian Coachman bring in Dr. Jill Tanzi, president of Alliance of Independent Dentists, to explain the importance of staying independent and to offer solutions for struggling dentists. If you're feeling overwhelmed, help is out there! To learn more about Dr. Tanzi’s organization and how they can support you, listen to Episode 730 of The Best Practices Show!Learn More About Dr. Coachman & Dr. Tanzi: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 DSD Residency 1: https://digitalsmiledesign.com/dsd-residency-1-on-demandJoin Alliance of Independent Dentists on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AIDUnitedStatesLearn more about Alliance of Independent Dentists: https://www.dentistalliance.orgMore 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 730: https://www.youtube.com/@actdental/videosMain Takeaways:Having ownership gives you more freedom.Staying independent is also great for patients.Independent dentists CAN compete with DSOs.Identify and leverage your strengths and advantages.Selling to a DSO won't make dentistry more enjoyable.Don't sell your practice out of frustration and desperation.If you're stressed from practice ownership, help is out there.Snippets:0:00 Introduction.4:05 Dr. Tanzi’s background.4:59 Why this is an important topic.6:58 Learning from trends in medicine.8:34 The need to center patients.14:23 Quality dentistry is not scalable.16:19 You have choices in dentistry.18:57 What makes dentists want to sell their practice?19:54 How Alliance of Independent Dentists can help.26:47 The benefits of practice ownership.29:54 Set yourself up for success.33:03 Are dentists happier after selling their practice?38:25 Do things your way.39:57 Final thoughts.47:07 More about Alliance of Independent Dentists.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.Dr. Jill Tanzi Bio:Dr. Jill A. Tanzi originates from Oxford, Massachusetts, where she graduated valedictorian from Oxford High School. She obtained a BA cum laude in biology from the University of Rochester and a DDS from the University of Maryland, also with honors. During dental school, Dr. Tanzi performed research on salivary glands at the National Institute of Dental Research in Bethesda, Maryland. After graduation, she worked in private practice for three years in the Philadelphia area before returning to Massachusetts to open The Dentist at Hopkinton in 2003.Dr. Tanzi is committed to continuing education and learning advanced dental procedures. She has taken classes at The Dawson Academy as well as The Spear Institute and attends a monthly Spear Education study club. In addition, she has completed the Midwest Implant Institute Surgical Implant Externship in Columbus, Ohio.

729: The Speaker's Evaluation Chart – Dr. Christian CoachmanWhether you're taking a course or giving a course, there's a way to do it efficiently. To help you save time in becoming a better speaker or learner, Kirk Behrendt brings back Dr. Christian Coachman, founder of Digital Smile Design, to share his framework for identifying great CE and educators, and ways for speakers to improve their craft. To learn how to decide who deserves your time, listen to Episode 729 of The Best Practices Show!Learn More About Dr. Coachman:Join Dr. Coachman on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/christiancoachmanMessage Dr. Coachman to register for his World Class Communication Program: https://www.instagram.com/chriscoachmanLearn more about Digital Smile Design: https://digitalsmiledesign.comRegister for DSD Residency 1: https://digitalsmiledesign.com/dsd-residency-1-on-demandMore 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 729: https://www.youtube.com/@actdental/videosMain Takeaways for Speakers:Have humble confidence.Understand your audience.Master the art of storytelling.It all starts with the introduction.Control your nerves by rehearsing.Identify your strengths as an educator.Be aware of your ego and learn to control it.Don't cram 20 years of experience into one lecture.Main Takeaways for the Audience:Know your priorities with learning.Choose wisely about who you listen to.Understand the qualities of a good lecture.Be mindful of speakers’ biases, ethics, and egos.It’s okay to want to be entertained but do it consciously.Don't waste time with things that don't deserve your time.Snippets:0:00 Introduction.4:20 The origin of this framework.6:51 The five components of a lecture.12:50 Is there an optimal “pizza” combination?15:58 The controlled ego, explained.17:28 Qualities of a great educator.20:30 The four components of the introduction.23:34 Put your energy into the introduction.28:29 Speaker examples and how to use the formula.36:15 Control your ego.39:45 Make the complex simple.47:05 Final thoughts.52:06 About Dr. Coachman’s World Class Communication Program.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.

728: How to Fail Hiring an Associate – Bob SpielMost associateships — 75% of them — are doomed to fail. If you want to be part of the 25%, don't miss this episode! Kirk Behrendt brings back Bob Spiel, founder of Dentist Partner Pros, to share his expertise in building successful associate relationships, no matter what stage of your dental career. Are you ready to commit? To learn how not to fail when hiring an associate, listen to Episode 728 of The Best Practices Show!Learn More About Bob:Send Bob’s business partner an email: bryton@dentistpartnerpros.com Learn more about Dentist Partner Pros: https://dentistpartnerpros.comRequest your free report, Gaining a Wingman: 7 Signs an Associate Should Be in Your Future: https://report.dentistpartnerpros.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 728: https://www.youtube.com/@actdental/videosRead Flip Your Focus by Bob Spiel: https://bookshop.org/p/books/flip-your-focus-igniting-people-profits-and-performance-through-upside-down-bob-spiel/11933736?ean=9781544765419Main Takeaways:Understand why the majority of associateships fail.Before anything, be ready to commit to an associateship.Be clear about what you and your team want in an associate.Clearly communicate onboarding, mentoring, and salary expectations.Set aside formal time to give and receive feedback from your associates.Synergy is your goal. Don't view your associates as a threat or competition.Snippets:0:00 Introduction.2:34 Why this is a problem in dentistry.5:24 Why 75% of associateships fail.9:53 Are you ready for an associate?14:55 Clarify your givens/wants and get your team’s input.18:39 Be clear to get buy-in.21:22 Create synergy, not competition.22:15 Be clear about mentoring expectations.23:05 Great associates are out there.25:31 Onboarding, explained.28:23 Be clear about compensation expectations.31:27 Set aside time for feedback.33:12 Final thoughts and how to get in touch with Bob.Bob Spiel Bio:Bob Spiel’s passion is building high-performance teams who deliver exceptional service while doing more, in less time, with less stress. His firms, Spiel Consulting and Dentist Partner Pros, transform general and specialty dental practices by building leaders at all levels, with a special focus on building leaders among owners and associate dentists.Bob had over 25 years of business experience before getting into dentistry, including being a hospital and surgical center CEO, as well as an operations director for two mid-cap firms. This taught Bob to see each need in a dental practice with a “systems orientation”. Using this approach over the past 10 years, his firms have achieved a remarkable 90% success rate in searching for, hiring, and retaining associate dentists compared to the dismal 75% failure rate the dental industry has as a track record. He sees this as the number-one threat to the continuation of private practice dentistry and aims to change that.Bob is a faculty member for Dr. Gordon Christensen, where he teaches a breakthrough course on leadership each fall called Igniting the Leader in You. He is also the author of Flip Your Focus: Igniting People, Profits and Performance through Upside-down Leadership. 

727: 3 Metrics to Measure New Patient Success – Miranda BeesonYou want more new patients. But you don't need all of them! You need the right ones coming — and staying — in your practice. To teach you how, Kirk Behrendt brings back Miranda Beeson, ACT’s director of education and amazing coach, with three metrics to help you track the true number of new patients you have and need. New patients are your bread and butter. Get them to return and stay long term! To learn how to attract new patients and reappoint the great ones you already have, listen to Episode 727 of The Best Practices Show!Learn More About Miranda:Send Miranda an email: miranda@actdental.com Follow Miranda on ACT’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/actdentalEmail Kirk with your “difficult discussion” scenarios: kirk@actdental.com Send 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 727: https://www.youtube.com/@actdental/videosRegister for Miranda’s Dental Administrator course (September 20, 2024): https://www.eventbrite.com/e/act-dental-administrator-live-course-september-20-2024-tickets-754782152737Join ACT’s BPA to access Creating a 6-Star Experience: https://join.actdental.com/users/sign_in?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fjoin.actdental.com%2Fc%2Fpractice-coaching-tools%2F6-star-experience#emailMain Takeaways:You don't need 331 million patients. Choose quality over quantity.Put effort into future appointments, not only the first appointment.Get patients in the office within one to two weeks of the call.Determine the number of new patients you truly need.Track the number of active patients you have.Create value for patients with language.Get existing patients pre-appointed.Snippets:0:00 Introduction.1:22 About Miranda’s Dental Administrator course.3:28 Why this is an important topic.5:06 You don't need every single patient you can get.9:31 Have a “yellow front door” in your practice.10:30 Metric #1) New patient count.11:45 How many new patients should you have a month?12:19 What is your diagnostic rate?14:23 Get patients in within one to two weeks of the call.15:54 Do a meet-and-greet with prospective patients.20:09 Have block scheduling for new patients.21:50 Metric #2) New patient net growth.27:23 Metric #3) New patient hygiene reappointment rate.29:23 Create value with language.31:21 Schedule their next appointment.38:59 The ideal new patient hygiene reappointment percentage.41:26 Send Kirk the most difficult discussions you've had with patients.43:17 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.

726: Mental and Physical Wellness in a Dental World: Balance is Key to Happiness – Dr. Maurice Salama & Dr. Christian CoachmanWe pursue success to attain happiness. But what we truly need is balance. To teach you what it means to have balance and how to achieve it, Kirk Behrendt and Dr. Christian Coachman bring in Dr. Maurice Salama, scientific director of DentalXP, with his advice for improving and preserving your physical, mental, and emotional well-being throughout your career in dentistry. Don't trade your health for success! To learn how to prioritize your overall wellness, listen to Episode 726 of The Best Practices Show!Learn More About Dr. Salama & 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 DSD Residency 1: https://digitalsmiledesign.com/dsd-residency-1-on-demandJoin Dr. Salama on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/maurice.salamaFollow Dr. Salama on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mosalama23Learn more about Dental XP: https://www.dentalxp.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 726: https://www.youtube.com/@actdental/videosMain Takeaways:The world does not come to you with opportunities. Seek them out.Have drive, passion, and discipline, but don't get caught up in it.Create balance. Don't neglect yourself by working too much.Don't trade success for your physical or mental well-being.Success is a drug. Don't overdose on it.It’s not too late to make changes.Be kind to your body.Snippets:0:00 Introduction.2:42 Reach for the brass ring.10:44 The importance of choosing the right mentors.15:45 Have drive, passion, and discipline.20:38 Don't get caught up in just the drive.25:15 Why it’s important to have balance.27:22 Slow down strategically.28:44 Don't ignore your need to rest.31:06 Success is a drug.33:50 How to slow down the right way.38:19 Be selective as an educator.43:06 Summary.45:19 How to find the right associates and empower them.49:02 Go to different meetings.52:13 Find a mentor you're passionate about.54:39 Give yourself the gift of time.57:43 The benefits of exercise.59:03 Build a great team to share your successes and failures with.1:02:56 Final thoughts. Dr. Maurice Salama Bio:Dr. Maurice A. Salama completed his undergraduate studies at the State University of New York at Binghamton in 1985, where he received his BS in biology. Dr. Salama received his DMD from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine, where he later received his dual specialty certification in orthodontics and periodontics, as well as his implant training at the Branemark Center at Penn. He is currently on the faculties of the University of Pennsylvania and the Medical College of Georgia as clinical assistant professor of periodontics.Dr. Salama is a permanent member of the scientific committee of the world’s leading online dental education website, www.DENTALXP.com. He is also a member of the Team Atlanta Dental Practice with Dr. Goldstein and Dr. Garber, a multidisciplinary practice that is world-renowned for their clinical research in reconstructive and esthetic dentistry.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. 

725: The Long-Term Value of Great Relationships in Dentistry – Dr. Bill Robbins, Dr. Jim Otten, & Dr. Gary DeWoodWithout a support system, dentistry can be incredibly lonely. What you need are long-term relationships that last your entire career. But where and how do you find people to connect with? To answer that question, Kirk Behrendt brings in three of his favorite people in dentistry, Dr. Bill Robbins, Dr. Jim Otten, and Dr. Gary DeWood, with their wisdom and advice for finding the people you need in your life. Don't wait for them to come to you — seek them out! To learn about the best places where the best people gather, listen to Episode 725 of The Best Practices Show!Learn More About Dr. Robbins, Dr. Otten, & Dr. DeWood:Send Dr. Robbins an email: robbinsdds@aol.com Join Dr. Robbins on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.robbins.79656Send Dr. Otten an email: globaldiagnosisinfo@gmail.com Join Dr. Otten on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/james.otten.71Follow Dr. Otten on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamesottendentalSend Dr. DeWood an email: gdewood@speareducation.com Join Dr. DeWood on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drdewoodFollow Dr. DeWood on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/garydewoodRegister for Global Diagnosis Education Third Annual Symposium (September 5-7, 2024): https://www.eventbrite.com/e/global-diagnosis-education-third-annual-symposium-tickets-873512919657Register to become a member of Global Diagnosis Education: https://globaldiagnosiseducation.org/groups/general-membershipMore 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 725: https://www.youtube.com/@actdental/videosMain Takeaways:You don't find mentors — you seek them out.Study clubs are the best places to discover mentors.Age is a number. Be open to finding mentors of any age.A coach or mentor doesn't have to be from your field of work.Joining a study club is the most powerful way to grow in dentistry.Success requires a lot of hard work, some talent, and a little bit of luck.Snippets:0:00 Introduction.1:41 How Dr. Robbins, Dr. Otten, and Dr. DeWood crossed paths.13:26 How their paths intersected a second time.16:35 Dr. Robbins’s path to Global Diagnosis Education.18:18 Why Global Diagnosis Education is the highlight of their careers.22:04 Having organic growth through strong relationships.23:51 How Global Diagnosis Education changed over the years.29:33 The philosophy behind Global Diagnosis Education.32:23 The joy they get from watching students grow.33:15 The common language that Global Diagnosis Education has created.35:08 How mentorship has changed over the years.41:29 The importance of joining a study club.46:43 Advice for younger dentists.52:56 Final thoughts.58:32 About Global Diagnosis Education.1:00:43 About Symposium.Dr. Bill Robbins Bio:Dr. J. William Robbins, D.D.S., M.A., practices part-time and is an Adjunct Clinical Professor in the Department of Comprehensive Dentistry at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio Dental School. He graduated from the University of Tennessee Dental School in 1973. Afterwards, he completed a rotating internship at the Veterans Administration Hospital in Leavenworth, Kansas, and a two-year General Practice Residency at the VA Hospital in San Diego, California. Dr. Robbins has published over 80 articles, abstracts, and chapters on a wide range of dental subjects and has lectured in the United States, Canada, Mexico, South America, Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. He co-authored a textbook, Fundamentals of Operative Dentistry – A Contemporary Approach, which is published by Quintessence, and is in its 4th edition. He recently co-authored a new textbook, Global Diagnosis – A New Vision of Dental Diagnosis and Treatment Planning, which is also published by Quintessence. Dr. Jim Otten Bio: Dr. James F. Otten is a 1981 graduate of the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Dentistry. He completed a one-year residency in hospital dentistry with emphasis on advanced restoration of teeth and oral surgery at the Veterans Administration Medical Center in Leavenworth, Kansas. He taught crown-and-bridge dentistry as an Associate Professor at UMKC before entering private practice in 1982, where he served as Chief of Staff of a large group practice in Fayetteville, Arkansas, before opening his practice in Lawrence, Kansas, in 1984. Dr. Otten has pursued rigorous post-graduate education since 1986, accumulating thousands of hours in advanced continuing education that he has intentionally applied to his practice in order to develop its personalized care philosophy. He has completed the rigorous curriculum at two prestigious institutions, The Pankey Institute for Advanced Dental Education, and the Dawson Center for Advanced Dental Education. He lectures nationally and internationally and has recently been asked to join the faculty at the Newport Coast Orofacial Institute in Newport Beach, California. Dr. Gary DeWood Bio:Dr. Gary DeWood is the Executive Vice President of Spear Education. As one of the founding members of Spear, he directed Curriculum and Clinical Education for nearly a decade prior to joining in the launch of Spear Practice Solutions. Today, he splits time between teaching and consulting.Dr. DeWood serves as an instructor in multiple Spear Workshops, including Facially Generated Treatment Planning, Occlusion in Clinical Practice, Advanced Occlusion, Sleep Medicine in the Dental Practice, and a special focus workshop on temporomandibular disorder. He also maintains a limited private practice on the Spear Campus in Scottsdale, Arizona, and lectures nationally and internationally on practice management, treatment planning, case management, case acceptance, TMD diagnosis, appliance therapy, occlusion, and esthetics.