The Best Practices Show with Kirk Behrendt

Working with kids — and their parents — can be a nightmare. But it doesn't have to be! In this episode of Clinical Edge Fridays, ACT shares their Master Class with Dr. Carla Cohn, founder of Lit Smile Academy. She shares her proven techniques and strategies so you can manage the most difficult cases and effectively perform treatment. Start early, and turn difficult patients into easier, lifelong patients! To stop dreading and start enjoying the kids who come to your practice, listen to Episode 885 of The Best Practices Show!Learn More About Dr. Cohn:Send Dr. Cohn an email: drcohn@shaw.ca Follow Dr. Cohn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kidsdentistcarlaFollow Lit Smile Academy on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/litsmileacademyRegister for Dr. Cohn’s hands-on workshop (June 7, 2025): https://www.litsmileacademy.com/events/lit-smile-vancouverRegister for Lit Smile Cancun (November 15-22, 2025): https://www.litsmileacademy.com/events/litsmilecancunMore 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/bpaDownload ACT’s BPA app on the Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/best-practices-association/id6738960360Download ACT’s BPA app on the Google Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.actdental.join&hl=en_USJoin ACT’s To The Top Study Club: https://www.actdental.com/tttGet 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 885: https://www.youtube.com/@actdental/videosRead A Work on Operative Dentistry in Two Volumes by Greene Vardiman Black: https://www.google.com/books/edition/A_Work_on_Operative_Dentistry_in_Two_Vol/qr9AAQAAMAAJ?hl=en&gbpv=1Read Wright’s Behavior Management in Dentistry for Children, Third Edition: https://engage.ada.org/p/phys/wrights-behavior-management-in-dentistry-for-children-third-edition-729Main Takeaways:Give yourself a time buffer when working with challenging children.Not all children are the same. Do a behavior risk assessment analysis.Don't take kids for granted. They are the key to a thriving adult practice.Ask questions and listen to assess a child’s anxiety level and coping ability.Know in advance whether you're working with a “dandelion” or “orchid” child.Learn to think outside the box with coping strategies for challenging children.Start behavior management early so difficult patients can become easy patients.Establishing a dental home as early as possible is part of behavior management.Fear is both objective and subjective. It can be passed on from parents and others.Understand the material choices that are appropriate for each child and their needs.Use age-appropriate language to explain your dental tools and how they will be used.Don't disregard children’s fears and reactions to pain. Address them and offer choices.Tell, show, and do. Children should know what will happen in advance, not right before.Manage expectations by communicating properly. Don't just talk at parents and children.Snippets:0:00 Introduction.1:08 Dr. Cohn’s background.3:30 Disclosures. 4:45 Kids are the life of your practice. 6:55 The parent/caregiver, child, and dental team triangle. 8:26 Balancing challenging children, challenging parents, and challenging clinical situations. 11:12 Behavior guidance and behavior management, explained. 17:11 Do a behavior risk assessment analysis. 18:50 Factors for a successful appointment: Patient age. 20:01 Factors for a successful appointment: Developmental and functional age. 20:46 Factors for a successful appointment: Temperament styles. 23:07 Dandelion children and orchid children, explained. 25:59 Signs of an orchid child.26:53 Orchid children with sensory processing challenges. 28:22 Establish a dental home for children as early as possible. 29:59 Provide comfort in your dental office. 30:33 Know the amount of treatment that is required. 31:37 Be mindful of the pain scale. 32:46 Challenges: Developmental delays. 33:50 Challenges: Language delays. 36:22 Challenges: Social insecurity. 38:40 Challenges: Parental anxiety. 41:03 Challenges: Previous bad experience. 42:39 Fear and white coat syndrome, explained. 44:53 Causes of dental fear and how to address them. 47:57 Coping mechanisms for various sensitivities. 52:22 Basic behavior guidance/management. 53:02 Tell, show, do. 54:16 Ask, tell, ask. 55:02 Distraction. 55:24 Desensitization. 56:24 Treatment deferral. 56:45 Local anesthetic. 58:08 Understand pediatric behavior types. 59:30 A structured approach to treatment planning. 1:00:54 Restorations on children do not perform the same way on all children. 1:02:20 Material choices for intra-coronal restorations for pediatric patients. 1:08:03 Material choices for extra-coronal restorations for pediatric patients. 1:09:13 Outliers: Silver fluoride and resin infiltration. 1:11:16 Material choices for intra-coronal restorations: Clinical examples. 1:30:18 About Dr. Cohn’s future courses and Lit Smile Academy. 1:35:21 Q&A: How to manage dandelions and orchids in your schedule. 1:38:04 Q&A: Dealing with pushback from parents. 1:39:28 Q&A: Using child-friendly language and the slow speed handpiece. Dr. Carla Cohn Bio:Dr. Carla Cohn is a general dentist devoted solely to the practice of dentistry for children. She maintains a private practice at Kids Sleep Dentistry Winnipeg at Western Surgery Centre in Winnipeg, Canada.Dr. Cohn has published several articles and hundreds of webinars and live courses. She enjoys teaching all aspects of children's dentistry to the general practitioner and has had the pleasure of doing so both nationally and internationally. She teaches in the clinical undergraduate pediatric program at her alma mater, the University of Manitoba Dr. Gerald Niznick College of Dentistry. She is proud to be an active member of several dental organizations and societies and has served as president of the Manitoba Dental Association. She has been invited as a fellow to Pierre Fauchard Academy and International College of Dentists, and has been recognized as Dentistry Today's Leader in Continuing Education multiple years in a row as well as Top 100 Docs.

Not everyone is the right fit for your practice. But when and how do you let them go? In this episode of Practical Solutions Day, Kirk Behrendt brings back Adriana Booth, one of ACT’s amazing coaches, to help you see the five signs that it’s time to part ways and how to “free up” their future. To learn how to start enjoying the people around you, listen to Episode 884 of The Best Practices Show!Learn More About Adriana:Join Adriana on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/adriana.boothFollow Adriana on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adrimariebSend Courtney an email to learn more about ACT: courtney@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/bpaDownload ACT’s BPA app on the Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/best-practices-association/id6738960360Download ACT’s BPA app on the Google Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.actdental.join&hl=en_USJoin 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 884: https://www.youtube.com/@actdental/videosRegister for ACT’s To The Top Study Club (July 25, 2025): https://www.eventbrite.com/e/climb-with-us-register-for-july-25-2025-ttt-study-club-tickets-1205497959849Main Takeaways:Are your team members aligned with your core values?Do your team members consistently fail to meet expectations?Are your team members showing resistance to growth and feedback?Do your team members show toxic behaviors that impact your culture?What negative impact is your team’s bad behavior having on your patients?Be prepared to have the “Today is the day” conversation when the time comes.Snippets:0:00 Introduction.3:08 Why this is an important topic.10:35 Misalignment with your core values.15:07 Consistent failure to meet expectations.17:56 Toxic behaviors that impact culture.23:01 Resistance to feedback or growth.27:50 The negative impact on patient relationships.30:38 Prepare for the “Today is the day” conversation.38:53 Final takeaways.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.

How many butts are in your chairs? It’s a simple yet overlooked question. In this episode of Metric Mondays, Kirk Behrendt brings back Dr. Barrett Straub, ACT’s CEO, to break down capacity and help you identify if and why your chairs aren't full. Stop operating at a deficit — especially without knowing it! To learn how to get capacity to 95%, listen to Episode 883 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.straubSend 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/bpaDownload ACT’s BPA app on the Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/best-practices-association/id6738960360Download ACT’s BPA app on the Google Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.actdental.join&hl=en_USJoin 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 883: https://www.youtube.com/@actdental/videosMain Takeaways:Start by analyzing whether your current chairs are being utilized.Use data to identify the factors causing holes in your chairs, not emotion.Your team wants to help you be successful. Help them by giving them a system.Choose a few KPIs to track and get started. You don't need to track them all at once.If you're at 95%, figure out the problem. Is it a scheduling issue or a production issue?Snippets:0:00 Introduction.0:27 Capacity, explained.1:51 The importance of chair utilization.5:00 Identify why you have a money problem.8:29 Actionable tips.11:46 Other KPIs to know.15:33 Last 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.

We all want a good lifespan. But what's critical is a good healthspan. In this episode of Clinical Edge Fridays, Dr. Bradley Bale, co-founder of the BaleDoneen Method, shares how dentists can make that happen by implementing their proven methods to prevent cardiovascular events. Help people enjoy life without disease! To learn more about the BaleDoneen Method to prevent and manage chronic diseases, listen to Episode 882 of The Best Practices Show!Learn More About Dr. Bale:Join Dr. Bale on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BaleDoneenMethodFollow Dr. Bale on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/baledoneenLearn more about the BaleDoneen Method: https://baledoneen.comRegister for the BaleDoneen Preceptorship course with code EARLYBIRD (October 9-11, 2025): https://baledoneen.com/provider/bdm-preceptorshipMore 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/bpaDownload ACT’s BPA app on the Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/best-practices-association/id6738960360Download ACT’s BPA app on the Google Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.actdental.join&hl=en_USJoin 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 882: https://www.youtube.com/@actdental/videosRead Beat the Heart Attack Gene by Dr. Bradley Bale and Dr. Amy Doneen: https://baledoneen.com/bdm-booksRead Healthy Heart, Healthy Brain by Dr. Bradley Bale and Dr. Amy Doneen: https://baledoneen.com/bdm-booksMain Takeaways:You can stop arterial disease in anyone.Oral health is a vital component of arterial health.Know the myths of what causes heart attacks and strokes.Oxidative stress is the driver of many diseases. This is preventable!Remember that your work as dentists can prevent disease and save lives.Snippets:0:00 Dr. Bale’s background. 2:39 Why this is an important topic. 3:47 Statistics on common diseases. 6:35 Microvascular disease, explained. 10:49 Real-world evidence with the BaleDoneen Method. 14:51 How the BaleDoneen Method is different than the standard of care. 17:02 Cardiovascular “event”, explained. 19:23 What causes a clot to form? 24:56 Should I be treated? 27:38 We must look for disease. 31:56 Am I at risk?34:17 “Cold” versus “hot” arteries. 35:29 Biomarkers for “tennis court” inflammation. 40:46 The first step in preventing atherosclerosis. 42:19 Lipoproteins, explained. 43:26 Proteoglycans, explained. 46:26 Oxidative stress, explained. 57:28 Oxidative stress summary. 1:01:55 There is a cure for arterial disease. 1:02:43 Oral health and sleep affects disease, disability, and mortality. 1:08:56 Benefits of PerioProtect trays. 1:10:14 Effects of oral pathogens and endodontic disease on stroke and heart attack risks. 1:12:15 Oral health and arterial health summary. 1:16:19 Case example: 59-year-old Caucasian male. 1:23:19 Case example: 77-year-old with type 2 diabetes, post heart attacks, with stents. 1:27:27 Useful quotes. 1:29:01 The upcoming BaleDoneen course. 1:31:11 Q&A: Comprehensively address root causes of oxidative stress. 1:34:12 Q&A: Is eating five eggs a day bad for cholesterol? 1:35:30 Why you need to learn the BaleDoneen Method. 1:36:27 Q&A: Get a PLAC 2 exam done by a BaleDoneen provider. 1:40:31 Q&A: Other recommended blood tests. 1:43:38 Final thoughts.Dr. Bradley Bale Bio:Dr. Bradley Bale, M.D. is a Clinical Associate Professor at WSU College of Medicine, Assistant Professor at the University of Kentucky College of Dentistry, Adjunct Professor at Texas Tech Health Science Center, and runs a private practice in Gallatin, Tennessee.Dr. Bale is one of the nation’s leading specialists in preventing heart attacks, strokes, and diabetes. He co-founded the BaleDoneen Method with Amy Doneen in 2001. This personalized approach to CV risk assessment and management has shown with real-world evidence that arterial disease can be halted and reversed. Their research on CVD prevention has been published in respected medical journals such as Atherosclerosis, Post Graduate Medicine, Journal of the National Medical Association, Journal of Clinical Lipidology, Frontiers in Cardiovascular Medicine, Physician’s Weekly, Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine, International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Cardiology, Archives of Medical Science, and Journal of Cardiovascular Nursing and Medical Hypothesis.Dr. Bale has also served as a reviewer for the American Journal of Cardiology and CDC’s Preventing Chronic Disease. He is co-author of two nationally best-selling books: Beat the Heart Attack Gene and Healthy Heart, Healthy Brain: The Personalized Path to Protect Your Memory, Prevent Heart Attacks and Strokes, and Avoid Chronic Illness. This recent publication won the prestigious Gold Nautilus Book Award for 2023 and the American Society for Journalists and Authors' (ASJA) 2023 June Roth Memorial Award for Outstanding Medical Book.

When you don't have alignment, bad things happen. In this episode of Practical Solutions Day, Kirk Behrendt brings back Heather Crockett, one of ACT’s amazing coaches, to share three hacks to prevent misalignment and burnout from happening in your practice. To learn how to proactively keep your team aligned, listen to Episode 881 of The Best Practices Show!Learn More About Heather:Send Heather an email: heather@actdental.com Join Heather on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heather.r.crockettFollow Heather on ACT’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/actdentalEmail ACT for the CRO tool and checklist: info@actdental.com Send Courtney an email to learn more about ACT: courtney@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/bpaDownload ACT’s BPA app on the Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/best-practices-association/id6738960360Download ACT’s BPA app on the Google Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.actdental.join&hl=en_USJoin 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 881: https://www.youtube.com/@actdental/videosWatch “How Should a Company Share Its Values?” by Simon Sinek: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5yE541BY-1cMain Takeaways:Misalignment is the root of all evil.Establish consistent communication rhythms.Document your core values and make them visible.Find creative, engaging ways of celebrating your core values.Lead by example. What message do you want to show your team?Snippets:0:00 Introduction.2:22 Why this is an important topic.4:53 Alignment is a big deal.7:36 Document your core values.11:31 Find creative ways to celebrate your core values.13:02 Create consistent communication rhythms.17:02 Home in on the “why”.18:27 Lead by example.22:32 Final takeaways.Heather Crockett Bio:Heather Crockett is a Lead Practice Coach who finds joy in not only improving practices but improving the lives of those she coaches as well. With over 20 years of combined experience in assisting, office management, and clinical dental hygiene, her awareness supports many aspects of the practice setting.Heather received her dental hygiene degree from the Utah College of Dental Hygiene in 2008. Networking in the dental community comes easy to her, and she loves to connect with like-minded colleagues on social media. Heather enjoys both attending and presenting continuing education to expand her knowledge and learn from her friends and colleagues.She enjoys hanging out with her husband, three sons, and their dog, Moki, scrolling through social media, watching football, and traveling.

You feel like you should be producing more. But just doing more isn't the answer! In this episode of Metric Mondays, Kirk Behrendt brings back Dr. Barrett Straub, ACT’s CEO, to break down the one basic equation you need to know to produce more while working less. Stop spending 220 days at the office! To learn how to produce more the right way, listen to Episode 880 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.straubSend 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/bpaDownload ACT’s BPA app on the Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/best-practices-association/id6738960360Download ACT’s BPA app on the Google Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.actdental.join&hl=en_USJoin 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 880: https://www.youtube.com/@actdental/videosMain Takeaways:Working more days is not the answer.Make decisions with data, not with emotions.Learn the equation to calculate gross production.Snippets:0:00 Introduction.1:34 Why this is an important topic.2:48 Why emotion comes into this equation.3:49 The formula for gross production.7:06 Two key numbers to pull.12:35 Time is the new rich.14:21 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.

Hygienists and periodontists have different roles in a practice. But that doesn't mean hygienists aren't as smart! In this episode of Clinical Edge Fridays, Kirk Behrendt shares their recent Master Class by Katrina Sanders, The Dental WINEgenist, to test your knowledge and skills in diagnosing various cases. Are you smarter than a periodontist? To find out, listen to Episode 879 of The Best Practices Show!Learn More About Katrina:Give Katrina a call: (612) 345-1150Send Katrina an email: info@katrinasanders.com Join Katrina on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheDentalWINEgenistFollow Katrina on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedentalwinegenistLearn more on Katrina’s website: https://katrinasanders.comRegister for Katrina’s Oral-Systemic Myth course (August 1, 2025): https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-oral-systemic-myth-august-1-2025-tickets-1267455015069More 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/bpaDownload ACT’s BPA app on the Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/best-practices-association/id6738960360Download ACT’s BPA app on the Google Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.actdental.join&hl=en_USJoin 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 879: https://www.youtube.com/@actdental/videosMain Takeaways:Periodontal disease has been on the rise in recent decades.Understand and master each segment of the ADPIE process of care.Become a partner with patients in preventing and managing inflammation.Hygienists play a critical role in reducing the number of adults with periodontitis.Snippets:0:00 Introduction.2:22 Katrina’s background and upcoming course.6:47 The prevalence of periodontitis.10:44 The current landscape of periodontitis.15:50 Be a partner in prevention and inflammation management.17:33 More about Katrina.18:30 Course objectives.20:39 ADPIE: The steps in the dental process of care.22:47 The assessment phase.25:59 Fear Factor: Perio charting.33:49 Hands-free perio charting software.38:36 How much pain are we causing for patients?41:16 Early stages of disease are not seen radiographically.42:25 Gathering an appropriate diagnosis.44:33 Stages of periodontal disease.50:33 Grades of periodontal disease.56:27 Strategies for patient communication.56:43 Family Feud: Why patients decline perio treatment.1:00:08 The importance of patient communication.1:01:45 Survivor: Implementation.1:10:09 The Newlywed Game: How well do you know your patients?1:17:06 Are you smarter than a periodontist: What do you know about Perio Tray therapy?1:23:45 Why are periodontists opposed to Perio Protect?1:24:56 Perio Protect, explained.1:32:33 Are you smarter than a periodontist: Diagnosing case examples.1:39:32 Are you REALLY smarter than a periodontist: Diagnosing case examples.1:53:47 Perio Protect for diabetic cases.1:55:03 Case example: Two months of Perio Protect therapy for a diabetic patient.1:57:20 Case example: Type 2 diabetic.2:00:53 Conclusion.2:03:24 Q&A: If the grading can be modified, how about the staging?Katrina M. Sanders RDH, BSDH, M.Ed, RF Bio:In the ever-changing world of dental science where research, technology, and techniques for patient care are constantly evolving, dental professionals look to continuing education to provide insight, deliver actionable steps, empower, and create a dramatic impact within their clinical practice.With wit, charm, and a dash of humor, Katrina Sanders enchants dental professionals with her course deliverables, insightful content, and delightful inspiration. Her message of empowerment rings mighty throughout her lectures and stirs a deep sense of motivation amongst course participants.Katrina is the Clinical Liaison for AZPerio, the country's largest periodontal practice. She performs clinically, working alongside Diplomates to the American Board of Periodontology in the surgical operatory. Katrina perfected techniques during L.A.N.A.P. surgery, suture placement, IV therapy, and blood draws. She instructs on collaborative professionalism and standard-of-care protocols while delivering education through hygiene boot camps and study clubs. 

Are you neglecting cybersecurity? You won't be starting today! In this episode of Practical Solutions Day, Kirk Behrendt brings in Travis Wentworth, cybersecurity expert from Intelligence Quest, to share five mistakes you're making that are putting your practice at risk. Cybersecurity is no longer an option! To learn how to protect your business from data breaches, financial losses, and other consequences, listen to Episode 878 of The Best Practices Show!Learn More About Travis:Follow Travis on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travis_iqJoin Travis on Twitter: https://x.com/travisiqWatch Intelligence Quest on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@intelligencequestMore 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/bpaDownload ACT’s BPA app on the Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/best-practices-association/id6738960360Download ACT’s BPA app on the Google Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.actdental.join&hl=en_USJoin 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 878: https://www.youtube.com/@actdental/videosWatch Travis’s “Cybersecurity: 5 Must-Know Tips for Small Businesses”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K8vzAOGPMTQTry LastPass: https://www.lastpass.comTry Bitwarden: https://bitwarden.comTry Signal: https://signal.orgMain Takeaways:Ensure that everyone on your team is vigilant.Be diligent when choosing an IT management group.Train your team to log off from their computers every day.Use your software as intended to keep your patients’ data secure.Practice good password management. Utilize a password manager.Never share passwords or use shared accounts. Decrease your exposure.Separate duties. There should always be an additional set of eyes for each task.Put office policies in place that will proactively address cybersecurity and other risks.Snippets:0:00 Introduction.1:44 Travis’s background.3:08 Where we are today with cybersecurity.4:26 Make sure your team is vigilant.6:37 Trends in email phishing.8:29 Be diligent when choosing an IT management group.10:01 Why dentists and medical offices are great targets.11:45 Use your tech as it was intended.15:15 Training and onboarding.18:31 Practice good password management.24:45 Why it’s important to log off of computers every day.25:17 Don't use shared accounts.29:17 Never give employees keys to the office.31:54 Put office policies in place.40:35 Final thoughts.41:49 More about Travis and how to get in touch.Travis Wentworth Bio:Dr. Travis Wentworth has been training students in engineering, networking, and cybersecurity for over a decade. He received his PhD in engineering from the University of Kansas in 2015 and completed a Postdoctoral Research fellowship at the University of Chalmers in Gothenburg, Sweden. While there, he was part of the world-renowned research group led by Dr. Louise Olsson and had the privilege to work with the European Union, Swedish Research Council, Volvo, and Chalmers University.As a researcher, instructor, and consultant, Travis has presented his technical content to far-reaching corners of the globe including China, Germany, and Sweden, to name a few. Returning to the United States in 2017, he narrowed his emphasis to cybersecurity and networking training.Travis has a diverse background with a proclivity in the acquisition and analysis of public and proprietary data. He is a published author in numerous peer-reviewed journals for computer modeling and catalysis and is well-versed in programming, networking, data acquisition, and cybersecurity. 

You can't unbuild operatories. So, before you start building, there are a few important questions to answer about production. In this episode of Metric Mondays, Kirk Behrendt brings back Dr. Barrett Straub, ACT’s CEO, to break down your production story and explain why you don't need as many patients as you think. Stop the churn-and-burn dentistry that's burning you out! To learn how to rewrite your production story, listen to Episode 877 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.straubSend 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/bpaDownload ACT’s BPA app on the Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/best-practices-association/id6738960360Download ACT’s BPA app on the Google Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.actdental.join&hl=en_USJoin 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 877: https://www.youtube.com/@actdental/videosRegister for ACT’s To The Top Study Club (July 25, 2025): https://www.eventbrite.com/e/climb-with-us-register-for-july-25-2025-ttt-study-club-tickets-1205497959849Main Takeaways:There's more to the story than how much you produced.Analyze your annual patient value, active patients, and gross production.Know your production story so you can figure out how to write it going forward.Stop filling production gaps with more patients. Do more dentistry on less patients.Do you want to be a dentist that chases 4,000 patients or have fewer, right patients?Snippets:0:00 Introduction.1:23 Why we need a production story.2:32 Important KPIs you need to know.6:46 Do more per active patient.11:47 Countermeasures you can start 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. 

You might use a scanner every single day. But that alone won't make you an expert! In this episode of Clinical Edge Fridays, Kirk Behrendt brings back Dr. Christian Coachman, founder of Digital Smile Design, to share highlights from his recent collaboration event with Dr. John Kois, as well as the upcoming IntraOral Scanner Festival where you can take your scanning to the next level. To learn more about this upcoming event and how to join, listen to Episode 876 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.comListen to Dr. Coachman’s podcast, Coffee Break with Coachman: https://open.spotify.com/show/4ADCrWhqsUKbHmZtkhhgoBRegister for DSD Residency 1 On Demand: https://digitalsmiledesign.com/dsd-residency-1-on-demandRegister for The IntraOral Scanner Festival (May 15-18, 2025) with code IOS20 for 20% off: https://digitalsmiledesign.com/courses/intraoral-scanner-festival-may-2025Register for The Visionary Dentist Summit (March 5-7, 2026): https://digitalsmiledesign.com/courses/the-visionary-dentist-summit-march-2026More 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/bpaDownload ACT’s BPA app on the Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/best-practices-association/id6738960360Download ACT’s BPA app on the Google Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.actdental.join&hl=en_USJoin 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 876: https://www.youtube.com/@actdental/videosMain Takeaways:A scanner is not a magic tool that fixes your mistakes.Scanning a lot won't make you an expert. It’s an art you need to learn.Attend The IntraOral Scanner Festival to learn tips and techniques from the experts.No matter the level or type of scanner you have, this event will take you to the next level.Snippets:0:00 Introduction.1:49 The Kois-Coachman event.8:59 Revelations from Marta Revilla-León’s course.13:38 Why you should attend The IntraOral Scanner Festival.25:34 Revelations and surprises from the Kois event.37:42 Final thoughts.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.