The Dentalpreneur Podcast w/ Dr. Mark Costes

On today's episode, we continue with part two of Dr. Mark Costes' compelling first presentation at the Music City SCALE 2025 event. In this segment, Dr. Costes delivers a deep dive into key challenges facing today's dental practice owners—employee retention, the nationwide hygiene shortage, and the harsh reality of PPOs. He shares actionable strategies to improve team culture, build loyalty through better leadership, and transform non-producers into practice contributors. Drawing on Stoic philosophy, he urges owners to focus only on what they can control—systems, leadership, and culture—while tuning out the noise. You'll also hear powerful data on the current state of dentistry, including what's driving turnover, why hygienist supply is critically low, and how to make smarter, data-driven decisions about insurance plans. With rising student debt, longer careers, and stagnating practice profits, Dr. Costes makes a strong case for why mastering business fundamentals is no longer optional—it's essential. Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast! EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast

Dr. Mark Costes shares crucial insights for dentists on why simply increasing production won’t solve business challenges. He stresses the importance of fixing broken systems and toxic cultures before pursuing growth. By addressing infrastructure first, practices can achieve better profitability and reduce overhead. Mark also highlights the keys to clinical efficiency and the value of personal wellbeing in achieving success. Additionally, he discusses common frustrations in dentistry and the importance of establishing core values to enhance workplace culture.

Dan Van Eps, Senior Director at Henry Schein Dental Practice Transitions, shares his nearly three decades of experience in dental practice sales and valuations. He explores the critical role of brokers in maximizing practice value and the differences between DSO and doctor-to-doctor sales. Dan highlights the importance of deep data analysis in valuations and addresses common seller mistakes. The discussion also touches on current market trends, including the rise of startups and insights into dental lending and default rates. A treasure trove of advice for buyers and sellers!

In this engaging discussion, Steve Steinbrenner, a seasoned dental finance executive with 30 years of experience, shares insights on navigating the landscape of dental loans. He reveals how current economic conditions are surfacing new opportunities for practice owners, and why aligning with the right advisors can make all the difference. They explore effective strategies for expansions and the significance of adapting to interest rate trends. Steve also emphasizes the importance of choosing a supportive lender for long-term growth in dentistry.

In a lively AMA session, Dr. Mark Costes addresses critical topics like overcoming burnout and the importance of systematic practice management. He discusses integrating mission-driven efforts into local outreach and shares insights from global service experiences. Listeners will learn strategies for enhancing energy management with structured routines and the role of free dental days in community service. Mark also dives into the complexities of selling a dental practice and emphasizes the need for balanced clinical and business priorities.

Dr. Kami Hoss, an innovative orthodontist and founder of The Super Dentists and Supermouth, shares his journey from a single practice to dominating the San Diego market with a playful twist. He covers the creation of engaging superhero themes and entertainment to attract families. Dr. Hoss dives into his revolutionary Supermouth oral care line, emphasizing science-backed, microbiome-friendly solutions. With nearly 300 patents, he explains how his products aim to reshape perceptions of dental health among kids, making oral care fun and effective.

Brent Sonnier and Chris Sands, tax strategists from Profi 2020, dive into advanced tax strategies for dental entrepreneurs. They explore the significance of timing for liquidity events and the benefits of tax-aware investing. Listeners learn about acquiring real estate to leverage bonus depreciation, the mechanics of cost segregation that can yield six-figure savings, and how oil & gas investments can serve as tax deductions. They also clarify R&D tax credits and discuss the intricacies of short-term rentals, making this a goldmine for dentists keen on wealth-building.

In this engaging discussion, Eric Payne, founder and CEO of Tekagogo, shares his journey from a law career to 21 years at Henry Schein and his vision for revolutionizing dental service with on-demand tech support. He highlights the pressing challenges of technician shortages and the need for vocational training in dentistry. The conversation explores how Tekagogo connects practices with skilled technicians efficiently, tackling logistical headaches in real time. Eric also emphasizes empowering teams in dental practices to enhance productivity and reduce burnout.

Prashant Ohri, President of Henry Schein Canada and Americas, shares his journey from the beverage industry to dental leadership. He discusses key differences between North and South American dental markets, the role of general practitioners in advanced care, and trends in consolidation. Prashant highlights Henry Schein's innovative preventative service model, their philanthropic efforts, and contrasts sales strategies in Canada and Brazil. This insightful conversation touches upon the future of global dentistry and patient-centered care.

Join Dr. Taher Dhoon, an oral surgeon and co-founder of the Colorado Surgical Institute, along with Dr. Dan Briskie, a fellow surgeon and practice builder, as they dive into high-dollar case acceptance. They share powerful strategies for presenting complex procedures like implants and veneers. Learn about effective patient communication, the importance of recording consultations, and how to optimize booking and consult setups. Their actionable tips promise to elevate patient experience and boost acceptance rates.