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Dental Drill Bits with Sandy Pardue

Sandy Pardue of Classic Practice Resources & Michael Arias of The Dental Marketer discuss issues facing the dental practice owner of today. This podcast show features the movers and shakers of the dental industry as well as opinion leaders. Enjoy the fun, laid-back vibe as things get real. Sandy is an energetic lecturer and consultant in the area of dental practice management. She is Director of Consulting with Classic Practice Resources and has over 36 years of “hands-on” experience.
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Oct 2, 2024

Puzzled by a sudden slowdown in your practice after a period of steady growth? In this episode of Dental Drill Bits, Michael and Sandy tackle this very dilemma, driven by a listener's concern about a drop in activity despite continuous marketing efforts. Sandy shines a light on the inevitable ebbs and flows of the dental business, detailing how peaks and valleys are quite common. While it's tempting to look at external factors, she emphasizes that the real key lies with internal operations—how well your team navigates daily tasks, engages with patients, and adheres to promotional schedules can make or break your growth momentum.

With unshakeable opinion and experience, both Michael and Sandy underscore the importance of a rock-solid front office, the urgency of consistent follow-ups, and impeccable communication. They delve into actionable strategies and best practices for maintaining top-notch performance, regardless of external fluctuations. By the end, Sandy empowers practice owners to reclaim the reins of their success, conveying that much of what determines business growth is within their control.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

  • Why your dental practice might experience sudden drops in activity despite ongoing marketing
  • The significance of internal factors—appointment handling, teamwork, and consistent promotional efforts
  • How urgent, organized front-office operations contribute to maintaining growth
  • Methods for effective communication within a dental team to tackle periods of low activity
  • Encouraging insights about controlling your practice's success through proactive management

Ready to turn unpredictable slowdowns into steady growth for your dental practice? Tune into today's conversation!

Sponsors:

Do you need a new website or marketing agency? Check out what DocSites can do for you: https://www.DocSites.com/landing-pages/ddb/

Marketing: 

Google Ads

People:

Taylor Swift

Sep 25, 2024

Imagine turning your practice into a thriving hub by simply tweaking your bonus structures for your office manager. This episode of Dental Drill Bits delves into the nuances of crafting successful bonus systems that align with your practice's financial goals. Michael and Sandy engage in an insightful discussion exploring profit-increasing bonuses versus flat raises, focusing on ensuring these incentives are both motivating and sustainable. Sandy advises on basing bonuses on collections instead of production for financial stability while offering strategies to set clear, transparent benchmarks to foster a win-win situation.

Listen in as Sandy introduces the concept of attendance-based bonuses designed to boost team morale and punctuality. She emphasizes that aiming for clarity before introducing any bonus structures is critical since such benefits can be challenging to retract once they're part of the system. Wrapping up on a practical note, Sandy underscores the importance of evaluating the financial impacts thoroughly.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

  • How to choose between profit-increasing bonuses and flat raises.
  • Why basing bonuses on collections rather than production benefits your practice.
  • Strategies for setting transparent and achievable benchmarks.
  • The potential advantages of attendance-based bonuses for team morale.
  • Important considerations for financial implications before implementing bonus plans.

Ready to refine your practice's bonus structure and watch your team thrive? Don't miss this episode!

Sponsors:

Don’t just look ahead. Plan Forward. Discover the dental membership plan partner that empowers your entire office. Created by a team in your shoes. Find out more here, and be sure to mention Dental Drill Bits for a special offer! https://www.planforward.io/

Sep 18, 2024

How can you master the art of insurance collections and minimize outstanding claims? In today's episode, Michael and Sandy dive deep into the essentials of managing insurance collections with expert insights that can save your practice valuable time and resources. Sandy explains the critical importance of timely and consistent follow-up on insurance claims and recommends designating a specific day each week for this task to streamline operations.

Meticulous tracking of claims—whether using spreadsheets or software reports—and conducting follow-up every three weeks are essential strategies Sandy advocates for. Sandy warns about the pitfalls of outsourcing insurance management without proper oversight, emphasizing that understanding and smoothly handling these processes within your own practice can lead to tremendous benefits.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

  • Why timely and consistent follow-up on insurance claims is crucial
  • Best practices for designating specific days for managing collections tasks
  • The benefits of tracking claims meticulously using spreadsheets or software
  • The recommended frequency for following up on claims
  • What you need to know before considering outsourcing insurance management
  • The significance of electronic payments in streamlining your practice operations

Don't miss this opportunity to elevate your practice's efficiency—tune in now!

Sponsors:

Do you need a new website or marketing agency? Check out what DocSites can do for you: https://www.DocSites.com/landing-pages/ddb/

Tools/Software:

Excel

Dentrix

Brands:

Five Guys

Sep 11, 2024

In this episode, Sandy dives deep into the myriad benefits of dental membership plans, revealing how they are game-changers for increasing patient loyalty and cutting the ties from heavy reliance on dental insurance. Through comprehensive discussion and real-life examples from various practices, Sandy illuminates the substantial impact these plans have on both patient retention and revenue growth, backing it all up with compelling statistics.

Learn how integrating dental membership plans and using tools like Plan Forward software can streamline your management process while enhancing patient satisfaction!

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

  • How dental membership plans enhance patient loyalty.
  • The role dental membership plans play in reducing reliance on insurance.
  • Key statistics showing increased patient retention through membership plans.
  • How to leverage Plan Forward software for hassle-free management.
  • Real-world success stories from practices implementing membership plans.
  • Strategies to exponentially grow your revenue with dental memberships.
  • Methods to effectively market and manage your membership program.

Tune in now and see how membership plans could help your office!

Sponsors:

Don’t just look ahead. Plan Forward. Discover the dental membership plan partner that empowers your entire office. Created by a team in your shoes. Find out more here, and be sure to mention Dental Drill Bits for a special offer! https://www.planforward.io/

Sep 4, 2024

Are your ready to tackle the fourth quarter crunch and boost productivity in your practice? Join Michael and Sandy on this high-impact episode of Dental Drill Bits as they break down transformative strategies to keep your practice thriving, even during the most challenging times.

Gain practical advice through Sandy's shared anecdotes on everything from managing missed appointments to tackling unscheduled treatments and sustaining team momentum throughout slow months. Track your key performance indicators, enforce consistent procedures, improve follow-up communication, and ensure proactive scheduling—all key takeaways to help you end the fiscal year with strong, positive numbers. Don't miss this chance to arm yourself with essential tips for a robust dental practice.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

  • How consistently following specific actions can keep your dental practice always on the move.
  • Effective methods to handle missed appointments and bridge the gap with unscheduled treatments.
  • Why proactive communication and diligent follow-ups can save your schedule.
  • Tips for delivering top productivity during off-peak times of the year.
  • Which performance reports to pull and what insights they might reveal.
  • Steps to enhance productivity and identifying actionable improvement areas.

Listen to ensure your dental practice is prepped to finish the year on a high!

Sponsors:

Don’t just look ahead. Plan Forward. Discover the dental membership plan partner that empowers your entire office. Created by a team in your shoes. Find out more here, and be sure to mention Dental Drill Bits for a special offer! https://www.planforward.io/

Brands/Businesses:

Circle K

Places/Establishments:

Renaissance Hotel - Boston

Analytics/Reports:

Henry Schein One/Jarvis Analytics 2024 Report

Aug 28, 2024

What happens when you appoint someone an office manager without proper training? In today's rerun episode Michael and Sandy dive deep into this critical issue afflicting many dental practices. They explore the stark differences between an office manager and a front office employee, debunking common misconceptions that can lead to team conflicts and inefficiencies. Sandy illustrates that in practices with under ten employees, appointing team leaders for different departments is a more effective strategy than designating an office manager. Furthermore, the episode highlights the essential role of an office manager as a key liaison, running protocols, handling team trainings, and guiding workflows, while they should steer clear from patient-facing roles. This division ensures each person contributes their best to the team's success.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

  • The true differences between an office manager and a front office employee
  • Why mislabeling roles can create chaos within a dental practice
  • Ideal staff filling roles when you have fewer than ten employees
  • Core responsibilities that should define an office manager's tasks
  • Areas an office manager should avoid to ensure focused management
  • Importance of effective communication with and among dental office teams
  • How to handle and improve issues with existing office managers
  • The key qualities an aspiring office manager should possess
  • Understanding the structural integrity needed for harmonious office dynamics
  • Tips on restructuring practices to incite better efficiency and cohesion

Set your dental practice on the road to ultimate success—Listen to this episode now!

(This episode originally aired on Nov 03, 2022)

Mentions and Links:

Communities/Groups:

Dental Gumbo Group

Aug 21, 2024

How can YOUR practice stand out in the crowded online space? In this episode, Michael, Sandy, and Ali dive into proven strategies for enhancing your practice's online presence. Joined by Ali from DocSites, a leader in dental websites and marketing, the conversation reveals how to keep your website fresh and engaging. From showcasing compelling before-and-after photos to ensuring your team and service information is always current, Ali provides actionable tips that can attract new patients and keep your existing ones loyal.

But it doesn't stop at just updating your website. Ali discusses the significant impact online reviews can have on your practice's reputation and offers a glimpse into effective marketing tools like Google Ads and SEO. Even more, this episode introduces a fantastic free web assessment offered by DocSites that can help you pinpoint areas for improvement with your site!

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

  • Why keeping your website content updated is essential for patient engagement.
  • The importance of showcasing before-and-after photos on your website.
  • How online reviews can significantly influence new patient acquisition.
  • Effective tools and strategies for dental marketing, including Google Ads and SEO.
  • The benefits of a free web assessment offered by DocSites to improve your website.
  • How to create and maintain a system for regular updates.

Don’t miss this opportunity to supercharge your practice's online presence—tune in now!

Sponsors:

Do you need a new website or marketing agency? Check out what DocSites can do for you: https://www.DocSites.com/landing-pages/ddb/

You can also reach out to Ali here! ali@DocSites.com

Tools/Software:

Google Ads

SEO

Cherry Payment Plans

Brands/Businesses:

Invisalign

iTero

SureSmile

Pep Boys

Practices:

Seaside Dentistry

Aspen Dental

Aug 14, 2024

Are you unsure about how consulting might help your dental practice? In this episode, Michael and Sandy dive deep into the transformative power of consulting versus coaching in the dental world. They clarify that while coaching hones the personal development of your team, consulting zeros in on your business's heartbeat—its systems, organization, and overall operational efficiency. From reducing stress to improving overall practice productivity, they paint a vivid picture of how the right consultant can turn a chaotic office into a well-oiled machine.

Sandy shares invaluable tips on choosing the right consultant, stressing the importance of experience, and steering clear of advice from inexperienced sources or online hearsay. They candidly discuss common challenges and misconceptions team members have about consulting, and provide practical advice for seamlessly introducing a consultant to your team. By the end of this episode, you’ll understand how consultants can provide ongoing support well beyond mere initial implementation, and why viewing them as temporary "training wheels" can eventually lead your practice to smooth, independent operation. Don't forget to check out Classic Practice Resources and join the conversation in the Dental Gumbo Facebook group!

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

  • The crucial differences between consulting and coaching for dental practices.
  • How consultants can help improve systems, organization, and reduce practitioner stress.
  • Why experience is key when selecting a consultant and red flags to watch for.
  • Common team challenges and misconceptions about working with consultants.
  • Tangible benefits of consulting, like increased productivity and better team training.
  • Practical tips for effectively introducing a consultant to your team.
  • Insights into Classic Practice Resources’ approach to consulting, including ongoing support.

Ready to transform your practice with an effective consultant? Tune in to get all the details!

Sponsors:

Do you need a new website or marketing agency? Check out what Docsites can do for you: https://www.docsites.com/landing-pages/ddb/

Tools/Software:

Zoom

People:

Howard Farran

Gordon Christensen

Brands:

Taco Bell

Burger King

Fortune 500

Wataburger

Aug 7, 2024

What pitfalls are most common in dental practices? In this episode, Michael and Sandy unpack the challenges and strategies that can make all the difference. From mastering efficient systems to ensuring your team remains accountable, Sandy's insights will steer you away from common pitfalls like the notorious slow periods in August and September. With a focus on tracking crucial metrics and recognizing trends, this conversation is packed with actionable advice for keeping your practice bustling year-round.

But that’s not all—Sandy emphasizes the irreplaceable value of proactive communication and patient follow-up. Discover effective techniques for team training, how to maintain a dependable system for patient retention, and the best ways to handle unscheduled treatment follow-ups. As the episode wraps up, Sandy shares her upcoming seminars dedicated to continuous learning and improvement, inviting you to further your practice management skills.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

  • How to maintain efficient systems in a dental practice.
  • Strategies for retaining patients and ensuring team accountability.
  • The importance of tracking numbers and understanding trends.
  • How to prevent and manage slow periods, specifically in August and September.
  • Best practices for proactive communication and patient follow-up.
  • Effective methods for team training and development.
  • Systems for patient retention and handling unscheduled treatments.

Dive into this episode now to find out what common pitfalls your practice needs to avoid!

Sponsors:

Do you need a new website or marketing agency? Check out what Docsites can do for you: https://www.docsites.com/landing-pages/ddb/

Places:

Disneyland

Software/Tools:

Yapi

Demandforce

Flex

Excel

thedentaldashboard.com

Stats:

2024 Dental Industry Annual Benchmark Study (Henry Schein One Report)

 

Jul 31, 2024

How can your practice ensure a seamless and enjoyable patient experience from start to finish? In this episode, Michael and Sandy delve into the critical role of effective communication and smooth handoffs in transforming dental visits into positive experiences. They unravel the nuances of ensuring clear, empathetic communication at every touchpoint during the patient's journey, especially during transitions between different stages of their appointments. The conversation is packed with actionable insights on implementing structured handoffs, involving patients in the process, and the importance of using plain language.

Empowering your dental team with tools like detailed scripts and role-playing exercises can dramatically improve patient interactions and build a patient-centered culture. By fostering an environment of empathy, understanding, and clear follow-up communication, practices can elevate their service and retain more patients.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

  • The impact of clear and empathetic communication on patient experience
  • How to involve patients in their care transition process
  • Techniques for structuring handoffs within the dental team
  • Importance of avoiding technical jargon with patients
  • Strategies to validate patient experiences and build trust
  • How to ensure clear and effective follow-up on treatments and appointments
  • The role of role-playing in refining team communication skills
  • Tips for creating a patient-centered culture in the dental office

Don't miss this episode to transform your patient's dental experience from routine to remarkable!

Sponsors:

Do you need a new website or marketing agency? Check out what Docsites can do for you: https://www.docsites.com/landing-pages/ddb/

Jul 24, 2024

Are you ready to discover the wake-up calls that can transform your leadership style and elevate your team’s performance? In this episode of Dental Drill Bits, Michael and Sandy delve into crucial leadership lessons that every manager or leader, especially those in dental practices, should heed. Drawing inspiration from the 12 vital wake-up calls designed by Eric Partaker, they break down each point with practical examples and genuine insights, ensuring you leave with a toolkit of actionable steps to improve your leadership skills and your team's dynamic.

Throughout the episode, Michael and Sandy discuss how key themes like accountability, handling criticism, and resisting the urge to micromanage can dramatically improve the workplace. From avoiding favoritism to setting clear standards and leading by example, they provide relatable stories and strategies that you can apply immediately. To cap it off, Sandy underlines the significance of recognizing and praising good work while promoting open communication to build a positive and cohesive team culture, ensuring not just a successful practice, but a happier, more motivated team.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

  • The 12 wake-up calls every leader should incorporate to enhance their effectiveness.
  • Strategies for embracing accountability and handling criticism constructively.
  • How to avoid common leadership pitfalls like favoritism and micromanaging.
  • Ways to set clear standards and lead by example.
  • The importance of recognizing and praising team achievements.
  • Techniques for fostering open communication and a positive work environment.

Tune in now and start transforming your leadership skills today!

Sponsors:

Don’t just look ahead. Plan Forward. Discover the dental membership plan partner that empowers your entire office. Created by a team in your shoes. Find out more here, and be sure to mention Dental Drill Bits for a special offer! https://www.planforward.io/

Jul 17, 2024

Are staff meetings in your practice driving productivity or just wasting time? In this episode, Michael and Sandy dive deep into the art and science of effective staff meetings, unearthing the transformative power they hold when done right. They explore the contrasts between casual huddles and well-structured meetings, underlining their essential role in fostering communication, training, and team unity. Sandy shares her seasoned strategies for making meetings productive, from appointing a facilitator to engaging the team in planning and decision-making, while also steering clear of common hazards like gripe sessions.

Leadership sits at the heart of these discussions, with Michael and Sandy stressing the importance of meaningful interactions that tie directly into the practice’s success. They reveal the benefits of rotating the role of meeting facilitator, celebrating team achievements, and cleverly using tools like suggestion boxes and whiteboards to collect agenda items. Sandy concludes with advice on the meticulous planning and scheduling of these meetings to ensure they remain significant and effective, helping to build a cohesive, motivated team.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

  • How do casual huddles differ from structured staff meetings?
  • What are the key benefits of regular staff meetings in dental practices?
  • Strategies for appointing a meeting facilitator and engaging the team.
  • Common pitfalls to avoid during staff meetings.
  • Why leadership is crucial in making meetings productive.
  • The advantages of rotating the facilitator role.
  • Tips for celebrating team achievements during meetings.
  • How to use tools like suggestion boxes and whiteboards for agenda setting.
  • Best practices for planning and scheduling effective staff meetings.
  • How to maintain meeting importance and engagement over time.

Let's jump into today's episode on effective staff meetings!

Sponsors:

Do you need a new website or marketing agency? Check out what Docsites can do for you: https://www.docsites.com/landing-pages/ddb/

Jul 10, 2024

Ever wonder why patients often decline treatment and how you can address these objections effectively? In this episode, Michael and Sandy dive deep into the top three most common excuses patients give: fear, lack of awareness, and financial concerns. Sandy sheds light on why recognizing these objections is crucial and offers actionable strategies for overcoming them. Through compelling examples, she underscores the importance of educating patients about the benefits of timely care and mastering verbal skills, including the art of voice inflection, to present treatment plans compellingly.

Sandy doesn’t stop there. She explains how role-playing and regular training can transform your dental team's approach, making patients feel more at ease and informed. By the end of this enlightening discussion, you'll understand how to create a comforting environment for your patients, empowering them to move forward with necessary treatments. Tune in to harness the power of effective communication and patient education in your practice.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

  • How to identify and address patient fears regarding dental treatments.
  • Techniques to inform patients who are unaware of their dental needs.
  • Strategies for handling financial objections to dental care.
  • The role of verbal skills and voice inflection in presenting treatment plans.
  • The impact of role-playing and team training on patient interactions.
  • Ways to make patients feel comfortable and informed during decision-making.
  • Tips for educating patients about the benefits of timely dental treatments.

Transform the way you handle patient objections by listening to this episode today!

Sponsors:

Don’t just look ahead. Plan Forward. Discover the dental membership plan partner that empowers your entire office. Created by a team in your shoes. Find out more here, and be sure to mention Dental Drill Bits for a special offer! https://www.planforward.io/

Jul 3, 2024

Are you struggling to streamline your practice’s front office operations while juggling departments, patients, and metrics? In this episode, Michael and Sandy delve into the essentials of managing a successful practice, starting with the highlights of Sandy's recent webinar and her upcoming seminar in Boston.

The conversation quickly transitions into a focused discussion around a listener's question on maintaining consistent department meetings and tracking pivotal metrics. Sandy offers an actionable guide on conducting effective meetings, complete with tips on following up on assignments, gathering feedback, and defining clear objectives. Specific topics like tracking new patient conversions, handling broken appointments, and managing production and collections metrics take the forefront. By the end of this episode, you'll grasp the importance of accountability, clear communication, and performance metrics in leading your practice to success.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

  • How to run effective and consistent department meetings.
  • Tips for following up on previous assignments and setting clear goals.
  • Key metrics to track for the smooth operation of a dental practice.
  • The importance of tracking new patient conversions and handling broken appointments.
  • Best practices for managing production and collection metrics.
  • Strategies for efficiently managing insurance claims and ensuring accountability.
  • Benefits of in-person training and special promotions for upcoming seminars.

Tune in today to learn about department meetings, metrics, and paying attention to what matters in your practice!

Sponsors:

Do you need a new website or marketing agency? Check out what Docsites can do for you: https://www.docsites.com/landing-pages/ddb/

Jun 26, 2024

How transformative can employee training be for your practice? In this episode of Dental Drill Bits, Michael and Sandy delve into the critical role of structured training programs and their immense benefits on profitability, employee satisfaction, and patient care. Sandy illuminates the stark contrast between trained and untrained employees, revealing how targeted investments in specialized programs can significantly enhance your practice’s performance and efficiency.

The duo also shares a wealth of practical advice on implementing effective training within your  office, covering everything from verbal skills and role-playing exercises to comprehensive onboarding protocols. Sandy makes a compelling case for the necessity of consistent training, emphasizing how it leads to predictable outcomes, boosts employee retention, and propels overall practice success. They remind practice owners that despite budget challenges, investing in training is pivotal and suggest starting with free resources like podcasts to begin the journey toward excellence.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

  • How structured training programs boost profitability and employee satisfaction.
  • The significant differences between trained and untrained employees.
  • Practical steps for effective employee training within a dental office.
  • The long-term benefits of consistent training and its impact on practice success.
  • How to utilize free resources like podcasts for initial training investments.

Ready to elevate your dental practice through strategic training? Don’t miss out on this episode of Dental Drill Bits!

Sponsors:

Jun 19, 2024

Underperforming team members in your practice? In this episode, Michael and Sandy dive deep into the intricacies of practice management, starting from upcoming seminars to managing underperforming team members without rocking the boat. Sandy shares her wealth of experience on the art of effective communication, setting realistic goals, seeking constructive feedback, and the crucial follow-up processes needed to help your team excel. Her emphasis on thorough training, meticulous documentation, and structured management will leave you equipped with practical tools to ensure your practice runs smoothly.

Moreover, this episode tackles one of the most daunting aspects of practice management: dealing with the potential need to fire staff. Sandy uncovers common concerns doctors face and provides thoughtful, methodical steps to navigate this challenging terrain.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

  • How to communicate effectively with underperforming team members.
  • Steps to setting realistic and achievable goals for your team.
  • Techniques for seeking and using employee feedback to improve practice performance.
  • The importance of training and documentation in maintaining a high-functioning team.
  • Structured management strategies to optimize your practice.
  • Approaches to handling the difficult decision of firing staff.

Tune in to harness these insights and elevate your dental practice management skills today!

 

Sponsors:

Don’t just look ahead. Plan Forward. Discover the dental membership plan partner that empowers your entire office. Created by a team in your shoes. Find out more here, and be sure to mention Dental Drill Bits for a special offer! https://www.planforward.io/


Do you need a new website or marketing agency? Check out what Docsites can do for you: https://www.docsites.com/landing-pages/ddb/

Jun 12, 2024

How can your front desk team transform every call into a positive patient experience? In this episode, Sandy draws from her recent speaking engagements at the Delivering WOW Summit to uncover key strategies for top-notch front office communication. She also previews her upcoming seminar, Front Desk Pro, set to take place in Boston on August 23rd, revealing the secrets to boosting front office performance. Michael and Sandy tackle real-world phone interactions, from handling insurance queries to managing cancellations, ensuring that your front desk makes a lasting impression.

But it’s not just about what you say; it's also about how you say it. This episode underscores the critical role of tone, verbal skills, and intuitive call handling. Sandy shares practical advice on avoiding the pitfalls of sounding robotic and burdening patients with unnecessary tasks. With actionable tips and relatable scenarios, this episode is a must-listen for any practice aiming to elevate their front desk etiquette and foster a welcoming, efficient environment for every caller.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

  • How to handle common phone interactions effectively in your practice.
  • Techniques for making a positive first impression over the phone.
  • The do's and don'ts of discussing insurance with patients.
  • Strategies for dealing with appointment cancellations smoothly.
  • The importance of tone and verbal skills in patient communication.
  • How to implement a call-handling system to avoid common pitfalls.
  • Ways to promote your practice during phone calls.

Ready to transform your front desk team's phone skills and enhance your dental practice's first impressions? Tune in to today's episode!

Sponsors:

Jun 5, 2024

Dental membership plans are only for low-income patients, right? Join Michael and Sandy in this episode of Dental Drill Bits as they sit down with Megan Lohman to debunk common myths surrounding dental membership plans. Megan dives into the core advantages of Plan Forward, a tool designed to streamline the creation and management of dental membership plans. She reveals how these plans are not just exclusive to low-income regions but can be effectively tailored to a wide range of demographics, including affluent areas and retirees without dental insurance.

Megan busts myths and shares eye-opening statistics about the significant portion of Americans lacking dental insurance, shedding light on how transparent pricing through membership plans can promote better dental care. Addressing concerns about potential revenue reduction, Megan explains how offering discounts can actually lead to increased patient visits and higher treatment acceptance rates, ultimately boosting overall revenue. She provides actionable strategies to add substantial value to your membership plans, such as including emergency visits and fluoride treatments, and emphasizes the role of Plan Forward in enhancing efficiency. By the end of the episode, you'll understand why simplifying and tracking membership plans is crucial for your practice's success.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

  • Why dental membership plans are not just for low-income patients
  • How to tailor membership plans for various demographics
  • The significant number of Americans without dental insurance
  • Strategies for making dental pricing transparent and manageable
  • Debunking concerns about reduced revenue from membership plans
  • How offering discounts can boost patient visits and treatment acceptance
  • Value-added elements to include in membership plans
  • Strategies for tracking performance and gaining team support

Don’t miss out on this game-changing conversation! Tune in now to uncover the full potential of dental membership plans for your practice.


Sponsors:

Don’t just look ahead. Plan Forward. Discover the dental membership plan partner that empowers your entire office. Created by a team in your shoes. Find out more here, and be sure to mention Dental Drill Bits for a special offer! https://www.planforward.io/

May 29, 2024

Can you really find the perfect fit for your practice through better interviewing techniques? In this episode of Dental Drill Bits, Michael and Sandy uncover effective hiring strategies that can transform how you build your team. They explore the essentials of preparation, from the types of questions that reveal a candidate’s true nature to the value of incorporating personality and intelligence tests. You'll learn how to uncover what candidates expect in terms of salary and work environment, and why having a comprehensive policy manual and organized systems are non-negotiable for running a smooth operation.

But it’s not just about the mechanics of interviewing. This episode also sheds light on the softer side of hiring—like creating a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere that retains top talent and the benefit of involving your team in hiring decisions. With practical advice tailored for dental practices, Michael and Sandy offer a masterclass in aligning your hiring practices with your practice’s culture and long-term goals.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

  • Key strategies for effective interview preparation.
  • The types of interview questions that uncover a candidate's true nature.
  • Importance of personality and intelligence tests in the hiring process.
  • How to identify candidates' expectations about salary and work environment.
  • The role of a policy manual and organized systems in hiring.
  • Questions to ask (and avoid) to assess candidate fit.
  • Creating a welcoming and inclusive work environment to retain staff.
  • Integrating team opinions in the hiring process.
  • Practical advice for improving your dental practice’s hiring process.

Don’t miss out on these game-changing insights—tune in to the full episode now!

Sponsors:

Do you need a new website or marketing agency? Check out what Docsites can do for you: https://www.docsites.com/landing-pages/ddb/

May 22, 2024

How can cutting-edge technology streamline the entire patient journey in your practice? In this episode, Michael and Sandy sit down with Dr. Gina Dorfman, the visionary founder of Yapi, to explore how this comprehensive dental software solution is transforming the industry. Dr. Dorfman passionately discusses the latest Yapi updates, such as a sleek new interface, enhanced appointment reminders, and innovative tools like insurance verification, credit card processing by text, and two-way patient texting. Each feature is designed to streamline practice management, improve patient care, and boost the efficiency of your front office.

But that's not all—Dr. Dorfman shares her broader contributions to the dental community, including her active involvement in the Dental Gumbo Facebook group and a special offer for our listeners. Whether you're a dental professional eager to modernize your practice or someone intrigued by the latest advancements in healthcare technology, this episode is a goldmine.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

  • What new features are included in the latest Yapi update and how they benefit dental practices
  • How Yapi’s enhanced appointment reminders and internal communication tools work
  • The advantages of Yapi’s insurance verification and text-based credit card processing
  • How the two-way texting feature with patients can improve patient engagement


Ready to transform your dental practice with the latest technology? Listen in to discover how Yapi can elevate your practice to new heights!

Sponsors:

May 15, 2024

Are you tired of complex billing structures and challenging patient finances? In this episode, we connect with Dr. Abby Neville, who has transformed her dental practice by leveraging the remarkable Plan Forward membership plan. This innovative package simplifies processes, cuts costs, and uncoils the often tangled world of insurance and payments for both patients and practitioners alike.

Dr. Abby takes us on a journey of transformation—a success story wherein she harnessed the Plan Forward initiative for enhanced savings and preventive care. We delve into the nitty-gritty of how the plan works, how easy it is to implement, and the impressive time and cost savings it offers. Hear from Dr. Abby as she underscores the paramount importance of patient well-being and why centering your practice on their best interests is the key to successful utilization of the membership plan.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

  • An in-depth understanding of Plan Forward membership plans
  • The simplicity and cost-saving nature of Plan Forward
  • The role of treating patients well and focusing on their well-being in successful plan implementation
  • The benefits of preventive care under Plan Forward
  • Steps to implement the Plan Forward in your practice


Tune in to learn how you could potentially revolutionize your practice with your own membership plan!


Sponsors:

Don’t just look ahead. Plan Forward. Discover the dental membership plan partner that empowers your entire office. Created by a team in your shoes. Find out more here, and be sure to mention Dental Drill Bits for a special offer! https://www.planforward.io/

May 8, 2024

What is the KEY role front office staff play in a successful dental practice? In this episode, we dive into office management with Michael and Sandy. A conversation taking you behind the scenes of Sandy's recent Front Desk Pro and upcoming office management training seminar, this episode underscores the vital role live training and phone skills in your office.

Sandy gives us an in-depth look into the weighty importance of answering calls professionally and demonstrating empathy. The strategic approach to scheduling appointments is another element under the spotlight in this discussion. The duo also delve into the significance of having front office staff who are well-versed in the services a dental practice offers, the proper use of verbal skills, and how online scheduling can take your practice to a new height. So get ready to broaden your horizon in office management and enhance your dental practice to its utmost potential.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

  • The benefits of live front office training in the dental industry.
  • Strategies for effective and professional call answering.
  • The importance of empathy in patient communication.
  • Tips for efficient appointment scheduling.
  • The role of service knowledge in front office management.
  • The impact of effective verbal skills on patient experience.
  • The value of online scheduling for improved efficiency.

Don't forget to tune in and participate in this discussion, as you won’t want to miss these tips on improving your dental practice's front office operations!

Sponsors:

Dental Gumbo Group

 

Events:

Front Desk Pro Seminar November 15th, 2024

 

Establishments:

French Quarter

Ritz Carlton

 

Brands/Products:

Ford Explorer

Zoom Whitening

 

Services:

CallRail

 

TV:

Saturday Night Live

May 1, 2024

Ever wonder how you can find the balance between longevity and vitality in the fast-paced dental world? This episode dives right into it with our guest Dr. Uche Odiatu, a wellness guru with a difference. A practicing dentist, certified personal trainer, yoga instructor, and undoubtedly charismatic speaker, Uche brings a holistic understanding of health and fitness. His unique approach helps us navigate towards optimal physical health and sharp mental clarity, with surprising insights into simple lifestyle adjustments and experiences with holistic remedies.

Dish out nutritional myths and embrace the seminal role of whole foods to support overall health; that's Uche's mantra. He brings clarity to complex nutritional concepts showing us how a well-informed approach to diet and health can work wonders. Alongside, he busts popular mythology around diets, proteins, carbohydrates, and even eggs! As they say, the proof of the pudding is in the eating, so pop in and savor the learning curve with Dr. Uche Odiatu.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

  • Insight into achieving optimal physical health and mental clarity.
  • How simple lifestyle adjustments can offer crucial health benefits.
  • Understanding the role of whole foods in maintaining health.
  • Dealing with nutritional myths and understanding misunderstood food items in your diet.
  • The impacts of popular diets and the importance of a well-informed approach.

Looking to redefine your health and wellness journey? Dive into this informative episode today, wrapped with inspiring insights and practical health advice that paves the way for a healthier tomorrow.

Sponsors:

Do you need a new website or marketing agency? Check out what Docsites can do for you: https://www.docsites.com/landing-pages/ddb/

Dental Gumbo Group

 

Events:

Bulletproof Summit

 

People:

Richard Branson

Jeff Bezos

Kate Moss

Elvis Presley

Pat Riley

John Madden

Jamie Oliver

Mick Jagger

Gordon Christensen

Tom Brady

Ricky Gervais

Hippocrates

Kevin Hart

Albert Einstein

 

Products/Brands:

PEMF Mat

SAD Light

Virgin

Whole Foods

Albertsons

Oura Ring

Fitbit

Formula 1

 

Terms/Concepts:

Ergothioneine

REM Sleep

Dunning-Kruger Effect

Stephen Covey - Competence Model

 

Organizations:

American College of Sports Medicine

NSCA

National Institute of Health

American Academy of Pediatric Dentists

 

Mushrooms:

Reishi

Crimini

White

Oyster

Shiitake

 

Books/Publications:

Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind

NY Times

 

TV/Shows:

Hells kitchen

 

Artists/Music:

The Rolling Stones

(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction

Apr 24, 2024

Want to know how to turn your dental practice schedule from stress-inducing to productivity-boosting? In this episode, Sandy and Michael tackle this very challenge. Drawing upon Sandy's extensive experience in training dental teams nationwide, they delve into the integral role of scheduling in balancing efficiency and patient satisfaction. Common issues like late appointments and broken down technology are recognized as catalysts for stress that many practices fall victim to, leading to a discussion on the necessity of a tailor-made scheduling system for every dentist.

As the discussion deepens, Michael highlights the importance of team involvement to ensure the success of a productivity-driven schedule. Defining clear-cut goals for each provider and striving for team alignment is emphasized, underscored by Sandy's belief in celebrating victories - no matter how small - and viewing setbacks as opportunities for reassessment and growth. Furthermore, they illuminate the need for tracking key stats like call numbers, appointment bookings, and time utilization, thereby cultivating an understanding of effective scheduling from an analytical perspective.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

  • The significance of customizing your practice's schedule for improved efficiency and patient contentment.
  • Identifying and rectifying common stress inducers within dental practice scheduling.
  • The necessity of goal-setting for every provider and ensuring team alignment with these goals.
  • How to use setbacks as a learning curve and the importance of celebrating victories.
  • The effectiveness of monitoring key stats and how they contribute to achieving productivity goals.
  • How approaching scheduling as you would a game increases motivation and makes goal achievement a collaborative effort.


Don't miss this episode and streamline your practice schedule for maximized productivity and minimized stress!

Sponsors:

Don’t just look ahead. Plan Forward. Discover the dental membership plan partner that empowers your entire office. Created by a team in your shoes. Find out more here, and be sure to mention Dental Drill Bits for a special offer! https://www.planforward.io/

Events:

People:

Brands:

Apr 17, 2024

What really makes or breaks a well-functioning team? Buzzing with insights and real-world advice, we lay bare an indispensable component of business success – Regular one-on-one meetings. Dive into this episode with Sandy and Michael as they unfold the multiple layers of importance these interactions hold. From honing effective communication, fostering deeper relationships, to inciting recognition and personal growth among employees, the effectiveness of these conversations shapes the dynamics of your business.

We delve into the significance of timely issue resolution, personalized training initiatives, and making room for these indispensable meetings. Discover how the simple act of note-taking and regular, thoughtful interactions, pave the way for a more harmonic and productive work environment. You’ll want to take notes as we dissect the critical role one-on-one sessions play in cultivating a positive practice culture and perpetuating employee satisfaction.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

  • Why one-on-one meetings are crucial and how they can build stronger relationships
  • Importance of addressing issues promptly
  • The impact of regular interactions on the productivity
  • How personalized training can enhance employee satisfaction
  • Ways to effectively schedule and conduct one-on-one meetings.


Be sure to tune into this eye-opening episode to equip yourself with the indispensable tool that a successful business runs on. Remember, one-on-one meetings could be the missing piece in your business' success story!

Sponsors:

Events:

Brands/Products:

People:

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