Breath of Fresh Air Dental Podcast

This week, we're joined by a true force in dentistry, Lorie Streeter. With more than 30 years in the industry, Lorie has built a career that proves there's no single path to leadership or success.

From getting her start as a dental office manager to working in the DSO world, helping grow AADOM from roughly 1,200 members to more than 10,000, building her own businesses, and now serving as Vice President of U.S. Expansion at MaxAssist, Lorie has never been afraid to follow the signs pointing her toward what's next.

We talk about women in leadership and why we sometimes struggle to own our accomplishments, the importance of developing leaders instead of simply managing people, and how to recognize when you may have outgrown your current chapter. Lorie also shares her perspective on the massive changes happening in dentistry, from AI and technology to staffing challenges and the evolving expectations of today's patients.

And, of course, we talk about what brought Lorie to MaxAssist and why she believes technology should give dental teams more time to connect with their patients, not replace that human connection.

In this episode, we chat about:

Lorie's very unexpected introduction to dentistry

• Her nearly 18 years helping build and grow AADOM
• Women, confidence, and owning what you've accomplished
• Why great leadership is about developing other people
• Career pivots and recognizing when it's time for your next chapter
• The evolution of dentistry over the last 30+ years
• AI, automation, and why the human element still matters
• Why patient experience may be one of the biggest differentiators for practices moving forward
• Lorie's newest chapter with MaxAssist
• And why sometimes the best career plan is being open to the opportunities you never planned for

• Connect with Lorie Streeter on LinkedIn and follow along with what she's doing as Vice President of U.S. Expansion at MaxAssist
• Learn more about MaxAssist and how they're helping dental teams streamline the front office, uncover opportunities, and spend more time focused on their patients.

In this episode of the Breath of Fresh Air Dental Podcast, Amanda and Sarah are diving into the places dental practices are falling short in 2026, and what stronger, more forward-thinking practices are doing instead.

Before jumping into the main topic, Amanda shares details about Practice Management Power Day, a mini conference happening in Denver this September for experienced practice managers and owners. With speakers like Teresa Duncan, Michelle Affinato, and several other industry leaders, the event will focus heavily on revenue cycle management, profit and loss, and practice leadership. Amanda also mentions the Dental Revenue Network meetup happening that Saturday, as well as the Dental Spouses in Business meetup the day before. Early bird pricing ends July 4th.

From there, Amanda and Sarah break down some of the biggest gaps they are seeing in dental practices today.

They start with one of the biggest misconceptions: being fully staffed does not mean being fully trained. They talk about the importance of regular training, cross-training, documentation, and SOPs, especially when so much front office knowledge lives inside one person's head. Amanda shares how unexpected transitions in her own practice revealed just how important documented systems and logins really are.

They also discuss what happens when no one truly owns the numbers. From AR and outstanding claims to overdue hygiene and unscheduled treatment, practices need someone consistently reviewing reports, tracking trends, and communicating those numbers to the doctor or leadership team. Even a simple monthly spreadsheet can create accountability and help prevent bigger issues from being missed.

Of course, no 2026 dental conversation would be complete without AI. Amanda and Sarah talk about where AI absolutely belongs in dentistry, including insurance verification, claim status checks, data analysis, appeals, marketing support, and radiograph interpretation tools like Pearl. But they also share strong opinions on where AI falls short, especially when it starts replacing human communication and patient relationships.

Amanda shares her firsthand experience from working in a multi-generational dental practice that has been in town for over 50 years. She talks about how patient relationships, trust, and a truly thoughtful front office experience are still major differentiators. Sarah adds that the goal is not to avoid AI altogether, but to use it in the right places so the team has more time for the human touchpoints that actually matter.

The episode wraps with a reminder for practices to look at the entire patient experience from start to finish. From the first phone call to new patient forms, records, greetings, scheduling, treatment conversations, and follow-up, practices should ask: if you were a patient here, what would impress you?

• Why "fully staffed" does not always mean fully trained
• The importance of SOPs, documentation, and cross-training
• Why doctors need visibility into what happens at the front desk
• Reports every dental practice should be reviewing regularly
• Why someone needs to own the numbers
• How AI can support revenue cycle management
• Where AI belongs in dentistry, and where it does not
• Why patient experience is becoming too transactional
• How human connection can become a major practice differentiator
• Why practices should evaluate the patient journey from start to finish

• Practice Management Power Day in Denver
• Dental Revenue Network meetup
• Dental Spouses in Business meetup
• RevenueWell
• Pearl AI
• AR reports
• Outstanding claims reports
• Overdue hygiene reports
• Unscheduled treatment reports

The best dental practices in 2026 will not be the ones replacing people with technology. They will be the ones using technology wisely, training their teams well, watching their numbers closely, and creating patient experiences that still feel personal, thoughtful, and human.

In this episode of Breath of Fresh Air, Amanda and Sarah are back from a little podcast hiatus and diving into one of their favorite topics: dental startups.

Starting a new dental practice is exciting, but while many doctors are focused on equipment, branding, construction, and design, revenue cycle management can easily get pushed to the back burner. The problem? Billing issues, messy insurance systems, poor estimates, and unpaid balances can snowball quickly and create major headaches for both the practice and the patient experience.

Amanda and Sarah walk through what dental startups should think about from day one, including practice management software, clearinghouses, eligibility and verification tools, payment processing, patient communication platforms, fee schedules, insurance strategy, billing systems, outstanding claims, and whether to keep billing in house or outsource.

They also talk about why accurate insurance plan builds matter, why patient estimates should never be a guessing game, and how setting up clean systems from the beginning can save a startup from years of cleanup later.

Whether you are opening a brand new practice or trying to fix messy systems in an established office, this episode is packed with real world RCM advice from two people who have seen what works, what breaks, and what makes everyone want to burn it all down and start fresh.

• Why startups have a unique opportunity to build strong RCM systems from the beginning • How to choose a practice management software with billing and insurance in mind • Why integration matters more than flashy tech features • Clearinghouse considerations and why you should not choose something random • The importance of accurate insurance verification and plan builds • Why patient communication around money needs to start early • How fee schedules, write offs, and network decisions impact profitability • Why patient portions should be collected at the time of service • How daily statement systems can keep patient AR under control • Why outstanding claims need consistent follow up • When it may make sense to outsource dental billing for a startup

A dental startup does not just need beautiful operatories and a great brand. It needs clean systems behind the scenes. When your RCM process is built intentionally from day one, your practice is better positioned for healthier cash flow, smoother patient conversations, and fewer billing disasters down the road.

This week, we're joined by Jen and Danielle, the co-founders of Mint Preventative Dental Spa - an independent dental hygiene practice in Maine that's making preventive care feel more like self-care. We talk about how Mint went from lunch-break brainstorming sessions to a real-life startup, what it takes to build a patient experience that people actually look forward to, and the behind-the-scenes realities of entrepreneurship in dentistry - especially while raising little kids and working full-time.

• How they went from "what if we did this differently?" to opening Mint (and why Maine made it possible)

• Creating a spa-like dental experience that helps ease dental anxiety

• The logistics of operating a hygiene-only model - including referral relationships with local dentists

• What surprised them most about entrepreneurship (and what they'd do differently next time)

• Insurance + credentialing lessons they learned the hard way

• Startup vs acquisition: why their second location was a totally different experience

• Interior Design: Amber Dawn Interiors

• Branding: Ashley with Eighth Reverie

• Office equipment & floor plan: Patterson Dental

• Social Media: Merry Eagan with Made by Merry Drew

🌿 Website: https://www.mintdentalspapllc.com/

🌿 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mintdentalspa/

🌿 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MintDentalSpa/

Independent dental hygiene practice laws vary by state. In Maine, licensed independent dental hygienists are permitted to provide preventive services - such as cleanings, x-rays, fluoride treatments, sealants, and periodontal therapy - without the supervision of a dentist, within the scope defined by Maine state law. They do not diagnose restorative needs or perform restorative treatment. When additional care is needed, patients are referred to a licensed dentist for evaluation and treatment.

We can't believe it – our podcast just turned two. 🥳 Thanks for being here with us through the toddler stage. We kick off with a little real life – Halloween costumes, comfort shows, and travel plans – then dive into a look back at your top-played episodes and what's changed since we first hit publish.

• Office Manager or Dental Consultant – What does your practice really need?

  Why this became our most-listened-to episode, how to know which role fits your goals, when it makes sense to pair both, and how we personally vet consultants before bringing them in.

• The Future of Dental Billing with Teresa Duncan

  We reflect on Teresa's crystal-ball predictions and what's actually happened since – AI tools we're testing, helpful new features popping up, and why staying curious (and skeptical) still wins.

• How to Transition from Clinical to Remote Billing

  The market has changed a lot. We talk candidly about today's competition, the tech skills remote roles really require, and realistic ways to build experience without burning out.

Along the way, we share hiring lessons from our own teams – why "years of experience" doesn't always equal mastery, how to make resumes stand out, and the underrated value of being resourceful and genuinely tech savvy.

Our Amazing Sponsor - Frontier Dental

We use Frontier Dental in our own practice and love the simple ordering, no contracts, no minimums, and always-free shipping. Use code FDBOFA at checkout to save on your first order. Shop here: frontierdental.com

• DeW Retreat – Charlotte, NC

• Connect with us:

  • Website

  • Email Amanda: [email protected]

  • Email Sarah: [email protected]

  • Instagram

Marketing doesn't have to be expensive, complicated, or outsourced to a big agency that doesn't know your patients, your community, or your vibe. In this episode of Breath of Fresh Air, we sit down with Jaclyn Nona, founder of Clever Dental Co, to talk about how dental practices can bring marketing in-house, empower their teams, and build real, authentic connections with patients.

Jaclyn's path into dentistry wasn't planned — but after years of experience in front office roles, billing, and treatment coordination, she discovered a passion for marketing. With the support of her practice owners, she launched Clever Dental Co: a creative and educational platform that teaches dental teams how to own their marketing strategy without relying on cookie-cutter agencies.

In this episode, you'll hear:

• Jaclyn's journey from journalism and marketing student to dental marketing leader.

• Why "do nothing," "outsource it," or "DIY without guidance" aren't the only options for practice marketing.

• How Clever Dental Co helps teams learn branding, community engagement, Canva design, social media, and ground marketing through hands-on courses and resources.

• The cultural and financial ROI of in-house marketing: stronger patient loyalty, better treatment acceptance, and a more energized team.

• Practical examples of affordable campaigns that actually work — from boxed lunches for teachers to spotlighting staff achievements.

• Why authentic, scrappy, and patient-centered marketing beats polished stock images every time.

Whether you're a practice manager, dentist, or office team member, this conversation will leave you with simple, actionable ideas to grow your practice from the inside out.

🌐 Website: https://www.cleverdentalco.com

📸 Instagram: @cleverdentalco

📘 Facebook: Clever Dental Co

This episode is sponsored by Frontier Dental Supply – the partner we trust in our own practices for smarter supply strategies and cost savings. Use promo code FDBOFA for savings on your first order!

In this episode of the Breath of Fresh Air Podcast, we're pulling back the curtain on one of the most intimidating (and often misunderstood) sides of dentistry: the legal side. We're joined by dental attorney Justin Withrow, a true "unicorn" in the industry who specializes in the messy stuff most lawyers shy away from - board investigations, insurance audits, criminal cases, and high-stakes disputes.

Justin shares how he found his way into dental law, why compliance needs to become a culture inside every practice, and the hard lessons learned when dentists ignore their contractual obligations. From insurance audits that balloon into six-figure problems to what happens when the board comes knocking, Justin's real-world stories are both eye-opening and practical.

Whether you're a dentist, practice manager, or dental biller, this episode is packed with insights on how to protect yourself, your business, and your license.

👉 Tune in to learn how to:

• Tell the difference between compliance and insurance audits

• Handle an audit without panicking (and what not to do)

• Protect yourself as a dental biller with solid contracts

• Avoid costly mistakes when buying or selling a practice

• Understand what could trigger a criminal investigation

• Build a true "culture of compliance" in your office

✅ Links & Resources:

• Connect with Justin on LinkedIn or visit his firm at https://flannerygeorgalis.com

• Join the conversation in dental Facebook groups where Justin is an active resource

• Subscribe to Breath of Fresh Air for more real-world insights on the business side of dentistry

In this episode of Breath of Fresh Air, Amanda and Sarah are joined by Micheline Hawley, Director of Sales and Customer Service at Frontier Dental. From real-talk stories about bulk order blunders to a behind-the-scenes look at procurement strategies that actually save your practice money, this episode is full of fresh insights that will have every office manager rethinking their supply closet.

Micheline shares her personal journey from practicing dental hygienist to sales leadership, and explains how Frontier Dental's unique culture, 360° online shopping experience, and customer-first approach are helping offices nationwide cut costs without cutting corners. Whether you're new to supply ordering or a seasoned practice manager, this episode will inspire you to streamline your systems and rethink your vendor relationships.

• The difference between purchasing vs. procurement—and why it matters

• How Amanda saved $65K in one year just by price shopping

• The most common (and costly) supply ordering mistakes dental teams make

• Easy ways to delegate ordering (yes, even if you're a control freak)

• Why standardization is your secret weapon

• How Frontier's MyShop, 360° product views, and backorder transparency make ordering stress-free

• Tips for bulk buying without wasting space—or cash

• Why former hygienists make the best sales reps

• The unsung dental product that deserves more love

• And yes… how a grocery store job can prep you for dental success

Micheline Hawley, Director of Sales & Customer Service at Frontier Dental

From dental hygiene to leadership, Micheline brings clinical knowledge, sales savvy, and a deep understanding of what dental teams actually need when it comes to supplies and support.

Follow Frontier Dental on Instagram:

🇨🇦 @frontierdental

🇺🇸 @frontierdentalus

• Frontier's My Shop ordering system

• Frontier's house brand

• Product spotlight: Relief evacuation accessories

• Amanda's favorite ordering tip: FIFO is your friend—especially if you worked at a grocery store!

Get $20 off your first Frontier Dental order of $100+

Use promo code: FDBOFA (Frontier Dental + Breath of Fresh Air)

→ Sign up and shop here

• Frontier Dental USA

• Follow Frontier Dental on Instagram

• Follow Frontier on Facebook

• Listen to more Breath of Fresh Air episodes: amandademoura.com/breathoffreshairpodcast

Supply ordering doesn't have to be stressful—or expensive. With a smarter strategy and the right partners, you can bring clarity, savings, and (finally) some peace of mind to your practice's backroom.

In this mid-year check-in, co-hosts Amanda DeMoura and Sarah Hamlin are catching their breath (and maybe pulling on some fuzzy socks) as they reflect on what 2025 has brought to dental practices so far—and what's coming next. From hygienist shortages and hiring shifts to in-house marketing trends, tech fatigue, smarter supply strategies, and the power of real human connection, this episode is your summer sanity reset.

We're talking quick wins, culture upgrades, the rise of DIY branding, why breaks actually matter (yes, really), and how dental teams can gear up for a stronger second half of the year.

Plus, we're sharing what's ahead for the podcast—including some standout guests you won't want to miss.

🛒 Shoutout to our sponsor, Frontier Dental! If supply ordering has felt chaotic or overpriced, this is your sign to simplify. Visit Frontier Dental and use promo code FDBOFA at checkout to get $20 off your first order.

Need to find us us?

🔗 Links & Resources

💻 Podcast Website: amandademoura.com/breathoffreshairpodcast

📧 Contact Amanda: [email protected]

Instagram: instagram.com/breathofreshairdentalpodcast

In this episode of Breath of Fresh Air, Amanda and Sarah are diving into how to pick the right dental conference for you (and your practice). With so many options out there—from massive trade shows to intimate boutique events—it's easy to feel overwhelmed or unsure where to spend your time and money.

They're breaking down how to get the best return on your investment (both financial and energetic), sharing some of their favorite conferences, and giving honest advice about what's worth your travel and PTO—and what's not.

Whether you're a solo practice manager, a dental billing company owner, or a team leader planning your next team CE trip, this episode is packed with real talk and personal stories to help you choose smarter.

• Why conferences still matter in the age of webinars and Zoom

• The difference between large national conferences and smaller boutique events

• How to choose a conference based on your goals, budget, vibe, and role

• Tips for not feeling lost or overwhelmed at a big show

• Amanda & Sarah's personal favorite conferences (and ones still on their wish list!)

• How to turn a work trip into a mini vacation (hint: lazy rivers and butter beer included)

• How to debrief with your team and make your learning stick

• Yankee Dental Congress

• CDA – California Dental Association

• Chicago Midwinter Meeting

• Greater New York Dental Meeting

• AADOM Annual Conference

• Accelerate (by Vyne)

• Insurance Extravaganza (by Christine Taxin)

• Pediatric Dental Growth Summit – Register for the 2025 event here

Looking for a better way to order your dental supplies? Frontier Dental offers:

• 40,000+ products

• No contracts or minimums

• Always free shipping

• A team of real dental professionals

Use promo code FDBOFA at checkout for $20 off your first order 👉 Shop now at FrontierDental.com

• Amanda's appearance on Teresa Duncan's podcast – Listen here

Heading to a conference soon? Download GoodNotes (Amanda & Sarah-approved!) and bring your iPad + Apple Pencil to keep track of all the nuggets you'll want to share when you get back to your team.

💬 If this episode helped you feel more confident in planning your next dental event, we'd love it if you'd leave us a review or share it with a friend. And don't forget to connect with us over on Instagram!

🎧 Catch up on past episodes or join the conversation at 👉 amandademoura.com/breathoffreshairpodcast