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

This week, Amanda and Sarah dive into one of the most important (but often overlooked) keys to running a thriving dental practice—CULTURE. Whether you’re a dentist, office manager, or the MVP at the front desk, your office culture sets the tone for everything: hiring, teamwork, patient experience, and even that vibe when you walk in on a Monday morning.

In this episode, we cover:

• What “culture” really means in a dental office (hint: it’s not just about pizza parties!)

• How your reputation in the dental community follows you—and why that matters

• The biggest red flags (watch out for high turnover, gossip, and that “not my job” mentality)

• The green flags you want to see, like team longevity, open communication, and a little laughter in the breakroom

• Practical ways for practice managers and owners to be true culture architects (yes, you!)

• Real talk on why free food is not a long-term fix—and what actually makes people stay

• Tips for building respect across every role in the practice

• Amanda and Sarah’s favorite quick wins, from handwritten notes to simply doing a lap and checking in

You’ll also hear:

• Why it’s worth writing down your culture goals (SOPs for your vibes, anyone?)

• The power of small gestures (like a surprise cake pop or a Venmo for Friday fries)

• How to create a workspace that’s professional AND fun—no BFFs required, but mutual respect is a must

Takeaways:

• Culture starts at the top, but everyone plays a part

• Small acts of recognition mean more than you think

• Investing in your team’s happiness pays off in loyalty, performance, and a practice people actually want to join

Ready to make your dental office the place everyone wants to work?

Hit play and let’s build a happier, healthier practice—one honest conversation at a time.

Don’t forget:

Subscribe, leave us a review, and follow us:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/breathofreshairdentalpodcast

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Breath-of-Fresh-Air-Dental-Podcast/61555140393298/?_rdr 

Email us: [email protected]

🎙️ Episode 17: “AI Nation: Is Your Front Desk Role Safe?”

Hosts: Amanda DeMoura & Sarah Hamlin

Length: 52 minutes

Topic: The real role of AI in dental practices—and how to leverage it without fear

🧠 What We Talked About:

AI is here—and it’s not going anywhere. But is it coming for your job? In this episode, Amanda and Sarah dive into the real impact of artificial intelligence on dental administrative roles and what you can do to stay ahead. Spoiler alert: the answer isn’t to ignore it.

With a blend of real talk, stories from their careers, and practical tools, they share how practice managers and dental admin professionals can use AI to get more done in less time.

Whether you’re a ChatGPT fan or still trying to figure out how to pronounce “AI,” this episode will leave you feeling empowered, not panicked.

🔑 Key Takeaways:

• AI isn’t replacing you—unless you ignore it.

• How to use ChatGPT to save hours every week (yes, really).

• Why your prompts matter (and how to write better ones).

• Real-life tools Amanda and Sarah use daily (Granola, Jasper, Canva, and more).

• Creative ways to use AI in HR, billing, marketing, and team communication.

• What NOT to do when you start using AI.

🛠️ Tools & Resources Mentioned:

• ChatGPT

• Jasper

• Canva

• Granola.ai

• Visual Electric

• Google Gemini

💬 Let’s Keep the Conversation Going

Have a question or want to share how you’re using AI in your office?

👉 DM us on Instagram @breathofreshairdentalpodcast

👉Email us: [email protected]

In this episode of the Breath of Fresh Air Dental Podcast, we're chatting a bit about the brand story of Essential Dental Services. From its inception to its impact on the dental industry, we explore the journey that has shaped the company (now DayDream Dental) into the best dental billing company in the industry!

Join us as we discuss the challenges, milestones, and core values that have driven Essential Dental Services to success. Whether you're a dentist, office manager, or industry professional, this episode will inspire you with insights on building a brand that stands out in the competitive world of dental services.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✔️ The inspiration behind Essential Dental Services ✔️ Key challenges and how they were overcome ✔️ The company’s mission and core values ✔️ How their services make life easier for dental practices ✔️ Advice for dental professionals looking to streamline their operations

Connect with Us:

📩 Have questions or topic suggestions? Email us at [email protected] 🔗 Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555140393298🎧 

Links Mentioned:

🎧Listen to our CEO on the Bulletproof Dental Practice Podcast: https://www.bulletproofdentalpractice.com/the-ai-dental-revolution-with-shreyas/

🔗 Join Dental Revenue Network: https://dentalrevenuenetwork.mn.co

Episode Overview: In this episode of The Breath of Fresh Air Dental Podcast, hosts Amanda DeMoura and Sarah Hamlin explore a crucial question for dental practices: When should you consider hiring a dental office manager or a dental consultant? Whether you're a new practice owner or an established clinic looking to optimize operations, understanding the distinction between these roles can significantly impact your success.

Key Topics Discussed:

1. Understanding the Roles:
   • Definition and responsibilities of a dental office manager.
   • The role of a dental consultant and when their expertise is beneficial.
2. Signs You Might Need a Dental Office Manager:
   • Indicators that your practice is ready for an office manager.
   • The impact of an office manager on daily operations and team dynamics.
3. When to Hire a Dental Consultant:
   • How consultants can help identify growth opportunities and streamline processes.
4. Making the Right Choice for Your Practice:
   • Factors to consider when deciding between an office manager and a consultant.
   • Tips for assessing your practice’s needs and goals.

 Connect with Us:

• Amanda DeMoura:
• Website: amandademoura.com
• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-demoura-ba259723a

• Sarah Hamlin:
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahhamlinma/ 

Join the Conversation: We’d love to hear your thoughts! Share your experiences with dental office management and consulting in the comments or on social media. https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555140393298

In this episode of Breath of Fresh Air, co-hosts Amanda and Sarah take a deep dive into the latest trends and observations in the dental billing space as we hit the mid-year mark. They explore what's changing in patient payments, the evolving landscape of dental claim appeals, the rising trend of remote dental billing positions, and much more.

Key Topics Covered:

1. Trends in Patient Payments:
   • Emerging payment methods and technologies.
   • Changes in patient payment behavior and expectations.
   • Strategies for improving patient payment collection.
2. Dental Claim Appeals:
   • Common challenges and pitfalls in dental claim appeals.
   • Successful strategies and best practices for handling appeals.
   • Insights into insurance company responses and trends.
3. Hiring for Remote Dental Billing Positions:
   • Key skills and qualifications for remote billing professionals.
   • Tips for finding and retaining top talent in a remote setting.

Connect with Us:

• Amanda’s LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-demoura-ba259723a
• Sarah’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahhamlinma/
• Podcast Website: https://sites.libsyn.com/506053
• Follow us on Instagram: Instagram.com/essentialdentalservice and Instagram.com/amandademouracoaching

In this episode of the Breath of Fresh Air Dental Podcast, hosts Amanda DeMoura and Sarah Hamlin share their invaluable insights on "Top Tips for Successful Claim Submissions."

Navigating the complexities of dental insurance claims can be daunting, but Amanda and Sarah break down the process into manageable steps to ensure smooth and successful submissions. Whether you're a seasoned dental professional or new to the field, this episode offers essential advice on avoiding common pitfalls, maximizing claim approvals, and streamlining your practice’s administrative tasks. Key takeaways and tips include:

• Ensuring accurate and thorough documentation
• Staying updated with insurance policies and guidelines
• Utilizing efficient claim management software
• Communicating effectively with insurance providers
• Following up on delayed or denied claims

This episode is packed with practical tips to enhance your claim submission process and improve your practice’s financial health. Tune in to discover how mastering claim submissions can lead to greater efficiency and profitability for your dental practice.