AI is changing the way dental practices operate—but should it replace the front desk? In this episode of Dental Drill Bits, Dana and Sandy take a real, balanced look at AI receptionists in dentistry. From answering phones and scheduling appointments to managing patient communication, automation is becoming more accessible than ever. But here's the bigger question: Where does AI improve efficiency—and where does it risk losing the patient connection? Sandy shares real conversations she's having with dentists right now, including practices considering reducing front desk staff. Together, they break down what AI can handle well… and where it simply can't replace a skilled team member. You'll also hear: ✔️ When AI can support your practice (after-hours, overflow calls, staff meetings) ✔️ Why the first phone call is still your most valuable marketing moment ✔️ The biggest missed opportunities happening on calls right now ✔️ How tools like Practice by Numbers are using AI to enhance—not replace—team performance ✔️ The real reason patients choose one practice over another Dentistry is still a relationship business. And while AI can process requests, it can't replace trust, reassurance, or connection. If you're exploring AI in your practice, this episode will help you think strategically—not reactively. Special Thanks to Our Sponsors: 📣 Identity Dental Marketing – Strategic, ethical, brand-aligned marketing that works. Learn more at identitydental.com 📊 Practice by Numbers – A unified platform that brings performance, workflows, and insights into one system—creating accountability without pressure and helping practices make smarter, data-driven decisions. Learn more at practicebynumbers.com 📲 Join the conversation! Where did you start when learning the business side of dentistry—and what would you do differently now? Share your experience in the Dental Drill Bits Facebook Group—we may feature it in a future episode. Upcoming Event Front Desk Pro In-Person Seminar May 8, 2026 in New Orleans, Louisiana <a class="decorated-link" href="http://www.classicpractice.com/" target="_new" rel="noopener" data-start="2041" data-end="2064">www.classicpractice.com</a> Promo code for $100 off tuition: Secret Sauce

AI is changing the way dental practices operate—but should it replace the front desk? In this episode of Dental Drill Bits, Dana and Sandy take a real, balanced look at AI receptionists in dentistry. From answering phones and scheduling appointments to managing patient communication, automation is becoming more accessible than ever. But here's the bigger question: Where does AI improve efficiency—and where does it risk losing the patient connection? Sandy shares real conversations she's having with dentists right now, including practices considering reducing front desk staff. Together, they break down what AI can handle well… and where it simply can't replace a skilled team member. You'll also hear: ✔️ When AI can support your practice (after-hours, overflow calls, staff meetings) ✔️ Why the first phone call is still your most valuable marketing moment ✔️ The biggest missed opportunities happening on calls right now ✔️ How tools like Practice by Numbers are using AI to enhance—not replace—team performance ✔️ The real reason patients choose one practice over another Dentistry is still a relationship business. And while AI can process requests, it can't replace trust, reassurance, or connection. If you're exploring AI in your practice, this episode will help you think strategically—not reactively. Special Thanks to Our Sponsors: 📣 Identity Dental Marketing – Strategic, ethical, brand-aligned marketing that works. Learn more at identitydental.com 📊 Practice by Numbers – A unified platform that brings performance, workflows, and insights into one system—creating accountability without pressure and helping practices make smarter, data-driven decisions. Learn more at practicebynumbers.com 📲 Join the conversation! Where did you start when learning the business side of dentistry—and what would you do differently now? Share your experience in the Dental Drill Bits Facebook Group—we may feature it in a future episode. Upcoming Event Front Desk Pro In-Person Seminar May 8, 2026 in New Orleans, Louisiana www.classicpractice.com Promo code for $100 off tuition: Secret Sauce

AI is changing the way dental practices operate—but should it replace the front desk? In this episode of Dental Drill Bits, Dana and Sandy take a real, balanced look at AI receptionists in dentistry. From answering phones and scheduling appointments to managing patient communication, automation is becoming more accessible than ever. But here's the bigger question: Where does AI improve efficiency—and where does it risk losing the patient connection? Sandy shares real conversations she's having with dentists right now, including practices considering reducing front desk staff. Together, they break down what AI can handle well… and where it simply can't replace a skilled team member. You'll also hear: ✔️ When AI can support your practice (after-hours, overflow calls, staff meetings) ✔️ Why the first phone call is still your most valuable marketing moment ✔️ The biggest missed opportunities happening on calls right now ✔️ How tools like Practice by Numbers are using AI to enhance—not replace—team performance ✔️ The real reason patients choose one practice over another Dentistry is still a relationship business. And while AI can process requests, it can't replace trust, reassurance, or connection. If you're exploring AI in your practice, this episode will help you think strategically—not reactively. Special Thanks to Our Sponsors: 📣 Identity Dental Marketing – Strategic, ethical, brand-aligned marketing that works. Learn more at identitydental.com 📊 Practice by Numbers – A unified platform that brings performance, workflows, and insights into one system—creating accountability without pressure and helping practices make smarter, data-driven decisions. Learn more at practicebynumbers.com 📲 Join the conversation! Where did you start when learning the business side of dentistry—and what would you do differently now? Share your experience in the Dental Drill Bits Facebook Group—we may feature it in a future episode. Upcoming Event Front Desk Pro In-Person Seminar May 8, 2026 in New Orleans, Louisiana <a href="http://www.classicpractice.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer">www.classicpractice.com</a> Promo code for $100 off tuition: Secret Sauce

AI vs. Human: Who Should Answer Your Phones?

Recorded live at the Townie / Dentaltown Meeting in Las Vegas, NV. Sandy Pardue and guest host Dana Salisbury interview Howie Horrocks & Julie Mitchell of New Patients Inc. to discuss Dental Web Content for your dental practice.

Recorded live at the Townie / Dentaltown Meeting in Las Vegas, NV. Sandy Pardue and guest host Dana Salisbury interview Howie Horrocks & Julie Mitchell of New Patients Inc. to discuss Dental Web Content for your dental practice.

Recorded live at the Townie / Dentaltown Meeting in Las Vegas, NV. Sandy Pardue and guest host Dana Salisbury interview Howie Horrocks &amp; Julie Mitchell of New Patients Inc. to discuss Dental Web Content for your dental practice.

1-6 Let's Talk Dental Web Content w/ Howie  Horrocks

1-5 Digital Marketing in Your Practice w/ The Dental Marketing Guy

Sandy Pardue hosts Dr. Bob Westerman and Dana Salisbury to discuss building your dream practice. This will be a multi-part feature and we look forward to discussing this more in future episodes.

Sandy Pardue hosts Dr. Bob Westerman and Dana Salisbury to discuss building your dream practice. This will be a multi-part feature and we look forward to discussing this more in future episodes.

1-4 Your Dream Practice w/ Dr. Bob Westerman & Dana Salisbury, Pt 1

Part 1 of 2: Sandy Pardue discusses tips on finding the missed opportunities in the administrative areas of the dental practice and gaining control over the practice schedule.

Part 1 of 2: Sandy Pardue discusses tips on finding the missed opportunities in the administrative areas of the dental practice and gaining control over the practice schedule.

1-1 Practice Management Talk, Part 1 of 2

Part 2 of 2: Sandy Pardue discusses tips on finding the missed opportunities in the administrative areas of the dental practice and gaining control over the practice schedule.

Part 2 of 2: Sandy Pardue discusses tips on finding the missed opportunities in the administrative areas of the dental practice and gaining control over the practice schedule.

1-2 Practice Management Talk, Part 2 of 2

Sandy Pardue and Mark Dilatush of New Patients Inc. discuss marketing your practice.

Sandy Pardue and Mark Dilatush of New Patients Inc. discuss marketing your practice.

1-3 Mark Dilatush with NPI Guest Stars

Sandy Pardue of Classic Practice Resources & Dana Salisbury discuss issues facing the dental practice owner of today. This is the podcast where you will want a pen and paper to take notes on every single procedure, system, step by step process, and lessons Sandy shares that she has accumulated in 40 years. 

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 40 years of "hands-on" experience.

Business

Education

Management

Sandy Pardue of Classic Practice Resources & Dana Salisbury discuss issues facing the dental practice owner of today. This is the podcast where you will want a pen and paper to take notes on every single procedure, system, step by step process, and lessons Sandy shares that she has accumulated in 40 years. 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 40 years of "hands-on" experience.

Sandy Pardue of Classic Practice Resources &amp; Dana Salisbury discuss issues facing the dental practice owner of today. This is the podcast where you will want a pen and paper to take notes on every single procedure, system, step by step process, and lessons Sandy shares that she has accumulated in 40 years. 

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 40 years of "hands-on" experience.

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