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In this episode, Michelle Pritchard speaks with Dr Yulianna Shiikha, former orthodontist, Founder and CEO of Life Science AI and Adjunct Senior Lecturer at the University of Western Australia, about building trust in artificial intelligence and introducing it responsibly into dental practices. Drawing on her experience in medical science, orthodontics and digital health, Yulianna explains why adopting AI requires more than selecting the right technology. The conversation explores the importance of developing AI literacy, maintaining human oversight, protecting sensitive patient information and understanding professional accountability. They also discuss cybersecurity, the need for a clear AI policy, and why practices should take a measured approach to introducing dental-specific AI tools rather than adopting too many systems at once.
Timestamp:
| 1:14 | Intro of the topic and guest Yulianna Shiikha
| 1:51 | Her story and why healthcare professionals need an AI mindset shift
| 3:18 | Mindset, trust and AI literacy
| 5:08 | Data privacy and cybersecurity, including breach simulations
| 6:43 | AI policies and foundations for practices
| 8:06 | Where to learn: knowledge, official sources, forums
| 9:31 | Choose specialised tools and implement slowly
| 9:55 | Michelle on Pearl AI, AI scribes and LLMs. Yulianna on practices being early in their trust journey (10:38)
| 11:33 | Choosing the best tool and the integrated approac
| 12:10 | The step-by-step process for adopting a tool
| 12:50 | Ethical AI, with humans kept in the loop
| 13:26 | Wrap-up and goodbyes
| 13:56 | Teaser for the next episode (Dr David Moffet, Jane Bandy AI)
| 14:26 | Sign-off
Takeaways
- Build trust in AI through education, practical application and ongoing monitoring rather than assuming the technology is always accurate.
- Maintain human oversight and professional accountability when using AI for clinical or administrative tasks.-
Encourage an open mindset towards new technology, allowing time for team members to learn, practise and develop confidence.
- Understand where patient information is stored, who can access it and how AI providers use and protect that data.
- Establish a documented data breach response plan and ensure team members understand their responsibilities.
- Include an AI policy within your broader practice strategy, with clear guidelines for approved tools, appropriate use and accountability.
- Avoid introducing too many AI applications at once. Select tools that address specific practice needs and implement them gradually.
- Consider dental-specific AI solutions, including AI scribes and clinical support tools, while assessing their suitability for your practice.
- Invest in AI literacy and ongoing professional development so the team can make informed decisions about technology.
- Refer to professional organisations and official government resources to stay informed about AI guidance, privacy and responsible use.
Learn more about Dr Yulianna Shiikha:
- Founder and CEO, Life Science AI
- Adjunct Senior Lecturer, University of Western Australia
Website: AI-Powered Business Solutions Australia | Life Science AI
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61585414155138
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifescienceai/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yulianna-shiikha-87518985/
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#DentalSuccessBeyondChairside #AIinDentistry #DentalPracticeManagement #DentalAI #ArtificialIntelligence #DentalPracticeOwners #DentalTechnology #AIDataSecurity #PatientDataPrivacy #AIPolicy #Cybersecurity #DentalPracticeGrowth #DigitalDentistry #AlignedBusinessConsulting #LifeScienceAI #YuliannaShiikha
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Helping Dental & Specialist Practice Owners Build Systems That Work—So You Can Focus on Dentistry.
Not sure where your practice stands financially? Take our FREE 5-Minute Practice Profitability Audit and uncover hidden profit leaks and quick-win strategies to boost revenue.
✔ Get your Profitability Score – Low, Medium, or High
✔ Identify inefficiencies that may be costing you money
✔ BONUS: Free copy of The Ultimate Guide to Practice Management
Take the audit now: https://tinyurl.com/alignedbc-freeaudit
Need expert advice? Book a complimentary 30-minute virtual coffee chat:
Connect with me: https://linktr.ee/alignedbusinessconsulting
Email: [email protected]
Enjoying the podcast? Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more expert insights! https://www.youtube.com/@michellepritchard-alignedb9302
Stay tuned for more episodes from Dental Success: Beyond Chairside!
Robots in Dentistry? Julian Moore on Practical AI for Dental Practices
In this episode, Julian Moore, an AI specialist and former Microsoft engineer from Strategic Membership Solutions, discusses how dental practices can use AI to reduce repetitive work while maintaining patient trust and human connection. He explains why practices should approach AI as a junior team member, with clear instructions, boundaries and oversight. The conversation explores AI receptionists, appointment scheduling, software integrations and the potential role of humanoid robots in dentistry. Julian also discusses privacy, data hosting and the questions practice owners need to ask before introducing AI into administrative and clinical workflows.
Timestamp:
01:00 Can AI and robots transform dentistry?
02:09 Julian’s path from Microsoft engineering to practical AI consulting
03:14 Treating AI like a junior team member
04:18 Connecting AI to practice-management systems
05:23 AI agents, automation and keeping human oversight
07:29 Integrating AI with legacy software
09:46 Privacy, compliance and Australian data hosting
11:58 AI receptionists and real-world practice efficiencies
15:23 Humanoid robots: what they could mean for dental practices
17:33 Avoiding unnecessary AI software and getting more from existing platforms
18:37 Closing remarks
Takeaways
Learn more about Strategic Membership Solutions & Julian Moore:
Website: https://www.julianmoore.com.au/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliansmoore/
Send us Fan Mail
Helping Dental & Specialist Practice Owners Build Systems That Work—So You Can Focus on Dentistry.
Not sure where your practice stands financially? Take our FREE 5-Minute Practice Profitability Audit and uncover hidden profit leaks and quick-win strategies to boost revenue.
✔ Get your Profitability Score – Low, Medium, or High
✔ Identify inefficiencies that may be costing you money
✔ BONUS: Free copy of The Ultimate Guide to Practice Management
Take the audit now: https://tinyurl.com/alignedbc-freeaudit
Need expert advice? Book a complimentary 30-minute virtual coffee chat:
Connect with me: https://linktr.ee/alignedbusinessconsulting
Email: [email protected]
Enjoying the podcast? Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more expert insights! https://www.youtube.com/@michellepritchard-alignedb9302
Stay tuned for more episodes from Dental Success: Beyond Chairside!
AI for dental practices: start with the problem, not the tool
In this episode, Gry Stene, a human intelligence strategist, author and advisor, discusses how dental practices can make practical use of AI and automation by starting with the problem they need to solve. Drawing on nearly 40 years of experience in software and digital health, Gry explores opportunities to reduce administration, support patient communication and improve workflows. The conversation covers AI scribes, meeting minutes, stock control, recall systems and social media, with an emphasis on protecting patient information, checking AI output and maintaining human connection. Gry also explains why documented procedures and team input provide an essential foundation before introducing new technology.
Timestamp:
01:02 Why AI should start with the business problem, not the tool
02:35 Gry’s technology background and human-first approach
03:40 AI scribes: improving notes while staying present with patients
06:43 Why human review, privacy and accuracy checks are essential
09:07 An easy way to begin: identify the work that consumes too much time
09:23 Practical early wins, including meeting summaries and action points
10:42 Reducing the administrative load of stock and compliance
11:28 Using AI to support practice marketing and clearer positioning
14:02 Recall systems, patient follow-up and retention
14:59 Getting more value from the systems a practice already has
15:58 Building playbooks and documenting workflows before automating
18:01 Closing thoughts and where to connect with Gry
Takeaways
Learn more about Gry Stene:
Website: https://grystene.rocks/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gry.stene
Instagram: @grystene
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/grystene
Send us Fan Mail
Helping Dental & Specialist Practice Owners Build Systems That Work—So You Can Focus on Dentistry.
Not sure where your practice stands financially? Take our FREE 5-Minute Practice Profitability Audit and uncover hidden profit leaks and quick-win strategies to boost revenue.
✔ Get your Profitability Score – Low, Medium, or High
✔ Identify inefficiencies that may be costing you money
✔ BONUS: Free copy of The Ultimate Guide to Practice Management
Take the audit now: https://tinyurl.com/alignedbc-freeaudit
Need expert advice? Book a complimentary 30-minute virtual coffee chat:
Connect with me: https://linktr.ee/alignedbusinessconsulting
Email: [email protected]
Enjoying the podcast? Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more expert insights! https://www.youtube.com/@michellepritchard-alignedb9302
Stay tuned for more episodes from Dental Success: Beyond Chairside!
Discover how AI voice technology is reshaping front office operations in dental practices. Lewis Crook shares insights from his 20+ years in enterprise tech and healthcare, highlighting practical applications, benefits, and considerations for adoption.
Timestamps:
1:05 — Why missed calls are a major issue for dental practices
2:06 — Lewis’s background and where AI voice supports human care
3:32 — The real-world impact of unanswered practice calls
4:27 — Handling the morning booking rush with AI
5:39 — Patient experience, retention, and revenue opportunities
6:58 — How AI agents are trained and connected to practice systems
8:18 — Why older automated phone experiences created resistance
8:57 — Choosing the agent’s voice, language, and brand experience
9:47 — Why practice owners can underestimate missed opportunities
10:33 — A practical, evidence-led approach to adopting AI
11:23 — Privacy, compliance, and keeping patient data secure
13:52 — Why healthcare practices should start exploring AI now
15:43 — Closing thoughts and where to learn more from Lewis
16:38 — Series wrap-up and preview of the next season
Key Topics:
Connect with Lewis Crook:
Lewis Crook LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/iamlewiscrook/
Website: https://lewiscrook.com/
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#DentalPodcast #AIinDentistry #DentalPracticeGrowth #DentalReception #PatientExperience #DentalTechnology #VoiceAI #PracticeEfficiency #DentalBusiness #HealthcareAI #BeyondChairside #AlignedBCPodcast #AlignedBusinessConsulting #MichellesView #LewisCrook
Send us Fan Mail
Helping Dental & Specialist Practice Owners Build Systems That Work—So You Can Focus on Dentistry.
Not sure where your practice stands financially? Take our FREE 5-Minute Practice Profitability Audit and uncover hidden profit leaks and quick-win strategies to boost revenue.
✔ Get your Profitability Score – Low, Medium, or High
✔ Identify inefficiencies that may be costing you money
✔ BONUS: Free copy of The Ultimate Guide to Practice Management
Take the audit now: https://tinyurl.com/alignedbc-freeaudit
Need expert advice? Book a complimentary 30-minute virtual coffee chat:
Connect with me: https://linktr.ee/alignedbusinessconsulting
Email: [email protected]
Enjoying the podcast? Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more expert insights! https://www.youtube.com/@michellepritchard-alignedb9302
Stay tuned for more episodes from Dental Success: Beyond Chairside!
In this conversation, Michelle Pritchard and Jackie Campbell discuss the significance of authenticity in leadership and communication. Jackie emphasises the importance of being true to oneself and aligning personal values with business practices. They explore how personal experiences shape professional identity and the impact of imposter syndrome on individuals in leadership roles. The discussion also highlights the need to create a positive work environment and to build trust and relationships with clients. The episode concludes with a powerful reminder to be the voice, not the echo, in one's professional journey.
Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction to Authentic Leadership
02:10 The Importance of Authenticity in Communication
06:10 Values and Their Role in Leadership
09:43 Personal Experiences Shaping Professional Identity
12:15 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
14:55 Building a Supportive Team Environment
18:28 Final Thoughts on Being the Voice, Not the Echo
Takeaways:
- As a practice owner, you're more than a clinician.
- Authenticity is crucial in leadership and communication.
- People often curate their 'authentic' selves, complicating their interactions.
- Showing up as your true self leads to better business outcomes.
- Values alignment is essential for effective leadership.
- Imposter syndrome can hinder authentic self-expression.
- Building trust with clients is key to a successful practice.
- Creating a positive work environment benefits both staff and clients.
- Every business starts with its first client experience.
- You have the freedom to run your business your way.
For more information about Jackie Campbell and Arca Morai, please links to their social media pages below:
Website: https://www.arcamorai.com.au/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JackieCampbellAU/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jackiecampbell.freedomfirst
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacquelineccampbell/
#DentalPracticeManagement #DentalLeadership #PracticeOwner #TeamCulture #ValuesBasedLeadership #Communication #BeyondChairside #AlignedBCPodcast #AlignedBusinessConsulting #MichellesView #ArcaMorai #JackieCampbell
Send us Fan Mail
Helping Dental & Specialist Practice Owners Build Systems That Work—So You Can Focus on Dentistry.
Not sure where your practice stands financially? Take our FREE 5-Minute Practice Profitability Audit and uncover hidden profit leaks and quick-win strategies to boost revenue.
✔ Get your Profitability Score – Low, Medium, or High
✔ Identify inefficiencies that may be costing you money
✔ BONUS: Free copy of The Ultimate Guide to Practice Management
Take the audit now: https://tinyurl.com/alignedbc-freeaudit
Need expert advice? Book a complimentary 30-minute virtual coffee chat:
Connect with me: https://linktr.ee/alignedbusinessconsulting
Email: [email protected]
Enjoying the podcast? Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more expert insights! https://www.youtube.com/@michellepritchard-alignedb9302
Stay tuned for more episodes from Dental Success: Beyond Chairside!
In this conversation, Michelle Pritchard and Ameena Basile discuss the critical role of communication in dental practices. They explore the importance of daily huddles, structured meetings, and timely feedback to enhance team dynamics and patient experience. Ameena shares her journey in practice management and emphasises the need for leaders to set an example in fostering effective communication. The discussion highlights how clear expectations and regular check-ins can prevent misunderstandings and improve overall practice success.
Timestamps:
00:00 The Importance of Communication in Dental Practices
04:02 Daily and Weekly Rhythms for Team Success
10:11 Setting Expectations and Leading by Example
16:58 Enhancing Patient Experience through Effective Communication
Takeaways:
For more information about Ameena Basile and Dental Business Mastery, see the links below:
Website: https://dentalbusinessmastery.com.au/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dentalbusinessmastery
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dentalbusinessmastery/
Ameena’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ameena-basile-05606662/
Send us Fan Mail
Helping Dental & Specialist Practice Owners Build Systems That Work—So You Can Focus on Dentistry.
Not sure where your practice stands financially? Take our FREE 5-Minute Practice Profitability Audit and uncover hidden profit leaks and quick-win strategies to boost revenue.
✔ Get your Profitability Score – Low, Medium, or High
✔ Identify inefficiencies that may be costing you money
✔ BONUS: Free copy of The Ultimate Guide to Practice Management
Take the audit now: https://tinyurl.com/alignedbc-freeaudit
Need expert advice? Book a complimentary 30-minute virtual coffee chat:
Connect with me: https://linktr.ee/alignedbusinessconsulting
Email: [email protected]
Enjoying the podcast? Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more expert insights! https://www.youtube.com/@michellepritchard-alignedb9302
Stay tuned for more episodes from Dental Success: Beyond Chairside!
In this engaging conversation, Michelle Pritchard speaks with Dr Edwin “Mac” McDonald, a seasoned dental practice owner and leadership coach. Dr Mac shares insights from his 40 years of experience in aesthetic, restorative, and implant dentistry, emphasising the importance of a holistic approach to dental practice management. He discusses how his upbringing and experiences shaped his focus on leadership and communication, highlighting the need for dental professionals to understand their team members as whole individuals. Dr Mac stresses that effective leadership involves clear communication, intentional relationship-building, and fostering a supportive team culture.
As the conversation progresses, Dr Mac addresses common communication breakdowns in growing practices, advocating for one-on-one interactions to strengthen team dynamics. He also touches on the evolving landscape of dentistry post-COVID, emphasising the importance of adapting to new technologies and creating a culture that attracts and retains talented team members. The discussion culminates in practical advice for practice owners on investing in their teams through ongoing training and development, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling work environment for everyone involved.
Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction to Dr Mac McDonald
01:02 Dr Mac’s Journey in Dentistry
04:39 Common Communication Breakdowns in Growing Practices
07:55 The Role of Office Managers in Dental Practices
09:40 Onboarding the Right Team Members
12:56 Embracing New Technologies in Dentistry
15:47 The Importance of Ongoing Training and Development
17:35 Conclusion and Key Takeaways
Takeaways
For more information about Dr Edwin McDonal and Line of Sight Coaching please see social media links below:
Website: https://lineofsightcoaching.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lineofsightcoaching
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dredwinmcdonald/
Send us Fan Mail
Helping Dental & Specialist Practice Owners Build Systems That Work—So You Can Focus on Dentistry.
Not sure where your practice stands financially? Take our FREE 5-Minute Practice Profitability Audit and uncover hidden profit leaks and quick-win strategies to boost revenue.
✔ Get your Profitability Score – Low, Medium, or High
✔ Identify inefficiencies that may be costing you money
✔ BONUS: Free copy of The Ultimate Guide to Practice Management
Take the audit now: https://tinyurl.com/alignedbc-freeaudit
Need expert advice? Book a complimentary 30-minute virtual coffee chat:
Connect with me: https://linktr.ee/alignedbusinessconsulting
Email: [email protected]
Enjoying the podcast? Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more expert insights! https://www.youtube.com/@michellepritchard-alignedb9302
Stay tuned for more episodes from Dental Success: Beyond Chairside!
In this episode, Michelle Pritchard engages in a heartfelt conversation with Dr Parul Bhatia, a seasoned dentist who shares her journey through burnout and the sale of her practice. Parul emphasises that leading a dental practice is not just about systems and workflows, but fundamentally about the relationships built with team members and patients. She reflects on the challenges faced during the transition of selling her practice, highlighting the importance of transparent communication and the emotional impact of change on her team. Parul’s experience reveals the complexities of leadership, especially in times of uncertainty, and the need for authenticity in communication.
As Parul navigates her post-practice life, she focuses on helping other dentists address similar challenges, particularly those related to mental health and burnout. She advocates for open discussions about these issues, which are often stigmatised in the dental profession. The conversation also touches on evolving workplace dynamics, where financial concerns can overshadow the importance of workplace culture and support. Parul’s insights serve as a reminder of the critical role that empathy and connection play in effective leadership and team dynamics.
Timestamps
01:00 The Essence of Leadership in Dentistry
01:57 Parul's Journey: From Burnout to New Beginnings
04:29 Navigating Change: Communication During Transitions
08:59 Building a Supportive Team Environment
12:02 Promoting Mental Health and Resilience in Dentistry
Takeaways
For more details abut Dr Parul Bhatia see her social media pages below:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/parul.bhatia.5?mibextid=wwXIfr&rdid=ImNDLGEmdfyrnNko&share_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fshare%2F1CphTnF9qa%2F%3Fmibextid%3DwwXIfr#
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parulbhatia_official/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/parul-bhatia-4a9a1759/
Send us Fan Mail
Helping Dental & Specialist Practice Owners Build Systems That Work—So You Can Focus on Dentistry.
Not sure where your practice stands financially? Take our FREE 5-Minute Practice Profitability Audit and uncover hidden profit leaks and quick-win strategies to boost revenue.
✔ Get your Profitability Score – Low, Medium, or High
✔ Identify inefficiencies that may be costing you money
✔ BONUS: Free copy of The Ultimate Guide to Practice Management
Take the audit now: https://tinyurl.com/alignedbc-freeaudit
Need expert advice? Book a complimentary 30-minute virtual coffee chat:
Connect with me: https://linktr.ee/alignedbusinessconsulting
Email: [email protected]
Enjoying the podcast? Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more expert insights! https://www.youtube.com/@michellepritchard-alignedb9302
Stay tuned for more episodes from Dental Success: Beyond Chairside!
In this episode, Nosh Hands from Re-engagement Consultants shares expert insights into how dental practices can optimise their patient recall systems, improve communication, and boost long-term patient engagement. Discover practical tips on language, process, and data management to drive sustainable growth.
Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction
04:52 Communication Gaps in Dental Practices
09:00 Navigating High-Value Treatments
11:31 Building Trust and Understanding Patient Needs
15:06 Data Clean-Up and Its Impact on Dental Practice Efficiency
Key Topics:
Connect with Nosh Hands and Re-engagement Consultants
Website: https://www.reenco.com.au/
Send us Fan Mail
Helping Dental & Specialist Practice Owners Build Systems That Work—So You Can Focus on Dentistry.
Not sure where your practice stands financially? Take our FREE 5-Minute Practice Profitability Audit and uncover hidden profit leaks and quick-win strategies to boost revenue.
✔ Get your Profitability Score – Low, Medium, or High
✔ Identify inefficiencies that may be costing you money
✔ BONUS: Free copy of The Ultimate Guide to Practice Management
Take the audit now: https://tinyurl.com/alignedbc-freeaudit
Need expert advice? Book a complimentary 30-minute virtual coffee chat:
Connect with me: https://linktr.ee/alignedbusinessconsulting
Email: [email protected]
Enjoying the podcast? Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more expert insights! https://www.youtube.com/@michellepritchard-alignedb9302
Stay tuned for more episodes from Dental Success: Beyond Chairside!
In this conversation, Michelle Pritchard and Ashley Latter discuss the challenges dentists face in communicating treatment value to patients. Ashley shares his journey in dental sales training, emphasising the importance of building rapport, understanding patient needs, and avoiding common communication mistakes. He highlights that effective communication skills are crucial for increasing treatment acceptance and achieving success in dentistry. The discussion also covers practical advice for dentists to enhance their communication strategies and ultimately improve patient outcomes.
Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction to Ethical Sales in Dentistry
04:40 Common Communication Mistakes Dentists Make
09:17 Building Rapport and Understanding Patient Needs
13:52 The Importance of Communication Skills
18:28 Final Thoughts and Advice for Dentists
Takeaways
- Most dentists struggle to communicate value effectively.
- Building rapport is essential for patient trust.
- Many dentists reduce fees without realising the impact.
- Patients often want to discuss their needs, but aren't asked.
- Effective communication can significantly increase treatment acceptance.
- Dentists should focus on patient destinations, not technical details.
- Discounting fees can lead to significant revenue loss.
- Understanding buying signals is crucial in consultations.
- Developing communication skills early in a career is vital.
- Patients benefit greatly from effective treatment discussions.
For more information about Ashley Latter and his Dental Sales Training, please see the links below:
Website: https://www.ashleylatter.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AshleyLatter64
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashley-latter-9614589/
Send us Fan Mail
Helping Dental & Specialist Practice Owners Build Systems That Work—So You Can Focus on Dentistry.
Not sure where your practice stands financially? Take our FREE 5-Minute Practice Profitability Audit and uncover hidden profit leaks and quick-win strategies to boost revenue.
✔ Get your Profitability Score – Low, Medium, or High
✔ Identify inefficiencies that may be costing you money
✔ BONUS: Free copy of The Ultimate Guide to Practice Management
Take the audit now: https://tinyurl.com/alignedbc-freeaudit
Need expert advice? Book a complimentary 30-minute virtual coffee chat:
Connect with me: https://linktr.ee/alignedbusinessconsulting
Email: [email protected]
Enjoying the podcast? Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more expert insights! https://www.youtube.com/@michellepritchard-alignedb9302
Stay tuned for more episodes from Dental Success: Beyond Chairside!
From the publisher's feed
Welcome to Dental Success: Beyond Chairside – the podcast for dental professionals looking to strengthen their practice. Join us as we talk with industry experts and share…