Episode Title
Schein vs Vyne: Why Security Must Come Before Convenience in Dental Tech

Description In this editorial opinion, Bob Dee explores the ongoing debate between Henry Schein and Vyne over the use of backdoor integrations in dental software. With ransomware attacks, HIPAA fines, and breaches affecting dental practices nationwide, the message is clear: security—not convenience or cost savings—must always come first.

Highlights This episode unpacks why backdoor database hacks remain a major cybersecurity risk and reviews the history of Renaissance, Vyne, and clearinghouse integrations. It looks at Henry Schein’s evolving approach to security and multi-factor authentication, discusses the real-world ransomware costs practices have faced, explains why open ports and weak configurations act as “invitations” for hackers, and examines how AI raises risks when shadow integrations bypass official safeguards.

Personal Passions Bob shares his perspective as both a technologist and advocate for secure dental practices. Drawing from years of experience in software, cloud systems, and dental IT, he explains why protecting patient data has always been at the heart of his work. Podcast Vision The goal of this podcast is to cut through marketing hype and focus on what truly matters: protecting patient data, avoiding regulatory pitfalls, and building a secure foundation for dentistry’s future.

Takeaways Dentists must ask vendors tough security questions before signing on. APIs, encryption, and audit logs are not optional but baseline requirements. Every dentist is ultimately responsible for the safety of their patients’ data, and choosing convenience today could mean facing six-figure ransomware losses tomorrow.

Caption Links (mentioned in the episode) For those who want to dive deeper, here are the links referenced in the editorial:

• Resolution 301 for the 2025 ADA House of Delegates: https://dentistryingeneral.com/digac
•  DIG-A-PALOOZA CE Event (Nov 7–8, 2025, Chicago): https://dentistryingeneral.com/dig-a-palooza 
• Open Dental CVE vulnerability: https://nvd.nist.gov/vuln/detail/CVE-2018-15719 
• Tenable report on Open Dental: https://www.tenable.com/security/research/tra-2018-44 
• Open Dental documentation warning: https://www.opendental.com/manual/securitymysql.html 
• HIPAA Journal on MongoDB breach (8M patient records exposed): https://www.hipaajournal.com/database-8-million-patient-records-exposed-online/

___________________________________________________________________

Disclaimer for Dentistry in General Radio Network The Dentistry in General Radio Network (the "Network"), a division of Dentistry in General, LLC, provides podcast programming featuring independently selected guests by individual podcasters. Any guest appearance, documents, information, products, services, or opinions expressed on the Network’s podcasts are solely those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions of Dentistry in General, LLC, its owners, affiliates, podcasters, or employees.

The Network, Dentistry in General, LLC, their affiliates, podcasters, owners, agents, and employees do not assume responsibility or liability for the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information, materials, documents, products, or services shared or referenced by podcast guests. Listeners must independently verify information presented, exercise professional judgment, and conduct appropriate due diligence before acting upon or implementing recommendations provided on the Network. Information shared by guests or podcasters should not be interpreted as professional, medical, legal, or financial advice, unless explicitly stated by a qualified professional.

By accessing or engaging with the Dentistry in General Radio Network content, listeners expressly agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless Dentistry in General, LLC, its affiliates, podcasters, owners, agents, and employees from and against all claims, liabilities, damages, costs, or losses arising out of or resulting from reliance upon information or materials shared by guests or podcasters.

Dentistry in General, LLC and its podcasters reserve the right to edit, remove, or decline to broadcast any content or material at their sole discretion. Use of podcasts or materials provided through the Dentistry in General Radio Network constitutes acceptance of these terms and acknowledgment of this disclaimer.

Episode Title
Trust, Coverage, and Clarity: What Every Dentist Should Know About Disability Protection
Dr. Bob Dee Interviews James Kachmar of Doctors Disability Specialists

Description
In this episode of the Dentistry in General Radio Network, Dr. Bob Dee sits down with James Kachmar, a trusted disability and life insurance agent from Doctors Disability Specialists. Together, they unpack the real-world implications of disability insurance for dentists—what matters, what to avoid, and how to protect both your personal income and your practice. With clarity and candor, James shares practical advice on how to build smart insurance plans that grow with your career, why "own-occupation" coverage matters, and the often-overlooked details in policy language. Whether you're a dental student, new practice owner, or seasoned clinician, this episode delivers the critical information you need to make informed, confident decisions about your financial safety net.

Highlights
This episode covers essential insights on why disability insurance is more than just a policy—it's protection for your livelihood. James explains the differences between individual and business overhead expense policies, breaks down confusing terms like "non-cancelable guaranteed renewable," and reveals how exclusions and riders can shape your coverage. The conversation dives deep into real examples, including how to avoid being underinsured, the importance of customizing your plan as your income grows, and why having the right advisor can save you from costly surprises. Dr. Bob also shares personal anecdotes that drive home the reality of unexpected disability and the need for a solid plan.

Personal Passions
James shares how his journey into insurance began as a former schoolteacher, and how his father’s experience in the industry influenced his career. His passion lies in providing honest, tailored guidance that protects healthcare professionals from financial vulnerability. Dr. Bob’s commitment to equipping dentists with meaningful knowledge and trustworthy resources comes through strongly as he shares his personal experience of being advised by James without being sold a product.

Podcast Vision
The Dentistry in General Radio Network is committed to equipping dental professionals with real, actionable knowledge—beyond clinical technique. This episode reflects the podcast’s larger mission: to offer a safe, transparent space where dentists can learn from experts they can trust, and take steps to protect their professional and personal futures. ___________________________________________________________________

Disclaimer for Dentistry in General Radio Network The Dentistry in General Radio Network (the "Network"), a division of Dentistry in General, LLC, provides podcast programming featuring independently selected guests by individual podcasters. Any guest appearance, documents, information, products, services, or opinions expressed on the Network’s podcasts are solely those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions of Dentistry in General, LLC, its owners, affiliates, podcasters, or employees.

The Network, Dentistry in General, LLC, their affiliates, podcasters, owners, agents, and employees do not assume responsibility or liability for the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information, materials, documents, products, or services shared or referenced by podcast guests. Listeners must independently verify information presented, exercise professional judgment, and conduct appropriate due diligence before acting upon or implementing recommendations provided on the Network. Information shared by guests or podcasters should not be interpreted as professional, medical, legal, or financial advice, unless explicitly stated by a qualified professional.

By accessing or engaging with the Dentistry in General Radio Network content, listeners expressly agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless Dentistry in General, LLC, its affiliates, podcasters, owners, agents, and employees from and against all claims, liabilities, damages, costs, or losses arising out of or resulting from reliance upon information or materials shared by guests or podcasters.

Dentistry in General, LLC and its podcasters reserve the right to edit, remove, or decline to broadcast any content or material at their sole discretion. Use of podcasts or materials provided through the Dentistry in General Radio Network constitutes acceptance of these terms and acknowledgment of this disclaimer

Episode Title:
How Synergy Cuts Costs, Saves Time, and Guarantees FDA-Cleared Dental Supplies

Description
In this episode of the Dentistry in General Radio Network, Dr. Bob Dee interviews Ted Osterer from Synergy Dental Partners to uncover how their buying group model empowers private dentists to access DSO-level pricing without giving up their independence. Dr. Bob shares his personal experience with vetting Synergy for his own office and highlights the substantial cost savings and efficiency gains that come with membership. From FDA-cleared supplies and curated lab partnerships to freeing up staff time for more productive tasks, this conversation dives deep into how smart procurement through Synergy can help dentists spend less and do more—while maintaining full control of their practice.

Highlights
This episode explores how Synergy Dental Partners negotiates deals on behalf of independent dentists to deliver competitive pricing on supplies, lab fees, and services. Ted explains how Synergy works like a DSO in purchasing power, but without any ownership stakes, contracts, or obligations. Dr. Bob emphasizes how this shift freed up his assistant and himself to focus more on patient care and treatment planning rather than price shopping. The episode also stresses the importance of FDA-cleared products, inventory management, and working with trusted, pre-vetted labs.

Personal Passions
Dr. Bob is deeply passionate about advocating for private practice success and ensuring that dentists retain control while accessing the same advantages that DSOs offer. Ted shares his commitment to empowering independent practices by providing affordable, transparent, and compliant procurement options that keep patient safety and clinical integrity at the forefront.

Podcast Vision
Dentistry in General Radio Network is dedicated to supporting and strengthening private dental practices. Through conversations like this one, the podcast offers actionable insights and trusted partners to help dentists thrive clinically and financially—without compromising their autonomy or patient trust.

___________________________________________________________________ 

Disclaimer for Dentistry in General Radio Network The Dentistry in General Radio Network (the "Network"), a division of Dentistry in General, LLC, provides podcast programming featuring independently selected guests by individual podcasters. Any guest appearance, documents, information, products, services, or opinions expressed on the Network’s podcasts are solely those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions of Dentistry in General, LLC, its owners, affiliates, podcasters, or employees.

The Network, Dentistry in General, LLC, their affiliates, podcasters, owners, agents, and employees do not assume responsibility or liability for the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information, materials, documents, products, or services shared or referenced by podcast guests. Listeners must independently verify information presented, exercise professional judgment, and conduct appropriate due diligence before acting upon or implementing recommendations provided on the Network. Information shared by guests or podcasters should not be interpreted as professional, medical, legal, or financial advice, unless explicitly stated by a qualified professional.

By accessing or engaging with the Dentistry in General Radio Network content, listeners expressly agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless Dentistry in General, LLC, its affiliates, podcasters, owners, agents, and employees from and against all claims, liabilities, damages, costs, or losses arising out of or resulting from reliance upon information or materials shared by guests or podcasters.

Dentistry in General, LLC and its podcasters reserve the right to edit, remove, or decline to broadcast any content or material at their sole discretion. Use of podcasts or materials provided through the Dentistry in General Radio Network constitutes acceptance of these terms and acknowledgment of this disclaimer.

Episode Title

DIGRN Presents: Is MB2 Different? Dr. Chris Villanueva on DPOs, DSOs, and Dentist Autonomy – Part 2

Description
Dr. Bob Dee continues his no-holds-barred conversation with Dr. Chris Villanueva, CEO of MB2 Dental, unpacking myths about corporate dentistry, private equity, and doctor autonomy. Dr. Chris explains how MB2 doctors retain full clinical control, why they’ve never joined ADSO, and how recapitalization has created massive financial upside for partner dentists. They break down the economics of equity vs. cash, what mentorship looks like in the MB2 model, and why new grads are still struggling to find stable homes in private practice. With examples from real deals and candid views on leadership, this episode gives dentists an unfiltered look at a growing alternative to traditional ownership.

Highlights How MB2 tripled doctor investments, why stock is preferred over cash, why ethics aren’t tied to business models, the oversupply of new grads, and the truth about DSO control. Personal Passions Chris champions mentorship, autonomy, and long-term partnerships. Bob remains laser-focused on advocacy, transparency, and protecting dentist independence.

Podcast Vision To challenge assumptions, expose real business models, and help dentists make smarter, value-driven decisions. Takeaways Ethical dentistry isn’t defined by your model. Know your partners, understand your equity, and don’t let fear or dogma guide your future. ___________________________________________________________________

Disclaimer for Dentistry in General Radio Network The Dentistry in General Radio Network (the "Network"), a division of Dentistry in General, LLC, provides podcast programming featuring independently selected guests by individual podcasters. Any guest appearance, documents, information, products, services, or opinions expressed on the Network’s podcasts are solely those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions of Dentistry in General, LLC, its owners, affiliates, podcasters, or employees.

The Network, Dentistry in General, LLC, their affiliates, podcasters, owners, agents, and employees do not assume responsibility or liability for the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information, materials, documents, products, or services shared or referenced by podcast guests. Listeners must independently verify information presented, exercise professional judgment, and conduct appropriate due diligence before acting upon or implementing recommendations provided on the Network. Information shared by guests or podcasters should not be interpreted as professional, medical, legal, or financial advice, unless explicitly stated by a qualified professional.

By accessing or engaging with the Dentistry in General Radio Network content, listeners expressly agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless Dentistry in General, LLC, its affiliates, podcasters, owners, agents, and employees from and against all claims, liabilities, damages, costs, or losses arising out of or resulting from reliance upon information or materials shared by guests or podcasters. Dentistry in General, LLC and its podcasters reserve the right to edit, remove, or decline to broadcast any content or material at their sole discretion. Use of podcasts or materials provided through the Dentistry in General Radio Network constitutes acceptance of these terms and acknowledgment of this disclaimer.

Episode Title
 Is MB2 Different? Part 1 – Dr. Chris Villanueva on DPOs, DSOs, and Dentist Autonomy. A Discussion with Dr. Bob Dee

 Description
In this episode of Dentistry in General Radio Network, Dr. Bob Dee sits down with Dr. Chris Villanueva, founder and CEO of MB2 Dental, to explore the complex terrain of DSOs, private equity, and a relatively new model: the DPO. Dr. Bob, known for his outspoken skepticism of corporate influence in healthcare, challenges Dr. Villanueva to explain how MB2 claims to preserve clinical autonomy while scaling to 800+ practices. What follows is a direct, open, and sometimes provocative discussion about ownership structures, doctor referrals, operational independence, and whether private equity can ever coexist with ethical patient care. This is not an ad. This is a real conversation between two professionals who care deeply about the future of dentistry.

Highlights Dr. Villanueva recounts the founding of MB2 in 2007 and how the platform grew from a collaborative of private practice dentists into one of the largest and most unique organizations in the dental space. He explains the philosophical and operational differences between DSOs and DPOs, emphasizes why clinical decisions stay local in the MB2 model, and dissects what autonomy really looks like under a joint-venture structure. Dr. Bob presses for answers on profitability pressure, regional manager influence, and transparency in peer referrals. From mission trips with private equity executives to scalable retirement transitions, this episode dives deep into practice ownership, innovation, and trust.

Personal Passions
 Dr. Villanueva reveals his commitment to preserving independent dentistry in a changing landscape, rooted in his own frustrations with corporate medicine. He talks about his early days running a private practice, watching the medical model erode his wife’s autonomy as a physician, and his belief that dentists must act collectively to protect the future of the profession. Dr. Bob shares his longstanding concerns about top-down control in healthcare and his mission to educate dentists on both the benefits and risks of evolving ownership models.

Podcast Vision

This episode reflects Dentistry in General’s vision to host bold, balanced conversations that explore controversial topics without corporate bias. By bringing together voices across the spectrum of practice models—from solo practitioners to DPO architects—Dr. Bob fosters dialogue that empowers dentists to make well-informed decisions about their careers, finances, and autonomy. The platform remains dedicated to transparency, honesty, and practical knowledge that respects the profession’s clinical core. ___________________________________________________________________

Disclaimer for Dentistry in General Radio Network The Dentistry in General Radio Network (the "Network"), a division of Dentistry in General, LLC, provides podcast programming featuring independently selected guests by individual podcasters. Any guest appearance, documents, information, products, services, or opinions expressed on the Network’s podcasts are solely those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions of Dentistry in General, LLC, its owners, affiliates, podcasters, or employees.

 The Network, Dentistry in General, LLC, their affiliates, podcasters, owners, agents, and employees do not assume responsibility or liability for the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information, materials, documents, products, or services shared or referenced by podcast guests. Listeners must independently verify information presented, exercise professional judgment, and conduct appropriate due diligence before acting upon or implementing recommendations provided on the Network. Information shared by guests or podcasters should not be interpreted as professional, medical, legal, or financial advice, unless explicitly stated by a qualified professional.

By accessing or engaging with the Dentistry in General Radio Network content, listeners expressly agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless Dentistry in General, LLC, its affiliates, podcasters, owners, agents, and employees from and against all claims, liabilities, damages, costs, or losses arising out of or resulting from reliance upon information or materials shared by guests or podcasters. Dentistry in General, LLC and its podcasters reserve the right to edit, remove, or decline to broadcast any content or material at their sole discretion. Use of podcasts or materials provided through the Dentistry in General Radio Network constitutes acceptance of these terms and acknowledgment of this disclaimer.

Description
 In this episode of Dentistry In General Radio Network, Dr. Bob Dee speaks with Abdul Jamjoom, the co-founder and CEO of Arini — a groundbreaking AI receptionist designed exclusively for dental practices. Together, they explore how Arini is redefining patient communication, reducing missed calls, improving scheduling efficiency, and supporting dental teams with real-time automation. With over 10,000 calls handled daily across North America, Arini is quickly becoming the go-to AI solution for DSOs, dental groups, and solo practices looking to modernize their front desk operations.

 Highlights
What makes Arini unique among AI solutions for dentistry Real-time demo of Arini booking emergency dental appointments
-How practices can customize call flows, responses, and pricing communication
-Insights into white-glove onboarding and fast deployment
-The role of AI in reducing front desk workload and increasing appointment conversion
-Arini’s impact on after-hours patient communication and scheduling 
-Voice optimization strategies that increase booking rates
-Use of Arini for text message response and dropped call follow-ups
-Integration capabilities with major PMS systems like Dentrix, Eaglesoft, and more AI transparency, transfer logic, and when a human still matters

Personal Passions
Abdul shares his passion for scalable, patient-focused technology and how his background in computer science from Harvard (alongside his co-founder from MIT) helped shape a mission to modernize dentistry through AI. Their commitment is rooted in improving the patient experience while lightening the load on dental teams.

Podcast Vision This episode reflects the DIG Network’s ongoing mission to spotlight innovation in dentistry and empower practices with practical, real-world solutions. By bringing on tech leaders like Abdul, the podcast fosters dialogue around efficiency, automation, and the future of dental care delivery.

Takeaways
-AI in dentistry is no longer a concept—it's a reality that improves patient communication and operational efficiency.
-Arini is built for dental-specific workflows, integrating seamlessly with existing systems.
-Practices can increase bookings, reduce overhead, and stay connected with patients 24/7 using Arini.
-Human support remains essential, but AI is ready to handle the majority of day-to-day inquiries with speed and accuracy.
-Customization, ease of setup, and continuous learning make Arini an adaptive, scalable solution for growth-focused dental practices.

___________________________________________________________________

Disclaimer for Dentistry in General Radio Network The Dentistry in General Radio Network (the "Network"), a division of Dentistry in General, LLC, provides podcast programming featuring independently selected guests by individual podcasters. Any guest appearance, documents, information, products, services, or opinions expressed on the Network’s podcasts are solely those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions of Dentistry in General, LLC, its owners, affiliates, podcasters, or employees.

The Network, Dentistry in General, LLC, their affiliates, podcasters, owners, agents, and employees do not assume responsibility or liability for the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information, materials, documents, products, or services shared or referenced by podcast guests. Listeners must independently verify information presented, exercise professional judgment, and conduct appropriate due diligence before acting upon or implementing recommendations provided on the Network. Information shared by guests or podcasters should not be interpreted as professional, medical, legal, or financial advice, unless explicitly stated by a qualified professional.

By accessing or engaging with the Dentistry in General Radio Network content, listeners expressly agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless Dentistry in General, LLC, its affiliates, podcasters, owners, agents, and employees from and against all claims, liabilities, damages, costs, or losses arising out of or resulting from reliance upon information or materials shared by guests or podcasters. Dentistry in General, LLC and its podcasters reserve the right to edit, remove, or decline to broadcast any content or material at their sole discretion. Use of podcasts or materials provided through the Dentistry in General Radio Network constitutes acceptance of these terms and acknowledgment of this disclaimer.

Description
In this episode of Dentistry In General Radio Network, Dr. Bob Dee welcomes Dr. Lior Tamir, founder and CEO of The Dental App. They dive into how The Dental App consolidates essential practice management tools into one cloud-based platform. Dr. Tamir discusses revolutionary features like integrated imaging with Soda Cloud, customizable treatment plan pickers for specialties, AI-powered coaching tools, robust CRM marketing capabilities, and the development of a startup-friendly pricing model. Listeners will hear how The Dental App is helping dental practices operate smarter, streamline patient experiences, and scale more efficiently.
Highlights

• Consolidation of practice management software, reminders, digital forms, insurance dashboards, and CRM into one platform.
• Seamless integration with partners like Soda Cloud (imaging), Jellyfish (analytics), and Mango AI (phone systems). - Revolutionary cloud-based CBCT support allowing easy sharing without hardware dependence. 
• Creation of custom specialty treatment plan pickers to accommodate unique workflows. - Introduction of a built-in AI dental business coach named "Dili." - Launch of a startup package offering full tech stack access at reduced rates.
•  Expanded payment processing features including in-person terminal payments and surcharging options.
• Upcoming product enhancements like marketing automation, virtual statements, and routing slips.

Personal Passions 
Dr. Tamir shares his passion for empowering dental startups and practice owners by reducing technology barriers. His experience as a de novo practice owner shaped his vision to create accessible, scalable software that supports clinical excellence and operational success.

Podcast Vision This episode reflects the broader mission of Dentistry In General Radio Network: to showcase innovative solutions that not only improve clinical outcomes but also help dentists become sophisticated business operators. Dr. Bob Dee and Dr. Lior Tamir emphasize the importance of combining practice management with marketing intelligence, patient engagement, and cloud flexibility to future-proof dental businesses.

Takeaways Listeners will leave with a strong understanding of how The Dental App is transforming practice management by eliminating fragmented systems, introducing powerful CRM and AI-driven support, and delivering a true all-in-one platform. Whether you are a startup or an established practice, this episode highlights tools and strategies to streamline operations, increase revenue, and stay ahead in a competitive market. ___________________________________________________________________

 Disclaimer for Dentistry in General Radio Network The Dentistry in General Radio Network (the "Network"), a division of Dentistry in General, LLC, provides podcast programming featuring independently selected guests by individual podcasters. Any guest appearance, documents, information, products, services, or opinions expressed on the Network’s podcasts are solely those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions of Dentistry in General, LLC, its owners, affiliates, podcasters, or employees.

The Network, Dentistry in General, LLC, their affiliates, podcasters, owners, agents, and employees do not assume responsibility or liability for the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information, materials, documents, products, or services shared or referenced by podcast guests. Listeners must independently verify information presented, exercise professional judgment, and conduct appropriate due diligence before acting upon or implementing recommendations provided on the Network. Information shared by guests or podcasters should not be interpreted as professional, medical, legal, or financial advice, unless explicitly stated by a qualified professional.

By accessing or engaging with the Dentistry in General Radio Network content, listeners expressly agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless Dentistry in General, LLC, its affiliates, podcasters, owners, agents, and employees from and against all claims, liabilities, damages, costs, or losses arising out of or resulting from reliance upon information or materials shared by guests or podcasters.

Dentistry in General, LLC and its podcasters reserve the right to edit, remove, or decline to broadcast any content or material at their sole discretion. Use of podcasts or materials provided through the Dentistry in General Radio Network constitutes acceptance of these terms and acknowledgment of this disclaimer.

Description
In this episode of Dentistry in General Radio Network, Dr. Bob Dee sits down with Ashley Best, Director of Partnerships at Dental Intelligence, for a powerful conversation about how private dental practices can stay competitive in today’s data-driven landscape. Together, they dive into the technology, strategies, and mindset shifts required for independent dental offices to thrive in a world increasingly dominated by DSOs and corporate dentistry. From analytics and automation to patient engagement and cloud integration, this discussion is an eye-opening guide for every dentist ready to step into the role of CEO.

Highlights Dr. Bob and Ashley explore the critical difference between “knowing your numbers” and using them to drive action. Ashley introduces Dental Intel’s suite of tools—analytics, LocalMed scheduling, and Modento engagement—and how they integrate into a seamless practice management system. She walks listeners through KPIs that matter, shows how missed appointments and poor case acceptance reveal deeper communication issues, and explains why tracking patient attrition is often more valuable than simply boosting new patient numbers. They also discuss real-world case studies where data helped practices identify marketing flaws, improve treatment acceptance, and recover thousands in revenue through automation.

 Personal Passions Ashley shares her passion for empowering dental teams, simplifying practice operations, and making it easier to be a dental patient. With a background in marketing, she brings both strategic insight and empathy to practice management. Dr. Bob speaks candidly about his concern for small private practices and his mission to ensure they remain profitable, competitive, and independent in the evolving dental economy.

Podcast Vision Dentistry in General Radio Network was created to spotlight real conversations that matter to real dentists. Dr. Bob’s vision is to bridge the gap between clinical expertise and business savvy, helping dentists grow both as practitioners and entrepreneurs. Each episode features expert voices, emerging tools, and honest stories that inspire private practice owners to thrive—not just survive—in today’s dental landscape. ___________________________________________________________________

Disclaimer for Dentistry in General Radio Network The Dentistry in General Radio Network (the "Network"), a division of Dentistry in General, LLC, provides podcast programming featuring independently selected guests by individual podcasters. Any guest appearance, documents, information, products, services, or opinions expressed on the Network’s podcasts are solely those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions of Dentistry in General, LLC, its owners, affiliates, podcasters, or employees.

The Network, Dentistry in General, LLC, their affiliates, podcasters, owners, agents, and employees do not assume responsibility or liability for the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information, materials, documents, products, or services shared or referenced by podcast guests. Listeners must independently verify information presented, exercise professional judgment, and conduct appropriate due diligence before acting upon or implementing recommendations provided on the Network. Information shared by guests or podcasters should not be interpreted as professional, medical, legal, or financial advice, unless explicitly stated by a qualified professional.

By accessing or engaging with the Dentistry in General Radio Network content, listeners expressly agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless Dentistry in General, LLC, its affiliates, podcasters, owners, agents, and employees from and against all claims, liabilities, damages, costs, or losses arising out of or resulting from reliance upon information or materials shared by guests or podcasters. Dentistry in General, LLC and its podcasters reserve the right to edit, remove, or decline to broadcast any content or material at their sole discretion. Use of podcasts or materials provided through the Dentistry in General Radio Network constitutes acceptance of these terms and acknowledgment of this disclaimer.

Episode Description
In this episode, we sit down with Bilal Mehanna, CPA and founder of Mehanna Advisors, to break down financial strategies for dental practices. From controlling overhead costs to making strategic investments, Bilal shares expert insights that can help dentists maximize profits and avoid common financial mistakes. We also dive into tax strategies, managing cash flow, scaling a practice, and making smart hiring decisions. If you're a dentist looking to optimize your business and financial health, this is the episode you can't afford to miss!

Episode Highlights
✔ The 4 key financial benchmarks every dentist should track
✔ Why most dentists overspend on equipment and how to avoid it
✔ The #1 mistake dentists make when hiring staff
✔ How to control payroll costs while maximizing productivity ✔ Smart tax strategies to minimize liabilities
✔ The financial red flags that signal trouble in a practice
✔ When to consider adding an associate or expanding locations
✔ How to manage cash flow during slow months
✔ Should you sell your practice? What you must know first
✔ The reality of DSO valuations & EBITDA myths

Personal Passions
Bilal Mehanna's passion lies in helping dentists take control of their financial future. As the husband of a dentist, he understands the challenges of running a dental practice firsthand. His firm, Mehanna Advisors, specializes in financial management, tax planning, and business advisory services for dental professionals. His goal is to simplify the numbers so dentists can focus on what they do best—providing great patient care while maintaining a profitable business.

Podcast Vision At DIGRN, our mission is to provide dentists and dental professionals with the tools, strategies, and expert advice they need to build strong, profitable practices. By bringing on industry experts like Bilal Mehanna, we aim to educate, empower, and inspire dental business owners to make better financial and operational decisions. Every episode is designed to help dentists avoid costly mistakes, scale their businesses wisely, and secure long-term success.

Key Takeaways
- Track your finances using the four-box method: Revenue, Direct Expenses,
- Operational Expenses, and Take-Home Pay.
- Staff salaries should ideally be below 25% of collections—going above 30% can signal financial trouble.
- Associates can be a dentist’s best financial investment—for every $1 you pay them, they should generate $2.
- Avoid unnecessary big purchases like expensive equipment unless you have a clear ROI plan.
- Managing payroll and overhead is critical—many practices hire too many employees without clear productivity expectations.
- Use Section 179 tax deductions wisely—don't buy equipment just for the tax break.

Disclaimer for Dentistry in General Radio Network The Dentistry in General Radio Network (the "Network"), a division of Dentistry in General, LLC, provides podcast programming featuring independently selected guests by individual podcasters. Any guest appearance, documents, information, products, services, or opinions expressed on the Network’s podcasts are solely those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions of Dentistry in General, LLC, its owners, affiliates, podcasters, or employees.

The Network, Dentistry in General, LLC, their affiliates, podcasters, owners, agents, and employees do not assume responsibility or liability for the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information, materials, documents, products, or services shared or referenced by podcast guests. Listeners must independently verify information presented, exercise professional judgment, and conduct appropriate due diligence before acting upon or implementing recommendations provided on the Network. Information shared by guests or podcasters should not be interpreted as professional, medical, legal, or financial advice, unless explicitly stated by a qualified professional.

By accessing or engaging with the Dentistry in General Radio Network content, listeners expressly agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless Dentistry in General, LLC, its affiliates, podcasters, owners, agents, and employees from and against all claims, liabilities, damages, costs, or losses arising out of or resulting from reliance upon information or materials shared by guests or podcasters. Dentistry in General, LLC and its podcasters reserve the right to edit, remove, or decline to broadcast any content or material at their sole discretion. Use of podcasts or materials provided through the Dentistry in General Radio Network constitutes acceptance of these terms and acknowledgment of this disclaimer.

Description
In this episode, we talk with Gary Bird about why many dentists feel marketing doesn’t work. The truth? Marketing alone isn't enough—your systems, staff, and strategy determine success. Gary shares insights on patient acquisition, front desk training, and why accountability is key. If you want more high-value patients and better practice growth, this episode is for you.

Highlights
Why Marketing Feels Like a Scam – The real reason practices struggle.
The Patient Journey – How phone calls and scheduling impact conversion.
Fixing Front Desk Issues – Why 40% of dental offices miss calls.
Turning Marketing Leads into Loyal Patients – The missing link.
Training vs. Accountability – Why staff education isn’t enough.
Growth Strategies – Balancing internal referrals with external marketing.

Personal Passions
Gary Bird is passionate about helping dentists rethink marketing and business growth. He provides free resources, educates online, and debunks myths that hold practices back. Podcast Vision This podcast bridges the gap between clinical excellence and business success. By featuring experts like Gary, we show how better systems and strategy drive sustainable growth.

Key Takeaways
Marketing works when backed by strong systems and staff. Answering phones and handling inquiries properly is critical. Training staff matters, but accountability drives results. Growth happens when marketing and patient referrals align. Dentists must rethink their business approach to scale.
___________________________________________________________________

Dentistry in General is an exclusive online community for dentists and dental students, fostering meaningful conversations, professional support, and collaboration. Visit our website to learn more about: Our Online Community: Engage with fellow dentists and students on Facebook to discuss clinical cases, navigate non-clinical challenges, and build lasting connections.

Disclaimer for Dentistry in General Radio Network The Dentistry in General Radio Network (the "Network"), a division of Dentistry in General, LLC, provides podcast programming featuring independently selected guests by individual podcasters. Any guest appearance, documents, information, products, services, or opinions expressed on the Network’s podcasts are solely those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions of Dentistry in General, LLC, its owners, affiliates, podcasters, or employees.

The Network, Dentistry in General, LLC, their affiliates, podcasters, owners, agents, and employees do not assume responsibility or liability for the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information, materials, documents, products, or services shared or referenced by podcast guests. Listeners must independently verify information presented, exercise professional judgment, and conduct appropriate due diligence before acting upon or implementing recommendations provided on the Network. Information shared by guests or podcasters should not be interpreted as professional, medical, legal, or financial advice, unless explicitly stated by a qualified professional. By accessing or engaging with the Dentistry in General Radio Network content, listeners expressly agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless

Dentistry in General, LLC, its affiliates, podcasters, owners, agents, and employees from and against all claims, liabilities, damages, costs, or losses arising out of or resulting from reliance upon information or materials shared by guests or podcasters. Dentistry in General, LLC and its podcasters reserve the right to edit, remove, or decline to broadcast any content or material at their sole discretion. Use of podcasts or materials provided through the Dentistry in General Radio Network constitutes acceptance of these terms and acknowledgment of this disclaimer.