Host Alison Werner kicks off the 2024 season of the Orthodontic Products Podcast with Dr Robert “Tito” Norris. Known for his innovative contributions to the orthodontic industry, including the Norris 20/26 Passive Self-Ligating Bracket and Wire System which he developed with DynaFlex, he shares insights on creating clinical efficiencies and achieving better work-life balance. 

In the episode, Norris talks about his journey into orthodontics and the intersection of engineering principles and orthodontics, before the conversation shifts to talk about the importance of systems in every aspect of his practice—from the moment a patient calls the office to placing brackets. In a practice that treats over 900 cases annually, Norris explains how he and his team rely on a systematic approach that starts with a meticulous patient examination. This exam allows the team to thoroughly collect the data they need to progress the case efficiently and successfully. From there, everything from bracket placement to appointment staggering is systemized. These checklists are vital to keep patient outcomes consistent among all three doctors in the practice. 

Norris goes on to explain the significance this systematic approach has on the interdisciplinary cases he treats. He shares the systems he has in place to efficiently treat cuspid substitution and airway cases. 

In recent years, Norris’ practice, Stone Oak Orthodontics, has become known for treating patients with airway issues. In fact, Norris shares his journey to treat his own airway issues with a MARPE. In this conversation, Norris breaks down with it takes to incorporate airway treatment into the orthodontic practice and how treating these cases can have a profound impact on a patient’s life, including his own. 

Throughout, Norris reminds the audience how important systems are regardless of the type of case to achieve efficiencies in the practice and practice profitability. And when it comes to profitability, Norris is quick to explain that profitability is about more than increased revenue; it’s also about time gained. 

A frequent lecturer, Norris explains how systems and the efficiencies they create allow him to have the work-life balance he wants, which includes about 15 weeks off a year. He not only spends that time with family and engaging with the actives he loves—like competitive swimming and surfing—but he also uses that time to spend on professional development and lecturing and offering in-office courses. 

Norris has two courses upcoming: a 2-day course (February 23-24, 2024) with Dr Chad Foster offered by DynaFlex on Exceptional Esthetics and Predictable Systems in Scottsdale, Ariz; and an in-office course offered twice a year (in May and October), also in conjunction with DynaFlex, at his San Antonio, Tex-based practice.