Guest: Jeff Slater, Vice President of Operations, Kaleidoscope

📌 Episode Overview:
Search is changing—and fast. In this episode, Orthodontic Products editor Alison Werner sits down with Jeff Slater of Kaleidoscope to explore how orthodontic practices can stay visible as patients turn to AI tools like ChatGPT, Siri, and Google’s AI Overviews for answers. Building on his recent article for Orthodontic Products, Jeff breaks down the differences between SEO (Search Engine Optimization), AEO (Answer Engine Optimization), and GEO (Generative Engine Optimization) and explains what your website must do to remain competitive in today’s search environment.

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Answer Engine Optimization (AEO)
02:34 Understanding the Shift in Search Behavior
05:33 Optimizing Content for Patient Queries
08:32 The Importance of Content Structure and Authority
11:29 Technical Foundations for AEO and GEO
14:32 Common Mistakes in AEO Implementation
17:35 Future-Proofing Your Digital Presence
20:43 Conclusion and Contact Information

Key Takeaways:

• What Answer Engine Optimization (AEO) is and how it works
• How AEO and GEO differ from traditional SEO strategies
• The importance of Q&A-based content in AI-powered search
• Why mobile performance and site speed now impact search rankings
• How to use subheadings, attribution, and schema markup effectively
• Why stale content and outdated websites are hurting your visibility
• Actionable tips to future-proof your orthodontic website

Resources Mentioned:
🔗Jeff Slater’s article from the July/August issue of Orthodontic Products: From SEO to AEO: The New Rules of Online Visibility for Orthodontists

👤 Guest Bio & Contact Info:
Jeff Slater is the vice president of operations at Kaleidoscope with nearly 15 years of experience in digital marketing for the orthodontic and dental industries. His areas of expertise include SEO, social media, paid search & Internet advertising, Google Business Profiles, location-based marketing, WordPress websites, and online branding.

📧 Email: [email protected]
🌐 Website: https://thekaleidoscope.com

---

Connect & Subscribe
Podcast: Apple | Spotify | YouTube | Amazon Music

VISIT ORTHODONTIC PRODUCTS: https://orthodonticproductsonline.com/

SUBSCRIBE to THE OP NEWSLETTER: https://info.medqor.com/opsubform

INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/orthoproductsmag/
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/OrthoProducts/
LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ortho-products/

Have a question for a future episode? Drop it in the comments or email [email protected].

Guest:
Cassie Kellner, Founder and Owner of Everbloom

Episode Overview:
In this episode of the Orthodontic Products Podcast, host Alison Werner is joined by consultant Cassie Kellner to explore how the DISC behavioral assessment can be used to build more cohesive orthodontic teams. Cassie breaks down the four DISC personality types—Dominance, Influence, Steadiness, and Conscientiousness—and shares how these insights can help teams understand one another, reduce conflict, and collaborate more effectively. Whether you're launching a startup or managing a long-established practice, DISC offers actionable strategies to strengthen culture and communication.

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to DISC and Team Dynamics
04:09 Understanding DISC Assessment and Its Categories
09:11 The Benefits of DISC for Teams
13:24 Applying DISC in Startups vs Established Practices
16:36 Building a Thriving Team Culture with DISC

Key Takeaways:
🔹 DISC is a behavior assessment tool that categorizes individuals into four types: Dominance, Influence, Steadiness, and Conscientiousness.
🔹 Understanding DISC can help teams connect on a deeper level and improve workplace dynamics.
🔹 The assessment provides a fun and engaging way for teams to learn about each other.
🔹 Teams of all sizes can benefit from DISC, whether they are new or established.
🔹 DISC helps identify individual motivators and stressors, enhancing communication.
🔹 The tool fosters a safe space for team members to express their needs and preferences.
🔹 Using DISC can lead to a more well-rounded team with diverse strengths.
🔹 Strategies provided by DISC help individuals work effectively with different personality types.
🔹 Building a thriving team culture starts with understanding and valuing each team member.

Resources Mentioned:
📌 Everbloom Culture Building Workshops: https://www.discovereverbloom.com/discworkshop

Guest Bio and Contact Info:
Cassie Kellner is the founder of Everbloom, an orthodontic consulting firm focused on team culture, leadership development, and emotional intelligence. With over two decades of experience in orthodontics—from front-line team member to consultant and coach—Cassie helps practices unlock their people potential. Learn more at https://www.discovereverbloom.com

-----------------------------------
Connect & Subscribe
Podcast: Apple | Spotify | Google Podcasts

YouTube: Like 👍, comment 💬, and subscribe 🔔 for future episodes.

VISIT ORTHODONTIC PRODUCTS: https://orthodonticproductsonline.com/

SUBSCRIBE to THE OP NEWSLETTER: https://info.medqor.com/opsubform

INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/orthoproductsmag/
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/OrthoProducts/
LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ortho-products/

Have a question for a future episode? Drop it in the comments or email [email protected].

Guests: Andrea Cook and Jackie Dorst

Episode Overview:
Orthodontic consultants Andrea Cook and Jackie Dorst, RDH, BS, join host Alison Werner to explain how misinformation—and simple habit—can derail OSHA and infection-control compliance in an orthodontic practice. They outline the real-world risks (from six-figure fines to failure to attract great new hires), identify reliable sources for up-to-date guidance, and spell out who should own compliance in the office.

Chapters:
00:03 Why “hand-me-down” protocols put practices at risk
04:40 Common misinformation hot spots (Facebook groups, vendor advice)
10:50 Summer hires & the dangers of “just doing sterilization” without training
12:30 Credible resources: AAO Staff Club & Ask ADS AI tool
16:55 What the CDC Oral Health Division closure doesn’t change
22:35 Top three compliance questions Andrea & Jackie hear most
24:00 Dental unit water-line shocks & testing—new state rules in Florida and Georgia
30:15 Financial penalties: $16,000 per OSHA infraction; up to $165k/day for willful violations
38:20 Who should manage OSHA & infection prevention—and how to empower them
42:00 How strong protocols help attract (and keep) quality team members

Key Takeaways:

• Misinformation is common—practices must rely on verified, non-commercial sources for OSHA and infection control guidance.
• Compliance impacts perception—patients and prospective staff notice when safety standards fall short.
• Outdated habits aren’t enough—what worked in a previous office may no longer meet today’s regulatory requirements.
• Leadership matters: The doctor sets the tone; a dedicated, well-trained coordinator enforces it.

Resources Mentioned:
💠 AAO Staff Club (annual OSHA & infection-control CE): https://www2.aaoinfo.org/aao-for/staff/
💠 Association for Dental Safety's Ask ADS site (a free AI beta for evidence-based answers): https://www.myads.org/ask-ads
💠 CDC Guidelines for Infection Control in Dental Settings: https://www.cdc.gov/oralhealth/infectioncontrol
💠 Andrea Cook’s OSHA Inspection & CDC Infection Prevention Compliance Checklists: https://www.andreacookconsulting.com/forms-downloads

Guest Bios and Contact Info:
Andrea Cook is a clinical consultant specializing in OSHA compliance, infection-control protocols, and sterilization-room design. Also guides practices on clinical efficiency, workflow development, and technology adoption.
🔗 Website & free checklists: andreacookconsulting.com

Jackie Dorst, RDH, BS, is a microbiologist and dental hygienist with 30+ years of lecturing and consulting on instrument sterilization, infection prevention, and OSHA safety. Frequent AAO speaker and contributor to Orthodontic Products.
📧 [email protected] | 📱 +1 949-842-1747 | 🔗 https://jackiedorst.com/

Connect & Subscribe
Podcast: Apple | Spotify | Google Podcasts

YouTube: Like 👍, comment 💬, and subscribe 🔔 for future episodes.

VISIT ORTHODONTIC PRODUCTS: https://orthodonticproductsonline.com/

SUBSCRIBE to THE OP NEWSLETTER: https://info.medqor.com/opsubform

INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/orthoproductsmag/
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/OrthoProducts/
LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ortho-products/

Have a question for a future episode? Drop it in the comments or email [email protected].

Guest:
Mary Kay Miller, CEO and owner Kaleidoscope

Description:
Align Technology is cracking down on the use of its Invisalign trademark—and orthodontic practices need to pay attention. In this episode, Orthodontic Products Editor-in-Chief Alison Werner sits down with orthodontic marketing expert Mary Kay Miller to explain what this enforcement means for your website, social media, ads, and printed materials.

Whether you're actively offering Invisalign, transitioning to another aligner brand, or just launching your practice, this episode breaks down what you can and cannot do when it comes to using the Invisalign name. Miller walks through real-world examples of what practices have faced, the SEO impact of removing trademarked content, and how to restructure your digital presence without losing visibility.

👉 Topics Covered:
00:00 Introduction to Invisalign Compliance
02:10 Understanding Trademark and Licensing Issues
05:52 Align Technology's Legal Actions Explained
10:19 SEO Implications of Trademark Compliance
15:00 Best Practices for Orthodontic Practices
20:08 Advice for New Practices
23:22 Utilizing Reviews for SEO

✅ Key Takeaways:

• Only active Invisalign providers can use the brand name in marketing
• Compliance requires updates to SEO, URLs, images, and more
• Patient reviews mentioning Invisalign are allowed and support local search

💠 Contact Mary Kay Miller at [email protected]
🌐 Learn more: https://thekaleidoscope.com

👍 Like this video if it helped
💬 Drop your questions in the comments
🔔 Subscribe for more orthodontic practice insights

#Invisalign #Orthodontics #DigitalMarketing #OrthodonticMarketing #TrademarkCompliance #AlignTechnology #ClearAligners #Orthodontist #seo

-----------------------------------------

📌 Available on all major podcast platforms!

-----------------------------------------

VISIT ORTHODONTIC PRODUCTS: https://orthodonticproductsonline.com/

SUBSCRIBE to THE OP NEWSLETTER: https://info.medqor.com/opsubform

INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/orthoproductsmag/
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/OrthoProducts/
LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ortho-products/

Host: Alison Werner
Guest: David Cohen, Attorney and Chairman, Cohen Property Law Group

Topic: Protecting Your Practice from Hidden Lease Clauses

In this episode, attorney David Cohen joins host Alison Werner to shed light on the hidden lease provisions that can undermine the profitability, flexibility, and future sale of your orthodontic practice. Cohen, who specializes in dental practice transactions and real estate law, walks through real-world examples and outlines how orthodontists can avoid costly lease mistakes that often go unnoticed until it’s too late.

Drawing on his firm’s experience with over 300 practice transactions annually, Cohen emphasizes why legal review of commercial leases is not optional—it’s a critical strategy for practice stability and growth.

Key Provisions to Watch For:
🔹 Profit-Sharing Clauses: Language that requires you to share a portion of the proceeds from the sale of your practice with the landlord.
🔹 White Box/Restoration Clauses: Requirements to return the premises to its original condition upon leaving, potentially costing tens of thousands of dollars.
🔹 Assignment Restrictions: Terms that make it difficult to assign the lease to a buyer, limiting your ability to sell the practice.
🔹 Relocation Clauses: Provisions that allow landlords to move your practice to another unit, often with insufficient compensation and significant production loss.
🔹 Repair and Replacement Costs: Especially for HVAC systems and other infrastructure; these clauses can leave tenants responsible for expensive replacements.

Practical Advice Covered:
💠 How to negotiate key lease terms in a letter of intent (LOI)
💠 What to do if you’re already locked into an unfavorable lease
💠 How to use lease renewal as leverage for renegotiation
💠 Why attorneys—not brokers—should review legal documents
💠 When to involve a lawyer during the lease process

Timestamps:
00:00 Understanding Hidden Lease Provisions
04:42 Common Hidden Clauses in Dental Leases
09:32 Impact of Hidden Clauses on Practice Sales
13:36 Negotiating Lease Terms Effectively
17:04 Mitigating Risks in Existing Leases
22:08 Best Practices for Lease Negotiation

Contact Information for David Cohen:
📧 Lease-related inquiries: [email protected]
📧 Practice sale inquiries: [email protected]

✅ Don’t forget to like and subscribe.

-----------------------------------------

📌 Available on all major podcast platforms!

-----------------------------------------

VISIT ORTHODONTIC PRODUCTS: https://orthodonticproductsonline.com/

SUBSCRIBE to THE OP NEWSLETTER: https://info.medqor.com/opsubform

INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/orthoproductsmag/
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/OrthoProducts/
LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ortho-products/

In this episode of the Orthodontic Products Podcast, sponsored by OrthoFX, host Alison Werner talks with the company's President and Co-Founder Ren Menon about how the company’s full-service platform helps orthodontic practices reduce friction and improve outcomes. Menon highlights OrthoFX’s growing aligner portfolio, including the FDA-cleared AirFlex, designed for shorter daily wear with fewer refinements.

They also discuss OrthoFX’s integrated services—remote monitoring with FXOnTrack, patient financing with FXPay, and marketing support—all designed to simplify practice management. Menon explains how AI powers treatment planning, progress tracking, and retention strategies to keep patients on track and improve long-term results. He also shares OrthoFX’s vision for expanding care access through collaboration with general dentists.

Key Takeaways:
🔹 OrthoFX’s aligners offer faster, more predictable treatment with fewer refinements.
🔹 The full-service platform reduces operational friction with integrated tools.
🔹 AI enhances treatment planning, monitoring, and retention management.

Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction
00:53 – How OrthoFX’s aligner portfolio has expanded with clinical consistency
02:15 – FDA-cleared AirFlex aligner designed for reduced daily wear
04:35 – Why OrthoFX built a full-service practice support model
07:16 – Meeting evolving patient expectations with flexible treatment options
09:20 – Remote monitoring with FXOnTrack and rescue aligner solution
10:41 – How FXPay improves patient affordability and practice efficiency
11:47 – AI-powered treatment planning and progress tracking
14:19 – AI’s role in post-treatment retention and relapse prevention
15:24 – OrthoFX’s vision for reshaping the orthodontic care model
17:15 – How OrthoFX helps practices expand access through collaboration with GPs
20:58 – How to learn more about OrthoFX’s platform
-----------------------------------------

📌 Available on all major podcast platforms!

-----------------------------------------

VISIT ORTHODONTIC PRODUCTS: https://orthodonticproductsonline.com/

SUBSCRIBE to THE OP NEWSLETTER: https://info.medqor.com/opsubform

INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/orthoproductsmag/
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/OrthoProducts/
LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ortho-products/

In this episode of the Orthodontic Products Podcast, we discuss the growing role of airway-friendly orthodontics in treating upper airway obstruction and sleep-disordered breathing. Dr Robert "Tito" Norris, an orthodontist with a focus on airway management, explains how orthodontists can go beyond aesthetic treatment and have a significant impact on their patients' overall health and well-being.

Norris shares insights into the clinical signs of airway issues, how to assess patients using tools like CBCT imaging and sleep questionnaires, and the benefits of collaborating with ENT and sleep specialists. He also discusses the treatment modalities available, including the role of MARPE (Mini-Implant Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion) and how orthodontists can successfully integrate these practices into their existing workflows.

Key topics include:
🔹 The importance of airway assessments in orthodontics
🔹 Identifying signs of upper airway obstruction in adolescent and adult patients
🔹 The role of CBCT and sleep questionnaires in diagnosing airway issues
🔹 Treatment approaches for patients with sleep-disordered breathing
🔹 The impact of early intervention on long-term health outcomes

Norris also highlights valuable resources and training opportunities for orthodontists looking to expand their practice to include airway management as part of their treatment offerings.

Listen to the full episode to learn how integrating airway treatments into your orthodontic practice can improve patient care and health outcomes.

Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction
01:08 – Dr. Tito Norris’ journey into airway-friendly orthodontics
03:06 – Key signs and symptoms to look for in patients
06:37 – The role of sleep questionnaires in identifying airway issues
08:04 – How CBCT imaging improves airway assessments
10:03 – Identifying anatomical structures related to airway obstruction
12:15 – Using home sleep studies in the diagnostic process
14:02 – Treatment options for patients with sleep apnea
17:17 – Advantages of early treatment in adolescents
19:28 – The decision-making process for adult patients
20:39 – Implementing airway treatment into practice management
23:44 – Building relationships with ENTs and sleep specialists
25:22 – Recommended resources and training for orthodontists
27:17 – Final advice for orthodontists on integrating airway treatments

RESOURCES:

Dr Norris’ three-part article series in Orthodontic Products:
✔️ Airway Friendly Orthodontics Part 1: Diagnosis
✔️ Airway Friendly Orthodontics Part 2: Transverse Treatment
✔️ Airway Friendly Orthodontics Part 3: Anterior-Posterior Solutions

Recommended Airway Management Courses:
🔹 Dr Ilya Lipkin Course
🔹 Dr Marianna Evans Course
🔹 Dr Jeff Rouse Course
🔹 Dr Rebecca Bockow
🔹 Dr Tito Norris Course

-----------------------------------------

📌 Available on all major podcast platforms!

-----------------------------------------

VISIT ORTHODONTIC PRODUCTS: https://orthodonticproductsonline.com/

SUBSCRIBE to THE OP NEWSLETTER: https://info.medqor.com/opsubform

INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/orthoproductsmag/
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/OrthoProducts/
LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ortho-products/

In this episode of the Orthodontic Products Podcast, host Alison Werner is joined by Dr Roger Levin, CEO of the Levin Group, to break down the findings of the fourth annual Orthodontic Products–Levin Group Practice Performance Survey.

Recorded after recent economic shifts, the conversation places the 2024 data in the broader context of uncertainty and change. Levin discusses how orthodontists can increase production, manage overhead, and prepare their practices for an unpredictable future.

Topics covered include:

• 2024 trends in production, overhead, and profitability
• Strategies to access unused practice potential
• Remote monitoring and its effect on appointment intervals
• Staffing challenges and solutions for retention
• Adapting aligner fees and increasing adult patient engagement
• Career-stage specific advice for orthodontists

📌 Key Takeaway: Whether you're just starting out or planning retirement, this episode offers practical, data-driven guidance to help you adapt and plan ahead.

🔗 Resources & Links
Read the full survey article: https://orthodonticproductsonline.com/practice-management/business-development/findings-from-the-2024-orthodontic-practice-survey/
Learn more about Levin Group: https://levingroup.com

✅ Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and click the bell icon for updates on future episodes.

-----------------------------------------

📌 Available on all major podcast platforms!

-----------------------------------------

VISIT ORTHODONTIC PRODUCTS: https://orthodonticproductsonline.com/

SUBSCRIBE to THE OP NEWSLETTER: https://info.medqor.com/opsubform

INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/orthoproductsmag/

FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/OrthoProducts/

LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ortho-products/

🎙 Host: Alison Werner
🎧 Guest: Dr. Nadia Nizam, orthodontist and private practice owner in Calgary, Alberta

In this episode of the Orthodontic Products Podcast, sponsored by Ormco, host Alison Werner talks with Dr. Nadia Nizam about building a scalable, efficient orthodontic practice while balancing clinical innovation and leadership as a woman in a changing industry. The conversation covers her transition to Spark Aligners, the integration of Ormco’s digital bonding technology, and how she’s streamlined operations to meet today’s staffing and economic challenges.

🔑 3 Key Takeaways:
• Transitioning to Spark Aligners improved treatment efficiency and patient outcomes.
• Ormco’s digital bonding technology helped support a high-volume workflow with a smaller team.
• Economic and staffing pressures are driving practices to prioritize cross-training and scalable systems.

📌 Topics Covered: 00:00 – Introduction
01:12 – Starting a practice while pregnant
02:12 – Creating a niche with aligners
03:09 – Long-standing relationship with Ormco
06:40 – Why she switched to Spark Aligners
09:03 – Integrating Ormco’s digital bonding tech
11:04 – Female leadership in orthodontics
14:31 – Connecting workflow to work-life balance
15:31 – Efficiency and staffing in today’s market

🔗 Learn more at: https://ormco.com/en-us

👍 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes focused on helping you build a healthier, more successful orthodontic practice.

-----------------------------------------

📌 Available on all major podcast platforms!

-----------------------------------------

VISIT ORTHODONTIC PRODUCTS: https://orthodonticproductsonline.com/

SUBSCRIBE to THE OP NEWSLETTER: https://info.medqor.com/opsubform

INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/orthoproductsmag/
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/OrthoProducts/
LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ortho-products/

#Orthodontics #PrivatePractice #SparkAligners #Ormco #WomenInDentistry #OrthodonticWorkflow #DigitalBonding #PracticeOwnership #OrthodonticProductsPodcast

In this episode, sponsored by A-dec, we’re diving into a topic that directly impacts your daily comfort and long-term health: ergonomics in the orthodontic practice. From stools to patient chairs and delivery units, the design of your clinical space can either support your health or contribute to chronic pain and fatigue. If you’ve ever ended the day with neck, shoulder, or back pain—or want to avoid that entirely—this episode is for you.

Joining us is Jeromy Moss, territory manager at A-dec and a certified ergonomics assessment specialist. With nearly two decades of experience helping orthodontists design and optimize their clinical spaces, Moss brings deep expertise in how ergonomics can extend career longevity and improve practice efficiency—for both doctors and their teams.

🔑 3 Key Takeaways:

• Ergonomics Starts with the Right Seating – Why a one-size-fits-all stool won’t cut it, and how proper adjustments can prevent daily strain.
• Bring the Patient to You – Learn how to position patients correctly to reduce trunk rotation, shoulder shrugging, and forward head posture.
• Practice Design Impacts Career Longevity – How A-dec’s equipment and Smart Start Program are designed with the health and growth of your practice in mind.

📍 Visit A-dec at the AAO Annual Session – Booth #3202 to see their ergonomic operatory setup in person.

📺  Additional content: Check out the Orthodontic Products website to see Jeromy Moss demonstrate an ideal stool and operatory setup.

🔗 Learn more at https://www.a-dec.com

👍 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes focused on helping you build a healthier, more successful orthodontic practice.

-----------------------------------------

📌 Available on all major podcast platforms!

-----------------------------------------

VISIT ORTHODONTIC PRODUCTS: https://orthodonticproductsonline.com/

SUBSCRIBE to THE OP NEWSLETTER: https://info.medqor.com/opsubform

INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/orthoproductsmag/
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/OrthoProducts/
LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ortho-products/