Dr Jan Kielhorn's interview on the Smile Business Diaries podcast covers a range of topics, offering insights into his unique approach to dentistry and clinic management. He discusses the importance of data-driven decision-making when choosing a location for his clinic and the design of his office to create a patient-centric space that is adaptable for future changes. A key part of his practice is the emphasis on protocols and staff training, which he believes is essential because staff is temporary. He discusses his approach of training his staff from the ground up, as well as his belief in giving them a high level of autonomy and responsibility. Dr Kielhorn highlights his interdisciplinary approach, working with his wife who is a pediatric dentist, which creates a family-focused practice. He also discusses his holistic approach to dentistry, emphasizing the medical aspects and overall health of patients. Dr Kielhorn also shares his experiences with DSD and how it has transformed his practice by providing structure and an interdisciplinary approach that focuses on the end result first. He is critical of closed interfaces in digital dentistry and advocates for open systems and a fully digital workflow. He underscores the value of a global perspective, seeking out knowledge from various sources and learning from the best in different fields. He also talks about the importance of having a strong professional network and sharing knowledge with others.

About the guest

Dr Jan Keilhorn studied Dentistry at the Ruperta-Carola-University in Heidelberg Germany and received specialist training in oral surgery with Dr. Haesler in Oppenheim, Germany. He qualified as an Oral Surgeon and is an Assigned Board Specialist of Oral lmplantology with the iDGI, DGZI and BDOi. He is also an Assigned Board Specialist of Periodontics (DGP). Dr. Kielhorn specializes in the following areas of Oral lmplantology 1) Immediate, early, and progressive live loading 2) Augmentation (bone blocks, sinus-lift etc.) 3) 3D Pre-Treatment Planning4) Navigation in lmplantology and Augmentation5) lmplant superstructure6) (CAD/CAM, Digital Workflow, Immediate-Restorations, In addition, Dr. Kielhorn has multiple patents and developments in Surgical Protocols and instruments as well as being published in multiple publications in journals, lectures and poster presentations for national and international congresses.

For more information about DSD Clinics visit: https://digitalsmiledesign.com/dsd-clinic-certification or schedule a call with one of our dental experts: ⁠https://digitalsmiledesign.com/talk-to-an-advisor-dsd-clinics

Directed by Marita MacDonald

Audio and video production by Mario Sanchez Garcia Sonic branding by Eduardo Ariste

Social media management by Patricia Bergo

Smile Business Diaries is an official podcast by DSD Company.

About DSD Digital Smile Design (DSD) is a company founded in 2009 that trains dentists and their teams in implementing pragmatic systems to deliver exceptional smile makeovers with consistency. Its hallmark, the DSD Planning Center, is hub of interdisciplinary collaboration in smile design, 3D treatment planning and guided surgery, serving clients worldwide.

Find out more at digitalsmiledesign.com

Drs Kritika Mehra and Jimmi Patel's interview on the Smile Business Diaries podcast offers valuable insights for dentists looking to elevate their practices through a patient-centered approach. They share their journey of establishing The House of Smile Design, a DSD-certified clinic in rural Australia, emphasizing the importance of a unified vision across all aspects of the practice. Their clinic prioritizes patient comfort and exceptional service, with a luxurious and non-clinical front area designed to disconnect patients from the typical dental experience.

Key takeaways include the significance of integrating branding and design with the overall practice concept, as well as the need to involve all stakeholders, from the marketing team to the builders, in the planning process. They stress the value of honest communication within a business partnership and with the team, and the importance of embracing technology. They also highlight the adaptability of DSD to different communities, having successfully implemented it in both rural and urban settings. Their experience demonstrates that a focus on ethics and a commitment to providing unbiased treatment plans are crucial for success

Check out the clinic here https://thehouseofsmiledesign.com.au/About the guestsWith over 35 years of experience between the two of them, Dr Kritika Mehra and Dr Jimmi Patel knew the next progression in their field would be world class – The House of Smile Design is exactly that. Currently only the fifth certified Digital Smile Design clinic in Australia, it’s a culmination of the pairs’ experience as dentists, and their combined vision of establishing a dental practice that prioritises patient comfort, exceptional service and successful treatment outcomes. Listen to Kritika’s podcast https://www.youtube.com/@kritikamehra-c8n

For more information about DSD Clinics visit: https://digitalsmiledesign.com/dsd-clinic-certification or schedule a call with one of our dental experts: ⁠https://digitalsmiledesign.com/talk-to-an-advisor-dsd-clinics

Directed by Marita MacDonald

Audio and video production by Mario Sanchez Garcia

Sonic branding by Eduardo Ariste

Social media management by Patricia Bergo

Smile Business Diaries is an official podcast by DSD Company.

About DSD Digital Smile Design (DSD) is a company founded in 2009 that trains dentists and their teams in implementing pragmatic systems to deliver exceptional smile makeovers with consistency. Its hallmark, the DSD Planning Center, is hub of interdisciplinary collaboration in smile design, 3D treatment planning and guided surgery, serving clients worldwide. Find out more at digitalsmiledesign.com

Dr. Fadi Yassmin's interview on the Smile Business Diaries podcast offers a wealth of insights for dentists aiming for excellence in aesthetic and comprehensive care. He emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, where he looks at all disciplines that apply to each case, rather than limiting treatment to his own skill set. Yassmin's practice is built on the idea that he would want for his family as well as his patients.He also highlights the significance of a strong team that shares the same mindset and values, where everyone is working towards the same goals. He stresses the value of consistency and ethical practice, noting that patients recognize when the team genuinely loves what they do. Yassmin is a proponent of Digital Smile Design (DSD), which he uses to plan treatments, educate patients, and show the best possible outcomes. He is an advocate for orthodontics, when appropriate, to achieve ideal results while preserving tooth structure. His practice in Sydney's Double Bay is a boutique environment, designed to provide patients with a comfortable, relaxing experience. He also describes the design of his office and his treatment method, using a flat bed for patients so he can work at 12 o'clock position, drawing on Japanese ergonomics that maximize efficiency. He believes in doing things "so efficiently at the highest level" and that a quick, skilled procedure is often more valuable.

About the guest

Dr Fadi Yassmin is one of Sydney’s preeminent cosmetic and restorative dentists who routinely undertakes large restorative cases involving full arch rehabilitation and complex smile correction utilising the latest cutting-edge digital technologies. He is the Official spokesperson for the ADA NSW on topics related to cosmetic dentistry and teeth whitening and is regularly featured in the media. His quest to ensure his patients receive outstanding functional and aesthetic outcomes has led Dr Yassmin to complete education, accreditation and training from numerous institutions and world class clinicians globally. His interest and experience in implant dentistry spans over 20 years and includes completing the gIDE program in Implantology from UCLA in 2010. He went on to open the first All-on-4 plus clinic in New South Wales that includes one of the only purpose-built general anaesthetic facilities in Sydney.Later, he completed his Masters in Dental Aesthetics from the prestigious Kings College, London where the most up-to-date cosmetic dental techniques are used to create smile makeovers that work in harmony with facial structure. Subsequent to this, Dr Yassmin became a proponent of Digital Smile Design (DSD), the system pioneered by Dr Christian Coachman that digitally supports the visualisation, treatment planning and clinical delivery of smile modifications, becoming an official DSD lecturer and instructor. He also completed a Graduate Diploma in Orthodontics from the London School of Medicine and regularly attends continuing education and post graduate courses both in Australia and overseas.

For more information about DSD Clinics visit: https://digitalsmiledesign.com/dsd-clinic-certification or schedule a call with one of our dental experts: ⁠https://digitalsmiledesign.com/talk-to-an-advisor-dsd-clinics

Directed by Marita MacDonald

Audio and video production by Mario Sanchez Garcia

Sonic branding by Eduardo Ariste

Social media management by Patricia Bergo

Smile Business Diaries is an official podcast by DSD Company.

About DSD Digital Smile Design (DSD) is a company founded in 2009 that trains dentists and their teams in implementing pragmatic systems to deliver exceptional smile makeovers with consistency. Its hallmark, the DSD Planning Center, is hub of interdisciplinary collaboration in smile design, 3D treatment planning and guided surgery, serving clients worldwide.

Find out more at digitalsmiledesign.com

This podcast episode features Dr. Simon Clavell-Bate, a dentist and clinic owner based in Whalley, UK, who shares his journey of owning a private practice early in his career and becoming a certified DSD Clinic and how that transition has enabled him to continue delivering exceptional care to his patients. The episode delves into the challenges and triumphs of transitioning to a patient-centered, quality-focused DSD practice. Topics discussed include:T

• The importance of customer service
• Building a practice and a team
• The pitfalls of social media
• The benefits of DSD
• The importance of a support system
• The value of a beginner's mindset

About the guest

Dr Simon Clavell-Bate BDS MJDF(RCSLon) DipImpDent (RCSEd) FCGDent, GDC:103410:Simon graduated from the University of Sheffield in 2006. His first job was working in Rotherham, South Yorkshire, where he worked until December 2007 when he purchased Clavell-Bate & Nephew Dental Surgeons along with his Uncle, John Clavell-Bate. Since qualifying Simon has continued his dental education by studying advanced cosmetic treatments. He then spent a further two years studying orthodontics part-time. These along with many other smaller courses allow Simon to devise treatment plans using a full range of techniques from simple white fillings right up to full rehabilitations and smile makeovers using implants, braces, whitening, veneers and crowns. Simon focuses very highly on patient care and is very good with nervous patients. He also makes sure that every one of his patients has his personal mobile number in case of an out of an hours emergency.Simon has worked in private dental practice since 2007. In that time he has completed numerous courses covering cosmetic dentistry, orthodontics, digital dentistry and dental implants. It is digital dentistry where Simon’s true passion lies, which led him to becoming a certified clinic with Digital Smile Design. He also has a Diploma in Implant Dentistry from the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh and is a member of both the International Team for Implantology (ITI) and Association of Dental Implantology (ADI). Outside of work Simon likes to spend time with his family (including his black Labrador), is a season ticket holder at his beloved Burnley FC and loves to talk about anything with an engine.

For more information about DSD Clinics visit: https://digitalsmiledesign.com/dsd-clinic-certification or schedule a call with one of our dental experts: ⁠https://digitalsmiledesign.com/talk-to-an-advisor-dsd-clinics

Directed by Marita MacDonald

Audio and video production by Mario Sanchez Garcia

Sonic branding by Eduardo Ariste

Social media management by Patricia Bergo

Smile Business Diaries is an official podcast by DSD Company.

About DSD Digital Smile Design (DSD) is a company founded in 2009 that trains dentists and their teams in implementing pragmatic systems to deliver exceptional smile makeovers with consistency. Its hallmark, the DSD Planning Center, is hub of interdisciplinary collaboration in smile design, 3D treatment planning and guided surgery, serving clients worldwide.

Find out more at digitalsmiledesign.com

Dr Raquel Reis, the first Brazilian female dentist in Chicago, shares her journey and success in a recent podcast interview. Her path was challenging, from overcoming language barriers and studying for the boards to opening her own practice. A key turning point was embracing Digital Smile Design (DSD), which she calls a "game changer" that transformed her workflow and patient care. She emphasizes that DSD improved her ability to educate patients and provide predictable outcomes. Dr. Reis highlights the integration of her dental practice with her husband's medical practice, creating a unique holistic approach. She was also one of the first in Illinois to implement neurotoxin injectables.Dr Reis is passionate about digital dentistry and constantly seeks new technologies.

Her practice also caters to a diverse community, offering services in Portuguese, Spanish, and English. Ultimately, Dr. Reis' success is driven by her commitment to innovation, patient care, and continuous learning

About the guest

Dr. Raquel Miranda Portugal Reis earned her DDS degree from Goias State University, Brazil, and practiced general dentistry before pursuing advanced training at Northwestern UniversityDental School in Chicago. There, she graduated at the top of her class after completing a rigorous three-year residency program. Dr. Reis has since dedicated herself to comprehensive cosmetic dentistry, refining her expertise through numerous prestigious courses both nationally and internationally, led by renowned experts in the field. She is a distinguished member of several professional organizations, including the American Dental Association, American Prosthodontic Society, Chicago Dental Society, Illinois State Dental Society, Brazilian Society of Esthetic Dentistry (SBOE), and International Association of Dentists. She has been honored with a Notable Award by the Brazilian community of Illinois for being the first Brazilianfemale dentist to achieve significant milestones and make impactful contributions, as well as for her many years of dedicated service. Recently, she has received the Gold Medal for "Dedication to Organized Dentistry" from the American Dental Association.Driven by her dedication to integrating dental aesthetics with facial harmony and her commitment to continuous learning, she mastered Digital Smile Design (DSD) under Christian Coachman's mentorship. DSD has become essential to her practice, allowing her to create personalized, healthy, and functional smiles tailored to each patient. Dr.Reis ensures precise, comprehensive and predictable treatment outcomes. This expertise led her to establish the first certified DSD clinic in Chicago. She is also an Invisalign provider, combining Digital Smile Design (DSD) with Invisalign to deliver superior airway and facially driven outcomes. As a DSD-certified clinic in Chicago, she has pioneered this innovative approach. Dr. Reis's philosophy emphasizes the synergy of cutting-edge technology and clinical expertise in delivering advanced cosmetic dentistry.

For more information about DSD Clinics visit: https://digitalsmiledesign.com/dsd-clinic-certification or schedule a call with one of our dental experts: ⁠https://digitalsmiledesign.com/talk-to-an-advisor-dsd-clinics

Directed by Marita MacDonald

Audio and video production by Mario Sanchez Garcia

Sonic branding by Eduardo Ariste

Social media management by Patricia Bergo

Smile Business Diaries is an official podcast by DSD Company.

About DSD Digital Smile Design (DSD) is a company founded in 2009 that trains dentists and their teams in implementing pragmatic systems to deliver exceptional smile makeovers with consistency. Its hallmark, the DSD Planning Center, is hub of interdisciplinary collaboration in smile design, 3D treatment planning and guided surgery, serving clients worldwide.

Find out more at digitalsmiledesign.com

Dr Michael Katsaros, a dentist with over 20 years of experience at the Washington Center for Dentistry in Washington, DC, shared his journey and insights in this podcast interview. He emphasizes that a healthy smile is integral to overall well-being, combining dental techniques with a holistic view of the oral-systemic connection. He also discusses the importance of a supportive, non-judgmental environment, empowering patients in their oral health journey.

About the guest

Dr Michael Katsaros, hailing from the steel town of Bethlehem, PA, brings over 20 years of experience as a leading dentist at the Washington Center for Dentistry in downtown Washington, D.C. A proud graduate of Villanova University and Temple University’s School of Dentistry, he further honed his expertise during a General Practice Residency at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center.Deeply influenced by his family and heritage, Dr Katsaros combines time-tested dental techniques with a holistic view of the oral-systemic connection. He understands that a healthy smile is not just about appearance but is integral to overall well-being. His practice excels in maintaining and enhancing existing smiles and uses advanced technology to design and create the smile you've always dreamed of, restoring both health and function. Dr Katsaros is dedicated to staying at the forefront of dental care. He integrates the latest technology, including digital diagnostics and personalized treatment plans, to provide precise and effective care tailored to each patient’s needs. He fosters a supportive, non-judgmental environment, empowering patients to take an active role in their oral health journey. His team of highly skilled dental hygienists, surgeons, treatment coordinators, benefits specialists, and assistants works collaboratively to ensure a seamless, comfortable experience from your first visit to the final treatment. Outside the office, Dr Katsaros is a devoted family man with a passion for running and triathlons. He’s also a classically trained vocalist who has used his musical talents to give back to his community. By collaborating with other talented musicians and event planners, he has helped raise tens of thousands of dollars for local educational funds, showcasing his commitment to making a positive impact beyond the dental chair.

Dr Katsaros values the impact he makes on his patients and community, driven by his roots and the lessons from his family. He aims to leave a lasting legacy of excellence, improving lives through exceptional dental care and meaningful connections.

For more information about DSD Clinics visit: https://digitalsmiledesign.com/dsd-clinic-certification or schedule a call with one of our dental experts: ⁠https://digitalsmiledesign.com/talk-to-an-advisor-dsd-clinics

Directed by Marita MacDonald

Audio and video production by Mario Sanchez Garcia

Sonic branding by Eduardo Ariste

Social media management by Patricia Bergo

Smile Business Diaries is an official podcast by DSD Company.About DSD Digital Smile Design (DSD) is a company founded in 2009 that trains dentists and their teams in implementing pragmatic systems to deliver exceptional smile makeovers with consistency. Its hallmark, the DSD Planning Center, is hub of interdisciplinary collaboration in smile design, 3D treatment planning and guided surgery, serving clients worldwide.

Find out more at digitalsmiledesign.com

This episode features an interview with Dr Steve Truong, who shares his journey of building a unique dental practice that caters to high-anxiety patients. Dr Truong emphasizes the importance of re-addressing the barriers that prevent patients from seeking dental care, particularly fear, by focusing on small touch points.

His approach includes not showcasing clinical procedures on social media, instead highlighting the joy and positive energy of his team. He also shows his "goofy side" on his website to humanize the practice and make it more approachable.

This strategy has attracted patients who have been avoiding the dentist due to fear and anxiety.

About the guest

Dr. Steve Truong leads Dental32, an innovative downtown Oklahoma City practice built on one fundamental belief: exceptional dentistry begins with an exceptional patient experience. A proud Oklahoma native, Dr. Truong's journey through Oklahoma State University and the University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry taught him his most valuable lesson: while technical expertise is essential, it's the human connection that transforms lives. Through his education and continuous learning, he discovered that a warm smile and genuine conversation often do more to ease dental anxiety than rushing through appointments or maximizing patient volume.

By reimagining the traditional dental visit, he's created an environment where anxiety transforms into enthusiasm and patients become passionate advocates. His forward-thinking approach embraces cutting-edge technology, including AI-assisted diagnostics and treatment planning, while fostering a culture that breaks from traditional corporate hierarchies. At Dental32, Oklahoma's exclusive Digital Smile Design clinic, advanced technology and artistic vision combine to create personalized smiles that enhance each patient's unique features. But it's the authentic relationships built by his team – united by genuine enthusiasm for patient care – that truly set his OKC practice apart. Through this philosophy of prioritizing people over production quotas, he has created a modern dental home where technical excellence and heartfelt connection go hand in hand.

For more information about DSD Clinics visit:

https://digitalsmiledesign.com/dsd-clinic-certification or schedule a call with one of our dental experts: ⁠https://digitalsmiledesign.com/talk-to-an-advisor-dsd-clinics

Directed by Marita MacDonald

Audio and video production by Mario Sanchez Garcia 

Sonic branding by Eduardo Ariste

Social media management by Patricia Bergo

Smile Business Diaries is an official podcast by DSD Company.

About DSD 

Digital Smile Design (DSD) is a company founded in 2009 that trains dentists and their teams in implementing pragmatic systems to deliver exceptional smile makeovers with consistency. Its hallmark, the DSD Planning Center, is hub of interdisciplinary collaboration in smile design, 3D treatment planning and guided surgery, serving clients worldwide.

Find out more at digitalsmiledesign.com

Dr Kristen Donohue, owner of Sunshine Dentists in Burke, Virginia, shares her journey from the US Army Dental Corps to private practice. She emphasizes the importance of core values, such as quality over quantity, long-term success, and respecting time, which she uses to guide her practice. She also values continuous learning, teamwork, and a culture of "we over me". Dr. Donohue discusses her experience as a military dentist, including a deployment to Iraq. She transitioned to private practice to create the "practice of her dreams".

Key highlights from the discussion include:

• The value of coaching to improve systems, communication, and create a positive work environment.

• The decision to become fee-for-service to prioritize quality care over insurance demands.

• The importance of understanding key performance indicators (KPIs) for business health.

• The integration of digital technology like iTero and T-scan to improve patient communication and outcomes.

• A focus on functional occlusion and the importance of addressing sleep issues in patients.

• Maintaining a work-life balance through strong boundaries like not checking email at home.

• Her passion for dentistry, integrating her artistic nature and love for continuing education.

• Dr. Donohue also shares her plans for the future, including potential travel and learning opportunities

About the guest

Dr Kristen Donohue is the owner of Sunshine Dentists in Burke, Virginia, USA. She spent seven years practicing in the United States Army Dental Corps, treating soldiers and for her residency training, including a 1 year deployment to Iraq in 2004. To this day, she loves treating military families and retirees.

She continuously strives to be the best dentist possible. Her motto has always been, “If I’m not learning, I’m moving backward.” She attends 100 hours or more of continuing education courses annually, including regular study club meetings and hands-on coursework. She completed a one-year mini-residency studying sleep dentistry in 2020.  

Her professional affiliations​ include the Academy of General Dentistry, Virginia Dental Association, American Academy of Laser Dentistry and the American Dental Implant Association.

She married her husband Tommy, while living in Hawaii, and they have 3 beautiful daughters.  

For more information about DSD Clinics visit: https://digitalsmiledesign.com/dsd-clinic-certification or schedule a call with one of our dental experts: ⁠https://digitalsmiledesign.com/talk-to-an-advisor-dsd-clinics

Directed by Marita MacDonald

Audio and video production by Mario Sanchez Garcia 

Sonic branding by Eduardo Ariste

Social media management by Patricia Bergo

Smile Business Diaries is an official podcast by DSD Company.

About DSD 

Digital Smile Design (DSD) is a company founded in 2009 that trains dentists and their teams in implementing pragmatic systems to deliver exceptional smile makeovers with consistency. Its hallmark, the DSD Planning Center, is a hub of interdisciplinary collaboration in smile design, 3D treatment planning and guided surgery, serving clients worldwide.

Find out more at digitalsmiledesign.com 

In this final episode of Season 1, we invited the powerhouse that is Dr Karla Soto to share her story with us. As clinic owner, founder of dental training company, Key Elements and as international speaker, she is fully committed to promoting the benefits of digital dentistry. Our talk covered everything from how she has empowered her team to execute digital workflows seamlessly through to the lasting impact this type of dentistry has had on her patients.

About the guest:

Dr. Karla Soto is a leading advocate for Digital Dentistry, emphasizing comprehensive treatment planning and emotional patient connections. With a global presence, she shares her expertise through presentations and leadership roles in various dental organizations. Dr. Soto is recognized for her clinical excellence, winning awards such as the DSD Speaker of the Year and the Straumann Purpose award. She co-founded Smile Again, a nonprofit providing smile makeovers to domestic violence survivors, and actively participates in marketing campaigns, representing brands like Invisalign. A dedicated learner, Dr. Soto is involved in numerous continuing education programs and launched an educational platform called Key Elements. She practices cosmetic, implant, and general dentistry in Boca Raton, Florida, after graduating from the University of Maryland School of Dentistry and completing a GPR at the Baltimore VA.

For more information about DSD Clinics visit: https://digitalsmiledesign.com/dsd-clinic-certification or schedule a call with one of our dental experts: ⁠https://digitalsmiledesign.com/talk-to-an-advisor-dsd-clinics

Directed by Marita MacDonald

Audio and video production by Mario Sanchez Garcia Graphic design by Danata Fayzullina Sonic branding by Eduardo Ariste

Social media management by Patricia Bergo

Smile Business Diaries is an official podcast by DSD Company.

About DSD

Find out more at digitalsmiledesign.com

In this episode we talked to Dr Ramin Tabib who runs a clinic in New York with his wife, Elisa Mello. Ramin’s story is really interesting because, unlike the traditional route of buying an existing practice, they opted to build one from the ground up.

About the guest:

Dr. Ramin Tabib, a leading dentist in NYC, prioritizes delivering top-notch dental care, specializing in advanced techniques and technology for achieving optimal oral health and beautiful smiles. With a DDS from Columbia University and extensive training in dental implants and neuromuscular dentistry, he's earned Fellowship status in the International Congress of Oral Implantology. Committed to patient education and integration into his practice, he fosters a culture of excellence and innovation. Beyond dentistry, Dr. Tabib's diverse interests, including his role as a resident DJ, contribute to a welcoming atmosphere in his office.

For more information about DSD Clinics visit: https://digitalsmiledesign.com/dsd-clinic-certification

or schedule a call with one of our dental experts: ⁠https://digitalsmiledesign.com/talk-to-an-advisor-dsd-clinics

Directed by Marita MacDonald

Audio and video production by Mario Sanchez Garcia Graphic design by Danata Fayzullina

Sonic branding by Eduardo Ariste

Social media management by Patricia Bergo Smile

Business Diaries is an official podcast by DSD Company.

About DSD