The Best Practices Show with Kirk Behrendt

769: 1 Tip for Team Problem Solving – Miranda Beeson

You have a million problems to solve in your business. Do you know what else you have? An amazing team that can help you. All you need to do is empower them! To help them support you in the way you need, Kirk Behrendt brings back Miranda Beeson, one of ACT’s amazing coaches, to share one tip for effectively solving problems with your team. Remember — you don't have to do it all! To fix the culture of ineffective problem-solving in your practice, listen to Episode 769 of The Best Practices Show!

Learn More About Miranda:

• Send Miranda an email: [email protected] 
• Follow Miranda on ACT’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/actdental
• Email Kirk for a 1-3-1 treatment plan: [email protected] 
• Email Gina for some ACT resources: [email protected] 

More Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:

• Subscribe to The Best Practices Show: https://the-best-practices-show.captivate.fm/listen
• Join The Best Practices Association: https://www.actdental.com/bpa
• Join ACT’s To The Top Study Club: https://www.actdental.com/ttt
• See the ACT Dental/BPA Live Event Schedule: https://www.actdental.com/event
• Get The Best Practices Magazine for free: https://www.actdental.com/magazine
• Please leave us a review on the podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-best-practices-show-with-kirk-behrendt/id1223838218

Episode Resources:

• Watch the video version of Episode 769: https://www.youtube.com/@actdental/videos
• Read Buy Back Your Time by Dan Martell: https://www.buybackyourtime.com
• Read The E-Myth by Michael E. Gerber: https://www.michaelegerbercompanies.com/theemythlibrary
• Discover your natural gifts with Working Genius: https://www.workinggenius.com

Main Takeaways:

• Use the 1-3-1 rule to identify problems and solutions.
• Always verbalize expectations. Your team cannot read your mind.
• Team meetings provide the best opportunity to align on expectations.
• When you empower your team to solve problems, they will do more of it.
• You are the ultimate decision-maker in your practice, but delegate what you can.
• Don't believe that your team isn't committed or willing to help you. Give them trust.
• Developing your team is an investment. You will save thousands of hours in the future.

Snippets:

0:00 Introduction.

1:57 Why this is an important topic.

8:53 The 1-3-1 rule, explained.

13:21 Start with setting expectations.

16:20 Why tools and frameworks are important.

19:50 Expectations, further explained.

25:06 Align during team meetings.

29:05 The “no thank you bite”, explained.

34:27 Benefits of effective problem-solving.

38:29 Everyone has a different “working genius”.

42:07 Final thoughts.

Miranda Beeson, MS, BSDH Bio:

Miranda Beeson, MS, BSDH, has over 25 years of clinical dental hygiene, front office, practice administration, and speaking experience. She is enthusiastic about communication and loves helping others find the power that words can bring to their patient interactions and practice dynamics. As a Lead Practice Coach, she is driven to create opportunities to find value in experiences and cultivate new approaches.

Miranda graduated from Old Dominion University, and enjoys spending time with her husband, Chuck, and her children, Trent, Mallory, and Cassidy. Family time is the best time, and is often spent on a golf course, a volleyball court, or spending the day boating at the beach. 

768: Breaking Down the Barriers in Dentistry & Medicine – Dr. Tiffany Lamberton

Your body is interconnected. If you’ve hurt your neck, you’ve probably hurt your jaw joints. But if they go hand in hand, why don't more dentists collaborate with their medical colleagues? To break down the barriers between dentistry and medicine, Kirk Behrendt brings in Dr. Tiffany Lamberton, founder of TMD Collective, to highlight this neglected side of dentistry. Comprehensive, interdisciplinary care will only benefit your patients! To learn how to get started, listen to Episode 768 of The Best Practices Show!

Learn More About Dr. Lamberton:

• Join Dr. Lamberton on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tmdcollective
• Follow Dr. Lamberton on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tmd.collective
• Connect with Dr. Lamberton on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiffany-lamberton-4354aa228
• Learn more about TMD Collective: https://tmdcollective.com
• Listen to Jaw Talk podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/54uYIZcJpkykxO91ZEFDNt

More Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:

• Subscribe to The Best Practices Show: https://the-best-practices-show.captivate.fm/listen
• Join The Best Practices Association: https://www.actdental.com/bpa
• Join ACT’s To The Top Study Club: https://www.actdental.com/ttt
• See the ACT Dental/BPA Live Event Schedule: https://www.actdental.com/event
• Get The Best Practices Magazine for free: https://www.actdental.com/magazine
• Please leave us a review on the podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-best-practices-show-with-kirk-behrendt/id1223838218

Episode Resources:

• Watch the video version of Episode 768: https://www.youtube.com/@actdental/videos
• Register for the Women in Dentistry Symposium (September 6-7, 2024): https://tmdcollective.com/ipuwd
• Learn more about Chicago Study Club: https://chicagostudyclub.com
• Learn more about Immersive Touch: https://www.immersivetouch.com

Main Takeaways:

• Joints have been the long-neglected side of dentistry.
• With today’s technology, we can now include joints in the picture.
• Collaborate with an interdisciplinary team that includes the medical side.
• Not every young person has healthy joints. Intervene using modern imaging.  
• Be comprehensive in how you assess patients. Get answers before treatment.
• Join a study club to connect with like-minded people. It is an effective way to learn.
• Build a dental community on digital platforms or anywhere possible. Don't stay isolated.

Snippets:

0:00 Introduction.

0:43 Dr. Lamberton’s background.

2:54 Why this is an important topic.

7:12 What dentists get wrong about TMD.

11:36 Imaging and its importance in dentistry.

15:35 The importance of study clubs and finding community.

21:22 The future of the barrier in dentistry and medicine.

24:01 Final thoughts.

25:43 About the Women in Dentistry Symposium.

28:34 About TMD Collective.

Dr. Tiffany Lamberton Bio: 

Dr. Tiffany Lamberton is a Washington native who has dual degrees in both Physical Therapy and Dentistry, both from Loma Linda University. When she graduated with her DDS degree, she was also inducted into the Omicron Kappa Upsilon National Honor Society and received awards in Oral Pathology and Leadership. She currently has focused her practice on evaluation and treatment of Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorders and is available for New Client appointments via her website www.tmdcollective.com. She will be a speaker for the Pacific Northwest Dental Convention and is delving into the educational world speaking about TMJ, Airway and Myofunctional Therapy. She is a member of the ADA, WSDA, and is a Pierce County Dental Society Board Member. She is also a member of AOMT and the Chicago Study Club. Dr. Tiffany considers herself a life-long learner! She lives in the North End of Tacoma with her husband and two children, and enjoys snowboarding, wake surfing, and Pilates. 

767: The Dentist’s Life Management System – Dr. Christian Coachman & Dr. Konstantin Kross

Do you want a more balanced life, but don't know where to start? It’s not as complicated as you think! To help you simplify the process, Kirk Behrendt brings back Dr. Christian Coachman, founder of Digital Smile Design, and his guest, Dr. Konstantin Kross, to share the dentist’s life management system, a simple way to organize your time and energy so you can succeed in your practice and beyond. Get more out of your days, your years, and your life! To learn how, listen to Episode 767 of The Best Practices Show!

Learn More About Dr. Coachman & Dr. Kross:

• Join Dr. Coachman on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/christiancoachman
• Follow Dr. Coachman on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chriscoachman
• Learn more about Digital Smile Design: https://digitalsmiledesign.com
• Register for the DSD Provider course (October 7, 2024, and November 11, 2024): https://digitalsmiledesign.com/dsd-provider
• Register for DSD Residency 1 On Demand: https://digitalsmiledesign.com/dsd-residency-1-on-demand
• Listen to Dr. Coachman’s podcast, Coffee Break with Coachman: https://open.spotify.com/show/4ADCrWhqsUKbHmZtkhhgoB
• Send Dr. Kross an email: [email protected]
• Join Dr. Kross on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dr.konstantinkross/?locale=de_DE
• Follow Dr. Kross on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.konstantinkross

More Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:

• Subscribe to The Best Practices Show: https://the-best-practices-show.captivate.fm/listen
• Join The Best Practices Association: https://www.actdental.com/bpa
• Join ACT’s To The Top Study Club: https://www.actdental.com/ttt
• See the ACT Dental/BPA Live Event Schedule: https://www.actdental.com/event
• Get The Best Practices Magazine for free: https://www.actdental.com/magazine
• Please leave us a review on the podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-best-practices-show-with-kirk-behrendt/id1223838218

Episode Resources:

• Watch the video version of Episode 767: https://www.youtube.com/@actdental/videos
• Watch Episode 742 with Dr. Coachman: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pQbsrJywQ7w
• Try Trello: https://trello.com

Main Takeaways:

• Free your mind of mental clutter.
• Formulate clear goals and write them down.
• Understand your purpose. It will bring you energy.
• Energy is also about mindset, not just physical health.
• Determine what things you want to put your energy into.
• To be successful, you need to dedicate time, energy, and love.
• You can't manage time itself, but you can manage your energy.
• If you feel stuck, revisit your vision board and you will be energized.

Snippets:

0:00 Introduction.

3:39 About Dr. Kross and the dentist’s life management system.

7:23 You need time, energy, and love.

11:20 Learn to manage your energy.

16:10 Free your head of clutter.

24:44 Filter and prioritize the things that matter.

28:09 Understand your purpose.

33:56 Formulate very clear goals.

36:56 Consciously create balance.

45:34 Build long-term plans.

47:33 Create monthly plans.

49:58 Final thoughts.

Dr. Christian Coachman Bio:

Combining his advanced skills, experience, and technology solutions, Dr. Christian Coachman pioneered the Digital Smile Design methodology and founded Digital Smile Design company (DSD). Since its inception, thousands of dentists worldwide have attended DSD courses and workshops, such as the renowned DSD Residency program.

Dr. Coachman is the developer of worldwide, well-known concepts such as the Digital Smile Design, the Pink Hybrid Implant Restoration, the Digital Planning Center, Emotional Dentistry, Interdisciplinary Treatment Simulation, and Digital Smile Donator. He regularly consults for dental industry companies, developing products, implementing concepts, and marketing strategies, such as the Facially Driven Digital Orthodontic Workflow developed in collaboration with Invisalign, Align Technology.

Dr. Konstantin Kross Bio:

Dr. Konstantin Kross is a dentist and specialist in periodontics based in St. Gallen, Switzerland.

766: Retention Revolution: 1 Impactful Way to Keep Your Patients – Carlie Einarson

Is your practice a leaky bucket? Do you keep pouring water in, only to have most of it flow back out? Then it’s time to plug those holes! To help you fix your bucket, Kirk Behrendt brings back Carlie Einarson, one of ACT’s amazing coaches, with a framework to improve patient retention. Keep your schedule full, and with the right type of people! To learn how, listen to Episode 766 of The Best Practices Show!

Learn More About Carlie:

• Send Carlie an email: [email protected] 
• Follow Carlie on ACT’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/actdental
• Send Gina an email: [email protected] 

More Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:

• Subscribe to The Best Practices Show: https://the-best-practices-show.captivate.fm/listen
• Join The Best Practices Association: https://www.actdental.com/bpa
• Join ACT’s To The Top Study Club: https://www.actdental.com/ttt
• See the ACT Dental/BPA Live Event Schedule: https://www.actdental.com/event
• Get The Best Practices Magazine for free: https://www.actdental.com/magazine
• Please leave us a review on the podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-best-practices-show-with-kirk-behrendt/id1223838218

Episode Resources:

• Watch the video version of Episode 766: https://www.youtube.com/@actdental/videos
• Download ACT’s Hygiene Recare System: https://23476641.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/23476641/Hygiene%20Recare%20System.pdf
• Download ACT’s Unscheduled Treatment Plan Follow-Up: https://23476641.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/23476641/Unscheduled%20Treatment%20Plan%20Follow%20Up.pdf

Main Takeaways:

• Plug the holes in your bucket before adding more water.
• Create systems for following up with unscheduled appointments.
• Keep continuous communication with patients so you remain top of mind.
• Have detailed notes on each patient so you can do a personalized follow-up.
• Your chair is the best place to make future appointments, not over text or phone.
• Stop filling your schedule with “mud”. Fill it with the patients and procedures you want.
• It takes less time, energy, and resources to keep existing patients than to find new ones.

Snippets:

0:00 Introduction.

2:07 Why this is an important topic.

4:27 Keep a healthy active patient count.

6:06 Have continuous communication with patients.

8:06 Pre-appoint while patients are in your chair.

14:26 Systems for unscheduled treatment follow-up.

17:43 Finding new patients is more costly.

21:21 Final thoughts.

Carlie Einarson Bio:

Carlie Einarson is a lead practice coach who has a passion for helping others succeed in the dental field. She loves helping to create a stable foundation for practices so both professionals and patients have a great experience every time they walk in the door!

Carlie graduated from Utah College of Dental Hygiene. She has ten years of experience in the dental field, including clinical dental hygiene, front office, and leading teams.

In her free time, she enjoys spending quality time with loved ones, traveling, skiing, playing volleyball, and golfing. 

765: Outshine Competitors, Release Your 3 Uniques – Courtney Dalton

Many dentists provide great dentistry. So, why should a patient come to you? To help you answer this important question, Kirk Behrendt brings back Courtney Dalton, one of ACT’s amazing coaches, with strategies to find three things your practice is uniquely good at. Become better at those things, and you will outshine your competition! To learn the most effective way to set yourself apart, listen to Episode 765 of The Best Practices Show!

Learn More About Courtney:

• Send Courtney an email: [email protected] 
• Follow Courtney on ACT’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/actdental
• Send Gina an email: [email protected] 

More Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:

• Subscribe to The Best Practices Show: https://the-best-practices-show.captivate.fm/listen
• Join The Best Practices Association: https://www.actdental.com/bpa
• Join ACT’s To The Top Study Club: https://www.actdental.com/ttt
• See the ACT Dental/BPA Live Event Schedule: https://www.actdental.com/event
• Get The Best Practices Magazine for free: https://www.actdental.com/magazine
• Please leave us a review on the podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-best-practices-show-with-kirk-behrendt/id1223838218

Episode Resources:

• Watch the video version of Episode 765: https://www.youtube.com/@actdental/videos
• Watch Episode 758 with Dr. Jim McKee: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xlJ235f-VJQ
• Register for ACT’s To The Top Study Club - Taking Your Practice to New Heights in the New Year: Crafting Your Strategy (October 18, 2024): https://www.eventbrite.com/e/members-only-climb-with-us-register-for-october-18-2024-ttt-study-club-tickets-763603317077
• Download ACT’s Differentiation Tool: https://23476641.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/23476641/PDF/Differentiation%20Tool.pdf
• Read Traction by Gino Wickman: https://benbellabooks.com/shop/traction

Main Takeaways:

• Understand the elements that will set you apart from other practices.
• You're not unique in 90 things. Choose three that will make you stand out.
• Take time to identify your core competencies, your uniques, and your passions.
• Get your team’s input on your uniques. Get them to weigh in so that they will buy in.
• Your practice is not meant for everyone. It is for a few people that value what you do.
• Get really good at what you're really good at. Don't stop at figuring out what they are.
• What you have, like technology, is not a unique. But it can help you provide a unique.

Snippets:

0:00 Introduction.

1:53 Why this is an important topic.

4:30 Identify your three uniques.

10:32 How to get patients to pay your full fee.

12:17 Maintain a unique that is your passion.

13:50 Core competencies, explained.

15:38 Important questions to ask yourselves.

17:31 Get your team to weigh in so they can buy in.

20:07 Examples of uniques.

23:06 Find ways to put your uniques into play.

25:56 Final takeaways.

27:30 More about ACT’s Differentiation Tool and To The Top.

Courtney Dalton, BS, RDH Bio: 

Courtney Dalton is a Lead Practice Coach who focuses on establishing a solid foundation in order for a practice to thrive. With over 15 years of experience in the dental industry, she is as passionate about patient care as she is about those who are providing it.

764: Cash Flow Kings and Queens: The Dentist’s Guide to Mastering Accounts Receivable – Ariel Juday

What is your favorite collections agency? Your answer should be, “None of them!” Sending patients to collections is not worth the hassle. Instead, you should prevent getting to this point in the first place. To help you master accounts receivable and avoid uncomfortable situations, Kirk Behrendt brings back Ariel Juday, one of ACT’s amazing coaches, with some of the best practices for managing AR. To learn how to collect the money you deserve, listen to Episode 764 of The Best Practices Show!

Learn More About Ariel:

• Send Ariel an email: [email protected] 
• Follow Ariel on ACT’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/actdental
• Send Gina an email: [email protected] 

More Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:

• Subscribe to The Best Practices Show: https://the-best-practices-show.captivate.fm/listen
• Join The Best Practices Association: https://www.actdental.com/bpa
• Join ACT’s To The Top Study Club: https://www.actdental.com/ttt
• See the ACT Dental/BPA Live Event Schedule: https://www.actdental.com/event
• Get The Best Practices Magazine for free: https://www.actdental.com/magazine
• Please leave us a review on the podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-best-practices-show-with-kirk-behrendt/id1223838218

Episode Resources:

• Watch the video version of Episode 764: https://www.youtube.com/@actdental/videos

Main Takeaways:

• Attempt to collect at time of service.
• Avoid scheduling patients who are high-risk.
• Have a working system for financial agreements.
• Take care of the balance before treatment, not after.
• Make sure that patients are making reasonable payments.
• Let competent admin take care of the financial conversations.
• Align with your team on collection strategies for overdue balances.
• Document every financial agreement you make — no matter the amount.
• Record each engagement and each engagement attempt with the patient.
• No more than one month’s net collections should be outstanding in your AR.
• Remember that your patient didn't let this overdue balance happen — you did!
• There is no benefit to sending patients to collections. Prevent getting to this point.

Snippets:

0:00 Introduction.

1:25 About ACT’s BPA, TTT, and Pro Coaching.

5:01 Why this is an important topic.

9:38 With work and intentionality, it’s possible.

11:52 AR aging and claims aging, explained.

13:06 Accounts receivable, explained.

14:13 Have a system to find your AR.

16:47 Healthy AR goals, explained.

19:19 Train patients with reservation fees and prepaid balances.

21:01 Work with your patients but remember you're not a bank.

22:44 Let admin take care of the financial conversations.

25:11 Take care of the balance before treatment.

28:12 Overdue balances, explained.

30:51 Collection strategies for an overdue balance.

36:26 Should you send patients to collections?

40:36 Q&A: Thoughts on text message statements.

41:37 Collect at time of service to avoid headaches.

44:04 Consistent management is key.

44:55 Document all of your engagements and engagement attempts.

45:29 A call from the doctor can do wonders.

46:46 It shouldn't be a difficult conversation.

47:51 Fix problems at the root.

48:34 Do you have to document every financial arrangement?

50:41 Avoid scheduling high-risk patients.

52:51 Final thoughts.

Ariel Juday Bio:

Ariel has a master’s in healthcare administration and several years of dental experience in all aspects of the administrative roles within the dental office. Her passion is to work with dental teams to empower team members to realize their full potential in order to better serve patients, improve office systems to ensure a well-functioning team/office, and to help everyone have fun in the process! 

763: Leadership for the Restorative Dentist – Kirk Behrendt DOT Fest Exclusive

In this special episode, Kirk Behrendt shares his exclusive presentation from the Dental Online Training Fest. He shares some of the basic principles that will elevate your leadership skills and help you create the practice you dream of. To learn the blueprint for a better practice and better life, listen to Episode 763 of The Best Practices Show!

Learn More About Kirk and Dental Online Training:

• Send Kirk an email: [email protected] 
• Follow Kirk on ACT’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/actdental
• Learn more about Dental Online Training: https://www.dothandson.com/home
• Join Dental Online Training on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dothandson
• Follow Dental Online Training on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dentalonlinetraining

More Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:

• Subscribe to The Best Practices Show: https://the-best-practices-show.captivate.fm/listen
• Join The Best Practices Association: https://www.actdental.com/bpa
• Join ACT’s To The Top Study Club: https://www.actdental.com/ttt
• See the ACT Dental/BPA Live Event Schedule: https://www.actdental.com/event
• Get The Best Practices Magazine for free: https://www.actdental.com/magazine
• Please leave us a review on the podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-best-practices-show-with-kirk-behrendt/id1223838218

Episode Resources:

• Watch the video version of Episode 763: https://www.youtube.com/@actdental/videos
• Learn more about yourself with DiSC: https://www.everythingdisc.com
• Take the Kolbe A Index assessment: https://www.kolbe.com
• Discover your natural gifts with Working Genius: https://www.workinggenius.com
• Try the Oura Ring: https://ouraring.com

Main Takeaways:

• Keep work in a container. 
• Know who you are as early as possible.
• Find the right people and get them in the right seats.
• Dentistry is a sport. Take care of your mind and body.
• As a leader, you are responsible for your team culture.
• Go all-chips-in on building an amazing team and practice.
• Consistently perform huddles and check-ins with your team.
• Prioritize your core values and find ways to keep them alive.
• Think ahead and have quarterly and annual planning sessions.

Snippets:

0:00 Introduction.

1:17 Create other leaders that create other leaders.

4:15 Work on your culture.

5:45 Know your annual patient value.

8:12 An amazing culture requires amazing management.

9:14 It’s all about your thinking.

13:24 Know who you are as early as possible.

16:28 Take care of your physical health.

21:50 Keep work in a container.

25:39 The rule of 32, explained.

26:43 Create rituals in your life.

31:24 Get rid of your limiting beliefs.

35:49 Get the right people in the right seats.

44:29 The Function Accountability Chart, explained.

47:30 Have morning huddles and check-ins.

52:13 Have a quarterly and annual planning session.

52:57 Give life to your values.

54:09 Have a core purpose.

54:50 Last thoughts.

Kirk Behrendt Bio:

Kirk Behrendt is a renowned consultant and speaker in the dental industry, known for his expertise in helping dentists create better practices and better lives. With over 30 years of experience in the field, Kirk has dedicated his professional life to optimizing dentistry's best systems and practices.

Kirk has been a featured speaker at every major dental meeting in the United States. His company, ACT Dental, has consistently been ranked among the Top Dental Consultants in Dentistry Today's annual rankings for the past ten years. In addition, ACT Dental was named one of the fastest-growing companies in the United States by Inc Magazine, appearing on their Inc 5000 list.

Kirk's motivational skills are widely recognized in the dental industry. Dr. Peter Dawson of The Dawson Academy has referred to Kirk as "THE best motivator I have ever heard." Kirk has also assembled a trusted team of advisor experts who work with dentists to customize individual solutions that meet their unique needs.

When he's not motivating dentists and their teams, Kirk enjoys coaching his children's sports teams and spending time with his amazing wife, Sarah, and their four children, Kinzie, Lily, Zoe, and Bo. 

762: Cosmetic Dentistry vs. Healthcare Dentistry – Dr. Christian Coachman

What is the number-one enemy of teeth? Sometimes, it’s the dentist! Esthetic dentistry is rising in popularity — and harming many patients. To highlight the difference between esthetic and healthcare dentistry, Kirk Behrendt brings back Dr. Christian Coachman, founder of Digital Smile Design, to explain why esthetics has its place, but shouldn't be the priority. Cosmetic dental procedures won't improve your patients’ health! To change the way you think about cosmetic and healthcare dentistry, listen to Episode 762 of The Best Practices Show!

Learn More About Dr. Coachman:

• Join Dr. Coachman on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/christiancoachman
• Follow Dr. Coachman on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chriscoachman
• Learn more about Digital Smile Design: https://digitalsmiledesign.com
• Register for the DSD Provider course (October 7, 2024, and November 11, 2024): https://digitalsmiledesign.com/dsd-provider
• Register for DSD Residency 1 On Demand: https://digitalsmiledesign.com/dsd-residency-1-on-demand
• Listen to Dr. Coachman’s podcast, Coffee Break with Coachman: https://open.spotify.com/show/4ADCrWhqsUKbHmZtkhhgoB

More Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:

• Subscribe to The Best Practices Show: https://the-best-practices-show.captivate.fm/listen
• Join The Best Practices Association: https://www.actdental.com/bpa
• Join ACT’s To The Top Study Club: https://www.actdental.com/ttt
• See the ACT Dental/BPA Live Event Schedule: https://www.actdental.com/event
• Get The Best Practices Magazine for free: https://www.actdental.com/magazine
• Please leave us a review on the podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-best-practices-show-with-kirk-behrendt/id1223838218

Episode Resources:

• Watch the video version of Episode 762: https://www.youtube.com/@actdental/videos

Main Takeaways:

• Esthetics should be the byproduct of great dentistry, not the priority.
• There is nothing better than having your own dentition in your mouth.
• Teeth are the key to longevity. Esthetic procedures destroy good teeth.
• Stop pretending that esthetic dentistry is healthcare dentistry — it’s not.
• Dentists play a big role in shaping the perception of beauty and esthetics.
• A nose job won't improve heart function. Veneers won't improve your bite.
• Cosmetic dentistry is camouflage dentistry. It won't treat underlying problems.

Snippets:

0:00 Introduction.

1:43 Why this is an important topic.

12:17 Esthetics shouldn't be the priority.

14:25 The rise of the bullshit esthetic dentist.

21:57 There is nothing better than having your own teeth.

29:04 The biggest enemy of teeth are dentists.

31:02 It’s easier to sell the wrong dentistry.

36:24 Society’s exacerbation of “beauty”.

43:53 The real link between function and esthetics.

47:59 Final thoughts.

51:36 More about DSD.

Dr. Christian Coachman Bio:

Combining his advanced skills, experience, and technology solutions, Dr. Christian Coachman pioneered the Digital Smile Design methodology and founded Digital Smile Design company (DSD). Since its inception, thousands of dentists worldwide have attended DSD courses and workshops, such as the renowned DSD Residency program.

Dr. Coachman is the developer of worldwide, well-known concepts such as the Digital Smile Design, the Pink Hybrid Implant Restoration, the Digital Planning Center, Emotional Dentistry, Interdisciplinary Treatment Simulation, and Digital Smile Donator. He regularly consults for dental industry companies, developing products, implementing concepts, and marketing strategies, such as the Facially Driven Digital Orthodontic Workflow developed in collaboration with Invisalign, Align Technology. 

761: The Energy Quotient & How Many Days You Work for Free as a Dentist – Dr. Barrett Straub

You've put a ton of time, money, and effort into becoming a dentist. You deserve to make a profit! If that sounds impossible, keep listening. Kirk Behrendt brings back Dr. Barrett Straub, ACT’s CEO, to explain why working harder isn't making you more money, and how understanding the energy quotient will help you gain ultimate control over your practice. It’s time to stop working harder for less! To learn how, listen to Episode 761 of The Best Practices Show!

Learn More About Dr. Straub:

• Send Dr. Straub an email: [email protected] 
• Join Dr. Straub on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/barrett.d.straub
• Register for Dr. Straub’s live workshop (August 23, 2024): https://www.eventbrite.com/e/act-dental-gaps-method-the-formula-for-financial-freedom-tickets-776572418007

More Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:

• Subscribe to The Best Practices Show: https://the-best-practices-show.captivate.fm/listen
• Join The Best Practices Association: https://www.actdental.com/bpa
• Join ACT’s To The Top Study Club: https://www.actdental.com/ttt
• See the ACT Dental/BPA Live Event Schedule: https://www.actdental.com/event
• Get The Best Practices Magazine for free: https://www.actdental.com/magazine
• Please leave us a review on the podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-best-practices-show-with-kirk-behrendt/id1223838218

Episode Resources:

• Watch the video version of Episode 761: https://www.youtube.com/@actdental/videos

Main Takeaways:

• Understand the importance of the energy quotient.
• Calculate how many days you're working for free. Lower that number!
• Your energy quotient doesn't need to be zero — it’s okay to be charitable.
• When you manage your energy levels right, your quality of care will increase.
• You don't need to work more hours and have more operatories to make more money.
• If you increase patient volume, you will have less control over your practice and your life.
• It’s not just about the money. Lowering your energy quotient will lead to a better practice. 

Snippets:

0:00 Introduction.

1:28 Gross production and the effort gap, explained.

8:43 The energy quotient, explained.

15:39 Manage your energy levels.

18:29 Time is the new rich.

20:55 Money gives you options.

23:38 What your dental accountants don't know.

26:06 More about ACT’s GAPs webinar.

29:35 Final thoughts.

Dr. Barrett Straub Bio:

Dr. Barrett Straub practices general and sedation dentistry in Port Washington, Wisconsin. He has worked hard to develop his practice into a top-performing, fee-for-service practice that focuses on improving the lives of patients through dentistry.

A graduate of Marquette Dental School, Dr. Straub’s advanced training and CE includes work at the Spear Institute, LVI, DOCS, and as a member of the Milwaukee Study Club. He is a past member of the Wisconsin Dental Association Board of Trustees and was awarded the Marquette Dental School 2017 Young Alumnus of the Year. As a former ACT coaching client that experienced first-hand the transformation that coaching can provide, he is passionate about helping other dentists create the practice they’ve always wanted.

Dr. Straub loves to hunt, golf, and spend winter on the ice, curling. He is married to Katie, with two daughters, Abby and Elizabeth. 

Collecting 95% sounds great — until you do the math. That missing five percent of your net production is a lot of money! To help you understand what's picking your pockets and how to put a stop to it, Kirk Behrendt brings back Dr. Barrett Straub, ACT’s CEO, with some strategies to eliminate the silent killer of your profit. To learn the quickest, easiest way to add cash flow back into your practice, listen to Episode 760 of The Best Practices Show!

Learn More About Dr. Straub:

• Send Dr. Straub an email: [email protected] 
• Join Dr. Straub on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/barrett.d.straub
• Register for Dr. Straub’s live workshop (August 23, 2024): https://www.eventbrite.com/e/act-dental-gaps-method-the-formula-for-financial-freedom-tickets-776572418007

More Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:

• Subscribe to The Best Practices Show: https://the-best-practices-show.captivate.fm/listen
• Join The Best Practices Association: https://www.actdental.com/bpa
• Join ACT’s To The Top Study Club: https://www.actdental.com/ttt
• See the ACT Dental/BPA Live Event Schedule: https://www.actdental.com/event
• Get The Best Practices Magazine for free: https://www.actdental.com/magazine
• Please leave us a review on the podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-best-practices-show-with-kirk-behrendt/id1223838218

Episode Resources:

• Watch the video version of Episode 760: https://www.youtube.com/@actdental/videos
• Register for Miranda Beeson’s Beyond the Front Desk workshop: https://www.actdental.com/213

Main Takeaways:

• Collecting 95% seems great — until you do the math.
• Have systems for collections so you can focus on doing dentistry.
• Understand how not collecting 100% negatively impacts your business.
• “Doing more” and “producing more” is not the solution to increasing cash flow.
• Collecting what you're owed is the fastest and easiest way to increase cash flow.
• Your financial coordinator must be comfortable and confident collecting from patients.
• Collecting from patients is a form of art. Train yourself to embrace the awkward pause.
• Stop teaching patients that not paying is acceptable behavior. Collect what you're owed.
• It’s not okay to have a month’s worth in AR. That money should be in your bank account.

Snippets:

0:00 Introduction.

1:05 The four gaps, explained.

2:36 The collections gap, explained.

4:04 What collecting 95% truly means.

10:26 The quickest way to add cash flow.

13:18 Mindset is important.

18:19 Embrace the awkward pause.

20:33 One patient at a time.

22:18 Teach patients when and how to pay.

24:35 Revisit your financial arrangements.

27:46 Collect what you're owed.

31:12 Final thoughts.

33:13 More about ACT’s BPA and future courses.

Dr. Barrett Straub Bio:

Dr. Barrett Straub practices general and sedation dentistry in Port Washington, Wisconsin. He has worked hard to develop his practice into a top-performing, fee-for-service practice that focuses on improving the lives of patients through dentistry.

A graduate of Marquette Dental School, Dr. Straub’s advanced training and CE includes work at the Spear Institute, LVI, DOCS, and as a member of the Milwaukee Study Club. He is a past member of the Wisconsin Dental Association Board of Trustees and was awarded the Marquette Dental School 2017 Young Alumnus of the Year. As a former ACT coaching client that experienced first-hand the transformation that coaching can provide, he is passionate about helping other dentists create the practice they’ve always wanted.

Dr. Straub loves to hunt, golf, and spend winter on the ice, curling. He is married to Katie, with two daughters, Abby and Elizabeth.