In this episode of The DOC Podcast, I get to talk with Dr. Maz Moshiri, a visionary orthodontist and educator known for pioneering clear aligner therapy.  We discuss Dr. Moshiri's journey into orthodontics, the bridging of the clinical-academic divide, and his groundbreaking work with clear aligners.  We delve into the importance of breaking professional dogmas, persevering through challenges, the need for orthodontists to embrace proactive patient care, and transformative developments in early orthodontic treatment.  We also discuss the upcoming 'Winds of Change' meeting and share personal stories that showcase the impact of modern orthodontics on patient lives.   Don't miss this insightful and inspiring episode!

00:27 Meet Dr. Maz Moshiri
01:29 Maz's Journey into Orthodontics
03:19 Family Influence and Early Career
08:17 Professional Challenges and Decisions
13:12 Academic and Clinical Divide
16:31 Innovations in Orthodontics
22:59 The Future of Orthodontics
38:34 Pioneering Clear Aligner Therapy
42:27 Overcoming Initial Failures
42:55 Challenging Conventional Wisdom
43:36 Becoming a Speaker and Educator
44:37 Creating Educational Resources
46:29 Launching the Aligner Fellowship
48:14 Advocating for Orthodontic Excellence
53:32 Exploring Early Treatment with Clear Aligners
57:39 The Importance of Early Intervention
01:03:57 Winds of Change: A Multidisciplinary Meeting
01:10:06 Personal Stories and Healthcare Challenges
01:18:43 Conclusion and Contact Information

LINKS
Contact Dr. Moshiri: moshirimaz@gmail.com 
Info on Aligner Fellowship: https://www.alignerfellowship.com/

Join Dr. Mike as he hosts visionary orthodontist Dr. Ilya Lipkin on this episode of the Doc Podcast. Dr. Lipkin discusses his groundbreaking work with Mini Screw Assisted Rapid Maxillary Expansion (MARPE) and shares his journey, from overcoming academic challenges in the Soviet Union to becoming a pioneer in airway-focused orthodontics. 

Learn about the clinical and academic divide in the field, the importance of comprehensive patient care that goes beyond aligning teeth, and practical advice for implementing MARPE in a busy practice. Dr. Lipkin also touches on the vital role of diagnostic processes and offers insights into the future of orthodontic treatment. 

Whether you're an orthodontist, dental professional, or just curious about the advancements in orthodontics, this episode is packed with invaluable information. Enjoy the show!

00:27 Meet Dr. Ilya Lipkin: A Visionary in Orthodontics

02:36 Dr. Lipkin's Journey: From Soviet Union to Orthodontics

05:26 The Impact of Sleep and Airway on Orthodontics

09:38 Clinical vs. Academic Perspectives in Orthodontics

14:16 Challenges and Changes in Orthodontic Practices

35:12 The Role of Dentists in Airway Screening & Health

35:34 Orthodontic Residency and Airway Issues

35:43 TMJ and Orthodontics: A Controversial Topic

36:36 The Importance of Comprehensive Diagnosis

38:02 Challenges in Orthodontic Practices

41:55 Diagnostic Ability and Patient Health

42:32 The Evolution of Orthodontic Technology

43:56 Determining the Right Treatment Approach

53:59 Implementing MARPE in Practice

01:00:17 The Need for Change in Orthodontic Education

01:10:48 Final Thoughts and Future Directions

SHOW NOTES
-Contact Dr. Lipkin: https://www.gotbraces.com/

In this episode of the Doc Podcast, host Dr. Mike DeLuke delves into the crucial topic of optimizing profitability in orthodontic practices. Joined by a distinguished panel of guests—Mary Sawtelle, Dr. Brad Chvatal, and Paul Gange, Jr.—they discuss strategies for controlling overhead costs and increasing net income.

Topics include effective inventory management, the importance of efficient bonding protocols, and the role of leadership and team culture in driving practice success. This comprehensive discussion is a must-listen for practitioners looking to improve their bottom line while maintaining high-quality patient care. Tune in for actionable insights and expert advice!

00:26 Today's Topic: Money and Net Profit
00:51 Meet the Expert Panel
01:38 Understanding Practice Profit
02:45 The Importance of Efficient Ordering Systems
03:57 Strategies to Decrease Overhead
04:47 Welcoming the Guests
06:02 Focusing on Overhead vs. Production
07:45 Delegating and Organizing for Efficiency
09:48 The Role of Protocols in Reducing Overhead
15:14 Bonding Protocols and Reducing Failures
41:25 Understanding Bond Failure Rates
42:51 The Importance of Timing in Etching
43:21 Analyzing Office Practices and Training
45:18 Amtouch Dental Supply: A Trusted Partner
46:08 Strategies for Improving Practice Efficiency
49:44 The Role of Leadership in Practice Management
53:55 Hiring and Training for Success
01:20:02 Reducing Variables for Better Outcomes
01:20:49 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS:
Allure Ortho: https://www.allureortho.com/

AmTouch Dental Supply: https://www.amtouch.com/

Ulab: https://www.ulabsystems.com/

LINKS:
-Brad: Czechmate (https://czechmateconsulting.com/); Practice Website (https://www.eugenebraces.com/)
-Mari: Mari’s List (https://marislist.com/)
-Paul: Reliance Orthodontics (https://www.relianceorthodontics.com/)
-Espresso Maker:
https://www.ebay.com/itm/167091011520?mkcid=16&mkevt=1&mkrid=711-127632-2357-0&ssspo=dfsX1ujXRXS&sssrc=2047675&ssuid=8mPfObcnTnW&widget_ver=artemis&media=COPY
Here's the link on Amazon:
https://a.co/d/9Ut0uF3

In this special Thanksgiving episode of The DOC Podcast, Dr. Mike DeLuke shares his thoughts on gratitude and the importance of recognizing blessings amidst a busy life. He also addresses common challenges faced during the festive season, such as stress management, goal setting for the upcoming year, and making smart financial decisions.

Dr. DeLuke delves deep into the impact of stress on both physical and mental health, offering scientifically backed strategies to manage it effectively. He further emphasizes the importance of creating a vision for life and setting clear goals to achieve it, sharing personal anecdotes and practical advice.

Furthermore, the episode includes crucial information on understanding one's financial status, detailing how to calculate cash flow and net worth using a balance sheet. Dr. DeLuke encourages listeners to take control of their finances by knowing their personal financial status and developing a plan for financial freedom.

Join Dr. DeLuke as he shares wisdom and actionable tips to lead a happier, healthier, and more prosperous life.

00:00 Welcome to the Doc Podcast
00:27 Thanksgiving Reflections and Episode Overview
03:19 Understanding Stress
07:54 Effective Stress Management Techniques
17:59 The Importance of Setting Goals
20:15 Creating a Vision for Your Life
29:17 Achieving Financial Freedom
34:46 Filling Out Your Balance Sheet
43:15 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

LINKS

• Website for Balance Sheet – www.TheOrthoCoach.com
• Motivational Monday on Delayed Gratification: https://youtu.be/cWIPqWPk_mo?si=LXPnlmlFSJSjXToY

John Vento, CPA, CFP Podcasts

• Tax Strategies for Dentists: https://youtu.be/1-EXO-IlQgs?si=Z95gfArxXffDOy8U
• Taxes & Practice Ownership – Part a: https://youtu.be/tyQTdCy2DxA?si=GlyFh1X3AAz5jALR
• Taxes & Practice Ownership – Part b: https://youtu.be/Tt0yneFair0?si=TayfvAQR0rHNfAGg
• Tax-Smart Retirement Savings – Part a: https://youtu.be/QFB2DJksISg?si=tpKbjYIQJaH60F7f
• Tax-Smart Retirement Savings – Part b: https://youtu.be/cWIPqWPk_mo?si=LXPnlmlFSJSjXToY

Justin Smith CFA, CFP Podcasts

• Planning for Financial Freedom: https://youtu.be/swJNr52Lqe4?si=jY8Wdk5M1JlgYqNq
• Wealth-Building Investment Strategies: https://youtu.be/2mASImQq5w8?si=XsBi5gj0Jz-85b5T

In this episode, I welcome the amazing Dr. Claudia Pinter, an internationally renowned orthodontist and faculty member in the Department of Orthodontics at Nova Southeastern University.  Dr. Pinter shares her journey from Vienna, Austria to becoming a pioneer in clear aligner therapy. The discussion delves into the importance of blending art and science in orthodontics, the value of studying post-treatment records, and the necessity of screening patients for airway issues. 

Dr. Pinter also shares her innovative techniques in maxillary expansion using bone-borne expanders, the role of social media in patient education, and the significance of being transparent and proactive with patients. The episode highlights the evolving landscape of orthodontics, driven by new technologies and multidisciplinary approaches to improve patient outcomes.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

00:47 Dr. Pinter's Journey and Philosophy

01:35 Discussion on Clinical Practices and Innovations

08:23 Pediatric Orthodontics and Airway Issues

16:48 Advanced Techniques in Orthodontics

37:32 Embracing Change in Orthodontics

38:16 The Impact of Maxillary Expansion

38:45 Challenges and Criticisms in Modern Orthodontics

42:44 Innovations in Orthognathic Surgery

48:04 The Role of AI in Orthodontics

51:41 Educating Patients and Colleagues

01:01:03 Personal Journeys in Orthodontics

LINKS: 
Dr. Pinter on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drclaudiapinter?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

Transforming Oral Surgery: Insights from Dr. David Alfi

In this episode of the 'Doc Podcast,' host Dr. Mike DeLuke interviews acclaimed oral surgeon Dr. David Alfi from Los Angeles, California. They discuss Dr. Alfi's journey through Columbia University, his evolution from academic practice to private practice in Houston, and the development of his groundbreaking surgical techniques. Dr. Alfi shares his innovative approaches in orthognathic surgery, including the use of custom-printed titanium guides and plates, which have significantly improved surgical outcomes, efficiency, and patient recovery times. The conversation extends to the crucial topic of airway issues and TMJ disorders, addressing how modern surgical practices can provide better resolutions and improve overall patient health. Dr. Alfi also highlights the importance of continuous learning, research, and bridging the gap between academia and private practice to advance the field.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

01:57 Dr. Alfi's Journey to Oral Surgery

03:30 Orthodontic Experiences and Reflections

07:04 Transition to Private Practice

10:06 Bridging Academia and Private Practice

17:19 Innovations in Jaw Surgery

24:00 Efficiency in Surgical Procedures

24:07 Advancements in Incision Techniques

24:47 Accurate Surgical Outcomes

25:26 Orthodontic Innovations

25:52 Airway Considerations in Surgery

27:26 Custom Plates and Stability

31:24 Patient Case Studies and Outcomes

33:29 Debate on Malocclusion Causes

43:03 TMJ and Airway Correlation

47:48 Future Directions and Acknowledgements

LINKS
-Dr. Alfi's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.davidalfi/

Money, retirement, wealth, prosperity.  All terms we are familiar with but do any of us know how to achieve them?  That is why I wanted to have my friend and colleague, Dr. Mart McClellan on the show.  Mart is an orthodontist AND a financial advisor and he is a wealth (pun intended 😊) of knowledge.  He will share how he feels all of us can achieve financial prosperity both pre-and post-retirement. 

We discuss:

·         What motivated Mart to pursue a career in financial advisement while he was practicing orthodontics full-time.

·         How a conference Mart went to as a resident changed his perspective on money.

·         What to do about debt, including student loan debt, mortgage debt, consumer debt, etc.

·         If Dave Ramsey has the right idea by recommending to aggressively pay down debt.

·         Whether to get a 15-year or 30-year mortgage.

·         Ways to change your mindset towards money.

·         The importance of setting goals for your financial future.

·         The flaws with the traditional financial model.

·         How to get off the traditional linear model of accumulating wealth and accelerate your wealth curve.

·         The importance of thinking about how to distribute your assets, not just accumulate them.

·         Who the “rulesmakers” are and how they attack our money 365 days/year.

·         The percentage of your earnings that you should be saving every year.

·         What a “Wealth Freedom Account” is and why you need one.

·         If you need an Emergency Fund and, if so, how much to put in it.

·         Which is more important, a savings rate or a rate of return.

·         The difference between “new money” and “old money” when it comes to investing.

·         Why we don’t believe in “evidence-based financial planning.” 

·         What a “diversified portfolio” really means, and what it is not. 

·         When to expect the next downturn in the real estate market.

·         The difference between average rate of return and annualized rate of return, and which is more important.

·         How many different income streams wealthy people typically have.

·         Whether or not you should fund a retirement plan.

·         Mart’s thoughts on the “Die with Zero” mentality. 

·         What can be done to help students/residents get a better financial education.

·         Strategies for older docs can do to maximize their retirement income.

·         And much more!

LINKS:

-Mart’s Book “Your Retirement Smile”: https://a.co/d/9y6fTRU 

-Mart’s Website: www.Macro-Wealth.com

-Mart’s Email: [email protected] 

-Mart’s Cell: (847) 363-5502

-Rich Dad, Poor Dad: https://a.co/d/6nkfQFS 

-Smart Couples Finish Rich: https://a.co/d/6nkfQFS 

I had the pleasure of interviewing Dr. Kalli Hale, an amazing general dentist who transformed her practice into one that focuses on the overall health and well-being of her patients.  In addition to being a wealth of knowledge on airway and early treatment, she is a business owner, wife, mom, and national lecturer.  

We discuss:

• How dentistry is a family affair for Kalli.
• The lack of training and education in dental school surrounding sleep and airway.
• The relationship between sleep bruxism and OSA.
• Why Kalli developed such a passion for airway-focused treatment.
• What Kalli has to say to her colleagues who do not believe that we can or should be addressing airway.
• The importance of being a good communicator and having a passion for what you do.
• How powerful it is when parents are brought to tears by what you were able to do for their child.
• The importance of mouth breathing for the growth and development of the face and teeth.
• The potential liability of dentists who are not screening patients for airway issues and their associated comorbidities.
• The benefits of habit correctors/eruption appliances to improve muscular dysfunction and facilitate nasal breathing.
• The need for a mindset change in orthodontics from one that is reactive to one that is proactive.
• The role that insurance plays in the decision to wait to begin orthodontic treatment.
• The misdiagnosis of sleep-disordered breathing as ADHD.
• The fact that the medical community is now prescribing “speed” for kids as young as 2 years of age.
• Some of the many flaws with the 2019 AAO White Paper.
• The best way to gain a greater understanding of the power of recognizing sleep/airway issues in our patients.
• The challenges Kalli faces as a mom, wife, dentist, entrepreneur, practice owner, and national lecturer.
• And much more!!

LINKS:

-Link to DOC Interceptive Ortho Tx Course: https://theorthocoach.com/courses/phase-i-arch-development/?portfolioCats=99

-Episode w/Eric Ploumis: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/answers-to-common-legal-questions-w-eric-ploumis-dmd-jd-ep-29/id1689703392?i=1000637849977

-Find Kalli on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theairwaycentereddentist?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

Dentists and orthodontists often debate the role we play in the detection and management of airway compromise, especially in children.  I had a fascinating conversation with Dr. David McIntosh, a highly regarded ENT from Australia, who offered his thoughts on the topic from a medical perspective. 

 We discuss:

• How David became passionate about airway and sleep, and why he is passionate about treating children.
• The influence that the 2012 paper by Karen Bonuck, MD about the impact of snoring and mouth breathing on the cognitive development of children had on David.
• The reason why ENTs and dentists should be collaborating more often.
• The fact that 80% of the children presenting to the orthodontist have an airway problem.
• The fact that pediatric sleep-disordered breathing is more common than asthma and diabetes combined.
• The role that cognitive dissonance plays in the resistance of both orthodontists and ENTs to change their approach to the diagnosis and treatment of patients with airway compromise.
• The signs and symptoms of airway compromise that ALL ENTs and dentists should be looking for in their patients.
• Why straightening teeth is great, but saving someone’s life is next-level rewarding.
• How the medical insurance industry is impacting the ability of ENTs to perform adenotonsillectomy on children.
• How the 2019 AAO White Paper got it wrong and the 2017 ADA Position Statement got it right.
• The reason why a sleep study and AHI are NOT reliable indicators of airway compromise in children.
• The AADSM position statement about the efficacy of monotherapies.
• The efficacy of CPAP versus mandibular advancement splint therapy.
• The importance of phenotyping to determine the etiology of airway disease before initiating treatment.
• What David feels about expanding on patients as young as 4 years old.
• Why orthodontists would feel differently about airway-focused treatment if they saw their patients 20-30 years after treatment.
• The importance of early detection and treatment of airway issues.
• Why saying that OSA is analogous to Stage 4 cancer IS appropriate from a medical perspective.
• And much more!!

LINKS:

-Dr. McIntosh’s books: 

>Snored to Death: https://a.co/d/0700GJj

>Don’t Ignore the Snore: https://a.co/d/3P9lpXA 

>A Parent’s Guide to Pediatric Sleep Disordered Breathing: https://a.co/d/7qDRuJS 

-Karen Bonuck paper: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3313633/ 

-Chervin paper: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11875140/ 

Life is a journey and today’s guest, Lauren Gueits, truly exemplifies that fact.  She has worked in private practice, as a high-level rep with Align, and is now on a mission to help children by advancing awareness of airway health.  Lauren has an amazing ability to persevere through whatever life puts in front of her and has a deep passion for promoting the connection between our mouth and our overall health.  We discuss:

·         How Lauren ended up pursuing dental hygiene as a career, and why she feels she was called to dentistry.

·         Her role with Dr. Lorne Golub and Dr. Maria Ryan in promoting Periostat.

·         Why she has always had a passion for the connection between oral and systemic health.

·         How Lauren’s endless curiosity began as a child.

·         How she impressed Align CEO, Joe Hogan, during one of her lectures at Invisalign Summit.

·         Her creation of the position of Hygiene Education Manager at Align and assembling the hygiene team.

·         Her transition from private practice to corporate to entrepreneurship.

·         The critical role of the hygienist to create value from the hygiene chair.

·         Why once you see the impact that orthodontics can have on airway, you can’t unsee it.

·         The need to redefine malocclusion as craniofacial dystrophy.

·         What motivated Lauren to launch Airway Health Solutions in 2018.

·         How she plans to advance airway health care in the upcoming years.

·         The need to have in person discussions versus hiding behind our computers debating online.

·         The importance of keeping the faith through life’s highs and lows.

·         The need to develop more thorough and consistent screening tools for airway compromise.

·         That the AAO guidelines do NOT say to wait until 7yo to initiate orthodontic treatment.

·         Why orthodontic residents don’t do much Phase I treatment in residency.

·         How OSA is like Stage 4 cancer, and we need to address it when we notice it at Stage 1 (SDB).

·         The reasons why changing your mindset regarding early treatment and airway can be emotionally challenging.

·         How Lauren balanced being a mom of 3 children with her career aspirations and obligations. 

·         How she judges her success as a mother.

·         And much more!!

LINKS:

-Dew Life Article highlighting Lauren: https://issuu.com/dentalentrepreneur/docs/dew_spring2024_issu

-www.airwayhealthsolutions.com

-www.childrensairwayfirst.org