Mohamed is back with Kevin, Zach and Al to pose dental student questions to these grizzled veterans. 

The guys start out with a raucous discussion of NCAA brackets and what's wrong with basketball but then move to answering questions from curious dental students!

Some key topics of discussion:

• Post-Op Sensitivity: What are your protocols for managing post-op sensitivity for fillings or crowns?
• Challenging Patients: How do you handle patients who challenge your clinical recommendations or demand unnecessary treatment?
• Soft Tissue Management: What are your best practices for managing soft tissue during restorative or surgical procedures?
• Referral Management: How do you manage patient referrals to a specialist while maintaining continuity of care?

Join the Very Dental Facebook group using the password "Timmerman," Hornbrook" or "McWethy," "Papa Randy" or "Lipscomb!"

The Very Dental Podcast network is and will remain free to download. If you’d like to support the shows you love at Very Dental then show a little love to the people that support us!

--

Crazy Dental has everything you need from cotton rolls to equipment and everything in between and the best prices you’ll find anywhere! If you head over to verydentalpodcast.com/crazy and use coupon code “VERYDENTAL10” you’ll get another 10% off your order! Go save yourself some money and support the show all at the same time!

--

The Wonderist Agency is basically a one stop shop for marketing your practice and your brand. From logo redesign to a full service marketing plan, the folks at Wonderist have you covered! Go check them out at verydentalpodcast.com/wonderist!

--

Enova Illumination makes the very best in loupes and headlights, including their new ergonomic angled prism loupes! They also distribute loupe mounted cameras and even the amazing line of Zumax microscopes! If you want to help out the podcast while upping your magnification and headlight game, you need to head over to verydentalpodcast.com/enova to see their whole line of products!

--

CAD-Ray offers the best service on a wide variety of digital scanners, printers, mills and even  their very own browser based design software, Clinux! CAD-Ray has been a huge supporter of the Very Dental Podcast Network and I can tell you that you’ll get no better service on everything digital dentistry than the folks from CAD-Ray. Go check them out at verydentalpodcast.com/CADRay!

Alan recently sat down with Teresa Duncan at the Chicago Midwinter Dental meeting! Teresa is an expert in dental insurance and dental office management. The conversation dives into the often-overlooked but critical aspects of dental practice, including insurance compliance, the evolving role of AI in administrative tasks, financial discussions with patients, hygiene practice management, and the potential future of dental practices within the broader healthcare landscape. The episode offers practical advice and insights for dentists and their teams on navigating the complexities of modern dental administration and compliance.

Key Discussion Points:

• The Challenge of "Unsexy" Topics:
  • Dentists often prioritize clinical topics (like implants) over administrative and compliance issues.
  • Theresa's ability to make complex, less appealing topics engaging.
• Compliance Concerns:
  • Importance of compliance in areas like insurance contracts.
  • The burden of compliance and its lack of intuitiveness.
• Medicare Advantage Plans:
  • Requirement for fraud, waste, and abuse training for anyone submitting claims, even out-of-network providers.
  • Importance of compliance to avoid audits or being dropped from networks.
  • CMS's role and the responsibility of insurance companies to ensure network compliance.
• Improving Claims:
  • The importance of good radiographs and documentation.
  • Documenting patient statements and details in clinical notes.
  • Insurance companies' preference for screenshots of clinical notes over narratives.
• AI in Dentistry:
  • Potential benefits of AI for note-taking and reducing administrative burden.
  • Ambient listening technology for recording patient encounters.
  • Concerns about privacy and the need for patient permission.
  • AI's ability to assist with tasks like writing appeals and generating documents.
• Phone Answering AI:
  • AI's potential for handling phone calls and answering patient questions.
  • Questions about patient acceptance and ethical considerations regarding disclosure.
• Financial Discussions in Dentistry vs. Medicine:
  • The difference in how financial matters are discussed with patients in dentistry and medicine.
  • Challenges related to insurance reimbursements and patient responsibility.
• Hygiene Practices:
  • The impact of hygiene shortages on dental practices.
  • Debate around pre-appointing hygiene and the value of hygiene services.
  • Financial considerations for hygiene services and the need to ensure profitability.
• Out-of-Network Considerations:
  • Challenges and benefits of going out of network.
  • The importance of excellent patient service and communication for out-of-network practices.
• Revenue Cycle Management:
  • The increasing specialization of roles in revenue cycle management.
  • The trend toward outsourcing revenue cycle functions.
  • The importance of understanding all aspects of the revenue cycle.
• The Future of Dental Practices:
  • Concerns about the influence of DSOs and potential consolidation with healthcare systems.
  • The role of the ADA and the potential impact of Medicare expansion on dentistry.
  • Challenges facing dentists, including student debt and employment trends.

Resources and Links (To be added to show notes):

• Links to Medicare and Medicaid training resources (as mentioned in the podcast).
• Information about Theresa Duncan's online courses and Dental Revenue Network.
• Information about the American Association of Dental Office Management (A-ADOM).

Some links from the show:

• Odyssey Management (Teresa's company)
• AADOM
• Dental Revenue Network

Join the Very Dental Facebook group using the password "Timmerman," Hornbrook" or "McWethy," "Papa Randy" or "Lipscomb!"

The Very Dental Podcast network is and will remain free to download. If you’d like to support the shows you love at Very Dental then show a little love to the people that support us!

--

Crazy Dental has everything you need from cotton rolls to equipment and everything in between and the best prices you’ll find anywhere! If you head over to verydentalpodcast.com/crazy and use coupon code “VERYDENTAL10” you’ll get another 10% off your order! Go save yourself some money and support the show all at the same time!

--

The Wonderist Agency is basically a one stop shop for marketing your practice and your brand. From logo redesign to a full service marketing plan, the folks at Wonderist have you covered! Go check them out at verydentalpodcast.com/wonderist!

--

Enova Illumination makes the very best in loupes and headlights, including their new ergonomic angled prism loupes! They also distribute loupe mounted cameras and even the amazing line of Zumax microscopes! If you want to help out the podcast while upping your magnification and headlight game, you need to head over to verydentalpodcast.com/enova to see their whole line of products!

--

CAD-Ray offers the best service on a wide variety of digital scanners, printers, mills and even  their very own browser based design software, Clinux! CAD-Ray has been a huge supporter of the Very Dental Podcast Network and I can tell you that you’ll get no better service on everything digital dentistry than the folks from CAD-Ray. Go check them out at verydentalpodcast.com/CADRay!

Could this be the most relatable episode we've ever recorded?  Zach, Kevin, and Alan unleash their pent-up frustrations with common patient behaviors that drive them absolutely bonkers. From anatomical annoyances to baffling patient logic, no pet peeve is spared. Get ready to laugh and nod in agreement as they share their most outrageous clinical experiences.

Join the Very Dental Facebook group using the password "Timmerman," Hornbrook" or "McWethy," "Papa Randy" or "Lipscomb!"

Very Clinical is brought to you by Zirc Dental Products, Inc., your trusted partner in dental efficiency and organization.

The Very Clinical Corner segment features Kate Reinert, LDA, an experienced dental professional passionate about helping practices achieve clinical excellence.

 Connect with Kate Reinert on LinkedIn: Kate Reinert, LDA  Book a call with Kate: Reserve a Call  Ready to upscale your team? Explore Zirc’s solutions today: zirc.com

Alan shares a personal and frustrating experience involving his son, Jacob, and an unexpected medical finding. He reflects on the complexities of the medical system, the challenges of incidental findings, and his concerns about the current state of healthcare.

Join the Very Dental Facebook group using the password "Timmerman," Hornbrook" or "McWethy," "Papa Randy" or "Lipscomb!"

The Very Dental Podcast network is and will remain free to download. If you’d like to support the shows you love at Very Dental then show a little love to the people that support us!

--

Crazy Dental has everything you need from cotton rolls to equipment and everything in between and the best prices you’ll find anywhere! If you head over to verydentalpodcast.com/crazy and use coupon code “VERYDENTAL10” you’ll get another 10% off your order! Go save yourself some money and support the show all at the same time!

--

The Wonderist Agency is basically a one stop shop for marketing your practice and your brand. From logo redesign to a full service marketing plan, the folks at Wonderist have you covered! Go check them out at verydentalpodcast.com/wonderist!

--

Enova Illumination makes the very best in loupes and headlights, including their new ergonomic angled prism loupes! They also distribute loupe mounted cameras and even the amazing line of Zumax microscopes! If you want to help out the podcast while upping your magnification and headlight game, you need to head over to verydentalpodcast.com/enova to see their whole line of products!

--

CAD-Ray offers the best service on a wide variety of digital scanners, printers, mills and even  their very own browser based design software, Clinux! CAD-Ray has been a huge supporter of the Very Dental Podcast Network and I can tell you that you’ll get no better service on everything digital dentistry than the folks from CAD-Ray. Go check them out at verydentalpodcast.com/CADRay!

Alan is joined at the Chicago Midwinter meeting by Steven Haaksma of BQE or "Back Quality Ergonomics." Alan has used a bunch of their stools over the years and is a big fan of the ergonomic products that Steven's company has created. 

Key Takeaways:

• BQE = Back Quality Ergonomics: The meaning behind the company name.
• Dutch Roots, American Story: Steven's background and how BQE started in the US.
• PT-Founded: BQE's origins with Steven's father, a physical therapist focused on back pain.
• Dental Professionals' Back Pain: The high prevalence of back issues in dentistry inspired BQE's focus.
• Challenging Traditional Stools: The problems with round and flat dental chairs.
• Ergonomic Design Principles: Getting closer to the patient and preventing slouching.
• The Original ErgoDynamic: The unique chair where the backrest automatically adjusts to the user.
• Convex Backrest: BQE's signature design for optimal lumbar support, available in different sizes.
• Beyond Dentistry: BQE also serves veterinary and optometry markets.
• Alan's Back Story: Dr. Mead's personal experience with a back injury and the importance of prevention.
• The "Chair Museum": Alan's journey to finding the right ergonomic seating.
• Armrest Benefits: Supporting arm weight reduces strain (arms are ~5% of body weight each).
• Saddle & Alternative Seats: Options for different preferences while maintaining good ergonomics.
• European vs. US Saddle Popularity: Interesting differences in adoption.
• Educating Dentists: Raising awareness about the long-term benefits of ergonomic seating.
• The Science of Slouching: How the ErgoDynamic chair actively combats poor posture.
• Proper Positioning: The importance of both dentist and patient positioning.
• Investment, Not Expense: BQE chairs are durable and competitively priced.
• 30-Day Trial: Confidence in their product with a low return rate.

Some links from the show:

• BQE (Back Quality Ergonomics)

Join the Very Dental Facebook group using the password "Timmerman," Hornbrook" or "McWethy," "Papa Randy" or "Lipscomb!"

The Very Dental Podcast network is and will remain free to download. If you’d like to support the shows you love at Very Dental then show a little love to the people that support us!

--

Crazy Dental has everything you need from cotton rolls to equipment and everything in between and the best prices you’ll find anywhere! If you head over to verydentalpodcast.com/crazy and use coupon code “VERYDENTAL10” you’ll get another 10% off your order! Go save yourself some money and support the show all at the same time!

--

The Wonderist Agency is basically a one stop shop for marketing your practice and your brand. From logo redesign to a full service marketing plan, the folks at Wonderist have you covered! Go check them out at verydentalpodcast.com/wonderist!

--

Enova Illumination makes the very best in loupes and headlights, including their new ergonomic angled prism loupes! They also distribute loupe mounted cameras and even the amazing line of Zumax microscopes! If you want to help out the podcast while upping your magnification and headlight game, you need to head over to verydentalpodcast.com/enova to see their whole line of products!

--

CAD-Ray offers the best service on a wide variety of digital scanners, printers, mills and even  their very own browser based design software, Clinux! CAD-Ray has been a huge supporter of the Very Dental Podcast Network and I can tell you that you’ll get no better service on everything digital dentistry than the folks from CAD-Ray. Go check them out at verydentalpodcast.com/CADRay!

"I want this to run like a real business, and if that's what it takes to run it, I know that I'll get the revenue back."

-- Kevin on investing in CareStack.

Today, the Very Clinical guys dive into the world of dental practice management software. Kevin, Zach and Al discuss their first experiences with computers, their current software choices, and Kevin's recent switch to CareStack. The conversation highlights the evolution of practice management from early home-grown solutions to modern, cloud-based platforms.

Some links from the show:

• CareStack cloud based practice management software
• TigerView imaging software
• Overjet AI

Join the Very Dental Facebook group using the password "Timmerman," Hornbrook" or "McWethy," "Papa Randy" or "Lipscomb!"

Very Clinical is brought to you by Zirc Dental Products, Inc., your trusted partner in dental efficiency and organization.

The Very Clinical Corner segment features Kate Reinert, LDA, an experienced dental professional passionate about helping practices achieve clinical excellence.

 Connect with Kate Reinert on LinkedIn: Kate Reinert, LDA  Book a call with Kate: Reserve a Call  Ready to upscale your team? Explore Zirc’s solutions today: zirc.com

Alan reflects on the importance of "doing something" when it comes to emotional health, contrasting it with his earlier philosophy of "don't just do something, sit there" in the context of dental diagnosis. He shares a personal story about his son's music competition and how his own emotional reaction led him to realize the power of action in managing feelings.

Join the Very Dental Facebook group using the password "Timmerman," Hornbrook" or "McWethy," "Papa Randy" or "Lipscomb!"

The Very Dental Podcast network is and will remain free to download. If you’d like to support the shows you love at Very Dental then show a little love to the people that support us!

--

Crazy Dental has everything you need from cotton rolls to equipment and everything in between and the best prices you’ll find anywhere! If you head over to verydentalpodcast.com/crazy and use coupon code “VERYDENTAL10” you’ll get another 10% off your order! Go save yourself some money and support the show all at the same time!

--

The Wonderist Agency is basically a one stop shop for marketing your practice and your brand. From logo redesign to a full service marketing plan, the folks at Wonderist have you covered! Go check them out at verydentalpodcast.com/wonderist!

--

Enova Illumination makes the very best in loupes and headlights, including their new ergonomic angled prism loupes! They also distribute loupe mounted cameras and even the amazing line of Zumax microscopes! If you want to help out the podcast while upping your magnification and headlight game, you need to head over to verydentalpodcast.com/enova to see their whole line of products!

--

CAD-Ray offers the best service on a wide variety of digital scanners, printers, mills and even  their very own browser based design software, Clinux! CAD-Ray has been a huge supporter of the Very Dental Podcast Network and I can tell you that you’ll get no better service on everything digital dentistry than the folks from CAD-Ray. Go check them out at verydentalpodcast.com/CADRay!

Alan is joined by Dr. Charlotte Drumi for an "in person" recording from the recent Chicago Midwinter Meeting! She's a young dentist with an old soul and Alan learned a lot from this conversation!

They discuss Charlotte's journey from documenting her dental school experience on Instagram to becoming a recognized content creator in the dental field. They delve into the challenges of social media, the importance of authenticity, the pressures faced by new dentists, and the impact of her international background on her perspective.

Key Talking Points:

• Social Media and Authenticity:
  • The importance of sharing both professional and personal aspects of life.
  • Balancing curated content with genuine, "raw" experiences.
  • Building connections through interactions and storytelling.
  • The change from highly curated content, to more authentic content.
• Navigating Social Media Platforms:
  • Focus on Instagram, with considerations for expanding to TikTok.
  • Managing the time and effort required for multiple platforms.
  • Adapting to changes in social media trends, such as Reels.
• Content Creation and Community:
  • Motivations for creating content: connecting with and helping others.
  • Receiving positive feedback and witnessing the impact of her content.
  • The evolving nature of her audience, from students to practicing dentists.
• Challenges and Pressures:
  • Balancing content creation with the demands of practicing dentistry.
  • Dealing with the lack of privacy that comes with a public presence.
  • The constant need to "feed the beast" with content.
• Mentorship and Early Career:
  • The importance of mentorship for new dentists.
  • Collaborating with experienced doctors and learning from their perspectives.
  • The challenges of finding quality mentorship in the current dental landscape.
  • The differences between older and newer generations of dentists.
• Dental School Debt and Finances:
  • The financial pressures faced by recent dental graduates.
  • The lack of financial education in dental school.
  • Strategies for managing debt and building financial literacy.
• International Background and Perspective:
  • Dr. Drumey's upbringing in Russia and its influence on her work ethic and resourcefulness.
  • The value of education and pursuing passions.
  • Adapting to the "first world struggles" in the United States.
  • The importance of skepticism.
• Advice for New Dentists and Dental Students:
  • Staying true to ethical beliefs and personal values.
  • Focusing on the reasons for entering dentistry.
  • Embracing challenges and learning from failures.
  • The importance of looking in the mirror, and being proud of the choices you've made.
• Social Media Comparison:
  • Advice for people who struggle with comparison.
  • The importance of authenticity.
  • Taking social media with a grain of salt.

Some links from the show:

• Charlotte's Instagram (@drdrumi)

Join the Very Dental Facebook group using the password "Timmerman," Hornbrook" or "McWethy," "Papa Randy" or "Lipscomb!"

The Very Dental Podcast network is and will remain free to download. If you’d like to support the shows you love at Very Dental then show a little love to the people that support us!

--

Crazy Dental has everything you need from cotton rolls to equipment and everything in between and the best prices you’ll find anywhere! If you head over to verydentalpodcast.com/crazy and use coupon code “VERYDENTAL10” you’ll get another 10% off your order! Go save yourself some money and support the show all at the same time!

--

The Wonderist Agency is basically a one stop shop for marketing your practice and your brand. From logo redesign to a full service marketing plan, the folks at Wonderist have you covered! Go check them out at verydentalpodcast.com/wonderist!

--

Enova Illumination makes the very best in loupes and headlights, including their new ergonomic angled prism loupes! They also distribute loupe mounted cameras and even the amazing line of Zumax microscopes! If you want to help out the podcast while upping your magnification and headlight game, you need to head over to verydentalpodcast.com/enova to see their whole line of products!

--

CAD-Ray offers the best service on a wide variety of digital scanners, printers, mills and even  their very own browser based design software, Clinux! CAD-Ray has been a huge supporter of the Very Dental Podcast Network and I can tell you that you’ll get no better service on everything digital dentistry than the folks from CAD-Ray. Go check them out at verydentalpodcast.com/CADRay!

In this throwback episode Kevin and Zach are once again joined by Dr. Kevin Donlan to discuss the controversial topic of amalgam in modern dentistry. Is this classic restorative material still relevant in 2025? They delve into the pros and cons, share personal experiences, and debate whether amalgam still has a place in everyday dental practice.

Key Takeaways:

• Amalgam still has a place in dentistry, particularly in situations with challenging isolation.
• Patient education and clear communication are crucial for material selection.
• Dental education and practice philosophies have evolved significantly over the years.  
• Four handed dentistry is ideal, and when not possible, isolation devices can increase the dentists ability to perform good dentistry.

Join the Very Dental Facebook group using the password "Timmerman," Hornbrook" or "McWethy," "Papa Randy" or "Lipscomb!"

Very Clinical is brought to you by Zirc Dental Products, Inc., your trusted partner in dental efficiency and organization.

The Very Clinical Corner segment features Kate Reinert, LDA, an experienced dental professional passionate about helping practices achieve clinical excellence. Today's episode featured Isolation Devices!

 Connect with Kate Reinert on LinkedIn: Kate Reinert, LDA  Book a call with Kate: Reserve a Call  Ready to upscale your team? Explore Zirc’s solutions today: zirc.com

Alan shares his recent guest appearance on "Just a Couple of Dentists," a podcast hosted by millennial dentists Alex and Eric. They discuss the evolving landscape of dentistry, the rise of side hustles, and the challenges faced by younger dentists. Alan, Alex, and Eric delve into the reasons behind the shift from traditional clinical focus to entrepreneurial ventures, the impact of social media, and the realities of practice ownership. They also play a fun "Kiss, Marry, Kill" game with potential dental side gigs.

Some links from the show:

• Just a Couple of Dentists podcast

Join the Very Dental Facebook group using the password "Timmerman," Hornbrook" or "McWethy," "Papa Randy" or "Lipscomb!"

The Very Dental Podcast network is and will remain free to download. If you’d like to support the shows you love at Very Dental then show a little love to the people that support us!

--

Crazy Dental has everything you need from cotton rolls to equipment and everything in between and the best prices you’ll find anywhere! If you head over to verydentalpodcast.com/crazy and use coupon code “VERYDENTAL10” you’ll get another 10% off your order! Go save yourself some money and support the show all at the same time!

--

The Wonderist Agency is basically a one stop shop for marketing your practice and your brand. From logo redesign to a full service marketing plan, the folks at Wonderist have you covered! Go check them out at verydentalpodcast.com/wonderist!

--

Enova Illumination makes the very best in loupes and headlights, including their new ergonomic angled prism loupes! They also distribute loupe mounted cameras and even the amazing line of Zumax microscopes! If you want to help out the podcast while upping your magnification and headlight game, you need to head over to verydentalpodcast.com/enova to see their whole line of products!

--

CAD-Ray offers the best service on a wide variety of digital scanners, printers, mills and even  their very own browser based design software, Clinux! CAD-Ray has been a huge supporter of the Very Dental Podcast Network and I can tell you that you’ll get no better service on everything digital dentistry than the folks from CAD-Ray. Go check them out at verydentalpodcast.com/CADRay!