AME: Some of My Favorite Words
The Very Dental Podcast Network
Alan shares his favorite verbal phrases that have improved his patient interactions over his 28-year career. He emphasizes the importance of building rapport and setting patient expectations to create a smoother, more enjoyable practice. Alan discusses how these simple word choices help him diagnose problems, manage treatment compromises, and handle post-op concerns, all while fostering trust and a human connection with his patients. Some of Al's Favorite Words: "Can you say more about that?" This phrase encourages patients to elaborate on their symptoms, often unlocking a more accurate...
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Brain Trust: Nothing Wrong with "Dental School Dentistry"
The Very Dental Podcast Network
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Very Clinical: Practice or Business?
The Very Dental Podcast Network
Kevin and Zach welcome Alan back to discuss the world of business and entrepreneurship within dentistry. They begin by reminiscing about their childhood "businesses," which leads to a discussion sparked by a conversation Alan had with dental entrepreneur Dr. Mark Costes. The group explores the idea that while dentists of their generation could often succeed with a simple practice, the current landscape of high student debt and large dental organizations demands a more business-minded approach. They debate whether an entrepreneurial spirit is something you're born with or can be developed, and...
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AME: Another Recommendation Engine
The Very Dental Podcast Network
Al shares another "recommendation engine" in this episode! He starts with a dental recommendation, praising the Bioclear Evolve Matrix system and explaining why he's going back to get recertified. He then moves to personal interests, recommending the Harry Potter audiobooks narrated by Stephen Fry and the Hot Ones Instagram feed. He also suggests trying Fly By Jing's Sweet & Spicy Sichuan Chili Sauce and the sci-fi audiobook Automatic Noodle. Finally, he gushes about his new Stihl RZ 560 K lawnmower and encourages listeners to join the Very Dental Facebook group to share their own...
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Very Dental: How to Not Have a Heart Attack with Dr. David Clark
The Very Dental Podcast Network
Alan interviews Dr. David Clark about a near-fatal heart attack he suffered almost two years ago. Dave describes the dramatic details of the event, from initially mistaking his symptoms for heartburn to his wife heroically rushing him to the emergency room. The episode delves into the importance of being your own health advocate, particularly for dentists and other seemingly healthy individuals who may be at risk without knowing it. Dave emphasizes that a heart attack is one of the few life-threatening events that can be largely preventable if people are armed with the right knowledge. He...
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Very Clinical: The Healthy Patient Paradox
The Very Dental Podcast Network
Zach and Kevin are joined Alan to have an in-depth discussion on the business of dentistry. They explore the surprising contradiction many dentists face: the challenge of maintaining a profitable practice while also promoting preventive care and serving "healthy" patients who need minimal treatment. They discuss how a shift in the dental landscape, including stagnant insurance reimbursements and rising overhead costs, has made it less viable for some practices to rely heavily on a traditional recall model. The conversation touches on how different dental practice models, such as DSOs, may...
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AME: Digital Design for Dummies
The Very Dental Podcast Network
Alan shares his journey into the world of digital dentistry and digital design. He reflects on his past hesitations and the challenges of committing to expensive software like Exocad. A recent case involving a patient in need of a provisional partial, however, sparked his interest in finding a more accessible entry point. He recounts how his friend, Dr. Russell Schafer, introduced him to , a powerful, free design software. BSP, , offers an excellent way for dentists to "dip their toe" into digital design without a huge financial or time commitment. He encourages listeners to check out the case...
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Very Dental: The Dentist's Dilemma: Doctor or Entrepreneur? with Dr. Mark Costes
The Very Dental Podcast Network
Is the entrepreneurial drive something you're born with, or can it be learned? Alan had the chance to sit down with his friend and colleague, Dr. Mark Costes, at the recent Voices of Dentistry Pop Up for a deep dive into the mindset of a business owner. Drawing from his own family history, Dr. Costes argues that an entrepreneurial spirit is often an innate trait (nature), but that the skills to succeed can absolutely be cultivated (nurture). They explore the massive shift in the dental profession from the "golden era"—when clinical skill alone could guarantee a great living—to today's...
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Very Clinical: A Tip or Two with Dr. McGue
The Very Dental Podcast Network
In this throwback episode from Voices of Dentistry 2023 in Scottsdale, Zach and Kevin are joined by guest Dr. Brian McGue for the inaugural "Myths and Tips" episode. Dr. McGue, the inspiration for this format, kicks things off by myth-busting the posterior palatal seal, questioning its origin and clinical necessity for upper dentures. For his pro tip, he shares a game-changing technique for seating crowns—especially implant crowns—by recontouring the adjacent tooth contacts to eliminate undercuts and achieve a perfect, passive fit. Join the using the password "Timmerman," Hornbrook"...
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AME: Matt's Marketing Minute(s)
The Very Dental Podcast Network
Recorded live at our recent pop up VoD 2025, Alan is joined by the one and only Dr. Matt Standridge! Matt shares two innovative marketing strategies he uses in his practice. First, he details his process for creating personalized virtual case presentations using Google Slides. He records custom videos for potential patients, walking them through their specific case, treatment options, and fees before they even come into the office, which has led to significantly higher case acceptance rates. Second, he explains how he collaborates with patients who are professional photographers. After a...
info_outlineAlan shares his favorite verbal phrases that have improved his patient interactions over his 28-year career. He emphasizes the importance of building rapport and setting patient expectations to create a smoother, more enjoyable practice. Alan discusses how these simple word choices help him diagnose problems, manage treatment compromises, and handle post-op concerns, all while fostering trust and a human connection with his patients.
Some of Al's Favorite Words:
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"Can you say more about that?" This phrase encourages patients to elaborate on their symptoms, often unlocking a more accurate diagnosis. It prompts them to think more deeply about their sensations, which is especially useful when a problem isn't visually apparent.
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"Are you going to be mad at me if...?" Used when a patient is considering a compromised or less-than-ideal treatment, this phrase invites them to contemplate a potential negative outcome. It shifts the responsibility for informed consent from a formal, authoritative one to a human, conversational one.
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"Julie is going to explain this to you in English." Dr. Mead uses this line when handing off a patient to a dental assistant or hygienist. It humorously acknowledges that dentists often use technical jargon and signals to the patient that a clearer, more accessible explanation is coming from the other team member.
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"We're here if you need us." This phrase is used for patients who have perfect checkups or don't require extensive treatment. It reassures them that they are still valued and that the practice is available for any future concerns, fostering a sense of long-term care and trust.
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"This is going to be sensitive for a couple days." When delivering a new crown or performing other procedures, setting the expectation of post-operative discomfort helps patients mentally prepare. It reduces the number of post-op calls and gives patients "grace" to experience normal sensitivity without alarm.
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"Are you okay if we wait to see what happens?" Used after cementing a crown while a patient is still numb, this asks for their consent to check the bite again once the anesthesia has worn off. It acknowledges that they can't accurately feel the bite while numb and gives them control over their final comfort.
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"You're going to be numb for a couple of hours." Dr. Mead uses this to manage a patient's expectations about how long the numbness will last. By saying "a couple of hours," he gives them a realistic timeframe, and if it lasts longer, they are less likely to be surprised or concerned.
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