Dental Drill Bits with Sandy Pardue
Sandy Pardue of Classic Practice Resources & Michael Arias of The Dental Marketer discuss issues facing the dental practice owner of today. This podcast show features the movers and shakers of the dental industry as well as opinion leaders. Enjoy the fun, laid-back vibe as things get real. Sandy is an energetic lecturer and consultant in the area of dental practice management. She is Director of Consulting with Classic Practice Resources and has over 36 years of “hands-on” experience.
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Creating Strong Vendor Relationships
12/18/2024
Creating Strong Vendor Relationships
In this episode of Dental Drill Bits, we're exploring the dynamics of a healthy vendor-client relationship as Sandy delves into an inspiring conversation with Megan Lohman from Plan Forward. Together, they unlock the powerful components of successful partnerships, from the nuances of clear communication to fostering mutual respect. The duo emphasizes the importance of setting realistic expectations and maintaining open lines of communication to ensure vendor relationships become long-term, growth-oriented collaborations. Sandy further highlights the benefits of her Front Desk Pro seminars, a series promising transformative engagement for entire dental teams across the U.S., offering practical tools to enhance their practice management skills. The discussion takes a practical turn as Megan shares valuable tips, rooted in personal experience, on navigating the challenges of vendor implementation while optimizing business efficiency. Sandy rounds off the episode by stressing the importance of a teamwork-driven approach, where practice leaders must transparently relay goals and expectations to their teams, ensuring seamless adoption of new services. What You'll Learn in This Episode: The key ingredients of a successful vendor-client relationship in dental practices. Tips for setting realistic expectations and maintaining fruitful communication with vendors. Strategies for viewing vendors as long-term business partners. Insights on the value of regular feedback and being open to change. Practical steps for improving vendor implementation and business efficiency. How effective team communication can enhance the adoption of new tools and services. Listen in today to take your vendor relationships to new heights! Sponsors: Don’t just look ahead. Plan Forward. Discover the dental membership plan partner that empowers your entire office. Created by a team in your shoes. Find out more here, and be sure to mention Dental Drill Bits for a special offer! Mentions and Links: Communities/Groups: Events: Businesses: Software: Terms: KPIs - Key Performance Indicators PMS - Practice Management Software
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Overcoming Team Obstacles: Boosting Morale in Dental Teams
12/11/2024
Overcoming Team Obstacles: Boosting Morale in Dental Teams
Managing a successful dental practice often hinges on the seamless collaboration and communication of its team. In this episode, Michael and Sandy explore the vital elements of effective team management that can transform your practice into a harmonious and high-functioning operation. They reveal how strong systems for hiring and onboarding are not just administrative necessities but foundational strategies that influence the overall success of the practice. Sandy shares her insights into building a clear vision that resonates across the team, emphasizing how consistent communication can break down barriers and foster an environment where everyone works towards common objectives. As the conversation unfolds, Michael and Sandy turn their focus to the human elements of practice management, emphasizing the importance of motivation and acknowledgment during times of change. Whether it's integrating new technologies or adapting to policy changes, they offer practical advice on how to maintain morale and encourage cooperation among team members. By the end of the episode, you’ll have a toolkit of strategies to reinforce your practice's vision, ensuring that your team is not only aligned but invigorated to achieve shared goals. What You'll Learn in This Episode: The critical role of structured hiring and onboarding processes. How to establish and communicate a clear vision within your team. Techniques for overcoming common team management obstacles. The importance of motivation and acknowledgment during practice transitions. Practical steps to ensure team alignment with new policies and technologies. Tune in now to unlock key strategies for transforming your dental practice through effective team management! Sponsors: Don’t just look ahead. Plan Forward. Discover the dental membership plan partner that empowers your entire office. Created by a team in your shoes. Find out more here, and be sure to mention Dental Drill Bits for a special offer! Mentions and Links: Communities/Groups: Events: People:
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Navigate No-Shows: Proven Scheduling Techniques You Need
12/04/2024
Navigate No-Shows: Proven Scheduling Techniques You Need
Are broken appointments disrupting the flow of your dental practice and impacting your bottom line? In this episode of Dental Drill Bits, Michael and Sandy dive deep into a chronic challenge faced by many dentists: managing broken appointments. Sandy, drawing from her wealth of expertise, sheds light on effective strategies to tackle this issue head-on. She discusses how proper appointment confirmations can make all the difference and shares her sharp observations on recognizing patterns that often lead to last-minute cancellations. Sandy stresses the imperative of clear and consistent communication as well as the establishment of effective control mechanisms within the practice. She discusses assigning a dedicated scheduler to manage appointments prudently and to ensure patients show up. Sandy shows us actionable verbal techniques, empowering practice owners to see immediate improvements in patient compliance. Wrapping up with key insights, she reminds listeners of the importance of truly understanding patient needs and maintaining well-regulated schedules, offering a roadmap to improved practice efficiency and patient satisfaction. What You'll Learn in This Episode: Techniques for reducing the rate of broken appointments. The impact of proper appointment confirmations on practice workflow. How to detect patterns and triggers that lead to cancellations. Methods for categorizing different types of patient cancellations. The importance of effective communication within your practice. How a dedicated scheduler can boost patient adherence. Verbal strategies to encourage patients to keep their appointments. Ready to enhance your practice's efficiency? Tune in now to stop those no-shows! Sponsors: Do you need a new website or marketing agency? Check out what DocSites can do for you: Mentions and Links: Communities/Groups: People: Software:
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From Hesitant to Yes: Strategies for Better Treatment Acceptance
11/27/2024
From Hesitant to Yes: Strategies for Better Treatment Acceptance
Is your practice struggling with low treatment acceptance rates? Tune in to this enlightening episode of the Dental Drill Bits podcast, where Michael and Sandy unravel proven strategies to help you turn patient hesitance into commitment. Sandy opens up about the power of mindset, sharing how a positive and empathetic approach can transform the way patients view necessary treatments. By diving into effective communication and questioning strategies, Sandy provides invaluable advice on steering conversations towards understanding patient reluctance, even before they set foot in the office. But that's not all—this episode is rich with practical tools to boost your practice's effectiveness in patient interactions. Discover how education, confidence, and teamwork play crucial roles in presenting treatment plans that resonate. Sandy discusses trust-building techniques involving visual aids like patient photos and educational videos, coupled with addressing financial concerns through customized payment plans. Break down common barriers such as fear, cost, and lack of understanding with tailored approaches that emphasize emotional intelligence and compassionate listening. What You'll Learn in This Episode: The role of a positive mindset in enhancing treatment acceptance. Strategic questions and phrases to reveal patient hesitance. The impact of cohesive team efforts in presenting treatment plans. Techniques for building trust through visual aids and educational tools. Approaches to handling financial objections effectively. Overcoming barriers such as fear, cost, and misunderstanding in dental care. Utilizing emotional intelligence to connect with patients on a deeper level. Listen now to equip yourself with actionable strategies to boost your treatment acceptance rates! Sponsors: Don’t just look ahead. Plan Forward. Discover the dental membership plan partner that empowers your entire office. Created by a team in your shoes. Find out more here, and be sure to mention Dental Drill Bits for a special offer! Mentions and Links: Communities/Groups: Events: Financing: Tools: People: Brands: Studies: Quotes: “Man will not test the depth of water with both feet”
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Marketing and Sales in Dentistry: What Should I Focus On for 2025?
11/20/2024
Marketing and Sales in Dentistry: What Should I Focus On for 2025?
Are you equipped to transform your dental practice from good to great as 2025 draws near? In this episode, Michael, Sandy, and Ali embark on a dynamic discussion about the evolving landscape of dental practice management and marketing. Ali, founder of DocSites, takes the floor to break down how his company is revolutionizing dental marketing with a focus on transparency, affordability, and exceptional customer service. The trio dives deep into the significance of managing online reviews and optimizing internal systems to not only attract, but also retain, new patients. As marketing strategies become ever more critical, Ali shares invaluable insights for dental practices on the brink of 2025, advising a pivot from complex branding to simplicity and patient-focused content. He emphasizes the critical nature of maintaining fresh, relevant online content, while ensuring the whole team is fully briefed on ongoing marketing campaigns. With a keen eye on the nitty-gritty of staff training, Ali underscores the balance between marketing and sales, detailing how tracking new patient sources can significantly enhance a practice's marketing efficacy. What You'll Learn in This Episode: How simplifying branding can enhance patient engagement. The role of updated website content in attracting new patients. Strategies for effective staff training and marketing harmonization. The importance of tracking new patient sources to measure success. Insights on balancing marketing and sales efforts. How to optimize internal systems to boost online reviews. Upcoming marketing trends to focus on for 2025. Details on DocSites' flexible service offerings and special deals. Tune in to discover innovative strategies to boost your dental practice's growth today! Sponsors: Do you need a new website or marketing agency? Check out what DocSites can do for you: (Don't miss out on their Black Friday Deal of -$750 off your website! Just mention Michael, Sandy, Dental Drill Bits, or Dental Gumbo!) Mentions and Links: Communities/Groups: Businesses/Brands: Tools: Places:
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Have Them at "Hello": 6 Steps to Effective Phone Calls in Dental Practices
11/13/2024
Have Them at "Hello": 6 Steps to Effective Phone Calls in Dental Practices
Imagine transforming potential inquiries into loyal patient relationships with just a phone call. In this episode, Michael and Sandy dive deep into mastering effective phone communication for dental practice front office staff, a critical yet often overlooked skill. Sandy begins by highlighting the significance of first impressions, presenting a powerful six-step guide designed to seamlessly manage new patient calls. From crafting a welcoming greeting to confidently promoting the practice, Sandy breaks down each step with clarity and precision, ensuring your front office team is well-equipped to handle any conversation with ease. Throughout the conversation, Sandy sheds light on common pitfalls, such as overwhelming potential patients with excessive dental history probes or premature price discussions. By focusing on scheduling appointments and fostering an inviting atmosphere, front office staff can set the stage for meaningful face-to-face interactions. Sandy underscores the value of being a good listener and familiarizing oneself with financing solutions when cost concerns arise. This episode is a must-listen for anyone aiming to elevate their patient communication skills to drive practice growth and satisfaction. What You'll Learn in This Episode: How to create a positive first impression on phone calls. The six crucial steps to handle a new patient inquiry effectively. Strategies to avoid scaring off potential patients with complex details. Common communication mistakes and how to prevent them. Tips for confidently promoting the practice and services. Ways to emphasize consultation over phone-based decisions. Importance of listening and adapting to patient needs. Utilizing financing options to address cost concerns. Listen in now to discover the secrets to exceptional phone communication in your dental practice! Sponsors: Don’t just look ahead. Plan Forward. Discover the dental membership plan partner that empowers your entire office. Created by a team in your shoes. Find out more here, and be sure to mention Dental Drill Bits for a special offer! Mentions and Links: Communities/Groups: Events: People: Businesses/Brands:
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Unraveling Myths: The Real Impact of False Information in Dentistry
11/06/2024
Unraveling Myths: The Real Impact of False Information in Dentistry
Does the truth always prevail when rumors run rampant in the dental community? In this eye-opening episode, Michael and Sandy confront the damaging effects of rumors and misinformation that pervade the dental industry. They tackle the common pitfalls of comparing oneself or one's practice to others, emphasizing how this can erode confidence and productivity. Delving into specific scenarios such as production numbers and appointment cancellations, Sandy and Michael illustrate how external benchmarks often mislead rather than motivate, highlighting the perilous journey of false comparisons. With social platforms like Facebook and Dentaltown serving as breeding grounds for misinformation, Sandy sheds light on how these spaces can exacerbate fears and quash morale. Her key message? Look inward. Dentists should optimize their internal systems and focus on teamwork to drive success, instead of seeking solace in unreliable sources. The duo offers practical advice to reclaim control, foster positivity, and nurture a practice culture built on verified insights and self-assured growth. What You'll Learn in This Episode: The risks of comparing your dental practice to others. How rumors and misinformation impact morale and decision-making. Effective strategies for improving internal systems and team dynamics. The role of social media in spreading falsehoods within the dental community. Ways to build confidence by focusing on internal measures and outcomes. Tune in to discover how to shield your practice from the clutches of damaging rumors and boost your team's morale! Sponsors: Do you need a new website or marketing agency? Check out what DocSites can do for you: Mentions and Links: Communities/Groups: People:
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Silence the Rumors: Building a Gossip-Free Practice
10/30/2024
Silence the Rumors: Building a Gossip-Free Practice
Is gossip silently drilling holes in your dental practice, eroding trust and harmony? In this episode of Dental Drill Bits, Michael and Sandy embark on a candid exploration of gossip within dental offices. Sandy dives deep, demystifying the corrosive nature of workplace chatter, sharing eye-opening stories, and offering firsthand insights. With the lively discussion, they expose how gossip not only deteriorates team morale but also impacts patient care subtly yet significantly. Sandy's storytelling captures the gravity of gossip as she narrates the poignant poem "Nobody's Friend," serving as a stark reminder of its potential damage. Michael and Sandy arm you with actionable strategies to cultivate a gossip-free work environment. The episode underscores the power of clear communication, fostering team agreements, and how leaders can actively counter gossip's spread. This episode promises to enlighten dental teams on the path to nurturing a more cohesive, trusting workplace where everyone thrives. What You'll Learn in This Episode: The hidden costs of gossip on team morale and patient care. Practical strategies for fostering a gossip-free work environment. The importance of clear communication in preventing workplace gossip. How to implement team agreements to strengthen workplace harmony. The critical role leaders play in addressing and mitigating gossip. Tune in now to eliminate gossip and build a healthier, more united practice! Mentions and Links: Communities/Groups: Events: Poems: Hotels: People:
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Productivity Killers in Dentistry Unveiled | Part 2
10/23/2024
Productivity Killers in Dentistry Unveiled | Part 2
Have you ever wondered why some practices struggle with last-minute cancellations while others maintain a steady flow of happy patients? In this part 2 of the Productivity Killers in Dentistry Unveiled series, Michael and Sandy pull back the curtain on one of the biggest challenges in the dental industry: broken appointments. Sandy dives deep into the tactics for addressing this issue head-on, offering invaluable advice on the "appointment wrap-up" process. From ensuring seamless handoffs between your technical and front office teams to mastering patient interactions, especially with newcomers, Sandy's strategies are a game-changer. This episode isn't just about maintaining a schedule; it's about transforming how your practice approaches patient management. Michael and Sandy stress the critical role of verbal techniques in appointment confirmations and the necessity of understanding patient behavior. By tightening the reins on scheduling and honing communication skills, you will see a noticeable decrease in broken appointments. Whether you're a dentist, office manager, or anyone involved in patient management, these insights could revolutionize your daily operations, maintaining a professional environment that's both efficient and patient-friendly. What You'll Learn in This Episode: The "appointment wrap-up" process to prevent broken appointments. Techniques for effective handoffs between technical and front office teams. Strategies for minimizing cancellations by understanding patient behavior. Verbal techniques to improve appointment confirmation. The importance of rigorous training and communication in scheduling. Tune in now to discover how to successfully minimize broken appointments in your dental practice! Sponsors: Don’t just look ahead. Plan Forward. Discover the dental membership plan partner that empowers your entire office. Created by a team in your shoes. Find out more here, and be sure to mention Dental Drill Bits for a special offer! Mentions and Links: Communities/Groups: Events: Organizations: Places: People: Businesses:
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Productivity Killers in Dentistry Unveiled | Part 1
10/16/2024
Productivity Killers in Dentistry Unveiled | Part 1
Imagine transforming the daily chaos in your practice into a streamlined and efficient operation. In this episode of Dental Drill Bits, Michael and Sandy tackle some of the most disruptive productivity killers facing dental practices today—late patients, broken appointments, no-shows, and cancellations. Sandy brings her expert perspective by emphasizing the necessity of a dedicated scheduler who can artfully manage appointments to minimize chaos and boost productivity. They delve into actionable strategies, such as enhancing patient education, solidifying financial arrangements, and enhancing verbal skills, all designed to ensure patients respect and honor their scheduled times. As they unravel the complexities behind missed appointments, Sandy challenges common misconceptions, like the idea of penalizing patients, by shifting the focus towards proactive solutions and realistic production goals. Michael and Sandy create a warm and welcoming atmosphere, inviting you to reflect on your current practices and consider new approaches. What You'll Learn in This Episode: Effective strategies to minimize late arrivals and cancellations. The importance of having a dedicated appointment scheduler. Techniques for enhancing patient communication and financial arrangements. Insights into setting realistic production goals for dentists. Common misconceptions about penalizing patients for missed appointments. Tune in now to discover the secrets to maintaining a productive dental practice! Sponsors: Do you need a new website or marketing agency? Check out what DocSites can do for you: Mentions and Links: Communities/Groups: Events: Sauces: Establishments/Brands:
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Working Interviews in Dentistry: Are They Worth the Risk? | From Post to Podcast
10/09/2024
Working Interviews in Dentistry: Are They Worth the Risk? | From Post to Podcast
Should you have working interviews? In this episode of Dental Drill Bits, Michael and Sandy unravel the complexities of hiring processes in dental practices that often fly under the radar. They take a closer look at the commonly used "working interviews" and reveal the legal pitfalls and inefficiencies often associated with them. But fear not, as they guide you through innovative strategies to better evaluate potential hires. With their expert advice, you'll learn how to navigate these challenges with ease and ensure your dentistry team is top-notch. Get ready to transform your interview process into a sharp, strategic tool for hiring the best talent. Sandy introduces the game-changing idea of using detailed written tests to tap into candidates' problem-solving prowess, mathematical skills, and situational reactions. You'll discover the power of personalized interview questions and the subtle yet telling observations that body language provides. Plus, Sandy shares practical tactics on refining your interview techniques, crafting skill assessments, and ensuring every step aligns with legal standards. What You'll Learn in This Episode: The legal and functional drawbacks of typical "working interviews." Innovative strategies for effective candidate evaluation. The role of written tests in assessing key skills. How to interpret and leverage candidates' body language. Essential tactics for tailoring interview questions. Steps to ensure legal compliance throughout the hiring process. Tune in now to revolutionize your practice’s hiring approach with proven strategies! Sponsors: Don’t just look ahead. Plan Forward. Discover the dental membership plan partner that empowers your entire office. Created by a team in your shoes. Find out more here, and be sure to mention Dental Drill Bits for a special offer! Mentions and Links: Communities/Groups: Events: Services: Equipment: Tests:
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Why Is Your Practice Slow? Here's What's Often Overlooked | From Post to Podcast
10/02/2024
Why Is Your Practice Slow? Here's What's Often Overlooked | From Post to Podcast
Puzzled by a sudden slowdown in your practice after a period of steady growth? In this episode of Dental Drill Bits, Michael and Sandy tackle this very dilemma, driven by a listener's concern about a drop in activity despite continuous marketing efforts. Sandy shines a light on the inevitable ebbs and flows of the dental business, detailing how peaks and valleys are quite common. While it's tempting to look at external factors, she emphasizes that the real key lies with internal operations—how well your team navigates daily tasks, engages with patients, and adheres to promotional schedules can make or break your growth momentum. With unshakeable opinion and experience, both Michael and Sandy underscore the importance of a rock-solid front office, the urgency of consistent follow-ups, and impeccable communication. They delve into actionable strategies and best practices for maintaining top-notch performance, regardless of external fluctuations. By the end, Sandy empowers practice owners to reclaim the reins of their success, conveying that much of what determines business growth is within their control. What You'll Learn in This Episode: Why your dental practice might experience sudden drops in activity despite ongoing marketing The significance of internal factors—appointment handling, teamwork, and consistent promotional efforts How urgent, organized front-office operations contribute to maintaining growth Methods for effective communication within a dental team to tackle periods of low activity Encouraging insights about controlling your practice's success through proactive management Ready to turn unpredictable slowdowns into steady growth for your dental practice? Tune into today's conversation! Sponsors: Do you need a new website or marketing agency? Check out what DocSites can do for you: Mentions and Links: Communities/Groups: Marketing: People:
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Should Your Practice Offer Profit-Based or Flat Bonus Schemes? | From Post to Podcast
09/25/2024
Should Your Practice Offer Profit-Based or Flat Bonus Schemes? | From Post to Podcast
Imagine turning your practice into a thriving hub by simply tweaking your bonus structures for your office manager. This episode of Dental Drill Bits delves into the nuances of crafting successful bonus systems that align with your practice's financial goals. Michael and Sandy engage in an insightful discussion exploring profit-increasing bonuses versus flat raises, focusing on ensuring these incentives are both motivating and sustainable. Sandy advises on basing bonuses on collections instead of production for financial stability while offering strategies to set clear, transparent benchmarks to foster a win-win situation. Listen in as Sandy introduces the concept of attendance-based bonuses designed to boost team morale and punctuality. She emphasizes that aiming for clarity before introducing any bonus structures is critical since such benefits can be challenging to retract once they're part of the system. Wrapping up on a practical note, Sandy underscores the importance of evaluating the financial impacts thoroughly. What You'll Learn in This Episode: How to choose between profit-increasing bonuses and flat raises. Why basing bonuses on collections rather than production benefits your practice. Strategies for setting transparent and achievable benchmarks. The potential advantages of attendance-based bonuses for team morale. Important considerations for financial implications before implementing bonus plans. Ready to refine your practice's bonus structure and watch your team thrive? Don't miss this episode! Sponsors: Don’t just look ahead. Plan Forward. Discover the dental membership plan partner that empowers your entire office. Created by a team in your shoes. Find out more here, and be sure to mention Dental Drill Bits for a special offer! Mentions and Links: Communities/Groups: Events:
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Claims to Cash: Optimizing Your Dental Insurance Process | From Post to Podcast
09/18/2024
Claims to Cash: Optimizing Your Dental Insurance Process | From Post to Podcast
How can you master the art of insurance collections and minimize outstanding claims? In today's episode, Michael and Sandy dive deep into the essentials of managing insurance collections with expert insights that can save your practice valuable time and resources. Sandy explains the critical importance of timely and consistent follow-up on insurance claims and recommends designating a specific day each week for this task to streamline operations. Meticulous tracking of claims—whether using spreadsheets or software reports—and conducting follow-up every three weeks are essential strategies Sandy advocates for. Sandy warns about the pitfalls of outsourcing insurance management without proper oversight, emphasizing that understanding and smoothly handling these processes within your own practice can lead to tremendous benefits. What You'll Learn in This Episode: Why timely and consistent follow-up on insurance claims is crucial Best practices for designating specific days for managing collections tasks The benefits of tracking claims meticulously using spreadsheets or software The recommended frequency for following up on claims What you need to know before considering outsourcing insurance management The significance of electronic payments in streamlining your practice operations Don't miss this opportunity to elevate your practice's efficiency—tune in now! Sponsors: Do you need a new website or marketing agency? Check out what DocSites can do for you: Mentions and Links: Communities/Groups: Tools/Software: Brands:
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Ditching Insurance Dependency: Benefits of Dental Membership Programs | From Post to Podcast
09/11/2024
Ditching Insurance Dependency: Benefits of Dental Membership Programs | From Post to Podcast
In this episode, Sandy dives deep into the myriad benefits of dental membership plans, revealing how they are game-changers for increasing patient loyalty and cutting the ties from heavy reliance on dental insurance. Through comprehensive discussion and real-life examples from various practices, Sandy illuminates the substantial impact these plans have on both patient retention and revenue growth, backing it all up with compelling statistics. Learn how integrating dental membership plans and using tools like Plan Forward software can streamline your management process while enhancing patient satisfaction! What You'll Learn in This Episode: How dental membership plans enhance patient loyalty. The role dental membership plans play in reducing reliance on insurance. Key statistics showing increased patient retention through membership plans. How to leverage Plan Forward software for hassle-free management. Real-world success stories from practices implementing membership plans. Strategies to exponentially grow your revenue with dental memberships. Methods to effectively market and manage your membership program. Tune in now and see how membership plans could help your office! Sponsors: Don’t just look ahead. Plan Forward. Discover the dental membership plan partner that empowers your entire office. Created by a team in your shoes. Find out more here, and be sure to mention Dental Drill Bits for a special offer! Mentions and Links: Communities/Groups: Events: Services/Tools: Contact:
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Crush the Q4 Crunch: The Survival Guide for Fourth Quarter
09/04/2024
Crush the Q4 Crunch: The Survival Guide for Fourth Quarter
Are your ready to tackle the fourth quarter crunch and boost productivity in your practice? Join Michael and Sandy on this high-impact episode of Dental Drill Bits as they break down transformative strategies to keep your practice thriving, even during the most challenging times. Gain practical advice through Sandy's shared anecdotes on everything from managing missed appointments to tackling unscheduled treatments and sustaining team momentum throughout slow months. Track your key performance indicators, enforce consistent procedures, improve follow-up communication, and ensure proactive scheduling—all key takeaways to help you end the fiscal year with strong, positive numbers. Don't miss this chance to arm yourself with essential tips for a robust dental practice. What You'll Learn in This Episode: How consistently following specific actions can keep your dental practice always on the move. Effective methods to handle missed appointments and bridge the gap with unscheduled treatments. Why proactive communication and diligent follow-ups can save your schedule. Tips for delivering top productivity during off-peak times of the year. Which performance reports to pull and what insights they might reveal. Steps to enhance productivity and identifying actionable improvement areas. Listen to ensure your dental practice is prepped to finish the year on a high! Sponsors: Don’t just look ahead. Plan Forward. Discover the dental membership plan partner that empowers your entire office. Created by a team in your shoes. Find out more here, and be sure to mention Dental Drill Bits for a special offer! Mentions and Links: Communities/Groups: Events: Brands/Businesses: Places/Establishments: Analytics/Reports:
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Why Your Practice Might Only Need Team Leaders, Not an Office Manager
08/28/2024
Why Your Practice Might Only Need Team Leaders, Not an Office Manager
What happens when you appoint someone an office manager without proper training? In today's rerun episode Michael and Sandy dive deep into this critical issue afflicting many dental practices. They explore the stark differences between an office manager and a front office employee, debunking common misconceptions that can lead to team conflicts and inefficiencies. Sandy illustrates that in practices with under ten employees, appointing team leaders for different departments is a more effective strategy than designating an office manager. Furthermore, the episode highlights the essential role of an office manager as a key liaison, running protocols, handling team trainings, and guiding workflows, while they should steer clear from patient-facing roles. This division ensures each person contributes their best to the team's success. What You'll Learn in This Episode: The true differences between an office manager and a front office employee Why mislabeling roles can create chaos within a dental practice Ideal staff filling roles when you have fewer than ten employees Core responsibilities that should define an office manager's tasks Areas an office manager should avoid to ensure focused management Importance of effective communication with and among dental office teams How to handle and improve issues with existing office managers The key qualities an aspiring office manager should possess Understanding the structural integrity needed for harmonious office dynamics Tips on restructuring practices to incite better efficiency and cohesion Set your dental practice on the road to ultimate success—Listen to this episode now! (This episode originally aired on Nov 03, 2022) Mentions and Links: Communities/Groups:
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Transform Your Dental Website Into a Patient Magnet
08/21/2024
Transform Your Dental Website Into a Patient Magnet
How can YOUR practice stand out in the crowded online space? In this episode, Michael, Sandy, and Ali dive into proven strategies for enhancing your practice's online presence. Joined by Ali from DocSites, a leader in dental websites and marketing, the conversation reveals how to keep your website fresh and engaging. From showcasing compelling before-and-after photos to ensuring your team and service information is always current, Ali provides actionable tips that can attract new patients and keep your existing ones loyal. But it doesn't stop at just updating your website. Ali discusses the significant impact online reviews can have on your practice's reputation and offers a glimpse into effective marketing tools like Google Ads and SEO. Even more, this episode introduces a fantastic free web assessment offered by DocSites that can help you pinpoint areas for improvement with your site! What You'll Learn in This Episode: Why keeping your website content updated is essential for patient engagement. The importance of showcasing before-and-after photos on your website. How online reviews can significantly influence new patient acquisition. Effective tools and strategies for dental marketing, including Google Ads and SEO. The benefits of a free web assessment offered by DocSites to improve your website. How to create and maintain a system for regular updates. Don’t miss this opportunity to supercharge your practice's online presence—tune in now! Sponsors: Do you need a new website or marketing agency? Check out what DocSites can do for you: You can also reach out to Ali here! Mentions and Links: Communities/Groups: Tools/Software: Brands/Businesses: Practices:
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Consulting vs. Coaching: Which Does Your Practice Need?
08/14/2024
Consulting vs. Coaching: Which Does Your Practice Need?
Are you unsure about how consulting might help your dental practice? In this episode, Michael and Sandy dive deep into the transformative power of consulting versus coaching in the dental world. They clarify that while coaching hones the personal development of your team, consulting zeros in on your business's heartbeat—its systems, organization, and overall operational efficiency. From reducing stress to improving overall practice productivity, they paint a vivid picture of how the right consultant can turn a chaotic office into a well-oiled machine. Sandy shares invaluable tips on choosing the right consultant, stressing the importance of experience, and steering clear of advice from inexperienced sources or online hearsay. They candidly discuss common challenges and misconceptions team members have about consulting, and provide practical advice for seamlessly introducing a consultant to your team. By the end of this episode, you’ll understand how consultants can provide ongoing support well beyond mere initial implementation, and why viewing them as temporary "training wheels" can eventually lead your practice to smooth, independent operation. Don't forget to check out Classic Practice Resources and join the conversation in the Dental Gumbo Facebook group! What You'll Learn in This Episode: The crucial differences between consulting and coaching for dental practices. How consultants can help improve systems, organization, and reduce practitioner stress. Why experience is key when selecting a consultant and red flags to watch for. Common team challenges and misconceptions about working with consultants. Tangible benefits of consulting, like increased productivity and better team training. Practical tips for effectively introducing a consultant to your team. Insights into Classic Practice Resources’ approach to consulting, including ongoing support. Ready to transform your practice with an effective consultant? Tune in to get all the details! Sponsors: Do you need a new website or marketing agency? Check out what Docsites can do for you: Mentions and Links: Communities/Groups: Events: Tools/Software: People: Brands:
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Dental Practice Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
08/07/2024
Dental Practice Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
What pitfalls are most common in dental practices? In this episode, Michael and Sandy unpack the challenges and strategies that can make all the difference. From mastering efficient systems to ensuring your team remains accountable, Sandy's insights will steer you away from common pitfalls like the notorious slow periods in August and September. With a focus on tracking crucial metrics and recognizing trends, this conversation is packed with actionable advice for keeping your practice bustling year-round. But that’s not all—Sandy emphasizes the irreplaceable value of proactive communication and patient follow-up. Discover effective techniques for team training, how to maintain a dependable system for patient retention, and the best ways to handle unscheduled treatment follow-ups. As the episode wraps up, Sandy shares her upcoming seminars dedicated to continuous learning and improvement, inviting you to further your practice management skills. What You'll Learn in This Episode: How to maintain efficient systems in a dental practice. Strategies for retaining patients and ensuring team accountability. The importance of tracking numbers and understanding trends. How to prevent and manage slow periods, specifically in August and September. Best practices for proactive communication and patient follow-up. Effective methods for team training and development. Systems for patient retention and handling unscheduled treatments. Dive into this episode now to find out what common pitfalls your practice needs to avoid! Sponsors: Do you need a new website or marketing agency? Check out what Docsites can do for you: Mentions and Links: Communities/Groups: Events: Places: Software/Tools: Stats:
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Enhancing the Patient Experience With an Effective Handoff
07/31/2024
Enhancing the Patient Experience With an Effective Handoff
How can your practice ensure a seamless and enjoyable patient experience from start to finish? In this episode, Michael and Sandy delve into the critical role of effective communication and smooth handoffs in transforming dental visits into positive experiences. They unravel the nuances of ensuring clear, empathetic communication at every touchpoint during the patient's journey, especially during transitions between different stages of their appointments. The conversation is packed with actionable insights on implementing structured handoffs, involving patients in the process, and the importance of using plain language. Empowering your dental team with tools like detailed scripts and role-playing exercises can dramatically improve patient interactions and build a patient-centered culture. By fostering an environment of empathy, understanding, and clear follow-up communication, practices can elevate their service and retain more patients. What You'll Learn in This Episode: The impact of clear and empathetic communication on patient experience How to involve patients in their care transition process Techniques for structuring handoffs within the dental team Importance of avoiding technical jargon with patients Strategies to validate patient experiences and build trust How to ensure clear and effective follow-up on treatments and appointments The role of role-playing in refining team communication skills Tips for creating a patient-centered culture in the dental office Don't miss this episode to transform your patient's dental experience from routine to remarkable! Sponsors: Do you need a new website or marketing agency? Check out what Docsites can do for you: Mentions and Links: Communities/Groups: Events:
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Wake-Up Calls That Every Leader Needs to Hear
07/24/2024
Wake-Up Calls That Every Leader Needs to Hear
Are you ready to discover the wake-up calls that can transform your leadership style and elevate your team’s performance? In this episode of Dental Drill Bits, Michael and Sandy delve into crucial leadership lessons that every manager or leader, especially those in dental practices, should heed. Drawing inspiration from the 12 vital wake-up calls designed by Eric Partaker, they break down each point with practical examples and genuine insights, ensuring you leave with a toolkit of actionable steps to improve your leadership skills and your team's dynamic. Throughout the episode, Michael and Sandy discuss how key themes like accountability, handling criticism, and resisting the urge to micromanage can dramatically improve the workplace. From avoiding favoritism to setting clear standards and leading by example, they provide relatable stories and strategies that you can apply immediately. To cap it off, Sandy underlines the significance of recognizing and praising good work while promoting open communication to build a positive and cohesive team culture, ensuring not just a successful practice, but a happier, more motivated team. What You'll Learn in This Episode: The 12 wake-up calls every leader should incorporate to enhance their effectiveness. Strategies for embracing accountability and handling criticism constructively. How to avoid common leadership pitfalls like favoritism and micromanaging. Ways to set clear standards and lead by example. The importance of recognizing and praising team achievements. Techniques for fostering open communication and a positive work environment. Tune in now and start transforming your leadership skills today! Sponsors: Don’t just look ahead. Plan Forward. Discover the dental membership plan partner that empowers your entire office. Created by a team in your shoes. Find out more here, and be sure to mention Dental Drill Bits for a special offer! Mentions and Links: Communities/Groups: Events: Places: Social Media: Businesses:
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The Key to Productive Staff Meetings and Why Your Office Needs Them
07/17/2024
The Key to Productive Staff Meetings and Why Your Office Needs Them
Are staff meetings in your practice driving productivity or just wasting time? In this episode, Michael and Sandy dive deep into the art and science of effective staff meetings, unearthing the transformative power they hold when done right. They explore the contrasts between casual huddles and well-structured meetings, underlining their essential role in fostering communication, training, and team unity. Sandy shares her seasoned strategies for making meetings productive, from appointing a facilitator to engaging the team in planning and decision-making, while also steering clear of common hazards like gripe sessions. Leadership sits at the heart of these discussions, with Michael and Sandy stressing the importance of meaningful interactions that tie directly into the practice’s success. They reveal the benefits of rotating the role of meeting facilitator, celebrating team achievements, and cleverly using tools like suggestion boxes and whiteboards to collect agenda items. Sandy concludes with advice on the meticulous planning and scheduling of these meetings to ensure they remain significant and effective, helping to build a cohesive, motivated team. What You'll Learn in This Episode: How do casual huddles differ from structured staff meetings? What are the key benefits of regular staff meetings in dental practices? Strategies for appointing a meeting facilitator and engaging the team. Common pitfalls to avoid during staff meetings. Why leadership is crucial in making meetings productive. The advantages of rotating the facilitator role. Tips for celebrating team achievements during meetings. How to use tools like suggestion boxes and whiteboards for agenda setting. Best practices for planning and scheduling effective staff meetings. How to maintain meeting importance and engagement over time. Let's jump into today's episode on effective staff meetings! Sponsors: Do you need a new website or marketing agency? Check out what Docsites can do for you: Mentions and Links: Communities/Groups: Events:
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The Top 3 Reasons Patients Aren't Accepting Your Treatment Plan
07/10/2024
The Top 3 Reasons Patients Aren't Accepting Your Treatment Plan
Ever wonder why patients often decline treatment and how you can address these objections effectively? In this episode, Michael and Sandy dive deep into the top three most common excuses patients give: fear, lack of awareness, and financial concerns. Sandy sheds light on why recognizing these objections is crucial and offers actionable strategies for overcoming them. Through compelling examples, she underscores the importance of educating patients about the benefits of timely care and mastering verbal skills, including the art of voice inflection, to present treatment plans compellingly. Sandy doesn’t stop there. She explains how role-playing and regular training can transform your dental team's approach, making patients feel more at ease and informed. By the end of this enlightening discussion, you'll understand how to create a comforting environment for your patients, empowering them to move forward with necessary treatments. Tune in to harness the power of effective communication and patient education in your practice. What You'll Learn in This Episode: How to identify and address patient fears regarding dental treatments. Techniques to inform patients who are unaware of their dental needs. Strategies for handling financial objections to dental care. The role of verbal skills and voice inflection in presenting treatment plans. The impact of role-playing and team training on patient interactions. Ways to make patients feel comfortable and informed during decision-making. Tips for educating patients about the benefits of timely dental treatments. Transform the way you handle patient objections by listening to this episode today! Sponsors: Don’t just look ahead. Plan Forward. Discover the dental membership plan partner that empowers your entire office. Created by a team in your shoes. Find out more here, and be sure to mention Dental Drill Bits for a special offer! Mentions and Links: Communities/Groups: Events: Brands: Places: Organizations:
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How to Hold High-Impact Department Meetings in Your Practice
07/03/2024
How to Hold High-Impact Department Meetings in Your Practice
Are you struggling to streamline your practice’s front office operations while juggling departments, patients, and metrics? In this episode, Michael and Sandy delve into the essentials of managing a successful practice, starting with the highlights of Sandy's recent webinar and her upcoming seminar in Boston. The conversation quickly transitions into a focused discussion around a listener's question on maintaining consistent department meetings and tracking pivotal metrics. Sandy offers an actionable guide on conducting effective meetings, complete with tips on following up on assignments, gathering feedback, and defining clear objectives. Specific topics like tracking new patient conversions, handling broken appointments, and managing production and collections metrics take the forefront. By the end of this episode, you'll grasp the importance of accountability, clear communication, and performance metrics in leading your practice to success. What You'll Learn in This Episode: How to run effective and consistent department meetings. Tips for following up on previous assignments and setting clear goals. Key metrics to track for the smooth operation of a dental practice. The importance of tracking new patient conversions and handling broken appointments. Best practices for managing production and collection metrics. Strategies for efficiently managing insurance claims and ensuring accountability. Benefits of in-person training and special promotions for upcoming seminars. Tune in today to learn about department meetings, metrics, and paying attention to what matters in your practice! Sponsors: Do you need a new website or marketing agency? Check out what Docsites can do for you: Mentions and Links: Communities/Groups: Events: Books: Services:
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Trained to Thrive: Why This Boosts Your Profitability 11%+ Year Over Year
06/26/2024
Trained to Thrive: Why This Boosts Your Profitability 11%+ Year Over Year
How transformative can employee training be for your practice? In this episode of Dental Drill Bits, Michael and Sandy delve into the critical role of structured training programs and their immense benefits on profitability, employee satisfaction, and patient care. Sandy illuminates the stark contrast between trained and untrained employees, revealing how targeted investments in specialized programs can significantly enhance your practice’s performance and efficiency. The duo also shares a wealth of practical advice on implementing effective training within your office, covering everything from verbal skills and role-playing exercises to comprehensive onboarding protocols. Sandy makes a compelling case for the necessity of consistent training, emphasizing how it leads to predictable outcomes, boosts employee retention, and propels overall practice success. They remind practice owners that despite budget challenges, investing in training is pivotal and suggest starting with free resources like podcasts to begin the journey toward excellence. What You'll Learn in This Episode: How structured training programs boost profitability and employee satisfaction. The significant differences between trained and untrained employees. Practical steps for effective employee training within a dental office. The long-term benefits of consistent training and its impact on practice success. How to utilize free resources like podcasts for initial training investments. Ready to elevate your dental practice through strategic training? Don’t miss out on this episode of Dental Drill Bits! Sponsors: Elevate Patient Care with Automation: Are you looking for dental software that puts your patients first? From online scheduling to online forms, patient communication, and office coordination – Yapi simplifies every step of the patient experience. Find out more here, and be sure to mention Dental Drill Bits for a special offer! Mentions and Links: Events: Community/Groups: Products:
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Underperforming Team? How to Transform Underachievers to the Stars of Your Practice
06/19/2024
Underperforming Team? How to Transform Underachievers to the Stars of Your Practice
Underperforming team members in your practice? In this episode, Michael and Sandy dive deep into the intricacies of practice management, starting from upcoming seminars to managing underperforming team members without rocking the boat. Sandy shares her wealth of experience on the art of effective communication, setting realistic goals, seeking constructive feedback, and the crucial follow-up processes needed to help your team excel. Her emphasis on thorough training, meticulous documentation, and structured management will leave you equipped with practical tools to ensure your practice runs smoothly. Moreover, this episode tackles one of the most daunting aspects of practice management: dealing with the potential need to fire staff. Sandy uncovers common concerns doctors face and provides thoughtful, methodical steps to navigate this challenging terrain. What You'll Learn in This Episode: How to communicate effectively with underperforming team members. Steps to setting realistic and achievable goals for your team. Techniques for seeking and using employee feedback to improve practice performance. The importance of training and documentation in maintaining a high-functioning team. Structured management strategies to optimize your practice. Approaches to handling the difficult decision of firing staff. Tune in to harness these insights and elevate your dental practice management skills today! Sponsors: Don’t just look ahead. Plan Forward. Discover the dental membership plan partner that empowers your entire office. Created by a team in your shoes. Find out more here, and be sure to mention Dental Drill Bits for a special offer! Do you need a new website or marketing agency? Check out what Docsites can do for you: Mentions and Links: Communities/Groups: Events:
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Pro Phone Skills: Avoiding Common Front Desk Pitfalls in Practices
06/12/2024
Pro Phone Skills: Avoiding Common Front Desk Pitfalls in Practices
How can your front desk team transform every call into a positive patient experience? In this episode, Sandy draws from her recent speaking engagements at the Delivering WOW Summit to uncover key strategies for top-notch front office communication. She also previews her upcoming seminar, Front Desk Pro, set to take place in Boston on August 23rd, revealing the secrets to boosting front office performance. Michael and Sandy tackle real-world phone interactions, from handling insurance queries to managing cancellations, ensuring that your front desk makes a lasting impression. But it’s not just about what you say; it's also about how you say it. This episode underscores the critical role of tone, verbal skills, and intuitive call handling. Sandy shares practical advice on avoiding the pitfalls of sounding robotic and burdening patients with unnecessary tasks. With actionable tips and relatable scenarios, this episode is a must-listen for any practice aiming to elevate their front desk etiquette and foster a welcoming, efficient environment for every caller. What You'll Learn in This Episode: How to handle common phone interactions effectively in your practice. Techniques for making a positive first impression over the phone. The do's and don'ts of discussing insurance with patients. Strategies for dealing with appointment cancellations smoothly. The importance of tone and verbal skills in patient communication. How to implement a call-handling system to avoid common pitfalls. Ways to promote your practice during phone calls. Ready to transform your front desk team's phone skills and enhance your dental practice's first impressions? Tune in to today's episode! Sponsors: Elevate Patient Care with Automation: Are you looking for dental software that puts your patients first? From online scheduling to online forms, patient communication, and office coordination – Yapi simplifies every step of the patient experience. Find out more here, and be sure to mention Dental Drill Bits for a special offer! Mentions and Links: Events: Community/Groups: Insurance Companies: Brands:
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Why Dental Membership Plans Are NOT Only for Low-Income Patients
06/05/2024
Why Dental Membership Plans Are NOT Only for Low-Income Patients
Dental membership plans are only for low-income patients, right? Join Michael and Sandy in this episode of Dental Drill Bits as they sit down with Megan Lohman to debunk common myths surrounding dental membership plans. Megan dives into the core advantages of Plan Forward, a tool designed to streamline the creation and management of dental membership plans. She reveals how these plans are not just exclusive to low-income regions but can be effectively tailored to a wide range of demographics, including affluent areas and retirees without dental insurance. Megan busts myths and shares eye-opening statistics about the significant portion of Americans lacking dental insurance, shedding light on how transparent pricing through membership plans can promote better dental care. Addressing concerns about potential revenue reduction, Megan explains how offering discounts can actually lead to increased patient visits and higher treatment acceptance rates, ultimately boosting overall revenue. She provides actionable strategies to add substantial value to your membership plans, such as including emergency visits and fluoride treatments, and emphasizes the role of Plan Forward in enhancing efficiency. By the end of the episode, you'll understand why simplifying and tracking membership plans is crucial for your practice's success. What You'll Learn in This Episode: Why dental membership plans are not just for low-income patients How to tailor membership plans for various demographics The significant number of Americans without dental insurance Strategies for making dental pricing transparent and manageable Debunking concerns about reduced revenue from membership plans How offering discounts can boost patient visits and treatment acceptance Value-added elements to include in membership plans Strategies for tracking performance and gaining team support Don’t miss out on this game-changing conversation! Tune in now to uncover the full potential of dental membership plans for your practice. Sponsors: Don’t just look ahead. Plan Forward. Discover the dental membership plan partner that empowers your entire office. Created by a team in your shoes. Find out more here, and be sure to mention Dental Drill Bits for a special offer! Mentions and Links: Community/Groups:
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Are You Asking the Right Questions While Interviewing?
05/29/2024
Are You Asking the Right Questions While Interviewing?
Can you really find the perfect fit for your practice through better interviewing techniques? In this episode of Dental Drill Bits, Michael and Sandy uncover effective hiring strategies that can transform how you build your team. They explore the essentials of preparation, from the types of questions that reveal a candidate’s true nature to the value of incorporating personality and intelligence tests. You'll learn how to uncover what candidates expect in terms of salary and work environment, and why having a comprehensive policy manual and organized systems are non-negotiable for running a smooth operation. But it’s not just about the mechanics of interviewing. This episode also sheds light on the softer side of hiring—like creating a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere that retains top talent and the benefit of involving your team in hiring decisions. With practical advice tailored for dental practices, Michael and Sandy offer a masterclass in aligning your hiring practices with your practice’s culture and long-term goals. What You'll Learn in This Episode: Key strategies for effective interview preparation. The types of interview questions that uncover a candidate's true nature. Importance of personality and intelligence tests in the hiring process. How to identify candidates' expectations about salary and work environment. The role of a policy manual and organized systems in hiring. Questions to ask (and avoid) to assess candidate fit. Creating a welcoming and inclusive work environment to retain staff. Integrating team opinions in the hiring process. Practical advice for improving your dental practice’s hiring process. Don’t miss out on these game-changing insights—tune in to the full episode now! Sponsors: Do you need a new website or marketing agency? Check out what Docsites can do for you: Mentions and Links: Communities/Groups: Events: Tools/Resources:
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