The Golden Age of Orthodontics

Dr. Leon Klempner
  • 5.0 (22)
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  • UPDATED MONTHLY

Are you an Orthodontist wondering how to grow your practice in this fast-paced, competitive marketplace that seems to be changing every day? The Golden Age of Orthodontics, formerly The Survival Guide for Orthodontists podcast, is dedicated to making you the authority in orthodontics to prospective new patients in your community. Dr. Leon Klempner and Amy Epstein, co-founders of People & Practice, know the business of orthodontics. They bring you insights, tips and guest interviews focused on helping you thrive in a massively disrupted industry. Put more patients in chairs by competing on expertise and trust, not the lowest fees. Dedicated to making you the authority in orthodontics.

  1. How Angel Aligner Grew By Offering An Aligner Alternative

    JAN 27

    How Angel Aligner Grew By Offering An Aligner Alternative

    Clear aligner orthodontics is evolving rapidly, and Angel Aligner is making waves in the North American market. On this episode of the Golden Age of Orthodontics podcast, hosts Dr. Leon Klempner and Amy Epstein welcome Jason Tabb, VP and GM of Angel Aligner North America, to discuss digital orthodontics, aligner treatment capabilities, and competitive market differentiation. Jason shares insights on Angel Aligner's innovative approach to complex cases, including mandibular advancement, unique aligner buttons, and digital workflow improvements. The conversation also addresses intellectual property concerns and how orthodontic practices can leverage aligner technology to enhance efficiency and patient outcomes. What you will Learn in this Episode: How Angel Aligner has rapidly scaled in the North American market through orthodontic innovation and responsive case setup designThe latest aligner technology advancements, including integrated aligner buttons, Angel Hook, and dual-material aligner systems for complex casesStrategies for orthodontic practices to improve efficiency with digital workflow solutions and treatment planning toolsHow to evaluate aligner treatment options based on clinical performance, turnaround times, and market differentiation Subscribe to the Golden Age of Orthodontics and our sister podcast, Practice Talk, hosted by Lacey Ellis, wherever you listen to stay updated on orthodontic innovation and real-world practice strategies. Visit People in Practice for more insights and to connect with our team for practice growth solutions. TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 Amy shares the upcoming guest schedule and invites listeners to the Practice Talk podcast 04:11 Jason Tabb discusses Angel Aligner's entry strategy and why orthodontists responded to their market differentiation 08:53 Latest aligner technology innovations, including aligner buttons, Angel Button, Angel Hook, and mandibular advancement systems 13:56 Addressing intellectual property concerns and Angel Aligner's commitment to fair competition 15:44 Future of digital orthodontics and how aligner treatment improves practice efficiency KEY TAKEAWAYS: Angel Aligner differentiates through ease of doing business, consistent case setup quality, and specialized solutions for complex cases, including mandibular advancement, premolar extraction, and molar distalizationThe aligner button and Angel Hook innovations are integrated directly into aligners, reducing emergency visits and enabling treatment planning for challenging Class II and Class III cases with aligner therapyDigital orthodontics investments typically show ROI within 12-18 months as orthodontic practices gain workflow efficiency, treat larger patient loads, and meet growing patient demand for clear aligner orthodontics ABOUT THE GUEST: Angel Aligner - Website a...

    23 min
  2. What The Data Really Says About Orthodontics in 2026 with Chris Bentson

    12/18/2025

    What The Data Really Says About Orthodontics in 2026 with Chris Bentson

    Orthodontic practice management expert Chris Bentson, Founder, Bentson Copple Patterson & Associates, joins hosts Dr. Leon Klempner and Amy Epstein on the Golden Age of Orthodontics podcast to analyze the competitive landscape facing private practice orthodontics in 2026. With nearly four decades of experience in practice valuation and business strategy, Bentson shares critical data showing 3.5% growth in patient starts after three years of decline. The conversation explores how DSO consolidation is reshaping the specialty, why digital orthodontics technology is essential for differentiation, and what data-driven decision-making reveals about successful practices versus struggling ones. Bentson discusses the impact of federal student loan caps on new residents, the lifecycle of consolidation, and why practices that embrace consumer experience innovations, such as remote monitoring, consistently outperform competitors across every operational metric. What you will Learn in this Episode: ✅ How independent orthodontic practices can compete effectively against corporate consolidation by leveraging digital technology and improving the consumer experience throughout the patient journey ✅ Why practices that engage with consultants and implement data-driven decision making consistently outperform in every operational and financial metric, including practice overhead management ✅ What the latest industry data reveals about practice growth strategies for 2026, including why patient starts are finally showing positive growth after three consecutive years of decline ✅ How new federal student loan caps will impact residents and create opportunities for marketing for orthodontists who want to attract young doctors seeking private practice  Subscribe to the Golden Age of Orthodontics and our sister podcast, Practice Talk, hosted by Lacie Ellis, wherever you listen to stay updated on orthodontic innovation and real-world practice strategies. Visit People in Practice for more insights and to connect with our team for practice growth solutions. TIMESTAMPS:  00:00 Discussion featuring orthodontic practice management expert Chris Bentson, discussing data-driven decision making that will shape private practice orthodontics in 2026 08:33 The competitive reality for private practice orthodontics, the impact of DSO consolidation and increased overhead pressure 11:36 2025 growth data showing a 3.5% increase in production and 2% growth in patient starts, signaling positive momentum for orthodontic practice management in 2026 19:02 Discussion of why only 20% of orthodontists engage consultants, OSOs and DSOs, and  data-driven decision-making and marketing for orthodontists 23:31 Analysis of new federal student loan caps, including how private practice orthodontics owners can attract young doctors and the future of practice valuation  30:31 Digital orthodontics investment strategy for new practice owners, using both custom braces and clear aligner therapy, is necessary  39:26 Discovering the “Why” in becoming an orthodontist KEY TAKEAWAYS:  💎 The competitive landscape for private practice orthodontics demands that doctors differentiate beyond "we do braces and aligners"—successful practices embrace digital technology, improve consumer experience, and implement data-driven decision making to outperform the industry average growth of 3.5% 💎 DSO consolidation is in its sixth inning, with only two major aggregators completing recapitalization events, while the...

    47 min
  3. Inside Align: Joe Hogan Answers Orthodontists’ Biggest Questions

    11/20/2025

    Inside Align: Joe Hogan Answers Orthodontists’ Biggest Questions

    Digital orthodontics is transforming the specialty, and in this episode of the Golden Age of Orthodontics, hosts Dr. Leon Klempner and Amy Epstein sit down with Align Technology CEO Joe Hogan to explore what's next for orthodontics. Joe Hogan discusses 3D printed aligners, AI in orthodontics, and how clear aligner technology continues to evolve. He addresses pricing concerns and competitive positioning, and reveals Align's roadmap for direct printing, promising greater design flexibility and efficiency. Learn how AI technology enhances orthodontic treatment planning and discover why Hogan believes technology will expand—not replace—the orthodontic profession. What you will Learn in this Episode: ✅ How digital orthodontics and 3D printing technology are revolutionizing aligner manufacturing, with Align's development of variable wall thickness aligners that mimic the orthodontic digital workflow advantages of traditional brackets while reducing waste by 95%. ✅ The strategic reasons behind Invisalign cost comparison with competitors, including how comprehensive aligner treatment pricing differs globally. ✅ Why orthodontic IP protection matters for innovation, and how Align's billion-dollar investment in ClinCheck software and iTero scanner technology creates efficiency tools that reduce weekend treatment planning time for practitioners. ✅ Joe Hogan's perspective on AI in orthodontics and whether technology will replace orthodontists—plus how orthodontic practice efficiency improvements will actually expand the marketplace and enhance the profession rather than diminish it. Subscribe to the Golden Age of Orthodontics and our sister podcast, Practice Talk, hosted by Lacie Ellis, wherever you listen to stay updated on orthodontic innovation and real-world practice strategies. Visit People in Practice for more insights and to connect with our team for practice growth solutions. TIMESTAMPS:  00:00 Joe Hogan, Align Technology CEO, discussing the future of digital orthodontics and clear aligner technology innovation 07:18 Align's strategic focus on clear aligner therapy versus custom digital braces, and addressing the resurgence of brackets among younger patients 10:25 Joe defends Align’s IP, noting decades of innovation and significant R&D investment 13:36 Invisalign cost comparison explained: why US pricing differs from international markets, new flexible comprehensive aligner treatment options and marketing questions 22:56 Direct 3D printed aligners roadmap: CubiCure acquisition, bio-based resin development, variable wall thickness advantages, and orthodontic practice efficiency gains 28:58 AI in orthodontics and the future of the profession: why technology enhances rather than replaces orthodontists and expands the adult patient marketplace KEY TAKEAWAYS:  💎 Align Technology is pioneering 3D printed aligners with variable wall thickness capabilities through their CubiCure acquisition, enabling customized force application—40 mils on molars versus 10 mils on incisors—that mimics orthodontic digital workflow advantages of traditional brackets while eliminating 95% manufacturing waste and promising future cost efficiencies for practitioners. 💎 Invisalign treatment planning efficiency has dramatically improved with 20-25% of cases now "touchless" requiring minimal orthodontist input at the end, thanks to ClinCheck software, iTero scanner technology, and cloud-based systems that free doctors from weekend treatment planning sessions and enable better remote orthodontic...

    35 min
  4. Treat Earlier, Finish Smarter: Early Aligner Therapy in Real Practice with Dr. Don Spillers

    10/23/2025

    Treat Earlier, Finish Smarter: Early Aligner Therapy in Real Practice with Dr. Don Spillers

    Early orthodontic treatment is transforming how practitioners approach phase one treatment for growing patients. In this episode of the Golden Age Of Orthodontics, hosts Dr. Leon Klempner and Amy Epstein welcome Dr. Don Spillers, a board-certified orthodontist and leading voice in Invisalign First therapy. Dr. Spillers shares how clear aligners for kids are revolutionizing pediatric orthodontics, offering superior compliance, better hygiene, and remarkable arch development without traditional metal appliances. The conversation explores the business impact of treating patients at age seven versus only offering observation, the role of digital orthodontics in the growth of modern practice, and the best age to start orthodontic treatment for children. What you will Learn in this Episode: • How early orthodontic treatment with Invisalign First delivers superior patient compliance and clinical outcomes compared to traditional orthodontic appliances like palatal expanders and headgear • The business impact of implementing aligner therapy for growing patients – including how observation and recall strategies may be costing your practice significant patient attrition to competitors • Why digital orthodontics is revolutionizing phase one treatment with innovations like the Invisalign palatal expander, mandibular advancement wings, and complete digital workflow integration • How treating children during active growth phases supports airway development and arch development, often eliminating the need for primary or permanent tooth extractions Subscribe to the Golden Age of Orthodontics and our sister podcast, Practice Talk, hosted by Lacey Ellis, wherever you listen to stay updated on orthodontic innovation and real-world practice strategies. Visit People in Practice for more insights and to connect with our team for practice growth solutions. TIMESTAMPS:  00:00 Introduction to early orthodontic treatment debate, the evolution of phase one treatment with clear aligners and personal insights from Dr. Leon and Amy Epstein 02:34 Meet Dr. Spillers 09:55 Dr. Don Spillers' journey from Invisalign skeptic to faculty member, teaching digital orthodontics and aligner therapy worldwide 15:43 Patient experience and business impact of implementing Invisalign First – including compliance advantages and practice growth from 30% early intervention orthodontics 19:21 Clinical innovations, including Invisalign palatal expander, mandibular advancement wings, and CBCT integration, showing bone change and airway benefits 28:00 The marketing reality of observation versus treatment – why delaying orthodontic treatment leads to patient attrition and the future of digital pediatric orthodontics by 2030 KEY TAKEAWAYS:  • Early orthodontic treatment with Invisalign First offers a complete digital workflow from scanning to retention, with new tools including the Invisalign palatal expander, mandibular advancement wings, and occlusal blocks – providing every appliance needed to treat growing patients without traditional metal devices • Children ages 7-8 demonstrate superior compliance compared to teenagers, with parents reporting kids remind them when it's time to change aligners – plus treatment causes no pain, allows normal eating and sports, and improves hygiene compared to traditional orthodontic appliances • Practices implementing phase one treatment with aligner therapy experience significant business growth, as observation strategies lead to substantial patient attrition to competitors – moms want immediate...

    37 min
  5. DynaFlex CEO Darren Buddemeyer on Transforming Labs Into Orthodontic Practice Partners

    10/02/2025

    DynaFlex CEO Darren Buddemeyer on Transforming Labs Into Orthodontic Practice Partners

    Clear aligners, digital workflows, and orthodontics shape the future of dental care. Dr. Leon Klempner and Amy Epstein, hosts of the Golden Age of Orthodontics podcast, explore innovations like clear aligners and lab partnerships with Darren Buddemeyer, CEO of DynaFlex. How do technology and trust-based relationships drive practice efficiency? You will hear the answer to that question and discover how labs evolve from vendors to partners, supporting orthodontists with advanced tools and collaboration to thrive in a competitive landscape. What you will Learn in this Episode: ✅How digital orthodontic workflows enhance practice efficiency in modern orthodontics. ✅ The role of clear aligner systems and AI in overcoming corporate competition and practice consolidation. ✅ Benefits of lab partnerships with advanced 3d printing and CAD/CAM technology. ✅ Building trust-based relationships for innovation in remote monitoring. ✅ Evolving from vendors to partners using in-house printing and digital workflows. Subscribe to the Golden Age of Orthodontics and our sister podcast, Practice Talk, hosted by Lacey Ellis, wherever you listen to stay updated on orthodontic innovation and real-world practice strategies. Visit People in Practice for more insights and to connect with our team for practice growth solutions. TIMESTAMPS:  00:00 Clear aligners, AI, and digital workflows in orthodontics 09:13 Darren's journey at DynaFlex emphasizes trust-based relationships and team growth in orthodontics 16:52 Digital orthodontic workflows driving practice efficiency amid corporate competition and DSOs 20:40 DynaFlex and proprietary product development 25:33 Lessons on adopting 3d printing, AI, and clear aligner systems ahead of the curve for lab partnerships 29:50 Trust-based relationships are key to a successful practice KEY TAKEAWAYS:  💎 Digital workflows and clear aligners are transforming orthodontics for better practice efficiency. 💎 DynaFlex’s lab partnership leverages CAD/CAM technology and 3d printing to support orthodontics. 💎 Digital orthodontic workflows enhance practice efficiency against corporate competition. 💎 Early adoption of AI and clear aligner systems strengthens lab partnerships in orthodontics. ABOUT THE GUEST: Darren Buddemeyer is the CEO of DynaFlex, an orthodontic and dental sleep medicine manufacturing company bringing bright smiles and a good nights’ sleep to thousands of people worldwide. Darren took the reins of DynaFlex 30 years ago and grew it from a very small lab to a major manufacturer of orthodontic products, orthodontic appliances and dental sleep medicine devices. Darren learned the value of hard work from a young age. He started working at DynaFlex at the young age of 14, doing odd jobs at the lab. Every week, Darren gave his next-door neighbor – who worked not too far from the company’s lab – $10 in gas money so he could get a ride to work. Those early lessons in the value of a hard day’s work would eventually pay dividends. Today, during Mr. Buddemeyer’ s tenure, DynaFlex has become one of the leading companies in the dental industry. Its reach is worldwide. Darren Buddemeyer - LinkedIn Dynaflex - Website a href="mailto:ceo@dynaflex.com"...

    37 min
  6. Dr. Scott Law on Leadership, Culture, and Building a Billion-Dollar Orthodontic Organization

    08/26/2025

    Dr. Scott Law on Leadership, Culture, and Building a Billion-Dollar Orthodontic Organization

    Join Dr. Leon Klempner and Amy Epstein as they interview Dr. Scott Law, a trailblazing Orthodontist, Philanthropist, and Entrepreneurial Spirit behind Smile Doctors. From humble beginnings to leading a 550-location organization, Dr. Law shares how leadership and culture fuel success in orthodontics. His insights on branding, authenticity, and mentorship, paired with practical tips for navigating technology expenses and fostering relationships, make this episode a must-listen for orthodontists seeking practice growth and a lasting impact through coaching and philanthropy. Remember, as Dr. Leon always says, “There has never been a better time to be an orthodontist!”  IN THIS EPISODE:  (00:00) Introduction(04:04) Discussion on philanthropy: Smile Rescue and Mount Kisco Childcare Center(07:20) Dr. Scott Law, co-founder of Smile Doctors, the largest OSO with over 550 locations(11:14) Smile Doctors' growth from a single practice to a billion-dollar organization, emphasizing culture and leadership(15:19) “Speed of the Leader, Speed of the Team," linking leadership pace to team performance (18:04) Overhead, staffing costs, technology expenses and sound business strategies(21:46) Branding as a reflection of practice culture, stressing authenticity to attract patients(27:20) Dr. Law stresses relationships and systems for private practices to thrive with OSOs(29:43) Dr. Law shares his podcast and offers coaching for orthodontists KEY TAKEAWAYS:  Strong mentorship, authentic leadership, and a values-driven culture are essential for lasting success in orthodontics and dentistry.Innovation and meaningful partnerships fuel sustainable business growth while leaving a positive legacy in the community.Aligning authenticity, values, and influence ensures both professional excellence and personal fulfillment. RESOURCE LINKS: People + Practice  - Website  Leon - Email Amy - Email People + Practice - Email About Smile Doctors | Family Orthodontists in Over 25 States Scott Law - Co-Founder/CCO at SmileDoctors | LinkedIn Smile Doctors Off Mute - Podcast KEYWORDS: Orthodontics, Leadership, Practice, Culture, Philanthropy, Entrepreneurial Spirit, OSO, Team Performance, Digital Orthodontics, Practice Growth, Staffing Costs, Technology Expenses, Overhead, Branding, Authenticity, Relationships, Mentorship, Coaching, Dr. Scott Law, Smile Doctors, Smile Doctors Off Mute Podcast, Golden Age of Orthodontics, Practice Talk, Smile Rescue

    33 min
  7. From Skeptic to Advocate: Dr. Daniel Grob on Embracing Early Treatment

    07/22/2025

    From Skeptic to Advocate: Dr. Daniel Grob on Embracing Early Treatment

    Today on the Golden Age of Orthodontics, we’ll explore the controversial topic of early orthodontic treatment. Dr. Daniel Grob, a board-certified orthodontist with over 40 years of experience, discusses the benefits and challenges of early intervention. He emphasizes the importance of developing facial width and addressing oral habits in young patients. Dr. Grob challenges traditional views on early treatment, arguing that cone beam X-rays have changed how orthodontists assess patients. He focuses on creating width for future development rather than just straightening teeth. Dr. Grob aims to complete phase one treatment in 15 months or less and phase two in 18 months or less. The discussion covers the prevalence of oral habits like mouth breathing and nail biting in young patients seeking early treatment. Dr. Grob shares insights on educating parents and general dentists about the signs of maxillary deficiency and the benefits of early intervention. The episode also addresses the marketing aspects of promoting early orthodontic treatment. Dr. Grob emphasizes the importance of building relationships with pediatric dentists and other specialists for referrals. The hosts discuss strategies for reaching parents directly through educational advertising. The conversation concludes with clinical advice for younger practitioners considering early treatment.  IN THIS EPISODE:  (00:00) Intro: Early orthodontic treatment debate(02:28) Meet Dr. Daniel Grob(10:14) Cone beam X-rays changed approach to early treatment(14:47) Parent demand and concerns driving early ortho(16:49) Prevalence of oral habits in early treatment patients(24:42) Partnering with pediatric dentists for referrals(29:51) Evaluating transverse dimension and expansion needs(33:37) Compliance with Invisalign for young children(34:59) Resources to learn more about pediatric orthodontics(37:51) Closing thoughts and call for listener feedback KEY TAKEAWAYS:  Early orthodontic treatment is about more than just straightening teeth. Dr. Grob’s focus is on developing facial width and balance, which can lead to better long-term outcomes. Using cone beam imaging has revolutionized how he approaches early treatment by allowing him to assess the transverse dimension more accurately.Oral habits play a significant role in malocclusions. Nearly half of the patients Dr. Grob sees for early treatment have some type of habit like mouth breathing or nail biting that impacts their dental development. Identifying and addressing these habits is crucial for successful early intervention.Partnering with pediatric dentists and educating parents about the benefits of early treatment has been key to Dr. Grob’s practice's success. By starting treatment between ages 6-9 when appropriate, we can often help avoid more complex interventions later on and simplify the overall orthodontic process for many patients. RESOURCE LINKS People + Practice  - Website  Leon - Email Amy - Email People + Practice - Email The Pediatric Orthodontist Facebook Group KEYWORDS: orthodontics, golden age of orthodontics, early orthodontic treatment, pediatric orthodontics, transverse dimension, oral habits, cone beam x-rays, phase one treatment, facial balance, orthodontic practice growth, non-extraction orthodontics, orthodontic marketing, pediatric...

    39 min
  8. How It Started, How It’s Going! Orthodontic Product’s Alison Werner Interviews Us!

    07/10/2025

    How It Started, How It’s Going! Orthodontic Product’s Alison Werner Interviews Us!

    Let's flip the script! Typically, Dr. Leon Klempner and Amy Epstein pose the tough questions, delving into the latest trends and innovations that shape the world of orthodontics. But on this special episode of The Golden Age of Orthodontics, they're in the hot seat! With their podcast nearing an incredible 1.5 million views, they've invited Alison Werner, the sharp editor-in-chief of Orthodontic Products, to turn the tables and get their story.  Tune in as Alison uncovers the journey of "People in Practice" and how this father-daughter duo built a platform dedicated to helping orthodontists not just survive, but truly thrive in this golden age. Remember, as Dr. Leon always says, “There has never been a better time to be an orthodontist!”  IN THIS EPISODE:  (00:00) Intro: Let's Flip The Script!(03:30) Meet Alison Werner(05:00) The genesis of starting the Golden Age of Orthodontics, renaming it to reflect a thriving industry and achieving nearly 1.5 million views (10:33) Father-daughter duo in business and the dynamics of family working together(14:03) Differentiating client practices with digital tools, focusing on patient benefits and favorite guests(26:02) The different types of orthodontic practices that People + Practice serves (30:03) The shift from DIY marketing to professional guidance(32:23) Subscribe to Orthodontic Products magazine KEY TAKEAWAYS:  The podcast's shift from "Survival Guide" to "Golden Age of Orthodontics" signifies a reframe from merely coping with industry changes to recognizing and leveraging opportunities for growth and prosperity.Effective orthodontic marketing hinges on highlighting patient benefits derived from technology, not just the technology itself. The focus should be on the improved experience, not only the advanced equipment.People + Practice offers specialized digital marketing strategies designed to meet the distinct needs of orthodontic practices at every stage—from startups and those undergoing transitions to established practices seeking renewed growth and even those preparing for sale. In today's rapidly evolving orthodontic landscape, professional guidance is essential as relying on outdated methods or untrained staff is no longer sufficient to compete and ensure sustained growth effectively. RESOURCE LINKS People + Practice  - Website  Leon - Email Amy - Email People + Practice - Email Ep. 67 - Is Align Technology Still Committed to Orthodontists Ep. 72 - Protect Your Practice With Trey Lawrence Ep. 63 - Practice Embezzlement, What You Need to Know With Financial Forensic CPA David Harris   Ep. 59 - The Past, Present and Future of Orthodontics with Chris Benson a...

    36 min
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5
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About

Are you an Orthodontist wondering how to grow your practice in this fast-paced, competitive marketplace that seems to be changing every day? The Golden Age of Orthodontics, formerly The Survival Guide for Orthodontists podcast, is dedicated to making you the authority in orthodontics to prospective new patients in your community. Dr. Leon Klempner and Amy Epstein, co-founders of People & Practice, know the business of orthodontics. They bring you insights, tips and guest interviews focused on helping you thrive in a massively disrupted industry. Put more patients in chairs by competing on expertise and trust, not the lowest fees. Dedicated to making you the authority in orthodontics.

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