The Illuminate Orthodontic Podcast: Shining a Light on Orthodontist Innovators

Dr. Chris Cetta

Are you an orthodontist looking to improve patient care and grow your practice? Welcome to The Illuminate Orthodontic Podcast, where we shine a light on the brightest minds and latest innovations transforming the specialty of orthodontics. Hosted by Dr. Chris Cetta, this podcast features in-depth conversations with industry leaders, uncovering the latest dental technologies, business strategies, and treatment innovations shaping the future of our profession. Tune in to: •Explore cutting-edge advancements in digital orthodontics and custom appliances •Gain expert insights on practice efficiency and patient experience •Learn from top innovators who are redefining the future of orthodontic care Ready to take your practice to the next level? Start by listening to a fan-favorite Ep. 8: Dr. John Pham and explore the cutting edge of orthodontic innovation today!

  1. Ep. 48: Dr. Sean Holliday – Aligner Mastery, Orthodontic Systems & Leadership with Aloha

    12/04/2025

    Ep. 48: Dr. Sean Holliday – Aligner Mastery, Orthodontic Systems & Leadership with Aloha

    Dr. Sean Holliday is an innovative orthodontist based in Honolulu, Hawaii, known for advancing digital orthodontics and scalable systems-driven care at Holliday Orthodontics.  Through his clinical leadership and educational platform OrthoMasterClass, Sean helps orthodontists refine digital workflows, improve treatment outcomes, and elevate team culture through authentic leadership with Aloha. On this episode, you will discover: How embracing change and adaptability can unlock new opportunities in orthodontic practice—especially in competitive marketsSean’s “ClinCheck Ninja” approach to clear aligner efficiency and digital treatment planningLeadership strategies for multi-doctor orthodontic practices that maintain culture, collaboration, and calibrationHow Ortho Masterclass is supporting orthodontists in strengthening digital skills, improving systems, and sustaining work-life balanceHow participation in professional communities like The Schulman Group can shape growth, mentorship, and long-term success Recorded April 26, 2025 at the AAO Annual Session in Philadelphia, PA. Outtakes from Coastal Creative Studios in St. Petersburg, FL on March 1, 2025. Generous support for this podcast comes from The Aligner Intensive Fellowship and Grin. Illuminate Spotlight:  Tiny Changes Recycling Program by MASO Musical Tributes: ‘Feels So Good’ by Chuck Mangione‘Hawaii Five-O Theme’ by Morton Stevens‘Somewhere Over The Rainbow’ by Israel Kamakawiwoʻole Join the community of forward-thinking orthodontists and catch up on every episode at illuminateorthopodcast.com — where innovation meets inspiration. The Illuminate Orthodontic Podcast explores cutting-edge orthodontics and dentistry, offering orthodontists insights on innovation, patient care, custom braces, Invisalign & aligners, and 3D printing — while spotlighting leadership, practice growth, work-life balance, and the business of running a thriving orthodontic practice with creativity and entrepreneurship.

    1h 25m
  2. Ep. 47: Dr. Christian Groth – Orthodontist on Lab Innovation, Deep Bites & Aligner Brand Agnosticism

    10/01/2025

    Ep. 47: Dr. Christian Groth – Orthodontist on Lab Innovation, Deep Bites & Aligner Brand Agnosticism

    Dr. Christian Groth is a Detroit-area orthodontist and innovator helping lead the charge in digital orthodontics. As co-founder of Motor City Lab Works, he’s made waves in 3D printing, aligner therapy, and lab–practice integration — all while maintaining an independent approach to innovation. On this episode, you will discover: How a forward-thinking group practice model shaped Christian’s approach to “high tech, high touch” careThe origin story and scaling of Motor City Lab Works — from one printer to an advanced digital orthodontic labWhy breaking free from aligner brand dependency gives orthodontists more flexibility in patient treatmentA proven protocol for treating deep-bite cases with aligners using Solventum's Force vs. Flex plasticsThe promise and limitations of direct 3D printed aligners — plus what the AAO’s C-TECH Committee is watching next Recorded April 26, 2025 at the AAO Annual Session in Philadelphia, PA. Generous support for this podcast comes from Grin and KLOwen Ortho. Illuminate Spotlight: THE Aligner Intensive Fellowship Musical Tributes: ‘I Can’t Help It’ by Michael Jackson‘Double Vision’ by Foreigner‘Ghostbusters’ by Ray Parker Jr. Join the community of forward-thinking orthodontists and catch up on every episode at illuminateorthopodcast.com — where innovation meets inspiration. The Illuminate Orthodontic Podcast explores cutting-edge orthodontics and dentistry, offering orthodontists insights on innovation, patient care, custom braces, Invisalign & aligners, and 3D printing — while spotlighting leadership, practice growth, work-life balance, and the business of running a thriving orthodontic practice with creativity and entrepreneurship.

    1h 8m
  3. Ep. 46: Dr. Geoff Sudit – Growing an Orthodontic Practice with Bright Referral & Retain

    08/06/2025

    Ep. 46: Dr. Geoff Sudit – Growing an Orthodontic Practice with Bright Referral & Retain

    Dr. Geoff Sudit is an orthodontist and true innovator practicing in Minneapolis, MN. Alongside his wife Liz, Geoff co-founded Bright Referral and Retain, two orthodontic platforms that are transforming how practices approach referrals and post-treatment care. At Mint Orthodontics, Geoff has embraced custom braces, remote monitoring, and a patient-first design philosophy — reimagining the orthodontic experience from the ground up. On this episode, you will discover: How to design an orthodontic practice around the patient experience by eliminating common pain pointsStrategies for integrating LightForce and DentalMonitoring to streamline visits and reduce in-office chairtimeHow Bright Referral can help orthodontists capture lost referrals and grow during challenging market conditionsWays to turn post-treatment retention into a predictable revenue stream through RetainLessons from Geoff’s entrepreneurial journey that can inspire your own orthodontic innovations Recorded April 25, 2025 at the AAO Annual Session in Philadelphia, PA. Generous support for this podcast comes from KLOwen Ortho and Orthodontic Pearls. Illuminate Spotlight: OrthoMasterClass Musical Tributes: 'The Good, the Bad and the Ugly' by Ennio Morricone'Temptation Sensation' (It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia theme) by Heinz Kiessling Join the community of forward-thinking orthodontists and catch up on every episode at illuminateorthopodcast.com — where innovation meets inspiration. The Illuminate Orthodontic Podcast explores cutting-edge orthodontics and dentistry, offering orthodontists insights on innovation, patient care, custom braces, Invisalign & aligners, and 3D printing — while spotlighting leadership, practice growth, work-life balance, and the business of running a thriving orthodontic practice with creativity and entrepreneurship.

    57 min
  4. Ep. 45: Dr. Cosmo Haralambidis – Product Development for Orthodontist Innovators & The Dental Pain Eraser

    06/25/2025

    Ep. 45: Dr. Cosmo Haralambidis – Product Development for Orthodontist Innovators & The Dental Pain Eraser

    Dr. Cosmo Haralambidis is a Rhode Island-based orthodontist, educator, and the creator of the Synapse Dental Pain Eraser — a non-pharmacologic innovation helping orthodontists manage patient discomfort more effectively. Guided by his Greek heritage and the Hellenistic values of compassion and service, Cosmo was honored with the 2023 AAO Innovator Award for his contributions to advancing orthodontic care. On this episode, you will discover: How his experience in treating orofacial pain led to the development of a breakthrough orthodontic productHow mentorship and product testing can sharpen your skills as an orthodontic innovatorPractical tips for orthodontists interested in launching their own product or inventionWays to enhance the patient experience through non-pharmacologic pain managementHow compassionate, mission-driven care can shape both your clinical approach and brand identity Recorded January 24, 2025 at the AAO | AAPD Winter Conference in Marco Island, FL. Generous support for this podcast comes from KLOwen Ortho and The Journal of Clinical Orthodontics (JCO). Illuminate Spotlight - CORE from the AAOF Illuminate Exclusives: Journal of Clinical Orthodontics (JCO) 10% off a new subscription to the JCOPromo code: POD Musical Tribute: ‘Black Coffee’ by Sonny Burke Join the community of forward-thinking orthodontists and catch up on every episode at illuminateorthopodcast.com — where innovation meets inspiration. The Illuminate Orthodontic Podcast explores cutting-edge orthodontics and dentistry, offering orthodontists insights on innovation, patient care, custom braces, Invisalign & aligners, and 3D printing — while spotlighting leadership, practice growth, work-life balance, and the business of running a thriving orthodontic practice with creativity and entrepreneurship.

    53 min
  5. Ep. 44: Dr. Clarke Stevens – WildSmiles Braces, Disney Licensing & Advice for Orthodontist Inventors

    05/28/2025

    Ep. 44: Dr. Clarke Stevens – WildSmiles Braces, Disney Licensing & Advice for Orthodontist Inventors

    Dr. Clarke Stevens is an innovative orthodontist from Omaha, Nebraska, and the creator of WildSmiles Braces.  Clarke turned a creative spark into a patented bracket system that blends treatment with self-expression—and most recently collaborated with Disney. His career reflects a unique intersection of clinical excellence, entrepreneurial spirit, and imaginative leadership. On this episode, you will discover: How Clarke built a fun, patient-centered orthodontic practice from the ground upThe origin story behind WildSmiles Braces and how a young patient’s necklace sparked the ideaClarke’s advice for aspiring orthodontist inventors navigating patents, prototypes, and product developmentThe unexpected chain of events that helped secure a Disney licensing dealHow OrthoVoice laid the groundwork for many of today’s orthodontic meetings Recorded January 24, 2025 at the AAO | AAPD Winter Conference in Marco Island, FL. Generous support for this podcast comes from Solventum and LightForce Orthodontics. Illuminate Spotlight – Synapse Dental Pain Eraser Musical Tribute:  ‘Tea for Two' by Vincent Youmans Join the community of forward-thinking orthodontists and catch up on every episode at illuminateorthopodcast.com — where innovation meets inspiration. The Illuminate Orthodontic Podcast explores cutting-edge orthodontics and dentistry, offering orthodontists insights on innovation, patient care, custom braces, Invisalign & aligners, and 3D printing — while spotlighting leadership, practice growth, work-life balance, and the business of running a thriving orthodontic practice with creativity and entrepreneurship.

    1 hr
  6. Ep. 43: Dr. Amy Jackson – Solving Orthodontic Retention, OSO Transitions & Marketing to Adults

    04/16/2025

    Ep. 43: Dr. Amy Jackson – Solving Orthodontic Retention, OSO Transitions & Marketing to Adults

    Orthodontist Dr. Amy Jackson is an innovator from San Antonio, TX who scaled a multi-location practice, navigated an OSO transition, and went on to launch Retainers For Life — a platform that’s transforming the way orthodontists handle retention while creating long-term connections with their patients. On this episode, you will discover: Amy’s journey from growing up in Texas to building five ortho locations prior to affiliating with Smile DoctorsHow one awkward moment at a birthday party inspired a national retainer programThe benefits of outsourcing retention, including freeing up chair time and increasing practice revenueData-backed insights from Gaidge on how much practices can save—and earn—through the programAmy’s strategy for increasing adult starts using internal marketing and patient education Recorded January 24, 2025 at the AAO | AAPD Winter Conference in Marco Island, FL. Generous support for this podcast comes from LightForce Orthodontics & Solventum. Illuminate Spotlight - MyOrthoVA Musical Tribute: ‘Tequila’ by Dan + Shay Join the community of forward-thinking orthodontists and catch up on every episode at illuminateorthopodcast.com — where innovation meets inspiration. The Illuminate Orthodontic Podcast explores cutting-edge orthodontics and dentistry, offering orthodontists insights on innovation, patient care, custom braces, Invisalign & aligners, and 3D printing — while spotlighting leadership, practice growth, work-life balance, and the business of running a thriving orthodontic practice with creativity and entrepreneurship.

    1h 4m
  7. Ep. 42: Dr. Paul Trotter – Mastering Orthodontic Efficiency, Custom Braces & Remote Monitoring

    03/12/2025

    Ep. 42: Dr. Paul Trotter – Mastering Orthodontic Efficiency, Custom Braces & Remote Monitoring

    Orthodontist Dr. Paul Trotter is an innovator who has built his practice around efficiency, helping elevate his father’s well-established office in Augusta, Georgia. By integrating custom braces and digital workflows, Paul has streamlined patient care while optimizing clinical outcomes — all while maintaining an exceptional patient experience. On this episode, you will discover: How Paul optimized efficiency after his father’s retirement by implementing KLOwen custom braces and Grin Remote MonitoringHis revenue data comparing direct bonding vs. indirect bonding of traditional and custom bracketsThe impact of Gaidge 360 Consulting on his scheduling efficiencyHow Paul leveraged Grin Remote Monitoring for his backlog of new patient examsA deep dive into the software and digital tools driving his streamlined workflow Recorded January 10, 2025 at Coastal Creative Studios in St. Petersburg, FL. Generous support for this podcast comes from Solventum & Revere Partners. Illuminate Spotlight - Smiles Change Lives Musical Tribute: ‘One Margarita’ by Luke Bryan Join the community of forward-thinking orthodontists and catch up on every episode at illuminateorthopodcast.com — where innovation meets inspiration. The Illuminate Orthodontic Podcast explores cutting-edge orthodontics and dentistry, offering orthodontists insights on innovation, patient care, custom braces, Invisalign & aligners, and 3D printing — while spotlighting leadership, practice growth, work-life balance, and the business of running a thriving orthodontic practice with creativity and entrepreneurship. Revere Partners Investment Disclaimer: This information is intended for qualified or accredited investors only. Participation in the company or fund may be subject to specific eligibility criteria. Potential investors should independently verify their qualifications and conduct due diligence before making any investment decisions. Investments involve risk, and past performance does not guarantee future results.

    1h 10m
  8. Ep. 41: Dr. Barry Glaser – Insights on Aligners, Attachment Design & Orthodontic Education

    02/05/2025

    Ep. 41: Dr. Barry Glaser – Insights on Aligners, Attachment Design & Orthodontic Education

    Orthodontist Dr. Barry Glaser has been practicing for over 30 years, treating patients at his practice in Westchester County, NY just outside of New York City. A student of the late, great Dr. Tony Gianelly, Barry transitioned to aligner therapy in the late 2000s and has since become a globally recognized Invisalign® Faculty Member and a trusted educator in the field. On this episode, you will discover: Barry’s evolution from brackets & wires to a leading expert in aligner therapyThe genesis of his influential 10 Commandments of Attachment Design articleThe inspiration behind his The Insider’s Guide to Invisalign Treatment bookHis Aligner Insider podcast co-hosted with Dean Steinman and its role in orthodontic educationHow his passion for teaching extends beyond orthodontics—through cycling, Harley-Davidson motorcycles, and even bourbon tasting on YouTube Recorded December 22, 2024 in Bourbon Barry's Basement in Westchester County, NY. Generous support for this podcast comes from LightForce Orthodontics & Retainers For Life. Illuminate Spotlight - MARPE 360 Illuminate Exclusive - $200 off coursePromo code: ILLUMINATE Musical Tribute: 'Too Sweet' by Hozier Join the community of forward-thinking orthodontists and catch up on every episode at illuminateorthopodcast.com — where innovation meets inspiration. The Illuminate Orthodontic Podcast explores cutting-edge orthodontics and dentistry, offering orthodontists insights on innovation, patient care, custom braces, Invisalign & aligners, and 3D printing — while spotlighting leadership, practice growth, work-life balance, and the business of running a thriving orthodontic practice with creativity and entrepreneurship.

    1h 25m
4.9
out of 5
70 Ratings

About

Are you an orthodontist looking to improve patient care and grow your practice? Welcome to The Illuminate Orthodontic Podcast, where we shine a light on the brightest minds and latest innovations transforming the specialty of orthodontics. Hosted by Dr. Chris Cetta, this podcast features in-depth conversations with industry leaders, uncovering the latest dental technologies, business strategies, and treatment innovations shaping the future of our profession. Tune in to: •Explore cutting-edge advancements in digital orthodontics and custom appliances •Gain expert insights on practice efficiency and patient experience •Learn from top innovators who are redefining the future of orthodontic care Ready to take your practice to the next level? Start by listening to a fan-favorite Ep. 8: Dr. John Pham and explore the cutting edge of orthodontic innovation today!

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