Orthodontic Products Podcast

Orthodontic Products

Introducing the "Orthodontic Products Podcast", a journey into the dynamic realm of orthodontic innovations. Each episode dives into fresh research, transformative technologies, and the methodologies redefining the field. Expert interviews seamlessly blend with in-depth analyses, offering listeners a comprehensive look into the ever-evolving world of orthodontics. This isn't just a podcast—it's a portal to the future of orthodontic practices and breakthroughs.

  1. 14h ago

    Beyond the DSO/OSO Buyout: Understanding Post-Deal Earnings

    Guest: Ty Ramsey, Professional Transitions Strategies (PTS) Episode Description: Are you considering partnering with a Dental Support Organization (DSO) or Orthodontic Support Organization (OSO), but worried about what happens to your income after the deal closes? Many orthodontists fear their annual earnings will drop once they transition from private practice owner to partner. In this episode of the Orthodontic Products Podcast, host Alison Werner sits down with M&A expert Ty Ramsey to unpack the financial realities of post-transition compensation. Ramsey explains why evaluating a deal requires looking far beyond just your go-forward W-2 salary. He breaks down how compensation structures actually shift, the critical "wealth buckets" you must consider, and the exact operational levers larger organizations use to drive double-digit practice growth in the first year. Whether you are actively looking to transition or just curious about your practice's market value, this episode provides the roadmap to protecting and growing your wealth. Topics Covered: The 4 Buckets of Post-Deal Wealth: Why a holistic transition plan must evaluate cash at close, ongoing compensation, equity appreciation, and real estate.How Your Compensation Shifts: What to expect when moving from owner distributions to per diem rates ($1,400 to $2,000/day) or collection percentages.DSO Deal Red Flags: Why you should be wary of offers heavily reliant on future equity ("betting on the come") with very little cash upfront.Levers for Practice Growth: How DSOs/OSOs use back-office support, supply discounts, and schedule optimization to drive 9% to 20%+ growth in the first year.The Importance of Representation: How dental-specific M&A advisors protect doctors from operational blind spots and negotiate significantly better valuation offers.Chapters: 02:32 Evaluating Good vs. Bad Deals04:23 Operational Changes Post-Partnership06:10 Key Drivers of Success in DSO Partnerships09:05 Preparing for Financial Conversations12:08 Conclusion and Final Thoughts About the Guest: Ty Ramsey is a mergers and acquisitions advisor with Professional Transition Strategies. Contact: ty@professionaltransition.com Learn more: https://professionaltransition.com/ ---- 👉 Connect & SubscribePodcast: Apple | Spotify | Amazon Music | YouTube Like 👍, comment 💬, and subscribe 🔔 for future episodes. VISIT ORTHODONTIC PRODUCTS: https://orthodonticproductsonline.com/ SUBSCRIBE to THE OP NEWSLETTER: https://info.medqor.com/opsubform INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/orthoproductsmag/ FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/OrthoProducts/ LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ortho-products/ Have a question for a future episode? Drop it in the comments or email editor@orthodonticproductsonline.com #Orthodontics #DSO #OSO #PracticeTransition #DentalBusiness #OrthodonticProducts

    19 min
  2. May 21

    Surviving a Cyberattack: The Harsh Reality of an Orthodontic Data Breach

    Guest: Gary Salman, CEO of Black Talon Security Episode Description: In this episode of the Orthodontic Products Podcast, host Alison Werner sits down with Gary Salman, CEO of Black Talon Security, to recap a sobering panel from the recent AAO Annual Session on the realities of cybercrime in the orthodontic industry. Moving past standard prevention advice, they delve into the harsh reality of navigating a data breach, highlighting the real-world ransomware attack experienced by orthodontist Dr Kenneth Webb. Salman shares critical insights on the immediate steps a practice must take upon discovering a breach, the severe legal and law enforcement implications, and why relying solely on cloud-based practice management software does not absolve a practice of HIPAA liability or protect it from catastrophic class-action lawsuits. Topics Covered: The realities of a ransomware attack, highlighted by a real-world orthodontic case study.Why cloud-based practice management software does not guarantee immunity from data breaches.The critical first steps to take immediately after discovering a network intrusion (and why you shouldn't just turn off your computers).How mishandling the initial response can trigger mandatory HIPAA reporting and legal action.The crucial difference between standard IT support and specialized cybersecurity experts. Chapters: 01:33 - Recap of the AAO Cybercrime Panel03:01 - Case Study: Dr Webb’s Ransomware Attack 05:14 - How Hackers Target Orthodontic Practices 09:39 - The First Steps to Take During a Cyberattack 12:28 - Why Hackers Search for Your Cyber Insurance Policy 14:35 - Treating Your Network Like a Crime Scene (HIPAA Reporting) 18:20 - The Threat of Immediate Class Action Lawsuits 20:23 - The Cloud Software Misconception 27:31 - How to Build an Incident Response Plan 30:49 - Why Your IT Company Isn't Enough About the Guest: Gary Salman is CEO and co-founder of Black Talon Security. A leader in the cybersecurity field, Salman has a 25+ year background in law enforcement and healthcare technology. His firm monitors and secures approximately 65K computers and networks worldwide and has trained tens of thousands of healthcare professionals. Links to additional reading:  The Hidden Dangers of Mixing Personal and Professional EmailThe Hidden Risks in Your Vendor Contracts: A Cybersecurity Survival GuideProtecting Your Digital Practice: Cybersecurity Essentials for Orthodontists---- 👉 Connect & SubscribePodcast: Apple | Spotify | Amazon Music | YouTube Like 👍, comment 💬, and subscribe 🔔 for future episodes. VISIT ORTHODONTIC PRODUCTS: https://orthodonticproductsonline.com/ SUBSCRIBE to THE OP NEWSLETTER: https://info.medqor.com/opsubform INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/orthoproductsmag/ FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/OrthoProducts/ LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ortho-products/ Have a question for a future episode? Drop it in the comments or email editor@orthodonticproductsonline.com #Orthodontics #Cybersecurity #Ransomware #DataBreach #OrthodonticProducts #DentalTech #HIPAACompliance #CyberCrime #PracticeManagement

    35 min
  3. May 7

    25% Faster, 40% Fewer Aligners: The Clinical Data Behind FXClear

    Guest: Dr Terry Sellke, DDS, MS Episode Description: What if you could reduce clear aligner treatment times by 25% and use 40% fewer aligners per case? In this episode of the Orthodontic Products Podcast, sponsored by OrthoFX, host Alison Werner speaks with Dr Terry Sellke about the material science making these metrics a reality. They dive into a recent independent retrospective study from the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) that compared the OrthoFX FXClear aligner system head-to-head with legacy materials. Sellke discusses his transition to this new generation of aligner polymers, how highly predictable clinical outcomes are fundamentally changing digital treatment planning, and why marrying predictable aligners with remote monitoring can effectively double the return on investment per patient. Topics Covered: The clinical findings from the UIC retrospective study comparing FXClear to traditional aligner systems.How advanced aligner polymers eliminate the need for heavy overcorrections in digital treatment plans.Clinical experiences with posterior tracking and avoiding posterior open bites.Why predictable tooth movement combined with remote monitoring leads to a significant drop in refinement appointments.How to utilize the "value per visit" metric to measure productivity and increase practice profitability.The importance of adopting emerging technologies to combat rising overhead and evolving consumer demands.Chapters: 02:52 - Incorporating Clear Aligners and Transitioning to OrthoFX 04:11 - The Catalyst for the UIC Retrospective Study 06:08 - The Impact of Fewer Refinement Appointments 07:49 - Addressing Posterior Open Bites and Heavy Overcorrections 10:09 - Evaluating FXClear in Complex Clinical Scenarios 11:50 - How Material Science is Changing Digital Treatment Planning 13:49 - Utilizing the "Value Per Visit" Metric to Boost Profitability 17:53 - Why Orthodontists Must Embrace Emerging Technologies Read More: New Study Finds OrthoFX Aligners May Offer Greater Efficiency and Predictability About the Guest: Dr Terry Sellke has over 50 years of experience in private practice in Lake County, Illinois. He served for 36 years as a professor and co-director of the orthodontic clinic at the University of Illinois Chicago College of Dentistry, where he also acted as a research advisor. An international author and lecturer, Sellke has contributed extensively to the advancement of orthodontic education and clinical practice. ---- 👉 Connect & SubscribePodcast: Apple | Spotify | Amazon Music | YouTube Like 👍, comment 💬, and subscribe 🔔 for future episodes. VISIT ORTHODONTIC PRODUCTS: https://orthodonticproductsonline.com/ SUBSCRIBE to THE OP NEWSLETTER: https://info.medqor.com/opsubform INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/orthoproductsmag/ FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/OrthoProducts/ LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ortho-products/ Have a question for a future episode? Drop it in the comments or email editor@orthodonticproductsonline.com #Orthodontics #ClearAligners #OrthoFX #PracticeManagement #OrthodonticProducts #orthodontists

    20 min
  4. Apr 24

    The Bracket Comeback: Why Braces Are Gaining Ground Over Aligners

    Guest: Darren Buddemeyer, CEO of DynaFlex Episode Description: While clear aligners have dominated orthodontic conversations in recent years, new industry data indicates a shift back toward traditional braces. In this episode of the Orthodontic Products Podcast, sponsored by DynaFlex, host Alison Werner talks with Darren Buddemeyer, CEO of DynaFlex, about the renewed interest in the bracket category and how the technology is evolving to meet modern clinical demands. Drawing on his more than 30 years of experience growing DynaFlex from a small lab into a major manufacturer, Buddemeyer explores why many orthodontists are rediscovering the predictability and control of fixed appliances. Tune in to hear the clinical drivers behind this trend, how innovations in self-ligation and optimized slot sizes are increasing practice efficiency, and the latest engineering advancements in aesthetic ceramic brackets. Key Takeaways: The Bracket Resurgence: The clinical factors driving the renewed demand for orthodontic brackets over clear aligners.Tackling Complex Cases: Which cases—including Class II and Class III corrections—often benefit from the predictable control of fixed appliances.Practice Efficiency: How advancements in self-ligation and optimized bracket slot sizes (like the Norris system) are improving treatment times.Aesthetic Advancements: The engineering challenges of developing clear ceramic brackets that aim to perform with the durability of metal.Arch Development: How the rising trend of early arch development integrates with and simplifies subsequent bracket or aligner phases. Chapters:  01:08 - The Shift Back to Braces: Data and Clinical Drivers  04:41 - Which Complex Cases Benefit Most from Brackets  06:28 - Evolution of the Bracket Category & Self-Ligation  08:19 - Improving Practice Efficiency with Modern Bracket Systems  10:02 - Engineering Aesthetic Brackets: The Norris Clear System  11:54 - Balancing Aligners and Brackets in Your Case Mix  13:07 - DynaFlex's Roadmap and Innovations  14:44 - The Role of a Full-Service Lab & Early Arch Development  16:56 - Future Innovations in the Bracket Space About the Guest: Darren Buddemeyer is the CEO of DynaFlex. He has led the company for more than 30 years, growing it from a small lab into a major global manufacturer of orthodontic products, appliances, and dental sleep medicine devices.  ----- 👉 Connect & Subscribe Podcast: Apple | Spotify | Amazon Music | YouTube Like 👍, comment 💬, and subscribe 🔔 for future episodes. VISIT ORTHODONTIC PRODUCTS: https://orthodonticproductsonline.com/ SUBSCRIBE to THE OP NEWSLETTER: https://info.medqor.com/opsubform INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/orthoproductsmag/ FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/OrthoProducts/ LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ortho-products/ Have a question for a future episode? Drop it in the comments or email editor@orthodonticproductsonline.com #Orthodontics #Braces #ClearAligners #OrthodonticBrackets #DynaFlex #OrthodonticProducts #DentalPodcast #SelfLigatingBrackets

    19 min
  5. Apr 16

    The Paradox of Our 2025 Annual Survey: When Steady Production Meets Shrinking Profit

    Guest: Roger P. Levin, DDS Episode Description: The latest Orthodontic Products Levin Group Annual Practice Survey reveals that while 2025 was a year of stable production, those top-line numbers are masking a growing profitability crisis. In this episode, host Alison Werner welcomes Dr Roger Levin, CEO and founder of Levin Group, to break down the data and explore the critical disconnect between steady patient flow and shrinking profit margins. Levin explains how a perfect storm of rising overhead, a persistent staffing crisis, and growing economic uncertainty is putting unprecedented financial pressure on orthodontic practices across the country. Moving beyond the numbers, this conversation provides a strategic roadmap for orthodontists looking to protect their bottom line in 2026. Levin shares actionable advice on what separates the top 25% of performing practices from the rest, detailing how to combat rising costs and navigate looming "fee wars." From systemizing a five-part referral marketing program to evolving the treatment coordinator’s role to communicate undeniable value, this episode offers essential strategies to help you raise fees confidently and ensure your practice thrives in a shifting economic landscape. Key Takeaways:  The Production-Profit Disconnect: Stable production is masking shrinking profits. Because rising overhead is outpacing inflation, practices must increase their patient volume just to maintain current income levels.Prioritize Staff Retention: The staffing crisis is a massive driver of rising overhead. Building a rewarding practice culture to retain your current team is critical for protecting your bottom line.Systemize Referral Marketing: Passive word-of-mouth isn't enough. Top-performing practices actively manage a five-pillar strategy targeting patients, parents, social media, the community, and referring dentists.Combat "Fee Wars" with Value: As orthodontics becomes increasingly commoditized, Treatment Coordinators must evolve into "value coordinators" who can justify your costs through exceptional relationship-building.Raise Fees and Elevate Service: Levin advises raising fees by at least 5% annually to survive rising costs. To support this, practices must deliver an exceptional customer experience and offer flexible patient financing.Chapters: 00:55 Stability vs. Underlying Challenges in Orthodontics03:44 Production vs. Profit: Understanding the Disconnect06:39 Performance Tiers: What Separates the Best from the Rest?09:40 Staffing Crisis: Building a Strong Team Culture12:35 Addressing New Patient Starts: Strategies for Success15:44 Rising Overhead: Protecting Profitability in Uncertain Times27:19 The Commodity Nature of Orthodontics29:41 Building Value in Orthodontic Practices30:37 Referral Marketing as a Key to Success34:22 The Impact of DSOs and OSOs on Orthodontics38:32 Remote Monitoring and Teledentistry Trends43:12 Prioritizing Customer Service and Financing Options Links: 🔗 Read the article—Steady Year, Shifting Landscape: Findings From the 2025 Orthodontic Practice Survey About the Guest: Roger P. Levin, DDS, is the CEO and founder of Levin Group.  ------ 👉 Connect & SubscribePodcast: Apple | Spotify | Amazon Music | YouTube Like 👍, comment 💬, and subscribe 🔔 for future episodes. VISIT ORTHODONTIC PRODUCTS: https://orthodonticproductsonline.com/ SUBSCRIBE to THE OP NEWSLETTER: https://info.medqor.com/opsubform INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/orthoproductsmag/ FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/OrthoProducts/ LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ortho-products/ Have a question for a future episode? Drop it in the comments or email editor@orthodonticproductsonline.com #Orthodontics #Orthodontist #PracticeManagement #RogerLevin #OrthodonticPodcast #OrthodonticPractice #OrthodonticConsulting #LevinGroup

    53 min
  6. Apr 2

    Balancing Aesthetics and Control: The Role of Ceramic Brackets Today

    Guest: Lisa Davison, DDS, MS Episode Description: While aligners often dominate the conversation around aesthetic treatment, fixed appliances remain a critical tool for orthodontists. In this episode of the Orthodontic Products Podcast, sponsored by Solventum, host Alison Werner speaks with Dr Lisa Davison about how she integrates ceramic brackets into her busy practice. Davison shares insights on bridging the gap between patient aesthetic demands and clinical predictability, and explains why modern ceramic systems—like the Clarity Advanced Ceramic Bracket System—are a reliable, versatile, and highly aesthetic option for patients who may not be ideal candidates for aligners. Topics Covered: How to position ceramic brackets as an aesthetic solution for patients who aren't ideal aligner candidates.The essential clinical criteria for evaluating a ceramic bracket system, including aesthetics, strength, and ease of use for your clinical team.Why modern ceramic systems can offer superior bond strength and fewer failures compared to traditional metal brackets.How bracket design impacts patient comfort, acceptance, and versatility in styling with clear or vibrant ligature ties.Practical insights on seamlessly integrating ceramic brackets into your practice workflow without altering established mechanics or protocols.Chapters: 02:02 - Aligners vs. Ceramic Brackets: Patient Compliance 03:46 - Bridging the Gap Between Aesthetics and Control 04:34 - Key Clinical Criteria for Ceramic Systems 06:24 - Onboarding and Team Training 07:46 - Patient Response, Comfort, and Ligature Ties 09:26 - Bracket Design and Treatment Mechanics 10:44 - Day-to-Day Workflow and Flash-Free Placement 11:49 - Bond Failures: Metal vs. Ceramic Brackets 13:26 - Advice for Orthodontists Reconsidering Ceramics 14:59 - The Future of Aesthetic Orthodontic Treatment About the Guest: Lisa Davison, DDS, MS, is a board-certified orthodontist with a two-doctor, 15-team-member office in Powell, Ohio. She completed her dental degree at New York University and her orthodontic residency at Jacksonville University.  ------ 👉 Connect & SubscribePodcast: Apple | Spotify | Amazon Music | YouTube Like 👍, comment 💬, and subscribe 🔔 for future episodes. VISIT ORTHODONTIC PRODUCTS: https://orthodonticproductsonline.com/ SUBSCRIBE to THE OP NEWSLETTER: https://info.medqor.com/opsubform INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/orthoproductsmag/ FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/OrthoProducts/ LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ortho-products/ Have a question for a future episode? Drop it in the comments or email editor@orthodonticproductsonline.com #Orthodontics #Orthodontist #OrthodonticProducts #solventum #CeramicBraces #ceramicbrackets #clearbraces #braces #orthodontictreatment #clarityadvanced

    17 min
  7. Mar 12

    How AI is Changing the Role of Online Reviews in Orthodontic Marketing

    Guest: Jessie Pressman, People + Practice Episode Description: Online reviews have long been a factor in how patients choose an orthodontic practice, but the rise of AI is fundamentally changing their role. In this episode of the Orthodontic Products Podcast, host Alison Werner talks with Jessie Pressman about this critical shift. They explore how reviews no longer just influence perception but directly shape a practice's visibility and narrative in AI-powered search results. Pressman shares actionable strategies for modern reputation management, explaining why specific patient language matters, how to handle negative feedback without panicking, and why automation is key to future-proofing your practice's growth. Topics Covered:—How AI-generated summaries are changing the function of patient reviews from social proof to a direct driver of search visibility.—Why specific, authentic language (like mentioning "Invisalign" or "flexible financing") in patient feedback is critical for training AI search algorithms.—Actionable tips for encouraging patients to leave detailed, highly valuable reviews.—The best-practice strategy for handling negative reviews offline to protect your practice’s reputation.—The role of automation in building a consistent, stress-free review generation system for your staff.—How to future-proof your reputation management to align with evolving SEO and AIO (Artificial Intelligence Optimization) technology. Chapters: 01:20 The Importance of Authentic Language in Reviews04:17 Handling Negative Reviews Effectively07:25 The Role of Technology in Reputation Management11:19 Future-Proofing Your Reputation Strategy14:19 Conclusion and Contact Information About the Guest: Jessie Pressman is head of consulting at People + Practice, where she leads a national team of growth consultants focused on helping orthodontic practices achieve measurable growth. With more than 20 years of experience in marketing and executive leadership across healthcare, technology, and consumer brands, Pressman brings strategic insight and operational clarity to every engagement. She is passionate about building high-performing teams and helping practices turn opportunity into sustainable results. She is also the author of the Orthodontic Products article, “The New Influence of Patient Reviews in the Age of AI Summaries.” Read the Article: The New Influence of Patient Reviews in the Age of AI Search ------ 👉 Connect & SubscribePodcast: Apple | Spotify | Amazon Music | YouTube Like 👍, comment 💬, and subscribe 🔔 for future episodes. VISIT ORTHODONTIC PRODUCTS: https://orthodonticproductsonline.com/ SUBSCRIBE to THE OP NEWSLETTER: https://info.medqor.com/opsubform INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/orthoproductsmag/ FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/OrthoProducts/ LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ortho-products/ Have a question for a future episode? Drop it in the comments or email editor@orthodonticproductsonline.com #Orthodontics #Orthodontist #OrthodonticMarketing #DentalMarketing #PracticeGrowth #OnlineReviews #ReputationManagement #AISearch  #DentalSEO #PatientReviews #OrthodonticProducts #OrthodonticPodcast

    20 min
  8. Feb 26

    Creating Consistency from Bonding to Finishing with Passive Self-Ligation

    Guest: Jason Sherbel, DDS, MS Episode Description: In this episode of the Orthodontic Products Podcast, sponsored by DynaFlex, host Alison Werner speaks with Jason Sherbel, DMD, MS, about his transition to a passive self-ligating (PSL) bracket system to support his growing practice. Sherbel explains that the switch was not about chasing a trend but rather solving specific inefficiencies—such as inconsistent ligation and unpredictable repositioning—that began to compound as his patient volume increased. He details how adopting the Norris System’s 0.020-inch slot, combined with digital tools like indirect bonding and CBCT, has allowed him to standardize workflows, reduce decision fatigue, and empower his clinical team to deliver more consistent results. Topics Covered:  Identifying how minor clinical inconsistencies compound to slow down growing practices.The impact of standardized ligation and archwire sequencing on reducing decision fatigue.Comparing 0.018 and 0.022 slot sizes and the mechanical advantages of the 0.020-inch slot.How passive self-ligation empowers clinical assistants and improves overall office flow.Integrating PSL with digital technologies like indirect bonding and CBCT for precise bracket placement. Chapters:  00:32 Clinical Philosophy and Treatment Planning 02:21 Transition to Passive Self-Ligation Systems 05:12 Identifying Inefficiencies in Practice 07:25 Evaluating Passive Self-Ligation Options 10:22 Onboarding the New System 12:49 Advice for Orthodontists Considering PSL 15:38 Future of Orthodontics and Technology About the Guest: Jason Sherbel, DDS, MS, is a dual board-certified orthodontist and dental sleep medicine specialist who graduated from the University of Michigan School of Dentistry, where he also completed his orthodontic residency and mini-residency in dental sleep medicine. He practices with his wife at their Farmington Hills, Mich, practice, Aspire Orthodontics. ------ 👉 Connect & Subscribe Podcast: Apple | Spotify | Amazon Music YouTube: Like 👍, comment 💬, and subscribe 🔔 for future episodes. VISIT ORTHODONTIC PRODUCTS: https://orthodonticproductsonline.com/ SUBSCRIBE to THE OP NEWSLETTER: https://info.medqor.com/opsubform INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/orthoproductsmag/ FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/OrthoProducts/ LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ortho-products/ Have a question for a future episode? Drop it in the comments or email editor@orthodonticproductsonline.com #Orthodontics #ClinicalAutonomy #Biomechanics #DigitalOrthodontics #DentalAI #Orthodontist #OrthodonticProducts

    21 min

Ratings & Reviews

4.5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

Introducing the "Orthodontic Products Podcast", a journey into the dynamic realm of orthodontic innovations. Each episode dives into fresh research, transformative technologies, and the methodologies redefining the field. Expert interviews seamlessly blend with in-depth analyses, offering listeners a comprehensive look into the ever-evolving world of orthodontics. This isn't just a podcast—it's a portal to the future of orthodontic practices and breakthroughs.

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