In this high-energy episode recorded live at the 2026 Chicago Midwinter Dental Meeting, Alan once again sits down with Whitney DiFoggio, better known as teethtalkgirl to discuss the evolving landscape of dental communication. Whitney shares her journey from YouTube pioneer to a leading voice in dental public health, emphasizing her "relatability equation": how building trust through shared interests leads to better patient compliance. The duo dives into the dangers of social media "DIY" dental trends, the psychology of combatting misinformation, and why Alan has officially become a convert to interproximal brushes. Whether you're looking for social media strategy or tips on finding career longevity in the "op," this conversation bridges the gap between clinical excellence and modern patient connection.

Some links from the show:

• Whitney's Youtube
• Whitney's Instagram
• GUM Softpicks

Join the Very Dental Facebook Group using one of these passwords: Timmerman, Paul, Bioclear, Hornbrook, Gary, McWethy, Papa Randy, or Lipscomb! 

The Very Dental Podcast network is and will remain free to download. If you’d like to support the shows you love at Very Dental then show a little love to the people that support us!

I’m a big fan of the Bioclear Method! I think you should give it a try and I’ve got a great offer to help you get on board! Use the exclusive Very Dental Podcast code VERYDENTAL8TON for 15% OFF your total Bioclear purchase, including Core Anterior and Posterior Four day courses, Black Triangle Certification, and all Bioclear products.

Crazy Dental has everything you need from cotton rolls to equipment and everything in between and the best prices you’ll find anywhere! If you head over to verydentalpodcast.com/crazy and use coupon code “VERYSHIP” you’ll get free shipping on your order! Go save yourself some money and support the show all at the same time!

The Wonderist Agency is basically a one stop shop for marketing your practice and your brand. From logo redesign to a full service marketing plan, the folks at Wonderist have you covered! Go check them out at verydentalpodcast.com/wonderist!

Enova Illumination makes the very best in loupes and headlights, including their new ergonomic angled prism loupes! They also distribute loupe mounted cameras and even the amazing line of Zumax microscopes! If you want to help out the podcast while upping your magnification and headlight game, you need to head over to verydentalpodcast.com/enova to see their whole line of products!

CAD-Ray offers the best service on a wide variety of digital scanners, printers, mills and even  their very own browser based design software, Clinux! CAD-Ray has been a huge supporter of the Very Dental Podcast Network and I can tell you that you’ll get no better service on everything digital dentistry than the folks from CAD-Ray. Go check them out at verydentalpodcast.com/CADRay!

This throwback episode is actually an older episode of Very Dental featuring one of the amazing co-hosts of Very Clinical! In this wide-ranging "shop talk" session, Alan is joined by Zach to revisit the early days of dental social media and the evolution of their clinical workflows. From the "crushing it" culture of the old Dentaltown forums to the practicalities of the modern operatory, they dive into the tools that actually make a difference. Zach shares his love for the spade proximator and the Swiss-Army-knife utility of Teflon tape, while Alan makes a case for the PDL syringe. They also tackle the high-stakes debate of the dentist’s lunch hour and offer a deep dive into the "goofy draw" strategies required when prepping crowns on teeth with deep facial undercuts.

Some links from the show:

• DOPE Lunch Podcast!
• giving some love to Keating Dental Lab
• 38 Smiles Dental Lab 
• Karl Schumacher Spade Proximator
• Teflon tape
• Septodont Paroject
• Christensen crown remover

Join the Very Clinical Facebook group! 

Join the Very Dental Facebook Group using one of these passwords: Timmerman, Paul, Bioclear, Hornbrook, Gary, McWethy, Papa Randy, or Lipscomb! 

The Very Dental Podcast network is and will remain free to download. If you’d like to support the shows you love at Very Dental then show a little love to the people that support us!

I’m a big fan of the Bioclear Method! I think you should give it a try and I’ve got a great offer to help you get on board! Use the exclusive Very Dental Podcast code VERYDENTAL8TON for 15% OFF your total Bioclear purchase, including Core Anterior and Posterior Four day courses, Black Triangle Certification, and all Bioclear products.

Are you a practice owner who feels like the bottleneck in your own business? If you’re tired of being the hardest-working person in your office, I’ve got something you need to hear. Dr. Paul Etchison, is hosting a virtual event that is a total game-changer. Paul is honestly one of the most brilliant minds in dental leadership today, and he’s hosting the 3-Day Freedom Practice Workshop from February 19th through the 21st. He’s going to show you exactly how to break through that two-million-dollar revenue ceiling while actually compressing your clinical week. It’s about building a leadership team that takes ownership so you can finally step into the CEO role you deserve. Head over to DentalPracticeHeroes.com/freedom to grab your spot. And do me a favor—mention the Very Dental podcast when you sign up. It’s 100% guaranteed, so you’ve got nothing to lose but the stress.

Crazy Dental has everything you need from cotton rolls to equipment and everything in between and the best prices you’ll find anywhere! If you head over to verydentalpodcast.com/crazy and use coupon code “VERYSHIP” you’ll get free shipping on your order! Go save yourself some money and support the show all at the same time!

The Wonderist Agency is basically a one stop shop for marketing your practice and your brand. From logo redesign to a full service marketing plan, the folks at Wonderist have you covered! Go check them out at verydentalpodcast.com/wonderist!

Enova Illumination makes the very best in loupes and headlights, including their new ergonomic angled prism loupes! They also distribute loupe mounted cameras and even the amazing line of Zumax microscopes! If you want to help out the podcast while upping your magnification and headlight game, you need to head over to verydentalpodcast.com/enova to see their whole line of products!

CAD-Ray offers the best service on a wide variety of digital scanners, printers, mills and even  their very own browser based design software, Clinux! CAD-Ray has been a huge supporter of the Very Dental Podcast Network and I can tell you that you’ll get no better service on everything digital dentistry than the folks from CAD-Ray. Go check them out at verydentalpodcast.com/CADRay!

"I’m excited for this disruption. I’m excited for the 'price of dabbling' to come down... I’m okay with high-quality products that are less expensive that are disrupting the status quo. I’m actually here for it."

Alan recounts a whirlwind trip to the Chicago Dental Society Midwinter Meeting, but not before detailing a "hellish" day in the clinic that nearly derailed his travel plans. From grueling extractions to elusive mesial canals, Alan shares the raw reality of a high-stress day in the operatory. Once in Chicago, the conversation shifts to the "price of dabbling" in dental technology. Alan discusses his hands-on experience with the new Shining 3D Elf scanner, the seamless logistics of the Midwinter meeting, and how high-quality, lower-cost innovations are disrupting the status quo for scanners, microscopes and frankly all of dental technology. It’s a candid look at clinical struggles, the joy of in-person podcasting, and the evolving landscape of dental technology.

Some links from the show:

• Shining 3D Elf scanner from CAD-Ray
• Woodpecker DTE 600 ultrasonic from Goldendent
• Enova Illumination
• Patriot Dental Lab
• Precision Dental Lab (I share a building with this one!)

"Instagram is dentistry and Facebook is where friends and family are... Instagram is like meth, I can’t get off it." — Alan Mead

Alan sits down with a powerhouse trio—Dr. Russell Schafer, Dr. Mitch Hopkins, and Dr. Matt Standridge—live from Voices of Dentistry 2026. They bridge the gap between "Instagram Dentistry" and the daily grind of running a productive practice, covering everything from why 2D photography still beats 3D face scanning to the hard truths about dental school debt and clinical mastery.

The Guest List:

• Dr. Russell Schafer: The man who helped name the "Group Function" and a recurring voice on the network.

• Dr. Mitch Hopkins: A first-time guest and longtime listener, sharing his journey into implant training and full-mouth rehabs.

• Dr. Matt Standridge: The "Tom Hanks of the Very Dental Podcast," returning to discuss the discipline of dental photography.

Key Conversations:

The Gateway to Comprehensive Care: Photography

The group discusses Matt's presentation on photography. While high-end DSLRs create "dental porn" for Instagram, the real value lies in using photography as a diagnostic tool for every new patient.

• The "Dummy" Solution: Discussion on the ShoFu camera as a simpler alternative to complex DSLR setups.

• The IG Satire: A hilarious pitch for "Garbage Mouth Instagram"—high-end photography of the most neglected cases to stick it to the "AACD" types.

3D Scanning vs. The "Uncanny Valley"

Despite the push for $10,000 3D face scanners, the consensus remains: 2D photos are more useful for lab design. * 3D renderings often fall into the "uncanny valley"—looking almost human but just "off" enough to be distracting.

• Photos are essential for designing smiles that actually fit the patient's face, not just their arches.

Advice for the "Mid-Career" and New Dentists

The conversation turns to the crushing debt and clinical gaps facing new grads.

• The All-on-4 Trap: Why jumping straight into full-arch implants because of debt can be a recipe for malpractice.

• The Power of Bread and Butter: A defense of molar endo, quadrant fillings, and the "Lean and Mean" model of dentistry.

• The PVS Skillset: Why learning analog impressions (and packing cord!) is still a vital skill in a digital world.

Leveling Up Your Clinical Skills

The episode wraps with a "lightning round" of advice for improving your work tomorrow:

• Design Your Own Crowns: Use software to marginate your own preps. It’s the fastest way to realize where your technique is failing.

• Magnification & Lighting: Whether it’s jumping from 2.5x to 4.5x loops or investing in high-quality surgical headlamps, if you can’t see it, you can’t treat it.

Some links from the show:

• Clinical Mastery Series (Mitch teaches here)
• Russell's denture ce
• Matt's "Clear Aligner Boot Camp"
• Matt's "Self Ligating Band and Bracket" Course
• Matt at 3D Dentists
• Shofu Eyespecial camera

Join the Very Dental Facebook Group using one of these passwords: Timmerman, Paul, Bioclear, Hornbrook, Gary, McWethy, Papa Randy, or Lipscomb! 

The Very Dental Podcast network is and will remain free to download. If you’d like to support the shows you love at Very Dental then show a little love to the people that support us!

I’m a big fan of the Bioclear Method! I think you should give it a try and I’ve got a great offer to help you get on board! Use the exclusive Very Dental Podcast code VERYDENTAL8TON for 15% OFF your total Bioclear purchase, including Core Anterior and Posterior Four day courses, Black Triangle Certification, and all Bioclear products.

Are you a practice owner who feels like the bottleneck in your own business? If you’re tired of being the hardest-working person in your office, I’ve got something you need to hear. Dr. Paul Etchison, is hosting a virtual event that is a total game-changer. Paul is honestly one of the most brilliant minds in dental leadership today, and he’s hosting the 3-Day Freedom Practice Workshop from February 19th through the 21st. He’s going to show you exactly how to break through that two-million-dollar revenue ceiling while actually compressing your clinical week. It’s about building a leadership team that takes ownership so you can finally step into the CEO role you deserve. Head over to DentalPracticeHeroes.com/freedom to grab your spot. And do me a favor—mention the Very Dental podcast when you sign up. It’s 100% guaranteed, so you’ve got nothing to lose but the stress.

Crazy Dental has everything you need from cotton rolls to equipment and everything in between and the best prices you’ll find anywhere! If you head over to verydentalpodcast.com/crazy and use coupon code “VERYSHIP” you’ll get free shipping on your order! Go save yourself some money and support the show all at the same time!

The Wonderist Agency is basically a one stop shop for marketing your practice and your brand. From logo redesign to a full service marketing plan, the folks at Wonderist have you covered! Go check them out at verydentalpodcast.com/wonderist!

Enova Illumination makes the very best in loupes and headlights, including their new ergonomic angled prism loupes! They also distribute loupe mounted cameras and even the amazing line of Zumax microscopes! If you want to help out the podcast while upping your magnification and headlight game, you need to head over to verydentalpodcast.com/enova to see their whole line of products!

CAD-Ray offers the best service on a wide variety of digital scanners, printers, mills and even  their very own browser based design software, Clinux! CAD-Ray has been a huge supporter of the Very Dental Podcast Network and I can tell you that you’ll get no better service on everything digital dentistry than the folks from CAD-Ray. Go check them out at verydentalpodcast.com/CADRay!

Alan dives deep into his decades-long journey with high magnification dentistry. In this episode, Alan breaks down why high-powered magnification isn't just for practitioners with "bad eyes" and why it has become the most humbling yet rewarding tool in his operatory. From the technical evolution of the varioscope to the critical importance of specialized lighting, Alan shares why he believes every restorative dentist should consider making the leap to the microscope to rediscover the joy and precision of their craft.

• The Eyesight Myth: Why magnification isn't a crutch for poor vision, but a tool to see beyond human limits—and why Alan wouldn't let a "naked eye" dentist work on him.

• Light vs. Magnification: A look at why lighting is arguably as important as the lens itself, including Alan’s preference for Enova surgical headlamps over traditional overhead lights.

• Beyond Endodontics: Debunking the idea that microscopes are strictly for root canals and exploring their value in restorative diagnosis and execution.

• The Varioscope Revolution: How variable objective lenses have drastically lowered the learning curve for new microscope users compared to the "static" lenses of the past.

• The "Humbling" Reality of 15x: Why seeing your work under high power can be frustrating but ultimately raises the bar for your foundational skills and polishing techniques.

• Mastering Documentation: Practical tips on using beam splitters, keeping your camera in focus, and why a dedicated scope monitor is a game-changer for your workflow.

• Patient Perception: The surprising truth about why patients are often more impressed by 3D scanners than live microscope feeds.

Some links from the show:

• Enova Illumination surgical headlamps
• Zumax OMS 2050
• CJ Optik dental microscopes
• Global Surgical dental microscopes
• Bioclear Learning Center
• Enova Learning Center
• Belograd Academy
• MVision (Dr. Nazariy Mykhaylyuk)

Join the Very Dental Facebook Group using one of these passwords: Timmerman, Paul, Bioclear, Hornbrook, Gary, McWethy, Papa Randy, or Lipscomb! 

The Very Dental Podcast network is and will remain free to download. If you’d like to support the shows you love at Very Dental then show a little love to the people that support us!

I’m a big fan of the Bioclear Method! I think you should give it a try and I’ve got a great offer to help you get on board! Use the exclusive Very Dental Podcast code VERYDENTAL8TON for 15% OFF your total Bioclear purchase, including Core Anterior and Posterior Four day courses, Black Triangle Certification, and all Bioclear products.

Are you a practice owner who feels like the bottleneck in your own business? If you’re tired of being the hardest-working person in your office, I’ve got something you need to hear. Dr. Paul Etchison, is hosting a virtual event that is a total game-changer. Paul is honestly one of the most brilliant minds in dental leadership today, and he’s hosting the 3-Day Freedom Practice Workshop from February 19th through the 21st. He’s going to show you exactly how to break through that two-million-dollar revenue ceiling while actually compressing your clinical week. It’s about building a leadership team that takes ownership so you can finally step into the CEO role you deserve. Head over to DentalPracticeHeroes.com/freedom to grab your spot. And do me a favor—mention the Very Dental podcast when you sign up. It’s 100% guaranteed, so you’ve got nothing to lose but the stress.

Crazy Dental has everything you need from cotton rolls to equipment and everything in between and the best prices you’ll find anywhere! If you head over to verydentalpodcast.com/crazy and use coupon code “VERYSHIP” you’ll get free shipping on your order! Go save yourself some money and support the show all at the same time!

The Wonderist Agency is basically a one stop shop for marketing your practice and your brand. From logo redesign to a full service marketing plan, the folks at Wonderist have you covered! Go check them out at verydentalpodcast.com/wonderist!

Enova Illumination makes the very best in loupes and headlights, including their new ergonomic angled prism loupes! They also distribute loupe mounted cameras and even the amazing line of Zumax microscopes! If you want to help out the podcast while upping your magnification and headlight game, you need to head over to verydentalpodcast.com/enova to see their whole line of products!

CAD-Ray offers the best service on a wide variety of digital scanners, printers, mills and even  their very own browser based design software, Clinux! CAD-Ray has been a huge supporter of the Very Dental Podcast Network and I can tell you that you’ll get no better service on everything digital dentistry than the folks from CAD-Ray. Go check them out at verydentalpodcast.com/CADRay!

This special Saturday episode of the Very Dental Podcast is all about the upcoming Chicago Midwinter Dental Meeting! Alan Mead sits down with Dr. Phil Schefke, President of the Chicago Dental Society (CDS), to preview the 2026 Midwinter Meeting.

Whether you’re a 30-year veteran of the meeting or a dental student looking for your first experience, this episode dives into why Chicago remains the premier destination for dental innovation, collegiality, and—believe it or not—puppies.

The Guest: Dr. Phil Schefke

Dr. Schefke serves as the President of the Chicago Dental Society, the largest component of the ADA. With a board of 15 members and a dedicated staff, Phil has spent nearly a decade on the leadership ladder to help orchestrate a meeting that hosts attendees from all 50 states and over 60 countries.

What’s New at the Midwinter Meeting?

The CDS team has spent three years redesigning the attendee experience based on direct feedback. Here are the new features and highlights discussed in this episode:

• Streamlined Registration: No more waiting for badges in the mail. Attendees will receive a QR code to print their badges at self-service stations at McCormick Place or at three partner hotels (Hyatt Regency on Wacker, Hyatt McCormick, and Marriott McCormick).

• Enhanced Exhibit Floor Layout: The floor has been redesigned with shorter aisles for easier mobility and "crisscross" navigation.

• Refresh & Recharge Stations: Scattered throughout the floor, these areas offer water and phone charging ports to keep you hydrated and connected.

• Grab-and-Go Dining: New food stations on the exhibit floor designed for quick lunches between CE courses.

• The "Hadley" Puppy Corner: A dedicated space in the back of the exhibit hall to play with puppies and melt away the stress of the day (named after the first CDS president).

• Early Career Dentist Lounge: A comfortable space featuring couches and networking opportunities specifically for the next generation of clinicians.

• CDS "Swag" Booth: For the first time, attendees can purchase official CDS-branded jackets, sweaters, and coffee cups.

• Tech Upgrades: A brand-new, intuitive registration system that prevents double-booking courses and high-quality, reliable Wi-Fi throughout the venue.

• On-Site Mobile Clinic: The Illinois Masonic Hospital will have their mobile dental van on the floor for tours and demonstrations.

• Free Professional Headshots: Available at the CDS footprint for attendees to update their professional profiles.

Special Events & Keynotes

• Thursday: Keynote speaker Chris Chelios, three-time Stanley Cup champion, discussing leadership and championship-level teamwork. (Plus, Garrett’s Popcorn giveaways!)

• Friday: "Sip, Suds, and Sales" (beer and wine on the exhibit floor) followed by the Beats and Bites DJ party.

• Saturday: The traditional President’s Dinner Dance, a black-tie event featuring a live band to celebrate the week’s successes.

The "Fourth Level" of Dentistry

Alan and Phil discuss the "secret sauce" of CDS membership. At just $125 (for ADA members), membership provides free registration to the meeting, offering incredible value compared to standard registration fees. It’s a tradition that spans 161 years, proving that while technology changes, the value of face-to-face collegiality remains priceless.

Some links from the show:

• The 2026 Chicago Midwinter Dental Meeting

Join the Very Dental Facebook Group using one of these passwords: Timmerman, Paul, Bioclear, Hornbrook, Gary, McWethy, Papa Randy, or Lipscomb! 

The Very Dental Podcast network is and will remain free to download. If you’d like to support the shows you love at Very Dental then show a little love to the people that support us!

I’m a big fan of the Bioclear Method! I think you should give it a try and I’ve got a great offer to help you get on board! Use the exclusive Very Dental Podcast code VERYDENTAL8TON for 15% OFF your total Bioclear purchase, including Core Anterior and Posterior Four day courses, Black Triangle Certification, and all Bioclear products.

Are you a practice owner who feels like the bottleneck in your own business? If you’re tired of being the hardest-working person in your office, I’ve got something you need to hear. Dr. Paul Etchison, is hosting a virtual event that is a total game-changer. Paul is honestly one of the most brilliant minds in dental leadership today, and he’s hosting the 3-Day Freedom Practice Workshop from February 19th through the 21st. He’s going to show you exactly how to break through that two-million-dollar revenue ceiling while actually compressing your clinical week. It’s about building a leadership team that takes ownership so you can finally step into the CEO role you deserve. Head over to DentalPracticeHeroes.com/freedom to grab your spot. And do me a favor—mention the Very Dental podcast when you sign up. It’s 100% guaranteed, so you’ve got nothing to lose but the stress.

Crazy Dental has everything you need from cotton rolls to equipment and everything in between and the best prices you’ll find anywhere! If you head over to verydentalpodcast.com/crazy and use coupon code “VERYSHIP” you’ll get free shipping on your order! Go save yourself some money and support the show all at the same time!

The Wonderist Agency is basically a one stop shop for marketing your practice and your brand. From logo redesign to a full service marketing plan, the folks at Wonderist have you covered! Go check them out at verydentalpodcast.com/wonderist!

Enova Illumination makes the very best in loupes and headlights, including their new ergonomic angled prism loupes! They also distribute loupe mounted cameras and even the amazing line of Zumax microscopes! If you want to help out the podcast while upping your magnification and headlight game, you need to head over to verydentalpodcast.com/enova to see their whole line of products!

CAD-Ray offers the best service on a wide variety of digital scanners, printers, mills and even  their very own browser based design software, Clinux! CAD-Ray has been a huge supporter of the Very Dental Podcast Network and I can tell you that you’ll get no better service on everything digital dentistry than the folks from CAD-Ray. Go check them out at verydentalpodcast.com/CADRay!

"I think we're reaching a breaking point where people are starting to reflect and say, 'Man, I don't know if the juice is worth the squeeze anymore.'" — Dr. Paul Etchison

Recorded live at Voices of Dentistry 2026 in sunny Gilbert, Arizona, Alan sits down with a VOD favorite, Dr. Paul Etchison of the Dental Practice Heroes podcast. They dive deep into the staggering reality of modern dental school debt, the "juice vs. the squeeze" of ownership, and why dentists should probably stay away from the restaurant business.

The Debt Wall

The financial landscape for new dentists has shifted dramatically. Alan and Paul compare the "then vs. now" of education costs:

• The 1997 Reality: Alan graduated with roughly $85,000 in debt.

• The 2009 Reality: Paul finished with around $235,000.

• The 2026 Reality: In-state tuition at schools like the University of Michigan can exceed $400,000 before living expenses, often resulting in $4,000–$5,000 monthly loan payments right out of the gate.

Ownership: The Only Way Out?

While ownership comes with "headaches," Paul argues it remains the most viable path to outrun massive debt.

• The Associate Cap: Even high-producing associates (doing $2M/year) are limited by their percentage. An owner doing the same production sees a significantly higher return.

• Value Creation: To be a top-tier associate or a successful owner, you must move beyond "bread and butter" dentistry and master communication and case presentation.

Building Skills and Getting "Reps"

• Deep Dive vs. Scattershot: Instead of taking random weekend courses, find a specialty you enjoy (Endo, Ortho, etc.) and commit to it.

• The Endo Struggle: Paul and Alan discuss the importance of "reps" and why waiting for the "perfect" case often prevents you from ever getting good at the procedure.

• The Microscope Factor: Using a scope can find the MB2, but it doesn’t necessarily make you faster without the volume of experience.

The "Curated" Business Model

If dentistry vanished tomorrow, what would these guys do?

• The Sausage and Bread Theory: Alan highlights small businesses in Northern Michigan that succeed through curation rather than volume.

• The Bourdain Warning: A nod to Anthony Bourdain’s Kitchen Confidential, which famously warns dentists against buying restaurants just because they "throw a good party."

Some links from the show:

• Paul's 3-Day Freedom Practice Workshop
• The Dental Practice Heroes Podcast
• Kitchen Confidential by Anthony Bourdain

Join the Very Dental Facebook Group using one of these passwords: Timmerman, Paul, Bioclear, Hornbrook, Gary, McWethy, Papa Randy, or Lipscomb! 

The Very Dental Podcast network is and will remain free to download. If you’d like to support the shows you love at Very Dental then show a little love to the people that support us!

I’m a big fan of the Bioclear Method! I think you should give it a try and I’ve got a great offer to help you get on board! Use the exclusive Very Dental Podcast code VERYDENTAL8TON for 15% OFF your total Bioclear purchase, including Core Anterior and Posterior Four day courses, Black Triangle Certification, and all Bioclear products.

Are you a practice owner who feels like the bottleneck in your own business? If you’re tired of being the hardest-working person in your office, I’ve got something you need to hear. Dr. Paul Etchison, is hosting a virtual event that is a total game-changer. Paul is honestly one of the most brilliant minds in dental leadership today, and he’s hosting the 3-Day Freedom Practice Workshop from February 19th through the 21st. He’s going to show you exactly how to break through that two-million-dollar revenue ceiling while actually compressing your clinical week. It’s about building a leadership team that takes ownership so you can finally step into the CEO role you deserve. Head over to DentalPracticeHeroes.com/freedom to grab your spot. And do me a favor—mention the Very Dental podcast when you sign up. It’s 100% guaranteed, so you’ve got nothing to lose but the stress.

Crazy Dental has everything you need from cotton rolls to equipment and everything in between and the best prices you’ll find anywhere! If you head over to verydentalpodcast.com/crazy and use coupon code “VERYSHIP” you’ll get free shipping on your order! Go save yourself some money and support the show all at the same time!

The Wonderist Agency is basically a one stop shop for marketing your practice and your brand. From logo redesign to a full service marketing plan, the folks at Wonderist have you covered! Go check them out at verydentalpodcast.com/wonderist!

Enova Illumination makes the very best in loupes and headlights, including their new ergonomic angled prism loupes! They also distribute loupe mounted cameras and even the amazing line of Zumax microscopes! If you want to help out the podcast while upping your magnification and headlight game, you need to head over to verydentalpodcast.com/enova to see their whole line of products!

CAD-Ray offers the best service on a wide variety of digital scanners, printers, mills and even  their very own browser based design software, Clinux! CAD-Ray has been a huge supporter of the Very Dental Podcast Network and I can tell you that you’ll get no better service on everything digital dentistry than the folks from CAD-Ray. Go check them out at verydentalpodcast.com/CADRay!

Zach and Kevin welcome Alan back to the show by commiserating over those moments where you look at your schedule and wonder why you (or your past self) agreed to a specific procedure.

• Kevin’s #16 Crown Prep: Kevin recounts the dread of seeing a crown prep on a third molar (#16) at 8:00 AM. Despite the technical difficulty and the "Is this a joke?" feeling, it ended up being successful with a rubber dam.

• Zach's "Self-Extracting" Molars: Zach shares a cautionary tale from his early career working with his father. He attempted to crown a second molar that was tilted so far distally it was practically trying to extract itself. The result? A lost contact, a lost crown, and eventually, a lost patient.

• The Bioclear Pivot: Alan discusses a recent case where he planned a crown on #15 but found decay so deep it was near the crest. He pivoted to a side-by-side Bioclear composite, which was harder and more time-consuming but ultimately the right clinical choice.

Categorizing the "Resurrected" Patient

The main theme of the episode focuses on patients who reappear after years—sometimes a decade—away from the chair. Alan and the hosts break these down into tiers:

1. The S-Tier (The Best Case)

These are patients who didn't leave because of a conflict; they simply "had a gap in life."

• Examples: Moving away and moving back, going through a divorce, or the "COVID-12" (people who stopped coming in 2020 and are just now emerging).

• The Dynamic: They still feel like "your" patients. They often have a high follow-through rate because they are relieved to be back in a familiar, trusted environment.

2. The A-Tier (The "Grass Wasn't Greener")

Patients who left for a specific reason—usually insurance—and realized that "a dentist is a dentist" isn't actually true.

• The Insurance Trap: Many leave because the office went out-of-network, only to find that the "in-network" experience lacked the technology or relationship they valued.

• The Result: When they return, they often have a newfound appreciation for the higher level of service and clinical care provided.

3. The Lower Tiers (The Friction Cases)

• The Billing "B-Tier": Patients who disappeared because they owed money. They usually only reappear when they have an emergency and are suddenly willing to pay their old balance to get out of pain.

• The Personality "C-Tier": Patients who left after a confrontation or a bad review.

Professional Growth & "Hard Nos"

Alan reflects on how his clinical confidence has changed over the years. When a patient returns after 10 years, they aren't seeing the same dentist; they are seeing a version of Alan that is more skilled, has better tools (like new Bioclear matrices), and more experience.

When is a "Resurrection" a "Hard No"?

• Abuse of Staff: Rudeness, yelling, or cussing out the team.

• Chronic No-Shows: People who are "constitutionally incapable" of making it to an appointment.

• The Dismissed: If a formal dismissal letter was sent, the door remains closed regardless of the patient's willingness to pay.

Join the Very Clinical Facebook group! 

Join the Very Dental Facebook Group using one of these passwords: Timmerman, Paul, Bioclear, Hornbrook, Gary, McWethy, Papa Randy, or Lipscomb! 

The Very Dental Podcast network is and will remain free to download. If you’d like to support the shows you love at Very Dental then show a little love to the people that support us!

I’m a big fan of the Bioclear Method! I think you should give it a try and I’ve got a great offer to help you get on board! Use the exclusive Very Dental Podcast code VERYDENTAL8TON for 15% OFF your total Bioclear purchase, including Core Anterior and Posterior Four day courses, Black Triangle Certification, and all Bioclear products.

Are you a practice owner who feels like the bottleneck in your own business? If you’re tired of being the hardest-working person in your office, I’ve got something you need to hear. Dr. Paul Etchison, is hosting a virtual event that is a total game-changer. Paul is honestly one of the most brilliant minds in dental leadership today, and he’s hosting the 3-Day Freedom Practice Workshop from February 19th through the 21st. He’s going to show you exactly how to break through that two-million-dollar revenue ceiling while actually compressing your clinical week. It’s about building a leadership team that takes ownership so you can finally step into the CEO role you deserve. Head over to DentalPracticeHeroes.com/freedom to grab your spot. And do me a favor—mention the Very Dental podcast when you sign up. It’s 100% guaranteed, so you’ve got nothing to lose but the stress.

Crazy Dental has everything you need from cotton rolls to equipment and everything in between and the best prices you’ll find anywhere! If you head over to verydentalpodcast.com/crazy and use coupon code “VERYSHIP” you’ll get free shipping on your order! Go save yourself some money and support the show all at the same time!

The Wonderist Agency is basically a one stop shop for marketing your practice and your brand. From logo redesign to a full service marketing plan, the folks at Wonderist have you covered! Go check them out at verydentalpodcast.com/wonderist!

Enova Illumination makes the very best in loupes and headlights, including their new ergonomic angled prism loupes! They also distribute loupe mounted cameras and even the amazing line of Zumax microscopes! If you want to help out the podcast while upping your magnification and headlight game, you need to head over to verydentalpodcast.com/enova to see their whole line of products!

CAD-Ray offers the best service on a wide variety of digital scanners, printers, mills and even  their very own browser based design software, Clinux! CAD-Ray has been a huge supporter of the Very Dental Podcast Network and I can tell you that you’ll get no better service on everything digital dentistry than the folks from CAD-Ray. Go check them out at verydentalpodcast.com/CADRay!

Alan discusses his "whirlwind" travel plans for the Chicago Midwinter Meeting, reviews the new Bioclear TSS Matrix system, and shares his first impressions of the remarkably small Shining 3D Elf scanner.

Key Highlights

The Chicago Midwinter Strategy

Alan is opting for a surgical strike on Chicago this year:

• The Schedule: Working Thursday, driving to Indiana, hitting the McCormick Center all day Friday for recording, and driving back Friday night.

• The Goal: Maximizing "content in the can" by recording with attendees and exhibitors without the expense of a multi-day hotel stay.

• Connect: If you're at McCormick Place on Friday the 20th, reach out via Facebook to say hello.

Product Spotlight: Bioclear TSS Matrices

Alan breaks down the new Tooth Surface Specific (TSS) matrix system from Bioclear.

• The Workflow: Labeled by tooth number (6–11) and surface (mesial/distal), making it "assistant-proof."

• Performance: Stiffer than previous iterations with better gingival control and less "over-bulking," significantly reducing finishing and polishing time.

• Essential Accessory: QwikStrips(specifically the Red and White versions) for breaking contacts before matrix placement.

Listener Discount: Use code VERYDENTAL8TON at Bioclear for 15% off your order (includes courses and products).

Tech Review: The Shining 3D "Elf" Scanner

Purchased through CAD-Ray, this new scanner is making waves for its form factor.

• Size: Comparable to a curing light or intraoral camera; it plugs directly into USBC with no external power brick.

• Speed: Extremely fast full-arch scans with high accuracy on soft tissue (ideal for removable cases).

• Ease of Use: "Plug and play" installation with immediate functionality, even for those used to the Medit ecosystem.

Some links from the show:

• Bioclear TSS Matrix Kit (Use code VERYDENTAL8TON at Bioclear for 15% off your order (includes courses and products)
• Qwikstrips (white and red)
• Shining 3D Aoralscan Elf from CAD-Ray

Join the Very Dental Facebook Group using one of these passwords: Timmerman, Paul, Bioclear, Hornbrook, Gary, McWethy, Papa Randy, or Lipscomb! 

The Very Dental Podcast network is and will remain free to download. If you’d like to support the shows you love at Very Dental then show a little love to the people that support us!

I’m a big fan of the Bioclear Method! I think you should give it a try and I’ve got a great offer to help you get on board! Use the exclusive Very Dental Podcast code VERYDENTAL8TON for 15% OFF your total Bioclear purchase, including Core Anterior and Posterior Four day courses, Black Triangle Certification, and all Bioclear products.

Are you a practice owner who feels like the bottleneck in your own business? If you’re tired of being the hardest-working person in your office, I’ve got something you need to hear. Dr. Paul Etchison, is hosting a virtual event that is a total game-changer. Paul is honestly one of the most brilliant minds in dental leadership today, and he’s hosting the 3-Day Freedom Practice Workshop from February 19th through the 21st. He’s going to show you exactly how to break through that two-million-dollar revenue ceiling while actually compressing your clinical week. It’s about building a leadership team that takes ownership so you can finally step into the CEO role you deserve. Head over to DentalPracticeHeroes.com/freedom to grab your spot. And do me a favor—mention the Very Dental podcast when you sign up. It’s 100% guaranteed, so you’ve got nothing to lose but the stress.

Crazy Dental has everything you need from cotton rolls to equipment and everything in between and the best prices you’ll find anywhere! If you head over to verydentalpodcast.com/crazy and use coupon code “VERYSHIP” you’ll get free shipping on your order! Go save yourself some money and support the show all at the same time!

The Wonderist Agency is basically a one stop shop for marketing your practice and your brand. From logo redesign to a full service marketing plan, the folks at Wonderist have you covered! Go check them out at verydentalpodcast.com/wonderist!

Enova Illumination makes the very best in loupes and headlights, including their new ergonomic angled prism loupes! They also distribute loupe mounted cameras and even the amazing line of Zumax microscopes! If you want to help out the podcast while upping your magnification and headlight game, you need to head over to verydentalpodcast.com/enova to see their whole line of products!

CAD-Ray offers the best service on a wide variety of digital scanners, printers, mills and even  their very own browser based design software, Clinux! CAD-Ray has been a huge supporter of the Very Dental Podcast Network and I can tell you that you’ll get no better service on everything digital dentistry than the folks from CAD-Ray. Go check them out at verydentalpodcast.com/CADRay!

In this episode of the Group Function podcast, host Alan Mead sits down with Dr. Alex Kantor and Dr. Eric Applesies from the Just a Couple of Dentists podcast to unpack the "regular ass dentist" experience of buying, starting, running and selling dental practices! Fresh off their presentation at the 2026 Voices of Dentistry conference, the Eric and Alex (a married couple of dentists) dive into the logistics of optimizing a practice for sale, emphasizing that maximum value is built in the 18 to 24 months before a transition by tightening systems and improving hygiene "show rates." The conversation balances technical advice on EBITDA and overhead reduction with a candid—and occasionally spicy—critique of the post-COVID hygiene labor market, ultimately highlighting how dentists can prepare their businesses for a successful handoff to either a private buyer or a DSO.

In their session and conversation with Alan, Dr. Alex Cantor and Dr. Eric Applesies highlighted several key levers to pull when prepping a practice for sale. Their core philosophy is that "a dollar saved is $4 to $6 earned" during a valuation.

Key Optimization Strategies

• The 12-to-24-Month Runway: Valuations are typically based on the last 12 months of profit (EBITDA). To ensure your systems are fully "flushed out" and consistent, start implementing changes 18 to 24 months before you intend to sell.

• Hygiene "Show Rates": Increasing your show rate from 70% to 90% is considered "low-hanging fruit." Because hygiene has low variable costs (mostly just prophy paste and floss), nearly every dollar of a kept hygiene appointment goes directly to the bottom line, which is then multiplied during a sale.

• Aggressive Appointment Confirmation:

  • Use automated texts to keep appointments top-of-mind.

  • The "48-Hour Rule": If a patient hasn't confirmed 48 hours out, inform them they will be removed from the schedule.

  • Follow Through: Actually remove unconfirmed patients to give your team two days to fill the spot with someone who wants to be there.

• Overhead Reduction (The "Spend" Side):

  • Supplies: Move away from the "old school" model of buying through a single rep who brings donuts. Use platforms like Crazy Dental or Net 32 to treat supplies as a commodity and secure the lowest price.

  • Labs: Look for efficiency gains through model-less workflows and digital scanning, which can reduce lab fees and turnaround times.

• Clinical Extraction: If you want to retire immediately after the sale, stop working clinically one year prior. This proves to a buyer (especially a DSO) that the practice's revenue is sustained by systems and associates, not just your individual production.

• Know Your "Game":

  • Private Buyer: Better if you want a quick exit (6–12 months) and have a smaller practice.

  • DSO Buyer: Better for high-revenue practices ($5M+ range), but usually requires you to stay on for several years as an associate.

Some links from the show:

• Just A Couple of Dentists Podcast

Join the Very Dental Facebook Group using one of these passwords: Timmerman, Paul, Bioclear, Hornbrook, Gary, McWethy, Papa Randy, or Lipscomb! 

The Very Dental Podcast network is and will remain free to download. If you’d like to support the shows you love at Very Dental then show a little love to the people that support us!

I’m a big fan of the Bioclear Method! I think you should give it a try and I’ve got a great offer to help you get on board! Use the exclusive Very Dental Podcast code VERYDENTAL8TON for 15% OFF your total Bioclear purchase, including Core Anterior and Posterior Four day courses, Black Triangle Certification, and all Bioclear products.

Are you a practice owner who feels like the bottleneck in your own business? If you’re tired of being the hardest-working person in your office, I’ve got something you need to hear. Dr. Paul Etchison, is hosting a virtual event that is a total game-changer. Paul is honestly one of the most brilliant minds in dental leadership today, and he’s hosting the 3-Day Freedom Practice Workshop from February 19th through the 21st. He’s going to show you exactly how to break through that two-million-dollar revenue ceiling while actually compressing your clinical week. It’s about building a leadership team that takes ownership so you can finally step into the CEO role you deserve. Head over to DentalPracticeHeroes.com/freedom to grab your spot. And do me a favor—mention the Very Dental podcast when you sign up. It’s 100% guaranteed, so you’ve got nothing to lose but the stress.

Crazy Dental has everything you need from cotton rolls to equipment and everything in between and the best prices you’ll find anywhere! If you head over to verydentalpodcast.com/crazy and use coupon code “VERYSHIP” you’ll get free shipping on your order! Go save yourself some money and support the show all at the same time!

The Wonderist Agency is basically a one stop shop for marketing your practice and your brand. From logo redesign to a full service marketing plan, the folks at Wonderist have you covered! Go check them out at verydentalpodcast.com/wonderist!

Enova Illumination makes the very best in loupes and headlights, including their new ergonomic angled prism loupes! They also distribute loupe mounted cameras and even the amazing line of Zumax microscopes! If you want to help out the podcast while upping your magnification and headlight game, you need to head over to verydentalpodcast.com/enova to see their whole line of products!

CAD-Ray offers the best service on a wide variety of digital scanners, printers, mills and even  their very own browser based design software, Clinux! CAD-Ray has been a huge supporter of the Very Dental Podcast Network and I can tell you that you’ll get no better service on everything digital dentistry than the folks from CAD-Ray. Go check them out at verydentalpodcast.com/CADRay!