Dental Drills Bits (Sandy Pardue & Dana Salisbury)

Are your ready to tackle the fourth quarter crunch and boost productivity in your practice? Join Michael and Sandy on this high-impact episode of Dental Drill Bits as they break down transformative strategies to keep your practice thriving, even during the most challenging times.

Gain practical advice through Sandy's shared anecdotes on everything from managing missed appointments to tackling unscheduled treatments and sustaining team momentum throughout slow months. Track your key performance indicators, enforce consistent procedures, improve follow-up communication, and ensure proactive scheduling—all key takeaways to help you end the fiscal year with strong, positive numbers. Don't miss this chance to arm yourself with essential tips for a robust dental practice.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• How consistently following specific actions can keep your dental practice always on the move.
• Effective methods to handle missed appointments and bridge the gap with unscheduled treatments.
• Why proactive communication and diligent follow-ups can save your schedule.
• Tips for delivering top productivity during off-peak times of the year.
• Which performance reports to pull and what insights they might reveal.
• Steps to enhance productivity and identifying actionable improvement areas.

Listen to ensure your dental practice is prepped to finish the year on a high!

Sponsors:

Don’t just look ahead. Plan Forward. Discover the dental membership plan partner that empowers your entire office. Created by a team in your shoes. Find out more here, and be sure to mention Dental Drill Bits for a special offer! https://www.planforward.io/

Brands/Businesses:

Circle K

Places/Establishments:

Renaissance Hotel - Boston

Analytics/Reports:

Henry Schein One/Jarvis Analytics 2024 Report

You know that one person who's always missing days, calling in, or maybe they save up time off and leave for a long time. Welp, there’s procedures and systems to prevent that and actually improve all of your employees' attendance! 

In this episode Sandy gives us 5 major steps that will improve attendance and help motivate employees to not miss a day!

1. Sit down with your team and talk about your core values. 
2. Create an attendance policy. 
3. Track when people miss work. 
4. Address these no-shows or last minute cancellations immediately!
5. Reward good behavior. 

Listen in as we dive deeper into each of these steps and provide a game plan!

How can YOUR practice stand out in the crowded online space? In this episode, Michael, Sandy, and Ali dive into proven strategies for enhancing your practice's online presence. Joined by Ali from DocSites, a leader in dental websites and marketing, the conversation reveals how to keep your website fresh and engaging. From showcasing compelling before-and-after photos to ensuring your team and service information is always current, Ali provides actionable tips that can attract new patients and keep your existing ones loyal.

But it doesn't stop at just updating your website. Ali discusses the significant impact online reviews can have on your practice's reputation and offers a glimpse into effective marketing tools like Google Ads and SEO. Even more, this episode introduces a fantastic free web assessment offered by DocSites that can help you pinpoint areas for improvement with your site!

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• Why keeping your website content updated is essential for patient engagement.
• The importance of showcasing before-and-after photos on your website.
• How online reviews can significantly influence new patient acquisition.
• Effective tools and strategies for dental marketing, including Google Ads and SEO.
• The benefits of a free web assessment offered by DocSites to improve your website.
• How to create and maintain a system for regular updates.

Don’t miss this opportunity to supercharge your practice's online presence—tune in now!

Sponsors:

Do you need a new website or marketing agency? Check out what DocSites can do for you: https://www.DocSites.com/landing-pages/ddb/

You can also reach out to Ali here! ali@DocSites.com

Tools/Software:

Google Ads

SEO

Cherry Payment Plans

Brands/Businesses:

Invisalign

iTero

SureSmile

Pep Boys

Practices:

Seaside Dentistry

Aspen Dental

Ever wonder why patients often decline treatment and how you can address these objections effectively? In this episode, Michael and Sandy dive deep into the top three most common excuses patients give: fear, lack of awareness, and financial concerns. Sandy sheds light on why recognizing these objections is crucial and offers actionable strategies for overcoming them. Through compelling examples, she underscores the importance of educating patients about the benefits of timely care and mastering verbal skills, including the art of voice inflection, to present treatment plans compellingly.

Sandy doesn’t stop there. She explains how role-playing and regular training can transform your dental team's approach, making patients feel more at ease and informed. By the end of this enlightening discussion, you'll understand how to create a comforting environment for your patients, empowering them to move forward with necessary treatments. Tune in to harness the power of effective communication and patient education in your practice.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• How to identify and address patient fears regarding dental treatments.
• Techniques to inform patients who are unaware of their dental needs.
• Strategies for handling financial objections to dental care.
• The role of verbal skills and voice inflection in presenting treatment plans.
• The impact of role-playing and team training on patient interactions.
• Ways to make patients feel comfortable and informed during decision-making.
• Tips for educating patients about the benefits of timely dental treatments.

Transform the way you handle patient objections by listening to this episode today!

Sponsors:

Don’t just look ahead. Plan Forward. Discover the dental membership plan partner that empowers your entire office. Created by a team in your shoes. Find out more here, and be sure to mention Dental Drill Bits for a special offer! https://www.planforward.io/

Is your dental practice is not showing up in search results the way you want? This episode of Dental Drill Bits dives deep into the world of Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and its impact on your practice's online visibility. In conversation with our expert guest, Ali from Docsites, we address the importance of local SEO and elucidate how optimizing your web presence can organically elevate your position on search engine results pages.

Ali covers common misconceptions about SEO and illuminates the potency of a coherent content strategy, mobile optimization, and the effective use of keywords in reeling in prospective patients. We shed light on common pitfalls to look out for, as well as the importance of persevering in your SEO initiatives. Above all, we warn against the fixation on rankings - reminding listeners that it's the consistent quality of your SEO work, not quick fixes or hacks, that truly matters in the long run.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• The role and relevance of SEO in improving your dental practice's online visibility
• Insights into local SEO and how to optimize your website to rank higher organically
• Unmasking common SEO misconceptions
• The importance of content strategy and mobile optimization in SEO
• Effective use of keywords to attract and captivate potential patients
• Tips to avoid common SEO mistakes
• The significance of perseverance in your SEO initiatives
• The need to prioritize consistent, quality SEO work over quick fixes or obsession over rankings

Ready to elevate your dental practice? Tune into this episode of Dental Drill Bits for a comprehensive dive into SEO that could transform your online presence.

Sponsors:

Do you need a new website or marketing agency? Check out what Docsites can do for you: https://www.docsites.com/landing-pages/ddb/

Mentions and Links:

Community/Groups:

• Dental Gumbo Group

Brands/Products:

• Zoom Teeth Whitening

• Kör Teeth Whitening

• Invisalign

• iTero

• WordPress

• Squarespace

• Zocdoc

• Yelp

“Quiet quitting” is nothing new, it just has a name now. According to a recent study: “Quiet Quitters” make up 50% of the US workforce! 32% are disengaged employees and 18% are the type of employees that go on social media and trash talk or display how they hate their employer. Why does “quiet quitting'' happen?

In this episode Sandy lets us know how we can identify these "quiet quitters" and what you should look for before it’s too late. These types of employees will kill your productivity and also drag down your team culture and ultimately hinder your growth. 

As you’re listening to this episode you may start to identify that you MAY have a “quiet quitter”. So listen to this episode to see how you can handle any “quiet quitting” situation.

If you're not even aware of your treatment closing percentages... then that's the first thing you need to know TODAY!

Sandy Pardue breaks down the whole process on how we can get more "YES" from our patients. She gives us real life examples, steps, scripts, who is responsible for this on our team, and even deep quotes!

We also discuss what to do if someone says "NO".

Sponsors:

Do you need a new website or marketing agency, check out what Docsites can do for you: https://www.docsites.com/landing-pages/ddb/

This week's episode is all about common issues that practices have. Some of these issues, you may not even know you have! Covering the topics of productivity, scheduling, and communication, we will dive deep into what it takes to move your practice in the right direction. We discuss having unscheduled chair time, why you may have low patient retention, and where your overhead may be slowing your growth.

To pick up on these tips and the other essentials, give the week's episode a listen!

Sponsors:

Do you need a new website or marketing agency, check out what Docsites can do for you: https://www.docsites.com/landing-pages/ddb/

In this episode, we explore the question "How do you measure dental practice success?" For one, there's more to it than just looking at production numbers or collections. You may have sky high new patient numbers, or massive amounts of production, and still not be financially successful! When it comes down to it, retention and collections are the real key to a sustainable future. We go over having a steady flow of new patients, a system for contacting patients for overdue payments, a dedicated financial coordinator, and overhead that stays under 60%. Additionally, retaining existing patients is just as crucial as bringing in new ones, so make sure to keep up-to-date contact information!

Dive into this week's episode to learn more about measuring success in the dental industry!

Staff meetings should be an orderly, productive, and uplifting meeting. One of the ultimate goals with every meeting is to have unity.

Sandy Pardue breaks down exactly how our staff meetings should go in order for them to not only be productive, but to get us closer to our goals (better unity in your team, more collections, more profit). 

We discuss how long team meetings should be, the difference between morning huddles and these meetings, how often you should hold them, and what exactly needs to be covered and said.

You get a text message from a staff member that says they can’t come to work today, now what do you do?

In this episode Sandy talks to us about the proper steps we need to take with handling staff members who seem to be absent or miss a lot of work days for whatever reason. We discuss how we can remedy this and how you can ensure it doesn’t spread to other employees. She also gives us a step by step process on how to start this system today!

Imagine transforming potential inquiries into loyal patient relationships with just a phone call. In this episode, Michael and Sandy dive deep into mastering effective phone communication for dental practice front office staff, a critical yet often overlooked skill. Sandy begins by highlighting the significance of first impressions, presenting a powerful six-step guide designed to seamlessly manage new patient calls. From crafting a welcoming greeting to confidently promoting the practice, Sandy breaks down each step with clarity and precision, ensuring your front office team is well-equipped to handle any conversation with ease.

Throughout the conversation, Sandy sheds light on common pitfalls, such as overwhelming potential patients with excessive dental history probes or premature price discussions. By focusing on scheduling appointments and fostering an inviting atmosphere, front office staff can set the stage for meaningful face-to-face interactions. Sandy underscores the value of being a good listener and familiarizing oneself with financing solutions when cost concerns arise. This episode is a must-listen for anyone aiming to elevate their patient communication skills to drive practice growth and satisfaction.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• How to create a positive first impression on phone calls.
• The six crucial steps to handle a new patient inquiry effectively.
• Strategies to avoid scaring off potential patients with complex details.
• Common communication mistakes and how to prevent them.
• Tips for confidently promoting the practice and services.
• Ways to emphasize consultation over phone-based decisions.
• Importance of listening and adapting to patient needs.
• Utilizing financing options to address cost concerns.

Listen in now to discover the secrets to exceptional phone communication in your dental practice!

Sponsors:

Don’t just look ahead. Plan Forward. Discover the dental membership plan partner that empowers your entire office. Created by a team in your shoes. Find out more here, and be sure to mention Dental Drill Bits for a special offer! https://www.planforward.io/

Sponsors:

Do you need a new website or marketing agency, check out what Docsites can do for you: https://www.docsites.com/landing-pages/ddb/

In the US, approximately 1.6 million people are changing dentists every month, making patient retention and loyalty critical to any dental practice's success. When the value per patient is so heavily weighted on retention and loyalty, we wanted to dive into some points on improving customer service, increasing retention rates, and how to show appreciation to your amazing patients! By raising retention rates from 50% to 80%, your practice can double its value per patient and stimulate the growth you're looking for, so don't let this opportunity pass.

Listen to this week's episode so you don't miss out on ways to promote loyalty, retain patients, and give them a reason to tell their friends!

Are we becoming slaves to our screens even at the workplace? In this engaging episode, Michael and Sandy delve into the impact of screen time at the workplace, particularly assessing the effect of devices like Apple watches, Fitbits, and cell phones. Taking a hard look at the addictive demands of these technologies, they explore how their constant use can compromise individual productivity and professional etiquette.

They zoom into the healthcare field, using dental practices as a case study. Here, Sandy exposes the reality of enforcing phone policies in an environment where personal rights, patient care, and legal considerations such as HIPAA compliance dance a precarious dance. As they shed light on instances of phone misuse, a critical need for clear and enforceable guidelines comes to light. The episode serves up insights on striking the right balance, creating an environment where technology empowers workers without becoming a distraction or liability.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• Exploring the addictive nature of digital devices in the workplace
• How to set clear and enforceable device usage guidelines in a professional setting
• Analyzing the challenges and potential liability arising from device misuse in healthcare settings
• Understanding the fine line between enforcing rules and respecting personal property rights
• The importance of effective communication in setting device usage boundaries

Don't miss out on this insightful discussion! Hit the play button and learn how to control technology, not letting it control you or your team!

Sponsors:

Elevate Patient Care with Automation: Are you looking for dental software that puts your patients first? From online scheduling to online forms, patient communication, and office coordination – Yapi simplifies every step of the patient experience. Find out more here, and be sure to mention Dental Drill Bits for a special offer! https://yapiapp.com/

• Dental Gumbo Group

Brands/Products:

• Garmin watch
• Apple watch
• Target
• Fitbit
• Samsung

Sponsors:

Are you looking for dental software that puts your patients first? From online scheduling to online forms, patient communication, and office coordination – Yapi simplifies every step of the patient experience. Find out more here, and be sure to mention Dental Drill Bits for a special offer! https://yapiapp.com/

Still wondering what makes a great front desk team at your dental practice? We're back this week to delve into the multifaceted world of front desk duties, shedding light on tasks that keep your favorite dental practice buzzing with organized, professional energy. We highlight how this vital team scales their workload according to patient inflow, adapting to increased pressures, and strategically splitting tasks among themselves to ensure that no detail, however minute, is overlooked.

In a world increasingly digitized, we're making a compelling argument about the unmatched importance of a human presence at the front desk, weaving in discussions about financial targets, appointment scheduling, and making the most out of open time slots. Amidst the varied roles a front desk team undertakes, we stress the paramount importance of organizational tools like procedure manuals, detailed inventories for each department, and individual statistics that help hold the team accountable and on track.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• The importance of human presence at your front desk
• How front desk teams manage increasing workload as patient inflow grows
• The significance of office goals and financial targets in managing practice operations
• The necessity for organizational tools like procedure manuals and detailed inventories
• Why keeping track of individual statistics are vital for the team’s overall productivity
• The advantages of implementing an efficient recare system and confirming patient appointments

Ready to unlock the mystery of what happens behind the dental front desk? Listen in to learn the ins and outs of keeping your schedule full!

Did you know if your team is less than 10 employees, you more than likely should NOT have an office manager! Some practice owners put someone who has some dental experience in the front and name them an office manager. That is not the right thing to do. 

In this episode Sandy breaks down the real responsibilities of an Office Manager and when is it time to bring one on. We also discuss how promoting or having someone considered an “office manager” can actually cause more harm than good. We also discuss how to demote an office manager and discuss the proper script and terminology on how to do this.

What is your leadership style? Consider that you lead your team and you determine the culture and vibe that sets your practice apart from others. Your team feels it, your patients feel it. Your office's culture plays a significant part in your brand.

Sandy Pardue gives us a list of 5 things we need to review ASAP to make sure we are getting the absolute most out of our hygiene department.

1. Learn what procedures are not being performed.

2. Set goals JUST for your hygienist

3. Learn how to pay your hygienist 

4. Do a "Hygiene Bonus"

5. Have Impactful Communication

Listen in as Sandy explains each one with great detail and instructions on how to implement them.

Can you really find the perfect fit for your practice through better interviewing techniques? In this episode of Dental Drill Bits, Michael and Sandy uncover effective hiring strategies that can transform how you build your team. They explore the essentials of preparation, from the types of questions that reveal a candidate’s true nature to the value of incorporating personality and intelligence tests. You'll learn how to uncover what candidates expect in terms of salary and work environment, and why having a comprehensive policy manual and organized systems are non-negotiable for running a smooth operation.

But it’s not just about the mechanics of interviewing. This episode also sheds light on the softer side of hiring—like creating a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere that retains top talent and the benefit of involving your team in hiring decisions. With practical advice tailored for dental practices, Michael and Sandy offer a masterclass in aligning your hiring practices with your practice’s culture and long-term goals.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• Key strategies for effective interview preparation.
• The types of interview questions that uncover a candidate's true nature.
• Importance of personality and intelligence tests in the hiring process.
• How to identify candidates' expectations about salary and work environment.
• The role of a policy manual and organized systems in hiring.
• Questions to ask (and avoid) to assess candidate fit.
• Creating a welcoming and inclusive work environment to retain staff.
• Integrating team opinions in the hiring process.
• Practical advice for improving your dental practice’s hiring process.

Don’t miss out on these game-changing insights—tune in to the full episode now!

Sponsors:

Do you need a new website or marketing agency? Check out what Docsites can do for you: https://www.docsites.com/landing-pages/ddb/

Sponsors:

Do you need a new website or marketing agency? Check out what Docsites can do for you: https://www.docsites.com/landing-pages/ddb/

In this week's episode of Dental Drill Bits, we're kicking off our exciting three-part series on "The 3 R's for Practice Management," with the spotlight on "retention" in your dental practice. We cover the crucial aspects of patient retention, including the art of gathering REAL numbers on your patient retention rates, uncovering why 68% of people leave service-based businesses, and how to pinpoint your unique motivators to keep patients coming back for more. We also explore the powerful concepts of internal versus external marketing and how to effectively harness the potential of both. Plus, we'll share insights on the extra patient information that's invaluable for a thriving practice and the initial steps to foster a motivated and productive team culture. 

Listen in to transform your dental practice into a unique business that patients can call home!

Register for Front Desk Pro, in Dallas, TX, on December 1st, 2023! https://classicpractice.com/front-desk-pro-registration/

Richard and Sandy jump into a conversation about urgency. With only a little urgency, we can fill dropped appointments faster, collect more overdue accounts, and reduce the amount of diagnosed treatment that goes unscheduled--plus, the simplest thing in the world your team could be doing now to get started.

**

Take an online sample Wonderlic test now.

Is gossip silently drilling holes in your dental practice, eroding trust and harmony?

In this episode of Dental Drill Bits, Michael and Sandy embark on a candid exploration of gossip within dental offices. Sandy dives deep, demystifying the corrosive nature of workplace chatter, sharing eye-opening stories, and offering firsthand insights. With the lively discussion, they expose how gossip not only deteriorates team morale but also impacts patient care subtly yet significantly. Sandy's storytelling captures the gravity of gossip as she narrates the poignant poem "Nobody's Friend," serving as a stark reminder of its potential damage.

Michael and Sandy arm you with actionable strategies to cultivate a gossip-free work environment. The episode underscores the power of clear communication, fostering team agreements, and how leaders can actively counter gossip's spread. This episode promises to enlighten dental teams on the path to nurturing a more cohesive, trusting workplace where everyone thrives.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• The hidden costs of gossip on team morale and patient care.
• Practical strategies for fostering a gossip-free work environment.
• The importance of clear communication in preventing workplace gossip.
• How to implement team agreements to strengthen workplace harmony.
• The critical role leaders play in addressing and mitigating gossip.

Tune in now to eliminate gossip and build a healthier, more united practice!

Sandy Pardue hosts Dr. Bob Westerman and Dana Salisbury to discuss building your dream practice. This will be a multi-part feature and we look forward to discussing this more in future episodes. 

Costly mistakes can happen in the first 10 seconds of a phone call to your practice. All front office staff need to be aware of forbidden phrases when communicating with patients. 

Your entire team needs to know that the Internal Marketing Goals for the practice are to have more patients referring, higher treatment acceptance, more trust, and higher retention. 

Check out this podcast to learn more on this topic. 

Sponsors:

For modern dental practices, membership plans are the way forward — but not just any plan will do. Look ahead with the platform that puts you in control, effortlessly. Mention Dental Drill Bits for 60 days FREE! https://www.planforward.io/

Join Sandy Pardue, Dr. James Burneson, and Michael Arias, in their conversation about the positive impact of membership plans on dental practices! Revealing the multifaceted benefits of adopting a membership plan like Plan Forward, Sandy and James dive deep into why this strategy not only attracts new patient numbers but also assures existing ones by enabling them to take control of their healthcare decisions and achieve cost-effective dental care. From the importance of presenting the plan effectively on the website, to the flexible customization potential of membership plans that cater to patient's individual needs, gain key insights from this innovative approach.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• How membership plans instill a sense of security in patients.
• The role of a dental practice's website in promoting its membership plan.
• Customization possibilities in membership plans.
• The affordability factor of dental care with a membership plan.
• The impact of membership plans on patient loyalty and retention.
• Connection between famous consumer brands and dental membership plans.
• The benefits of leveraging software solutions to improve office productivity.

Tune into this episode to unlock a whole new level of patient satisfaction and practice productivity!

If you ever wanted to be a fly on the wall in Sandy’s Scheduling Academy, this is it!

Dr. Gina Dorfman joins Sandy Pardue and Dana Salisbury discuss Yapi software and how it can be utilized to increase efficiency within the practice. 

Sponsors:

For modern dental practices, membership plans are the way forward — but not just any plan will do. Look ahead with the platform that puts you in control, effortlessly. Mention Dental Drill Bits for 60 days FREE! https://www.planforward.io/

Welcome to this week's episode of Dental Drill Bits, where we're diving into the ins and outs of starting a membership plan for your dental practice with the brilliant Megan Lohman, founder and co-CEO of our sponsor, Plan Forward. We'll uncover the essential role of robust membership plan software in streamlining your front office operations and eliminating administrative headaches. Discover how to approach the membership conversation with patients, whether they have insurance or not, and see how your plan can actually save your patients money – the numbers don't lie! Plus, we'll explore the challenging landscape of insurance reimbursement rates and rising operating costs for practices, and discuss the perfect timing and messaging to present your membership plan option to patients. 

You won't want to miss this episode filled with invaluable insights to propel your practice forward!

Reach Out to Megan Here:

Email: mlohman@planforward.io

Phone: 833-752-7526

Are you experiencing gossip, negativity, conflicts between your team, dishonesty, and employees always shifting the blame to other employees? This episode will help! 

20% of all workers are unhappy with their jobs! This means that 80% are trying to get along with their workers and the other 20% are sabotaging that relationship! A lot of this dissatisfaction doesn’t have to do with the job itself, but it’s with the worker’s attitudes. 

One thing Sandy has observed over the decades of handling employee conflicts and “inter-office wars” is that the more organized a practice is, the more the agreements that are in place, the less “inter-office wars” happen! In this episode Sandy gives us the definition of what “inter-office wars” means, how this is occurring in many offices today (either the front office doesn't get along with the back office, or someone on the team keeps gossiping about another team member, etc.) and she tells us exactly how to handle it!

Are you tired of complex billing structures and challenging patient finances? In this episode, we connect with Dr. Abby Neville, who has transformed her dental practice by leveraging the remarkable Plan Forward membership plan. This innovative package simplifies processes, cuts costs, and uncoils the often tangled world of insurance and payments for both patients and practitioners alike.

Dr. Abby takes us on a journey of transformation—a success story wherein she harnessed the Plan Forward initiative for enhanced savings and preventive care. We delve into the nitty-gritty of how the plan works, how easy it is to implement, and the impressive time and cost savings it offers. Hear from Dr. Abby as she underscores the paramount importance of patient well-being and why centering your practice on their best interests is the key to successful utilization of the membership plan.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• An in-depth understanding of Plan Forward membership plans
• The simplicity and cost-saving nature of Plan Forward
• The role of treating patients well and focusing on their well-being in successful plan implementation
• The benefits of preventive care under Plan Forward
• Steps to implement the Plan Forward in your practice

Tune in to learn how you could potentially revolutionize your practice with your own membership plan!

Sponsors:

Don’t just look ahead. Plan Forward. Discover the dental membership plan partner that empowers your entire office. Created by a team in your shoes. Find out more here, and be sure to mention Dental Drill Bits for a special offer! https://www.planforward.io/

Dr. Grace Yum with Mommy Dentists in Business podcasts with Sandy Pardue and Lori Webre at the Voices of Dentistry booth. 

Are you struggling to streamline your practice’s front office operations while juggling departments, patients, and metrics? In this episode, Michael and Sandy delve into the essentials of managing a successful practice, starting with the highlights of Sandy's recent webinar and her upcoming seminar in Boston.

The conversation quickly transitions into a focused discussion around a listener's question on maintaining consistent department meetings and tracking pivotal metrics. Sandy offers an actionable guide on conducting effective meetings, complete with tips on following up on assignments, gathering feedback, and defining clear objectives. Specific topics like tracking new patient conversions, handling broken appointments, and managing production and collections metrics take the forefront. By the end of this episode, you'll grasp the importance of accountability, clear communication, and performance metrics in leading your practice to success.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• How to run effective and consistent department meetings.
• Tips for following up on previous assignments and setting clear goals.
• Key metrics to track for the smooth operation of a dental practice.
• The importance of tracking new patient conversions and handling broken appointments.
• Best practices for managing production and collection metrics.
• Strategies for efficiently managing insurance claims and ensuring accountability.
• Benefits of in-person training and special promotions for upcoming seminars.

Tune in today to learn about department meetings, metrics, and paying attention to what matters in your practice!

Sponsors:

Do you need a new website or marketing agency? Check out what Docsites can do for you: https://www.docsites.com/landing-pages/ddb/

Dr. Richard Low joins the legendary Sandy Pardue in a brand new season of Dental Drill Bits! Today, Richard strikes gold. When he mentions his friend's chaotic team meetings, Sandy opens up a treasure chest of information for the rest of us! When to schedule team meetings, how to make effective agenda outlines, KPI ownership (and a lot more)--all inside.

Are you struggling with patient no-shows that disrupt your dental practice’s schedule?

In this rerun episode of Dental Drill Bits, Sandy and Michael dive deep into practical strategies to minimize cancellations and improve patient attendance. The conversation kicks off with a focus on the art of clear communication, where they assert the power of personalized phone calls over cold automated messages. These personal touches not only confirm appointments but also strengthen the patient-practice bond, making each patient feel recognized and appreciated.

Moving beyond communication, Sandy and Michael explore the often-overlooked aspect of office efficiency, from managing personnel roles to implementing effective scheduling systems. They provide a candid critique of over-automation, pointing out how it can erode patient relations and lead to an uptick in unattended appointments. By sharing relatable anecdotes and actionable advice, Sandy illustrates the importance of addressing unconfirmed slots quickly and empathizing with patient concerns from the get-go. Wrapping up, the hosts offer a toolkit for handling broken appointments and stress the need for practices to take charge of their scheduling processes to foster efficiency and elevate patient care.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• The significance of personalized communication over automated messages.
• The role of clear communication in reducing no-shows and cancellations.
• How to balance automation with personal patient relations.
• Effective appointment confirmation techniques that engage patients.
• Strategies for efficient schedule management, including personnel roles.
• Tips for promptly addressing unconfirmed appointments.
• Handling patient objections to decrease cancellations.
• Insights into maintaining a patient-first approach throughout the scheduling process.

Tune in now to transform your practice's appointment strategies and strengthen patient connections!

(This episode originally aired on Sep 06, 2023)

Sponsors:

Do you need a new website or marketing agency? Check out what DocSites can do for you: DocSites.com/landing-pages/ddb

Front Desk Pro

Sponsors:

Do you need a new website or marketing agency? Check out what Docsites can do for you: https://www.docsites.com/landing-pages/ddb/

Do you ever get that text the night before from a team member that will be out the next day? We know how much of a strain this can put on the rest of the team, and in this episode we're exploring what it takes to craft an effective attendance policy for your office! From setting boundaries on communication methods, to empowering your team's responsibilities, we'll guide you through the maze of intricacies. We'll reveal how offering unwavering support can transform your team's commitment and discuss if hiring an HR consultant is right for your office. We also cover proper documentation techniques to make sure everything is in order for an efficient system!

Join us as we unravel the key points of building an attendance policy that strikes the perfect balance between accountability and empathy.

Sign up for the Scheduling Academy here! https://classicpractice.com/academy-for-scheduling-excellence-registration/

In this rerun episode of Dental Drill Bits, Sandy and Michael delve headfirst into the crucial role of an office manager in your dental practice. Listen as they unlock the job description of a successful manager and explore how imperative it is for dentists to identify potential talent hidden within their teams while filling this impactful role. Sandy and Michael dissect the cardinal role of duplication skills in a manager's toolbox and how this skill can set apart a thriving practice from a struggling one.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• Understanding the crucial role and job description of an office manager in a dental practice
• Identifying and fostering talent within your team for the office manager post
• What are duplication skills and why are they important in office management?
• Strategies and tips for successful office management
• Overcoming common challenges faced by office managers.

Tune in to today's discussion and transform your dental practice with a brilliant office manager!

(This episode originally aired on 12/27/2023)

Sponsors:

Do you need a new website or marketing agency with no long-term contracts? Visit DocSites' website here and be sure to mention this podcast episode for a special deal! https://www.docsites.com/landing-pages/ddb/

Sponsors:

Do you need a new website or marketing agency? Check out what Docsites can do for you: https://www.docsites.com/landing-pages/ddb/

Welcome back to Dental Drill Bits! In this week's episode, the second installment of our "The 3 R's for Practice Management" series, we're diving deep into the crucial "recall process" in your dental practice. Without a solid recall process, there's a good chance your patients won't return on their own. We'll explore the fact that only 39.85% of people make it to the dentist every year, putting the responsibility on us to bring them back for those essential appointments. We reveal how a simple report reaching back 18 months could unveil a surprising number of patients in need of re-care – ranging from hundreds to even 2,000+ who haven't been rescheduled. But don't worry; we've got exciting tips and tricks up our sleeves to engage your patients beyond the mundane email reminders.

Tune in as we uncover how to leverage the power of phone, text, and email for maximum recall effectiveness!

Register for Front Desk Pro, in Dallas, TX, on December 1st, 2023! https://classicpractice.com/front-desk-pro-registration/

Treatment planning starts much earlier than you expect. If you want your treatment acceptance percentage to increase you first have to know what to look for and then implement these specific actions to see results.

Sandy gives us the 10 bulletproof actions steps that will increase your treatment acceptance. One of the first steps is making sure you’re on top of your “Public Relations”. This is something that won’t get you instant results at the beginning but it is something that every practice owner should be thinking about because… your treatment acceptance starts with your reputation!

Listen in to hear the rest of the action steps so that you can increase your treatment acceptance this month!

Last week Richard and Sandy discussed urgency with regard to team members. We now uncover the steps to take to maintain that same sense of urgency when communicating treatment plans to our patients. Sandy gives warnings about consistently mentioning a timeline, proper handoffs to team members, educating patients on the dangers of waiting, and more...

Have you ever wondered how to properly compensate your team, especially during training sessions and lunch meetings? This enlightening episode explores just that. Michael and Sandy navigate the often-overlooked aspects of employee payment, emphasizing the importance of understanding labor regulations and treating staff equitably. Learn from the friendly banter as they share personal insights – both from an employer's perspective and from a viewpoint of ethical responsibility.

Discover how setting clear terms during hiring can result in beneficial outcomes for both parties involved. The duo also brings to light situations where employers are obliged to cover training expenses and underlines the necessity for transparent communication surrounding matters of monetary compensation for additional training.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• The importance of compliance with labor regulations
• Strategies for negotiating lower rates for different tasks
• Setting clear terms during the hiring process
• Obligation of employers to cover training expenses
• The importance of transparent communication regarding compensation

Don't miss this must-listen episode that unravels the nuances of staff compensation and inspires with valuable insights and real-world examples.

Sponsors:

• Dental Gumbo Group

Events:

• Front Desk Pro Seminar April 19th, 2024

Brands/Products:

• Oral-B
• Chick-fil-A
• CBS
• The Ritz-Carlton

Services:

• Cedr HR Solutions

Organizations:

• U.S. Department of Labor

This was a VERY hot topic so Sandy and I decided to dive further into it and even provide you with scripts and cancellation policies to format and say.

We need to understand that broken appointments WILL happen but it should not be the norm.

We need to also understand that charging patients for this is a band-aid to the problem, not the solution. 

So what are the proper steps and procedures to take when this occurs? And how can we minimize broken appointments?

In this episode Sandy lets us know exactly what we need to do.

If you are asking yourself if "morning huddles" are worth it, then you're probably doing them all wrong.

Sandy Pardue breaks down exactly how a "morning huddle" should run.

We discuss how long it should be, who needs to start it, what the doctor needs to do, who should be involved, what exactly needs to be discussed, what to do if someone is late to the huddle, and more!

Remember, morning huddles are necessary to keep you in control and on track with your goals.

Sponsors:

Do you need a new website or marketing agency? Check out what Docsites can do for you: https://www.docsites.com/landing-pages/ddb/

Get ready for this week's episode of Dental Drill Bits, where we dive deep into the process and psychology of "Patient No-Shows and Cancellations"! Maintaining a seamless schedule in your business is priority number 1 when it comes to a thriving practice. So today we're share strategies on how to gently communicate to patients the importance of confirming their appointments, ensuring their reservations are honored. Learn how to illuminate the online scheduling experience, proactively welcoming patients to your practice. Discover the fine balance of when to implement deposits and address patient fears to guarantee a comfortable visit. Plus, we'll break down the automation puzzle, guiding you on what aspects can be effectively automated, and what needs more of a personal touch. 

If your schedule has some holes and you're sure how to best patch them, lets learn together in this episode!

Register for the Front Desk Pro Seminar September 29th, 2023! https://classicpractice.com/front-desk-pro-registration/

Sponsors:

Do you need a new website or marketing agency, check out what Docsites can do for you: https://www.docsites.com/landing-pages/ddb/

In this week's episode, we are breaking down effective patient communication and addressing objections properly. It all starts with truly listening to patient concerns, whether it's based in fear, financial worries, or another common issue. Highlighting that the procedure is routine and performed every day can help provide much needed comfort and reassurance for patients and urge them to take action. Third-party payment options and financing are a must-have to make dental care more accessible to patients, and if your case acceptance isn't above 85%, you may be losing thousands in revenue! 

Tune in to learn practical tips for improving patient communication and increasing treatment acceptance to benefit both patients and the practice's bottom line.

Sponsors:

Do you need a new website or marketing agency? Check out what Docsites can do for you: https://www.docsites.com/landing-pages/ddb/

In this week's episode of Dental Drill Bits, we are joined by a special guest, Ali, from our sponsor, Docsites! Today the spotlight is on efficiently tracking leads you may find filling out forms, emails, or calling in, and how to transform them into loyal patients.

Our focus this week delves into the indispensable role of sales training for your phone team to ensure seamless caller conversion. With better sales training, you will be able to help more of the patients you are looking to serve! We explore the insightful practice of keeping tabs on your competitors and their offerings, and how to set your team up for success with training. While marketing acts as the catalyst for generating leads, we navigate the crucial journey of tracing the trajectory of these leads, so you know where they actually ended up. With a comprehensive outlook, we also check in on overall website traffic, encompassing Ads, Google Maps, and Organic sources. 

Tune in today to learn more on effective tracking and management for a bright dental future!

Sign up for the Scheduling Academy here! https://classicpractice.com/academy-for-scheduling-excellence-registration/

If you’ve followed a recipe before, then you’ve followed a system. In this episode Sandy gives you the recipes to make sure you have a successful practice BEFORE you open your doors to the public. There are about 42 systems every single practice needs to have in place and Sandy discusses and dives deeper into each of them.

Now just having these systems is not enough, Sandy discusses how being consistent with them is crucial for success. Consistent action gives you predictability. These are the systems that her 2 million dollar solo practice’s implement and practice consistently. She discusses the systems we tend to leave out and the systems we make major mistakes on as well.

We're huge fans and it's no secret. Make it easy for patients to create a relationship with you and build your retention utilizing this system! 

Imagine turning your practice into a thriving hub by simply tweaking your bonus structures for your office manager. This episode of Dental Drill Bits delves into the nuances of crafting successful bonus systems that align with your practice's financial goals. Michael and Sandy engage in an insightful discussion exploring profit-increasing bonuses versus flat raises, focusing on ensuring these incentives are both motivating and sustainable. Sandy advises on basing bonuses on collections instead of production for financial stability while offering strategies to set clear, transparent benchmarks to foster a win-win situation.

Listen in as Sandy introduces the concept of attendance-based bonuses designed to boost team morale and punctuality. She emphasizes that aiming for clarity before introducing any bonus structures is critical since such benefits can be challenging to retract once they're part of the system. Wrapping up on a practical note, Sandy underscores the importance of evaluating the financial impacts thoroughly.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• How to choose between profit-increasing bonuses and flat raises.
• Why basing bonuses on collections rather than production benefits your practice.
• Strategies for setting transparent and achievable benchmarks.
• The potential advantages of attendance-based bonuses for team morale.
• Important considerations for financial implications before implementing bonus plans.

Ready to refine your practice's bonus structure and watch your team thrive? Don't miss this episode!

Sponsors:

Don’t just look ahead. Plan Forward. Discover the dental membership plan partner that empowers your entire office. Created by a team in your shoes. Find out more here, and be sure to mention Dental Drill Bits for a special offer! https://www.planforward.io/

In this episode we discuss a situation where an employee was sexually harassed by an existing patient.

This really happened! This could also happen in your practice.

So what are the proper steps and procedures to take when this occurs? Do you let it slide once? Do you address the patient in that moment? Do you call the authorities?! 

In this episode Sandy let's us know exactly what we need to do in this situation.

Sponsors:

Do you need a new website or marketing agency? Check out what Docsites can do for you: https://www.docsites.com/landing-pages/ddb/

Have you or your team ever felt frantic or too busy to properly lead patients from back to front office? This week we're covering just that! We're running through how you can perfect the patient hand-off and increase treatment acceptance significantly in your practice.

Discover the secrets to boosting your communication skills, raising profits for your practice, and putting a smile on a patient's face all at once! Learn why using patient-friendly language is crucial – forget jargon like "third party financing" and connect with your patients on a personal level. We'll also share tips on having backup employees ready for a seamless check-out experience and the importance of educating patients upfront. Plus, find out how sending patients home with photos and a beautifully laid-out treatment plan can make all the difference.

Dive into this episode to learn how to turn your patient hand-offs from unorganized and frantic, to seamless and smooth!

Register for the Front Desk Pro Seminar September 29th, 2023! https://classicpractice.com/front-desk-pro-registration/

Check out Docsites here and schedule a completely free personalized demo: https://www.docsites.com/landing-pages/ddb/

You need to have protocols in place and systems in order to find someone GREAT for your team and it starts with your reputation. That’s step one in the system, what are your employees and ex-employees saying about you? Your reputation is where it starts for easing the workflow of hiring.

The second step in your system is to make sure that the people on your team know this one rule: anytime that someone calls asking about a position available,  get their name, number, email, and resume immediately.

Sandy expands much more on these first two and gives you more precise steps in this system to ensure you will always find and have great people as you grow your practice.

Sponsors:

For modern dental practices, membership plans are the way forward — but not just any plan will do. Look ahead with the platform that puts you in control, effortlessly. Mention Dental Drill Bits for 60 days FREE! https://www.planforward.io/

In this week's episode of Dental Drill Bits, we're diving deeply into a dilemma most dental practices grapple with - "Should my hygienist clock out when they have free time?" An empty dental chair is definitely the stuff of nightmares for a dental practice. With a keen focus on this issue, we aim to provide a fresh perspective on handling unpredictable schedule gaps due to cancellations and no-shows. We also delve into the potential pitfalls of moving patient appointments and the unseen consequences it can have on your practice's reputation.

If you're looking to find out how to most efficiently use hygiene time in your practice, let's jump into today's episode!

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• Approaches to manage your hygienist's empty appointment slots caused by last-minute cancellations.
• The perilous after-effects of moving patients' appointments without their consent.
• Practical tips for filling cancelled appointments as swiftly as possible from your existing patient pool.
• The impact of scheduling chaos on the overall atmosphere and productivity of a dental practice.
• How proper scheduling can uplift the satisfaction rate among patients and staff alike.

Stay tuned for the next registration period for Front Desk Pro! https://classicpractice.com/front-desk-pro/

Episode Title: Wasted Time, Open Time, and Maximizing Your Schedule

Episode Description:
Welcome to another exciting episode of Dental Drill Bits! This week, Sandy Pardue is joined by a very special guest—Dana Pardue Salisbury, the original co-host and HR business professional. Together, they kick off the new season with a deep dive into one of the most critical topics for dental practices: managing open time in your schedule.

Discover actionable tips to identify, track, and eliminate wasted time in your practice. Whether you're dealing with broken appointments, patient no-shows, or underutilized slots, this episode equips you with practical strategies to improve productivity, enhance patient care, and boost your bottom line.

Plus, hear Dana’s unique perspective on the patient experience and why over-communicating about appointment changes can backfire. Stay tuned until the end for a game-changing resource that could revolutionize how you handle in-house membership plans!

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Dana Salisbury's journey back to Dental Drill Bits and her insights on training and development for dental practices.
• The real cost of open time and why tracking it is crucial.
• How to calculate daily, hourly, and per-unit production goals.
• Strategies to reduce cancellations, no-shows, and last-minute reschedules.
• The importance of maintaining a reliable call list and leveraging patient interactions.
• Patient perspective: Why excessive appointment changes can harm patient satisfaction.
• The role of team meetings in addressing missed opportunities.
• An introduction to Plan Forward—a custom dental membership platform offering tools for automated billing, patient communication, and more.

Sponsors:

Don’t just look ahead. Plan Forward. Discover the dental membership plan partner that empowers your entire office. Created by a team in your shoes. Find out more here, and be sure to mention Dental Drill Bits for a special offer! https://www.planforward.io/

Take Action Today:
Start tracking your open time and production goals now! Print out your schedules, analyze past weeks, and involve your team in finding solutions. Remember, every day is an opportunity to optimize your schedule and serve your patients better.

Subscribe & Leave a Review:
Enjoyed this episode? Don’t forget to subscribe to Dental Drill Bits and leave a review. Your feedback helps us continue to deliver valuable content!

Are the new patient numbers in your dental practice declining? Dive into this episode, where Michael and Sandy tackle this pressing issue, shedding light on the alarming trend that many dental practitioners face of dwindling new patient numbers. Sandy brings her expertise to the table, sharing startling real-world experiences of dentists and team members who have faced and overcome the same issue. She implores dental practitioners to delve deep to unearth the root cause of the decline.

Sandy also unveils the significance of front office operations in creating a first lasting impression on your patients. She explains how accommodating requests and building healthy relationships with patients not only retains them but also encourages them to refer others.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• What the declining trend in new patient numbers truly means
• The real reasons behind decreasing new patient numbers in dental practices
• The crucial role of front office operations in dental practices
• How to create a strong first impression in a professional setting
• The importance of accommodating your patients' requests
• Tactics to develop patient loyalty and drive fruitful referrals

Don’t miss this golden chance to get those patient numbers up, starting today!

Sponsors:

For modern dental practices, membership plans are the way forward — but not just any plan will do. Look ahead with the platform that puts you in control, effortlessly. Mention Dental Drill Bits for 60 days FREE! https://www.planforward.io/

Mentions and Links:

SurveyMonkey

Crowdsignal

Front Desk Pro Seminar April 19th, 2024

Dental Gumbo Group

How can you take control over your schedule and make sure it's not running YOU? This episode peels back the layers to reveal the make-or-break role a scheduler plays in any thriving dental practice. Sandy passionately articulates how setting precise production goals and having a clear understanding of individual procedure timings can make all the difference. Michael and Sandy navigate the conversation to highlight the immense value of seamless team communication and overall organization in keeping a well-maintained, high-functioning schedule. Their shared experiences unfold in a treasure trove of tips and tricks to evade common scheduling pitfalls – inaccurate procedure timings or the blow of missed appointments. By the time this episode ends, you will find yourself contemplating your existing scheduling processes and getting excited about the prospect of changes that could revolutionize your dental practice.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• The ins and outs of effective scheduling in a dental practice
• The role of setting production goals and understanding procedure timings
• Strategies to avoid common scheduling inefficiencies
• The importance of good communication and organization in maintaining a streamlined schedule
• Ways to empower your team to take on proactive measures like patient follow-ups and pre-scheduling
• The potential impact of having a designated schedulers in your practice

Don't let your practice run out of time! Tune in to this episode to learn how to take control of your schedule and rise to new levels of productivity and patient satisfaction.

Sponsors:

For modern dental practices, membership plans are the way forward — but not just any plan will do. Look ahead with the platform that puts you in control, effortlessly. Mention Dental Drill Bits for 60 days FREE! https://www.planforward.io/

Mentions and Links:

Community/Groups:

• Dental Gumbo Group

Events:

• Front Desk Pro Seminar April 19th, 2024

Brands/Products:

• Starbucks
• Tony Chachere's Seasoning

Public Figures:

• Taylor Swift

Sponsors:

Do you need a new website or marketing agency with no long-term contracts? Visit DocSites' website here and be sure to mention this podcast episode for a special deal! https://www.docsites.com/landing-pages/ddb/ (Docsites is offering $750 off their plans until the end of February, 2024, so be sure to jump on this amazing offer for our listeners!)

How does an inviting and up-to-date website impact your dental practice? In this episode of Dental Drill Bits, our website wizard, Ali, joins hosts Sandy and Michael to unravel the power of a well-managed website and how it can boost a dental practice's profile. Taking you through the elements of an effective website, they share nuggets of wisdom about the significance of timely updates, patient testimonials, and professional imagery, focusing on how these components create credibility and set your dental practice apart in today's competitive landscape.

In their lively discussion, the trio point out how internal marketing, through a properly curated website, can revolutionize your practice, debunking the common misconceptions surrounding patient acquisition. They dig deep into how showcasing your team's expertise, using before-and-after images, and integrating positive patient feedback can truly enhance your online presence. Moreover, throughout the episode, they provide practical tips to optimize and breathe life into your practice's website, underlining the importance of regular checks and professional assessments.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• The pivotal role that a diligently managed website plays in setting a dental practice apart.
• The necessity of regularly updating a website to mirror your dental practice's current status and improvements.
• The power and importance of testimonials and before-and-after photos in instilling trust and drawing in prospective patients.
• The potential of internal marketing through an effectively planned and executed website.
• How a professional website service can maximize your site's performance and influence.

Jumpstart your website and thereby, your dental practice by tuning into this insightful episode!

When you're listening to this episode we want you to think about your accounts receivable balance. We want you to think about how many patients have accepted treatment, have received treatment, maybe only paid a portion of the whole treatment cost or not even a penny... and never came back.

This means the patient has committed premeditated fraud. How did this happen? Why does this continue to happen? How could we prevent this?

Sandy gives us a formula so you can have predictability with each of your patients & a formula on how to ensure your employee who handles your money will be trustworthy.

Sponsors:

Do you need a new website or marketing agency? Mention this podcast episode for Docsites' special Black Friday offer during the month of November, 2023! https://www.docsites.com/landing-pages/ddb/

Welcome back to Dental Drill Bits! This week, we're thrilled to have Ali from our sponsors, Docsites, back on the show. Ali dives deep into the  three essential steps for successful online marketing campaigns tailored specifically for your dental practice. We tackle the challenges of getting discovered by potential patients, exploring strategies to increase visibility and attract more eyeballs to your practice. Discover how to build authority and brand recognition, ensuring that potential patients not only find you but are eager to choose your services. Ali shares insights on preventing potential patients from getting lost in the mix and maximizing the impact of your marketing dollars through an effective follow-up process. Plus, uncover the power of a professional website that showcases social proof, your dental philosophy, and the welcoming atmosphere of your office.

Hit play on this episode for a healthy dose of digital marketing wisdom from Ali this week!

You Can Also Reach Out to Ali Here:

Phone: 818-416-0007

In this episode Sandy Pardue gives us her "3 Day Report" that will increase collections and decrease broken appointments.

This will also answer the main question "should we schedule the patient first and then collect payment OR collect payment and then schedule the patient"? Sandy teaches us step by step how to do this.

We also discuss scripts on what to say to patients who are past due on their payments, how to do health credit ratings on patients, and how to create a "scheduler" in your practice who is responsible for the WHOLE schedule.

Revenue - Expenses = PROFITS!

Do you ever feel like you worked so hard and then you look at your income or your profits and feel like you are barely making it?! Like you're bringing in less money than you should be bringing home?

In this episode we are covering just that! We are diving into your revenue and expenses and figuring out where profits are slipping through the cracks.

Sandy breaks it down for us and lets us know the 3 most important things you need to look out for in order to make sure you are maximizing your time, productions & collections, and your team's efforts in order to increase profits.

Sponsors:

Do you need a new website or marketing agency, check out what Docsites can do for you: https://www.docsites.com/landing-pages/ddb/

Welcome to this week's episode of Dental Drill Bits, where we dive into the world of "Prescheduling Myth Busters." In this episode, we debunk the common misconception that it's acceptable to preschedule a patient six months out, despite multiple broken appointments. We break down the common practice owner mistake of "somebody said we should always preschedule, so that's what we do!" We also explore the vital role of good communication with patients before, during, and after their visit, to help steer clear of broken appointments. If your retention rate falls below 85%, it may be a sign that your prescheduling system needs improvement!

Don't miss out on this episode, as we bust common myths around prescheduling, and springboard you towards a healthy retention system!

Does this sound familiar:

“We’ve had a lot of cancellations and I don’t want to pay my hygienist during down time”

Some of you may lean towards doing this. In fact, the hygienist may HATE this so your hygienist has to look or act busy so you won't deduct their pay.

Do NOT do this anymore! Your hygienist AND you (the practice owner) deserve a full schedule always. 

In this episode Sandy Pardue tells us exactly how to do this. Remember, hygienists want to see patients and they want a full schedule! It’s the practice that doesn’t put enough pressure, enough urgency, on the front office to fill that schedule.

Are broken appointments disrupting the flow of your dental practice and impacting your bottom line?

In this episode of Dental Drill Bits, Michael and Sandy dive deep into a chronic challenge faced by many dentists: managing broken appointments. Sandy, drawing from her wealth of expertise, sheds light on effective strategies to tackle this issue head-on. She discusses how proper appointment confirmations can make all the difference and shares her sharp observations on recognizing patterns that often lead to last-minute cancellations.

Sandy stresses the imperative of clear and consistent communication as well as the establishment of effective control mechanisms within the practice. She discusses assigning a dedicated scheduler to manage appointments prudently and to ensure patients show up. Sandy shows us actionable verbal techniques, empowering practice owners to see immediate improvements in patient compliance. Wrapping up with key insights, she reminds listeners of the importance of truly understanding patient needs and maintaining well-regulated schedules, offering a roadmap to improved practice efficiency and patient satisfaction.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• Techniques for reducing the rate of broken appointments.
• The impact of proper appointment confirmations on practice workflow.
• How to detect patterns and triggers that lead to cancellations.
• Methods for categorizing different types of patient cancellations.
• The importance of effective communication within your practice.
• How a dedicated scheduler can boost patient adherence.
• Verbal strategies to encourage patients to keep their appointments.

Ready to enhance your practice's efficiency? Tune in now to stop those no-shows!

Sponsors:

Do you need a new website or marketing agency? Check out what DocSites can do for you: DocSites.com/landing-pages/ddb

Front Desk Pro

Dentaltown

People:

Taylor Swift

Dr. Robert Westerman

Software:

Dentrix

Sponsors:

Do you need a new website or marketing agency, check out what Docsites can do for you: https://www.docsites.com/landing-pages/ddb/

In this episode, we explore the question, "should I share practice numbers with my whole team?"

We say yes!

From the perspective of embracing transparency and utilizing numbers to establish concrete goals for employees in the dental office, we think sharing your numbers is a valuable asset. We address the common fear among doctors that sharing production numbers may lead to associates demanding higher compensation, and debunk this notion by highlighting the industry standard of 25% of collections going to employees(that's the largest expense in any dental parctice.) We emphasize the benefits of open communication, suggesting that employees can have fun reporting their key performance indicators (KPIs) for their respective departments during meetings. Ultimately, we conclude that since the team already discusses production numbers, there is no need to hide them, as they can serve as a valuable tool for fostering collaboration and driving success in the dental office.

Listen to our conversation on practice numbers, associates, and how to bring your team together this week!

Wondering how to ease the burden and stress off yourself as the doctor?

In this week's rerun episode of Dental Drill Bits, Michael and Sandy are exploring the universe of responsibilities that come with the role of an office manager in a dynamic and demanding dental practice. They break down the essential duties that will keep your practice running smoothly without the added headache.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• Understand the scope of day-to-day activities a dental office manager oversees.
• Discover the role an office manager plays in shaping employee and patient relations.
• Uncover how essential marketing, compliance, and staff training duties fall under the office manager's purview.
• Realize the importance of clear and consistent communication between the office manager and the doctor.
• Appreciate effective strategies for cultivating excellent customer service and patient relations skills.
• Gain insights on the significance of consistency and communication in propelling the practice forward.
• Learn useful tips for avoiding burnout and strategies to find the right fit for your office manager role.

Tune in to this episode of Dental Drill Bits and boost your dental practice's effectiveness, efficiency, and overall success with an office manager!

(This episode originally aired on 1/3/2024)

Sponsors:

Do you need a new website or marketing agency with no long-term contracts? Visit DocSites' website here and be sure to mention this podcast episode for a special deal! https://www.docsites.com/landing-pages/ddb/

When we have no specific departments and roles than we have less accountability (almost none) and that creates a ton of inefficiencies. You don’t just want to throw up anyone at the front and hope your other front office shares their duties. You want to specifically give them departments.

In this episode Sandy shares with us exactly which person should be in which department based on their personality. She also lets us know which departments should work closer together than others, when is it time to add another team member on your team, and how you should monitor each team member.

We also discuss what to do if you only have 1 person in the front doing everything and how these departments will fit in.

Key takeaways from this episode:

1. What do patients that "no-show" have in common.

2. Every practice needs an "appointment wrap up" process.

3. What to ask a patient in regards to following up with them.

4. What's the best script for confirmation calls.

5. What to do when presenting treatment plans to ensure a second visit.

Sponsors:

Do you need a new website or marketing agency, check out what Docsites can do for you: https://www.docsites.com/landing-pages/ddb/

In this episode, we explore the idea that complaints are a gift rather than a curse! We discuss how listening to complaints can provide valuable insights and opportunities for improvement in your dental practice. We emphasize the importance of actively listening to trends in complaints, identifying common issues, and taking proactive steps to address them. We also highlight how making patients feel important by knowing them by name and acknowledging their feedback can significantly impact patient satisfaction and loyalty. 

Listen in for more actionable tips on receiving feedback in your practice and how to shine a positive light on this valuable information!

Sponsors:

Do you need a new website or marketing agency? Check out what Docsites can do for you: https://www.docsites.com/landing-pages/ddb/

Get ready for this week's episode of Dental Drill Bits, the third installment of our "The 3 R's for Practice Management" series! This week, we're finishing out strong with the critical "reactivation" aspect of your practice. We'll explore the delicate balance between automation and the personal touch of sending physical cards to your patients. You'll learn how to kickstart a reactivation project and when the best time is to begin. We'll also share tips on securing the most up-to-date patient contact information and, most importantly, how to boost your retention rates to an impressive 70% and beyond!

Don't miss out on these essential insights to supercharge your retention rates!

Register for Front Desk Pro, in Dallas, TX, on December 1st, 2023: https://classicpractice.com/front-desk-pro-registration/

Instructions on How to Access
Reactivation Project:

Step 1: WEBSITE

• Go to www.classicpractice.com

Step 2: CLICK

• Scroll down to “Training Events,” select “Lecture Attendee Documents”
• Enter Information and click “Sign Up.”
• Select “Reactivation Project”
• Enter the passcode “reactivatepatients”

Sponsors:

For modern dental practices, membership plans are the way forward — but not just any plan will do. Look ahead with the platform that puts you in control, effortlessly. Mention Dental Drill Bits for 60 days FREE! https://www.planforward.io/

Get ready for a deep dive into the world of dental recruitment this week on Dental Drill Bits! Today we are tackling the common but tricky issue of sourcing exceptional employees for your  practice. From leveraging social media and content creation to utilizing the power of internal referrals - no stone is left unturned. We're also shedding light on the secrets of crafting a compelling job post guaranteed to attract quality candidates who are as committed to outstanding oral care as you are.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• The effective use of social media and engaging content for recruitment.
• Tactics to bolster employee endorsements for your practice.
• Pros of hiring new staff through job fairs and internal recruitment.
• The delicate art of pinpointing exactly what to feature in a job post; from salary and benefits to workplace perks.
• Active vs. passive job seekers and who you should be searching for.

Tune in to get the low-down on finding and hiring top-tier dental talents, right here on Dental Drill Bits!

Join our free Facebook group, Dental Gumbo, to get in on the conversation! https://www.facebook.com/groups/dentaldrillbits/

Sponsors:

Do you need a new website or marketing agency, check out what Docsites can do for you:: https://www.docsites.com/landing-pages/ddb/

Does your front office understand your marketing? If they don’t then they are probably decreasing the amount of new patients you could and should be seeing!

Did you also know that your website and marketing campaigns, such as Google Ads, can decrease your case acceptance percentage?

In this episode we dive deep with Sandy and Ali from Docsites discuss how to increase case acceptance, new patient numbers and what could be hindering your marketing and how to fix it, and how to strengthen your front office through marketing.

In this episode Sandy Pardue gives us the 5 action steps every single practice owner should be taking to get an incredible amount of momentum happening in the beginning of 2022.

The last thing you want to do in 2022 is play catch up or start off slow. And you especially don't want your team knowing or feeling it is slow!

We discuss:

1.Invest 139 dollars in a book called: National Dental Advisory Service. 

2.Keep educating patients. Most practices have another practice within their practice, 1 million or 80k in unscheduled treatment. Now is the time to contact them.

3.Find out who has unused insurance benefits.

4.Keeping the chairs filled and asking them if they have anyone in the family that needs an appointment.

5.Promote more elective procedures. Verify that you are doing specific procedures.

Being bad on the phones is the best way to drive away good patients. Sandy and Richard jump right into the best practices in phone etiquette. Grab a pen and take notes as Sandy gives us actionable gems about how many times you should let it ring, empathetic tone of voice, and why being assigned to the phone is not a bad thing--at all!

There’s a shocking statistic that Sandy mentions in this episode which is: 1.6 million people are changing dentists and 25%-50% patients are lost over a 5 year period. This means we MUST work on our attrition, retaining these patients! 

In this episode Sandy tells us the 3 main reasons why we lose patients and how we can stop making these major mistakes. She also gives us a system on what our team should do to make sure our attrition rate is good. We also discuss and talk about scripts on what we should ask our patients to make sure their experience is always above and beyond!

Part 1 of 2: Sandy Pardue discusses tips on finding the missed opportunities in the administrative areas of the dental practice and gaining control over the practice schedule.

Amber Young shares the story of how she received her diagnoses of Clear Cell Odontogenic Carcinoma thanks to a routine hygiene visit. 

Oral cancer screenings at routine hygiene visits only occur 1/5 of the time nationwide each year! This is our reason for sharing Amber's story of diagnosis and strength.

Sponsors:

Do you need a new website or marketing agency, check out what Docsites can do for you: https://www.docsites.com/landing-pages/ddb/

In this week's episode, TEAM is the focus. Without a strong team, your practice isn't producing at it's full potential. We know hiring and firing isn't your favorite activity of the year, but making sure the right members are in the right positions is essential. Have you ever wondered how to inspire your employees and give them purpose in the workplace? Well, we've gathered some of our favorite steps to bring your team to life!

Listen in this week to create a step by step process that will motivate and inspire your whole team!

You know what? You shouldn’t even call them “performance reviews” anymore! In this episode Sandy lets us know exactly what we should do with the “one on one” meetings we have with our team members. Meeting one on one with team members is always a good thing.

Sandy tells us how we should call them a “one on one” and bring the employee’s:

• Attendance record
• Statistics
• Ask them “how do you think it’s going”?
• Involve the whole team

She breaks each one of these things down and dives into specifics on how we should handle every point. Another good thing to keep in mind is we should never tie “one on ones” or performance reviews with raises! Listen to this episode to understand why!

It’s a perfect time to reset your practice management style. Remember that nothing stays the same, so you shouldn't either.

Here are the 12 Best Practices Sandy discusses with detail:

1. Look back at 2021 and review it. What worked well and what didn’t work.
2. Keep score.
3. Sharpen your skills. Take CE. Implement it. 
4. Zest up your office. Redo your office, but take a look at your office with a fresh view point.
5. Become a better leader. Earn respect from their team and make sure your being honest and ethical. Appear strong even on bad days. Don’t gossip. Never tell a lie. Systems allow you to delegate. Delegate means organization.
6. Manage time better. 168 hours each week. Keep a log during the day and see where the problems are.
7. Improving patient retention.
8. Manage your team daily. They should always be learning. Define duties.
9. Have morning huddles.
10. Improving communication within the team. People are more likely to tell the truth when you put things in writing
11. Put some marketing actions in place.
12. Scheduling more efficiently. Put someone in charge of the schedule.

Confirming patients for their appointment is one of the most important things your front office can do. It’s not an afterthought and it’s definitely not something you just call and wing. You need a recipe for this. Systems are a recipe.

When it comes to patient confirmations, it’s all about having good control.You need to decide how protocols should be approached and then analyze and see that your protocol/ system is producing the best results. So this leads to the ultimate question: is your confirmation process producing the best results?

In this episode Sandy breaks down this process and creates a system for us that has 7 main points, so this is going to be an episode where you really want to take notes! She also lets us know some bonus points and verbage we need to have when writing confirmations, texting confirmations, and calling for confirmations.

Do you have patients who refuse to take X-rays? Navigating through this sensitive space requires both empathy and skill. Michael and Sandy meticulously break down the different scenarios that dentists commonly encounter - the cost-conscious deniers, the comfort-focused decliners, and the radiation worriers. They share practical verbal techniques and strategies to engage with each category, effectively conveying the vital role X-rays play in maintaining overall dental health. As they discuss how consistent refusal despite proper communication and patient education might sometimes lead to "firing a patient," they place a spotlight on the importance of detailed note-keeping and educated refusal forms for documentation. Throughout the episode, Michael and Sandy pave the path to nurturing patient relationships through clear communication and deeper understanding.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• The importance of sympathetically addressing patient persistencies concerning X-ray refusals
• The value of role-playing within the dental team to hone their communication skills
• How to explain the importance of X-rays convincingly and clearly to patients
• Techniques to navigate and respond to varied patient objections: from cost, discomfort, to radiation
• The correct way to document the choice of patients adamant about not taking X-rays

Ready for a deep dive into patient communication? Hit play!

What to connect with like-minded dentists and learn more? Join Dental Gumbo here! https://www.facebook.com/groups/dentaldrillbits/members/

Imagine transforming the daily chaos in your practice into a streamlined and efficient operation. In this episode of Dental Drill Bits, Michael and Sandy tackle some of the most disruptive productivity killers facing dental practices today—late patients, broken appointments, no-shows, and cancellations. Sandy brings her expert perspective by emphasizing the necessity of a dedicated scheduler who can artfully manage appointments to minimize chaos and boost productivity. They delve into actionable strategies, such as enhancing patient education, solidifying financial arrangements, and enhancing verbal skills, all designed to ensure patients respect and honor their scheduled times.

As they unravel the complexities behind missed appointments, Sandy challenges common misconceptions, like the idea of penalizing patients, by shifting the focus towards proactive solutions and realistic production goals. Michael and Sandy create a warm and welcoming atmosphere, inviting you to reflect on your current practices and consider new approaches.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• Effective strategies to minimize late arrivals and cancellations.
• The importance of having a dedicated appointment scheduler.
• Techniques for enhancing patient communication and financial arrangements.
• Insights into setting realistic production goals for dentists.
• Common misconceptions about penalizing patients for missed appointments.

Tune in now to discover the secrets to maintaining a productive dental practice!

Sponsors:

Do you need a new website or marketing agency? Check out what DocSites can do for you: https://www.DocSites.com/landing-pages/ddb/

Sauces:

RAO's

Establishments/Brands:

Costco

The-Ritz-Carlton

Uber

Sponsors:

Do you need a new website or marketing agency? Check out what Docsites can do for you: https://www.docsites.com/landing-pages/ddb/

Get ready for this week's Dental Drill Bits episode as we delve deep into the world of crafting a trustworthy dental website that actually converts! Our special guest, Ali, an expert from our sponsor: Docsites, joins us to explore the most common mistakes and strategies for website success. Discover the top elements to feature on your website to attract both patients and exceptional team members. Learn the art of creating a personal walk-through video on a budget (Hint: you can even turn iPhone footage into a personal and professional shoot.) Uncover the secrets of leveraging your existing original content and crafting a high-converting home page. Plus, gain insights on optimizing landing pages for ad campaigns.

Tune in this week to transform your dental website into a conversion powerhouse!

You Can Reach Out to Ali Here:

Phone: 818-416-0007

Email: ali@docsites.com

We know how convenient it is to have your employee order supplies for you, deal with credit checks, and even order things on Amazon for you and handle any returns… but you need to be more aware of it. Why? 

Well, Sandy received a call about a situation the other day. And this isn’t the first instance an office has called her to see how they should handle it. This is common. The Office Manager had been using the practice’s Amazon account  to make purchases for her own birthday party, Christmas, etc. 

Sandy gives us 3 systems that most employees use to steal or establish fraud and she gives us the systems to prevent this. In our practice and in life, we want certainty, we want predictability, so it’s crucial you know what is going on in your practice and not depend solely on your employees' words.

Sponsors:

For modern dental practices, membership plans are the way forward — but not just any plan will do. Look ahead with the platform that puts you in control, effortlessly. Mention Dental Drill Bits for 60 days FREE! https://www.planforward.io/

Do you need a new website or marketing agency? Check out what Docsites can do for you: https://www.docsites.com/landing-pages/ddb/

Welcome to this week's episode of Dental Drill Bits! In the dental world, striking the right chord with your team's appreciation can be a delicate dance. This episode dives into the eternal office debate: should you throw an epic office party or dish out those coveted cash bonuses? We've got the insights on celebrating birthdays with professionalism, navigating the holiday season to ensure genuine team joy, and the lowdown on the nuanced differences between Year End and Christmas bonuses. We'll also explore some thoughtful gift and celebration ideas that'll leave your team smiling regardless of your office budget!

Tune in this week to discover the perfect balance between celebrations and cash for team appreciation.

Missy Fryer joins Sandy Pardue and Lori Webre at the Voices of Dentistry podcasting booth to learn more about the Dental Office Survival Guide of 2019. Thanks for the opportunity to interview you to learn more, Buckeye!

Recorded live at the Townie / Dentaltown Meeting in Las Vegas, NV. Sandy Pardue and guest host Dana Salisbury interview Howie Horrocks & Julie Mitchell of New Patients Inc. to discuss Dental Web Content for your dental practice. 

Sponsors:

Are you looking for dental software that puts your patients first? From online scheduling to online forms, patient communication, and office coordination – Yapi simplifies every step of the patient experience. Find out more here, and be sure to mention Dental Drill Bits for a special offer! https://yapiapp.com/

Why is the front desk team so crucial to the life and health of a dental practice? How can you create a driven and dedicated team to keep the wheels of your practice rolling smoothly? Buckle up, because this episode lays out the vital behind-the-scenes work that every front office team should be performing.

We unravel how a well-coordinated front desk team extends the life of a dental practice, offering invaluable patient services that soar far beyond the confines of the office. From appointment scheduling to recalling patients, Sandy provides insight into the practices of an efficient team and the common pitfalls to avoid. Discover why front desk-less offices fall short of expectations and how personalized communication wins every time. The importance of a well-organized schedule and its direct correlation with practice income is also covered.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• The wide range of responsibilities of the front desk team in a dental office.
• The impact of personalized communication and customer service on patient satisfaction and referrals.
• The downfalls of a front desk-less office structure.
• Nailing down an effective schedule to maximize appointments and income.
• The importance of recall management and patient reactivation strategies.

Put your practice on the path to success. Don’t miss a beat of this enlightening part one!

Are you ready to skyrocket your front office team? Register for the next Front Desk Pro with Sandy here! https://classicpractice.com/front-desk-pro/

September has been widely known in dentistry as “Sucktember”. Everything seems to slow down, no shows are high, production is low, and the schedule seems to fall apart insanely fast. In fact, some of you even decide to take September off! DON’T!

In this episode Sandy breaks down the reason why we had a horrible September and how we can prevent “Sucktember '' from happening by doing these 5 steps today! The sooner you do it the better, and not only will this prevent your production from slowing down but it will also provide you with a “Rocktober” (Rocking October).

We sit down with Therese, a Classic Practice consultant, to discuss common concerns in the Hygiene Department in offices throughout the United States. 

Sandy was doing a mystery call for a practice and noticed a major issue… the practice didn’t answer her phone call… that’s how this episode came up!

There’s two main things we need to do if we want more new patients in our office.

1. Make sure there are absolutely NO barriers blocking the new patient from reaching you over the phone.
2. Make sure you take away every single barrier that’s stopping the new patient from walking through your door!

In this episode Sandy tells us ways we can improve and elevate our phone skills to ensure that these new patients are not only scheduling, but walking through your door and accepting treatment.

In this episode Sandy Pardue let's us know how there is so much more that happens besides just "asking" for a review... and sometimes we don't even ask! So  in this episodes we break down the steps. A couple things you want to do is:

Boost the confidence of your team.

Make sure your employees are complimenting other team members IN FRONT of the patient. 

Ask the patient in a leading way, for a review as they are already complimenting the doctor/ hygienist/ assistant or whoever worked on them.

We also discuss how to handle and reply to a negative review.

Part 2 of 2: Sandy Pardue discusses tips on finding the missed opportunities in the administrative areas of the dental practice and gaining control over the practice schedule.

This is a question Sandy Pardue gets quite often in her events, so we decided to cover it here!

Here are a couple things you want to do:

You need a time clock software. (Sandy recommends a software)

Don’t give everyone access to change their time clock.

Create a policy, and be super specific in this policy. (Sandy gives us great examples).

What to say if someone still violates the policy? (Sandy provides us with what to do, a script, and how many times should we allow it).

How to present the overtime policy at a team meeting.

Most dentists and especially practice owners, watch their money, and the decisions they make to KEEP money is causing missed opportunities and keeping the income down. Now, saving money is not a bad thing, that’s not what we are discussing here. We are talking about how often we step over dollars to pick up pennies.

In this episode Sandy gives us about 7 main reasons on where we stumble and mess up. These 7 reasons/ mistakes are causing an illusion that we are saving money, when in reality we are missing too many opportunities and hurting our potential and profits.

Sponsors:

Do you need a new website or marketing agency, check out what Docsites can do for you:: https://www.docsites.com/landing-pages/ddb/

It was "dental assistant" appreciation week not that long ago...did you feel like you HAD to do something instead of wanting to do something for your dental assistant?

You never really know what goes on in the private life of team members. Sometimes a little acknowledgement goes a long way.

Sandy shows us how to properly do this and gives us a system to make sure our team members feel appreciated weekly!

We also share what team members expect from their leaders/ managers/ practice owners.

Are you equipped to transform your dental practice from good to great as 2025 draws near? In this episode, Michael, Sandy, and Ali embark on a dynamic discussion about the evolving landscape of dental practice management and marketing. Ali, founder of DocSites, takes the floor to break down how his company is revolutionizing dental marketing with a focus on transparency, affordability, and exceptional customer service. The trio dives deep into the significance of managing online reviews and optimizing internal systems to not only attract, but also retain, new patients.

As marketing strategies become ever more critical, Ali shares invaluable insights for dental practices on the brink of 2025, advising a pivot from complex branding to simplicity and patient-focused content. He emphasizes the critical nature of maintaining fresh, relevant online content, while ensuring the whole team is fully briefed on ongoing marketing campaigns. With a keen eye on the nitty-gritty of staff training, Ali underscores the balance between marketing and sales, detailing how tracking new patient sources can significantly enhance a practice's marketing efficacy.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• How simplifying branding can enhance patient engagement.
• The role of updated website content in attracting new patients.
• Strategies for effective staff training and marketing harmonization.
• The importance of tracking new patient sources to measure success.
• Insights on balancing marketing and sales efforts.
• How to optimize internal systems to boost online reviews.
• Upcoming marketing trends to focus on for 2025.
• Details on DocSites' flexible service offerings and special deals.

Tune in to discover innovative strategies to boost your dental practice's growth today!

Sponsors:

Do you need a new website or marketing agency? Check out what DocSites can do for you: https://www.DocSites.com/landing-pages/ddb/(Don't miss out on their Black Friday Deal of -$750 off your website! Just mention Michael, Sandy, Dental Drill Bits, or Dental Gumbo!)

Front Desk Pro

Implantology Meeting in Atlanta

Businesses/Brands:

Burbank Dental Lab

Nordstrom

Invisalign

Oreck

Electrolux

Nike

Amazon

Tools:

Google Review Cards

Places:

Aria - Los Vegas

Overall, when it comes to excelling at customer service, we need to build more and better relationships with our patients. Remember that our patients have a choice, they can either choose to continue to come to you, or move on at any moment. They can get their teeth cleaned and get turned off so fast or be highly impressed to the point they want to bring everyone they know to you. That’s the difference between average and exceptional customer service. 

In this episode Sandy tells us 10 strategies we need to be thinking about weekly, if not daily, to make sure we are providing exceptional customer service. There's 1.6 million people changing dentists…every month! Make sure you are one of the dentists that patients love and feel acknowledged and valued at. That is something you will notice fast about the first two strategies, how acknowledging your patient is crucial.

Listen to this episode and make sure you write down the 10 strategies somewhere visible, where your team can see it so they can use it as a checklist or reminder to apply these strategies daily.

Want to know how to turn your dental practice schedule from stress-inducing to productivity-boosting? In this episode, Sandy and Michael tackle this very challenge. Drawing upon Sandy's extensive experience in training dental teams nationwide, they delve into the integral role of scheduling in balancing efficiency and patient satisfaction. Common issues like late appointments and broken down technology are recognized as catalysts for stress that many practices fall victim to, leading to a discussion on the necessity of a tailor-made scheduling system for every dentist.

As the discussion deepens, Michael highlights the importance of team involvement to ensure the success of a productivity-driven schedule. Defining clear-cut goals for each provider and striving for team alignment is emphasized, underscored by Sandy's belief in celebrating victories - no matter how small - and viewing setbacks as opportunities for reassessment and growth. Furthermore, they illuminate the need for tracking key stats like call numbers, appointment bookings, and time utilization, thereby cultivating an understanding of effective scheduling from an analytical perspective.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• The significance of customizing your practice's schedule for improved efficiency and patient contentment.
• Identifying and rectifying common stress inducers within dental practice scheduling.
• The necessity of goal-setting for every provider and ensuring team alignment with these goals.
• How to use setbacks as a learning curve and the importance of celebrating victories.
• The effectiveness of monitoring key stats and how they contribute to achieving productivity goals.
• How approaching scheduling as you would a game increases motivation and makes goal achievement a collaborative effort.

Don't miss this episode and streamline your practice schedule for maximized productivity and minimized stress!

Sponsors:

Don’t just look ahead. Plan Forward. Discover the dental membership plan partner that empowers your entire office. Created by a team in your shoes. Find out more here, and be sure to mention Dental Drill Bits for a special offer! https://www.planforward.io/

• Dental Gumbo Group

Events:

• Front Desk Pro

People:

• Dr. Westerman

Brands:

• Energizer Bunny