What Happens When Two Orthodontists Meet at a Pivotal Moment in Their Careers? On this episode of Smile Doctors Off Mute, Dr. Scott Law chats with Dr. Jack Devereux and Dr. Phuong Nguyen — two orthodontists whose professional journeys collided, shaping their practice and paving the way for the next generation of doctors. From general dentistry and starting his own practice to taking over a partner’s practice during a health crisis, Jack faced a tidal wave of challenges early in his orthodontic career that pushed him to adopt innovative systems and partner with an OSO to sustainably grow his practice. Then, Hurricane Katrina swept through, bringing devastation — and opportunity. As one of very few offices whose operations weren’t halted by Katrina, Dr. Devereux’s busy practice needed help. Enter Dr. Nguyen, a young orthodontist looking for stability in a storm-tossed world. Dr. Devereux took a chance, offering Dr. Nguyen partnership after just six months of working together, betting on his promise: "I’ll make us stronger together than you ever were alone." And he delivered. Together, they built a practice where efficiency met excellence. Their “faster, better, cheaper” mantra wasn’t about cutting corners but crafting systems so seamless, even their front desk ran like clockwork. The duo later joined Smile Doctors not just for growth but to extend their impact as Divisional Support Doctors, mentoring young orthodontists to push the limits of what’s possible in patient care and practice operations. Dr. Devereux and Dr. Nguyen’s story is one of two paths crossing at just the right time, proving that the perfect partnership doesn’t just change their course; it has the power to inspire and guide others on their own journeys, too.    KEY TAKEAWAYS: Introduction to a Unique Partnership (00:00:16) Journey into Orthodontics (00:01:43) The Evolution of Partnership (00:06:42) Addressing the OSO Model (00:10:46) Care Philosophy (00:15:08) Team Growth and Development (00:16:07) The Importance of True Partnership (00:19:47) Systematic Approaches in Practice (00:23:19) Principles of Efficiency (00:26:14) Problem-Solving Strategies (00:27:52) Mentorship and Learning (00:32:21) Balancing Work and Family (00:37:10) Ownership and Equity in Practice (00:39:28) Personal Impact and Reflection (00:40:34) MORE INFO: Smile Doctors partnership opportunities: https://smiledoctorspartners.com/  Smile Doctors by DN Orthodontics: https://smiledoctorsbydnortho.com/ Email Dr. Jack Devereux: [email protected] Email Dr. Phuong Ngyuen: [email protected]

When Does Innovation Create More Problems than It Solves? As the moat around the one-size-fits-all treatment approach evaporates, it’s more important than ever to be an expert in many treatment modalities to serve just one patient. At the same time, perpetual innovation can sometimes feel like chaos. But when executed with precision and confidence, it can usher a practice into the future of our specialty.    On this episode of the Smile Doctors Off Mute Podcast, self-proclaimed "ortho geek" Dr. Jep Paschal talks with Dr. Scott Law about his background in prosthodontics and the “new normal” of practicing orthodontics today:    • How to cultivate a culture of innovation within your team • Why it works to let people do what they’re good at • How the world’s most expensive doorstop gave way to a priceless lesson • The 4 criteria he uses to evaluate new innovations • and more    For any forward-thinking individuals looking to inspire a culture of innovation in your sphere of influence, this episode of the Smile Doctors Off Mute Podcast is a can’t-miss. HIGHLIGHTS: Dr. Paschal's Circuitous Journey Into Orthodontics (00:01:12) Transitioning from Prosthodontics to Orthodontics (00:04:20) Aesthetic and Cosmetic Correction Philosophies (00:07:25) Embracing Change in Treatment Approaches (00:09:46) Orthodontic Technology Evolution (00:15:23) Why Prosthodontics Thinking is the Future of Orthodontics (00:21:05) Leading Teams Through Change (00:22:40) 4 Keys to Orthodontic Innovation (00:23:46)  The Power of Delegation (00:31:57) The Future Landscape of Orthodontics (00:41:09) How the Specialty Will Survive (00:49:25) MORE INFO: Smile Doctors partnership opportunities: https://smiledoctorspartners.com/  Paschal Orthodontics in Georgia: https://paschalorthodontics.com/ Email Dr. Jep Paschal [email protected]  

Can a clinic be more than just a treatment space? When Dr. Farah Kar transitioned from a background in art, architecture, and project management to orthodontics, she brought a unique vision that informed her approach to patient care and practice culture. For Dr. Kar, building an empowering, welcoming environment for both her patients and team isn’t just about aesthetics — it’s about intentionality, authenticity, and a commitment to human connection.  On this episode of Smile Doctors Off Mute with Dr. Scott Law, Dr. Kar discusses how she stays true to herself in an industry full of trends. She shares the importance of crafting a space that reflects who she is, explaining that the most meaningful patient experiences start with a genuine reflection of the doctor’s own personality and values.  But Dr. Kar’s insights go beyond office design; she speaks openly about how a personal loss taught her there’s no real divide between her personal and professional life. The compassion her team and patients showed during difficult times transformed her leadership style and deepened her belief that investing in her team is also an investment in her patients.  Dr. Kar’s journey serves as a reminder that true success doesn’t come from jumping on the latest trend but from staying grounded in your own vision and purpose. Join us for an inspiring conversation about authenticity, intentional design, and the power of bringing more humanity into orthodontic care.   HIGHLIGHTS: Dr. Kar's Background and Journey into Ortho (00:00:53) Design Thinking in Orthodontics (00:04:21) Creating an Authentic Vibe (00:07:48) Building Team Culture (00:10:52) The Power of Authenticity (00:14:23) Embracing Imperfections (00:16:08) Investing in Your Team (00:19:22) Navigating Personal Connections (00:22:15) The Impact of Personal Stories (00:25:21) Work-Life Passion (00:28:28) The Journey of Authenticity (00:31:58) Don't Drop the Ball on Your Bathroom (00:33:51) Designing Unique Patient Experiences (00:37:47) Celebrating Authentic Connections (00:42:54) MORE INFO: Smile Doctors partnership opportunities: https://smiledoctorspartners.com/  Dr. Kar on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.ortho.queen/  

Do OSOs Stifle Creativity? On this inspiring episode, we delve into the world of orthodontics with Dr. Amanda Gallagher, a trailblazing orthodontist in Baltimore, Maryland. Discover her incredible journey from her early aspirations in medicine to becoming a leader in her field, known for her unique practice that blends aesthetics, orthodontics, and exceptional patient care.  Join us as Dr. Gallagher shares her insights on the importance of balancing routine practices with constant innovation to enhance patient experiences. Learn about her deliberate approach to practice management, her marketing strategies, and her philosophy on leadership and team collaboration.  Dr. Gallagher also opens up about her personal growth, the challenges she faced, and how she maintains a competitive edge by embracing discomfort and seeking continuous improvement. This episode is packed with valuable lessons for anyone looking to excel in the field of orthodontics or any other profession.  Don't miss this opportunity to learn from one of the best in the industry. Tune in now!  KEY TAKEAWAYS: Embracing Change (00:00:10) Dr. Amanda Gallagher’s Orthodontic Journey (00:02:12) Unique Practice Approach (00:05:02) Designing a Patient-Centric Space (00:11:01) Joining Forces: The Group Decision (00:15:20) The Power of Collaboration (00:19:51) Embracing Discomfort (00:24:37) Leadership Through Change (00:30:47) Appreciating Your Team (00:39:33) Personal Growth Through Challenges (00:42:20) MORE INFO: Smile Doctors partnership opportunities: https://smiledoctorspartners.com/  Amanda Gallagher Orthodontics: https://www.agortho.com/ Find, Follow, and Message Amanda Gallagher on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/agortho/  

Does Joining an OSO Solve Problems or Create New Ones? In 2018, Prairie View Orthodontics hit a plateau. Despite a thriving practice with a decades-long legacy in the community, they struggled to reach the next level of growth. When Dr. John Lippincott decided to affiliate with Smile Doctors, it seemed like the perfect solution — but the journey was anything but smooth.  On this episode of Smile Doctors Off Mute, Dr. Lippincott reflects on the tough decisions, early challenges, and moments of doubt that came with transitioning from an independent practice to partnering with an OSO.   Like many practice owners, he grappled with the unknown: Would Prairie View Orthodontics lose its identity? Would affiliating with an OSO damage the relationships with patients and reputation within the community that took years to build? Would they be forced into a one-size-fits-all model that clashed with their values? But alongside these common concerns came unexpected growing pains, too. In the end, Dr. Lippincott’s experience didn’t just transform his own practice; it helped reshape how Smile Doctors approaches partnerships today.  His journey shows why it’s important to stay true to your core values while embracing change, and that with the right partnership, it’s possible to scale without losing what makes a practice special.  Join Dr. Scott Law and Dr. Lippincott for a no-holds-barred conversation about how Prairie View Orthdontics overcame setbacks and achieved 5x annual production growth — without sacrificing patient care or losing the personal touch that built their practice.  KEY TAKEAWAYS: Making Mistakes is Part of the Journey (00:00:09) Dr. Lippincott's Place Within an Orthodontic Legacy (00:01:54) A Plateau for Prairie View Presents New Opportunities (00:05:50) What's in a Name? (00:09:59) Course-Correcting (00:11:14) Decision-Making Dynamics (00:15:15) Implementing Systems for Growth (00:23:14) Empowering the Team (00:29:54) Overcoming Early Pain Points & Keeping What's Working (00:34:57) MORE INFO: Smile Doctors partnership opportunities: https://smiledoctorspartners.com/  Prairie View Orthodontics: https://prairieviewortho.com/  

What’s the Best Way to Build & Strengthen Relationships with Your Local Referring Dentists? Tune in for an inspirational episode in which special guest Dr. Shad Hanis explores the vital role of cultivating personal and professional relationships within your local dental community.  Learn his secrets to handling what can be a highly competitive area for orthodontic practices and discover how he prioritizes personal connections over commercial transactions.   This episode uncovers the significance of patient referral trends, building meaningful relationships with colleagues in the industry, and implementing novel strategies for a flourishing orthodontic practice. Hear from a seasoned professional on improving productivity and maximizing patient referrals by adapting to changes and stepping outside of your comfort zone.   Dr. Hanis will share lessons he’s learned from generating $3.5 million worth of annual dental referrals, emphasizing holistic strategies in a team-focused environment. Gain knowledge on how every interaction could potentially turn employees, patients, and visitors into brand ambassadors, hence driving constant referrals.   Dr. Hanis expounds on his simple yet effective techniques of cultivating relationships through lunch outings, tracking referrals, acknowledging birthdays, and more. He also reveals how simple gestures like sending "thank you" messages can help keep dental relationships strong.   In conclusion, this episode teaches the importance of genuine friendships within your local community — focusing not only on expanding your practice but also on fundamentally developing strong and lasting relationships.   KEY TAKEAWAYS: Why Good Relationships Matter (00:00:10) Dr. Hanis' Journey into Orthodontics (00:02:25) A Growing Practice (00:04:21) Joining Smile Doctors (00:07:19) Tracking Referrals (00:08:00) Cultivating Genuine Relationships (00:10:06) Building Connections (00:13:54) Building a Referral Network (00:16:17) The Value of Friendship in Business (00:26:32) MORE INFO: Smile Doctors partnership opportunities: https://smiledoctorspartners.com/  Hanis & Proft Orthodontics: https://everysmilecounts.com/  

One of the most exciting times in the life of an orthodontist is graduating and finding your next opportunity. Will you start your career with a private practice, a big partnership, or potentially an OSO? For many residents, there's no one-size-fits-all approach. Each journey is unique — shaped by long-term and short-term goals. In this episode, we hear from Dr. Matt Roche, who joins us with a unique background, having transitioned from a career in customer service to the world of orthodontics. He shares his inspiring journey and how he landed in the best field in the world, where he gets to love patients, serve them, and watch them grow. Dr. Roche joined Smile Doctors in 2022 in Columbus, Georgia, bringing his unique leadership skills to a team with years of experience. He discusses how he decided to come in, bring a culture of his own, and grow the location alongside his team and patients. We delve into Dr. Roche's initial career in customer service, where he learned invaluable skills in conflict resolution and handling difficult conversations. These experiences shaped his approach to orthodontics, allowing him to excel in patient care and team leadership. Dr. Roche also shares his advice for new associates, emphasizing the importance of owning your role, caring for patients, and avoiding the trap of just punching in and out. He highlights the significance of finding your "why" and being prepared for the challenges and growth that come with the first year of practice. Join us as we welcome Dr. Matt Roche to the Smile Doctors Off-Mute podcast and learn from his journey. KEY TAKEAWAYS Dr. Roche's Journey Begins (00:00:10) From Customer Service to Orthodontics (00:01:19) Finding the Right Opportunity (00:06:02) Embracing Team Support (00:11:56) Unique Approaches to Success (00:14:34) Preparing for Challenges Ahead (00:21:02) Cultivating a Caring Environment (00:23:52) Attracting Like-Minded Associates (00:27:13) Acting Like You Own the Place (00:33:21) MORE INFO: https://smiledoctorspartners.com/ 

How a New Orthodontist Can Own Their Future Dr. Josh Adcox joins Smile Doctors Off Mute to share the influential experiences and turning points along the way that shaped his unconventional career from aspiring snowboarder in Taylor, Arizona, to Clinical Director of Remote Care for Smile Doctors Orthodontics.     Discover how a chance encounter in undergrad led to a trade between snowboard lessons and “free” braces, sparking Dr. Adcox's interest in and passion for dental care. Whether you’re a resident or a seasoned orthodontist, you’ll walk away from this episode with actionable approaches toward growth and leadership inspired by Dr. Adcox’s own experiences in biomimetic dentistry, partnering with DSOs and OSOs, and even owning his own practice.    Dr. Adcox is a staunch advocate of doing more with less and always putting people first. He discusses how embracing advances in technology can not only improve a practice’s efficiency, production, and profits, but elevate the team culture and patient experience, as well.    Finally, Dr. Adcox advises residents and new graduates to consider their long-term professional and financial goals, identify and dig into their areas of specialty, and seek mentorship within the career path they choose.    KEY TAKEAWAYS Dr. Adcox's Journey from Aspiring Snowboarder to Orthodontist (00:00:53) Dr. Adcox's Residency Experience  (00:03:36) Post-Residency Options (00:06:21) Visiting a Smile Doctors Practice (00:06:18) Why Joining a DSO Wasn't the Right Move  (00:10:16) Patient-First Focus (00:13:24) Getting Comfortable with Being Uncomfortable (00:15:28) Struggle with Decision Fatigue and Imposter Syndrome (00:17:50) Doing More with Less (00:19:49) Path to Partnership as an Associate  (00:21:50) Venture into De Novo Practice Ownership (00:24:14) Innovation: Care is Also a Verb (00:27:50) Advice for Residents Considering Orthodontic Careers (00:31:08)   MORE INFO: https://smiledoctorspartners.com/ 

Can You be a Growth-Minded Orthodontist in this Tough Business Climate? Growing an orthodontic practice and launching a new location is an exhilarating endeavor. Whether you’re starting your first practice or your tenth, making it a success is vital for both the patients you care for and the rockstar team who supports you.       In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Ben Fishbein, a board-certified orthodontist, Northwest Florida’s only Invisalign Diamond Plus provider, and the official smile provider for the Pensacola Blue Wahoos. But that’s not all — Dr. Fishbein is perhaps most well-known for his practice's tremendous growth.      From a single location generating $800,000 in production to overseeing 9 locations, 7 doctors, and $25 million in annual production, Fishbein Orthodontics is an inspiring example of how clinical expertise and entrepreneurial vision can combine to create opportunities for exceptional impact.       Dr. Law and Dr. Fishbein delve into the challenges and triumphs of opening new practices, including his latest venture in partnership with Smile Doctors. As the Clinical Director of De Novos within Smile Doctors, Ben provides invaluable guidance to new practices starting this year and next, helping them navigate the path to success. He discusses the importance of delegation, how to hone your leadership skills, and the value of a strong community presence.      This episode is a must-listen if you’re growth-minded or interested in a compelling success story. Join us as we explore Ben’s journey, the lessons he’s learned along the way, and how you can apply these insights to become a better orthodontist and business leader.    KEY TAKEAWAYS Dr. Fishbein's Exciting Orthodontic Beginnings (00:00:10) Starting Small, with a Big Dream (00:02:38) Vision for Growth (00:04:58) Building a Support Team (00:06:18) Finding the Right Approach to Marketing (00:07:41) Patient-First Focus (00:09:37) Strategic Expansion Approaches (00:09:48) Overcoming Challenges in Expansion (00:11:03) Balancing Growth and Focus (00:13:05) Fishbein Fundamentals (00:14:48) Success in Opening Offices (00:18:17) Partnership Opportunities in Smile Doctors (00:22:01) Future Plans for De Novo Expansion (00:29:26)   MORE INFO: https://smiledoctorspartners.com/ 

Should You Join an OSO? In this episode, Dr. Scott Law welcomes Dr. Ryan Hurley and Dr. Tonya Volk (along with their well-behaved canine, Trecker), a groundbreaking orthodontist couple who have revolutionized their practice since 2010. Their journey began when they first met during their orthodontic residency in Chicago, then moved on to merge two orthodontic practices in the city's northwestern suburbs. They candidly discuss the challenges, invaluable lessons, and significant growth they experienced in their private practice. The duo provides an intimate look at the turning point of their growth strategy when they began utilizing consultants and adopting a mindset wired for change and evolution. They also divulge how team empowerment and an innovative ethos accelerated their private practice's continuous improvement.  Their alliance with Smile Doctors brought about even more significant opportunities for teamwork, empowerment, financial growth, and effective time management. Dr. Hurley and Dr. Volk detail how this critical move prepared their team members to venture into new leadership roles within the organization and greatly benefited their patients, their team, and the communities they serve.  As the episode progresses, they recollect their initial skepticism toward joining an Orthodontic Support Organization (OSO). Yet, they express how witnessing the positive transformations in their close friends' practices who joined Smile Doctors proved that it was an advantageous decision. In hindsight, they insist that affiliation was indeed the correct course of action for their own exponential growth.  Together with Dr. Law, they reminisce about nurturing their practice in its early stages to managing their outstanding growth in later years. They share poignant insights about building their family, channeling their energy into the practice, and the importance of constant growth and learning for improvement.  Ultimately, they close with heartfelt advice for orthodontists considering affiliation with an OSO, noting the value of continued learning, shared insights, and maintaining a zeal for practice engagement for eventual success. They emphasize the necessity to fully comprehend the entire affiliation picture before making the significant leap.   KEY TAKEAWAYS: Introduction from Dr. Law (00:00:10) Sparking the Hurley & Volk Flame (00:01:09) Starting/Merging Practices (00:02:13) Growing & Overcoming Challenges (00:02:26) Humility: from Playing Golf to Being on a Team (00:27:08) Kicking the Affiliation Tires & Understanding When It's Not a Good Fit (00:32:51) MORE INFO: https://smiledoctorspartners.com/ 

TIME TO BUST SOME OSO MYTHS In this episode of the Smile Doctors Off-Mute Podcast, we dive deep into the realm of dental support organizations (DSOs) and orthodontic support organizations (OSOs). Our special guest, Dr. Zach Casagrande of Northern Virginia Orthodontics, shares his journey of affiliating with the OSO Smile Doctors. He provides valuable advice to independent practitioners considering affiliation and guidance in navigating the process.     The episode also charts Dr. Casagrande’s professional journey, his various business decisions and their resultant growth, and the role of OSO affiliation in his career progression. The discussion further sheds light on the significant role of collaboration, innovation, and continuous learning in personal and professional growth within an OSO framework.    A significant part of the conversation delves into doctor autonomy and collaborative efforts within an OSO, shedding light on how administrative duties can be managed by industry professionals, allowing practitioners to focus more on patient care. The episode highlights the impact of affiliation on growth dynamics and revenue generation.    The episode concludes by exploring the innovations in orthodontic treatment, patient-centric care, and modern marketing strategies effectively implemented at Smile Doctors. The insights and experiences shared in this episode provide a comprehensive understanding of the potential benefits and challenges of DSO or OSO affiliations, making it a must-listen for practitioners willing to explore this path.    KEY TAKEAWAYS: Important Questions to Ask When Considering OSO Affiliation (00:09) Dr. Casagrande’s Entrepreneurial Ventures (05:09) Early Challenges of Growing Northern Virginia Orthodontics (06:59) When is OSO Affiliation a Bad Idea? (11:11) Smile Doctors 'Freedom Within a Framework' Model: What Changes (and Doesn't Change) After Affiliation (19:57) The Growth of Northern Virginia Orthodontics as an Affiliate of Smile Doctors (23:22) Dr. Casagrande's Future Vision (30:56) Life for Associate Doctors at Northern Virginia Orthodontics after Smile Doctors Affiliation (33:58) The Exponential Growth of Smile Doctors Mutual Relationship with Invisalign® (36:38)   MORE INFO: https://smiledoctorspartners.com/