The Illuminate Orthodontic Podcast: Shining a Light on Orthodontist Innovators – Details, episodes & analysis

Dr. Geoff Sudit is an orthodontist and true innovator practicing in Minneapolis, MN. Alongside his wife Liz, Geoff co-founded Bright Referral and Retain, two orthodontic platforms that are transforming how practices approach referrals and post-treatment care. At Mint Orthodontics, Geoff has embraced custom braces, remote monitoring, and a patient-first design philosophy — reimagining the orthodontic experience from the ground up.

On this episode, you will discover:

• How to design an orthodontic practice around the patient experience by eliminating common pain points
• Strategies for integrating LightForce and DentalMonitoring to streamline visits and reduce in-office chairtime
• How Bright Referral can help orthodontists capture lost referrals and grow during challenging market conditions
• Ways to turn post-treatment retention into a predictable revenue stream through Retain
• Lessons from Geoff’s entrepreneurial journey that can inspire your own orthodontic innovations

Recorded April 25, 2025 at the AAO Annual Session in Philadelphia, PA.

Generous support for this podcast comes from KLOwen Ortho and Orthodontic Pearls.

Illuminate Spotlight: OrthoMasterClass

Musical Tributes:

'The Good, the Bad and the Ugly' by Ennio Morricone

'Temptation Sensation' (It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia theme) by Heinz Kiessling

Join the community of forward-thinking orthodontists and catch up on every episode at illuminateorthopodcast.com — where innovation meets inspiration.

The Illuminate Orthodontic Podcast explores cutting-edge orthodontics and dentistry, offering orthodontists insights on innovation, patient care, custom braces, Invisalign & aligners, and 3D printing — while spotlighting leadership, practice growth, work-life balance, and the business of running a thriving orthodontic practice with creativity and entrepreneurship.

Dr. Cosmo Haralambidis is a Rhode Island-based orthodontist, educator, and the creator of the Synapse Dental Pain Eraser — a non-pharmacologic innovation helping orthodontists manage patient discomfort more effectively. Guided by his Greek heritage and the Hellenistic values of compassion and service, Cosmo was honored with the 2023 AAO Innovator Award for his contributions to advancing orthodontic care.

On this episode, you will discover:

• How his experience in treating orofacial pain led to the development of a breakthrough orthodontic product
• How mentorship and product testing can sharpen your skills as an orthodontic innovator
• Practical tips for orthodontists interested in launching their own product or invention
• Ways to enhance the patient experience through non-pharmacologic pain management
• How compassionate, mission-driven care can shape both your clinical approach and brand identity

Recorded January 24, 2025 at the AAO | AAPD Winter Conference in Marco Island, FL.

Generous support for this podcast comes from KLOwen Ortho and The Journal of Clinical Orthodontics (JCO).

Illuminate Spotlight - CORE from the AAOF

Illuminate Exclusives: Journal of Clinical Orthodontics (JCO)

• 10% off a new subscription to the JCO
• Promo code: POD

Musical Tribute: ‘Black Coffee’ by Sonny Burke

Join the community of forward-thinking orthodontists and catch up on every episode at illuminateorthopodcast.com — where innovation meets inspiration.

The Illuminate Orthodontic Podcast explores cutting-edge orthodontics and dentistry, offering orthodontists insights on innovation, patient care, custom braces, Invisalign & aligners, and 3D printing — while spotlighting leadership, practice growth, work-life balance, and the business of running a thriving orthodontic practice with creativity and entrepreneurship.

Dr. Alyssa Emory-Carter is an innovative orthodontist practicing in Sherman, Texas. She’s known for her early adoption of orthodontic technologies like Spark Aligners and DentalMonitoring, as well as her leadership in creating a high-performing team culture. Alyssa’s champion mindset and commitment to clinical excellence continue to make an impact within the orthodontic profession.

On this episode, you will discover:

• How Alyssa’s upbringing in Sherman, TX shaped her journey to becoming an orthodontist
• Key features and clinical benefits of Ormco’s Spark Aligners in a growing orthodontic practice
• How DentalMonitoring and dynamic scheduling improved patient communication and efficiency
• Insights into Alyssa’s involvement with On-Demand Orthodontist (ODO) and virtual case support
• The story behind Alyssa’s recent contribution to the AAO’s Consumer Awareness Program

Recorded May 4, 2024 at the Loews Hotel in New Orleans, LA during the AAO Annual Session.

Generous support for this podcast comes from Solventum & DynaFlex.

Illuminate Spotlight - Retainer Club

Illuminate Exclusives: DynaFlex

• 50% off a 50 pack of DynaFlex’s new GX3 or LTR plastic
• Promo code: ILLUMINATE valid through July 31, 2024
• https://www.dynaflex.com/glacier-materials/

Musical Tributes: ‘California Soul’ by The Messengers

Join the community of forward-thinking orthodontists and catch up on every episode at illuminateorthopodcast.com — where innovation meets inspiration.

The Illuminate Orthodontic Podcast explores cutting-edge orthodontics and dentistry, offering orthodontists insights on innovation, patient care, custom braces, Invisalign & aligners, and 3D printing — while spotlighting leadership, practice growth, work-life balance, and the business of running a thriving orthodontic practice with creativity and entrepreneurship.

Orthodontist Dr. Krystian Jarosz is a highly skilled clinician with a passion for the academic side of the specialty and is known for his innovative and cost-effective clinical pearls. He practices in Northwest New Jersey at Skylands Orthodontics and is a familiar face in the online orthodontic community for sharing practical, low-overhead solutions with fellow orthodontists.

On this episode, you will discover:

• The inspiring journey of Krystian’s family from Poland to New Jersey and how it shaped his orthodontic path
• Key insights into purchasing a practice vs. launching a start-up, including his experience acquiring Skylands Orthodontics
• How Krystian incorporates alternative aligner systems, intraoral scanners, and 3D printing to lower overhead in his orthodontic practice
• Practical and cost-effective clinical pearls that have made Krystian a trusted voice among orthodontic innovators
• A look at his conservative approach to Phase I treatment—dubbed “Phase None”—and how it challenges orthodontic protocols

Recorded March 29, 2024 at Coastal Creative Studios in St. Petersburg, FL.

Generous support for this podcast comes from uLab Systems & Solventum.

Musical Tributes: ’Beer Barrel Polka’ by Jaromír Vejvoda

Join the community of forward-thinking orthodontists and catch up on every episode at illuminateorthopodcast.com — where innovation meets inspiration.

The Illuminate Orthodontic Podcast explores cutting-edge orthodontics and dentistry, offering orthodontists insights on innovation, patient care, custom braces, Invisalign & aligners, and 3D printing — while spotlighting leadership, practice growth, work-life balance, and the business of running a thriving orthodontic practice with creativity and entrepreneurship.

Dr. Kyle Fagala is an orthodontist, speaker, and innovator, known for his expertise in digital marketing and his contributions to orthodontic practice growth. He is the co-founder of Neon Canvas, a marketing company that merges orthodontic expertise with cutting-edge digital strategies. Outside of his professional endeavors, Kyle also practices at Saddle Creek Orthodontics in Memphis, TN, where he and his wife Anna have built a thriving practice.

On this episode, you will discover:

• How Kyle combined his orthodontic knowledge with digital marketing to grow his practice
• The story behind Neon Canvas and how it helps orthodontists with their marketing strategies
• Kyle's innovative approach to orthodontic patient education, including his orthodontic children's book
• Insights into how Kyle balances mental health and faith with a demanding orthodontic career
• Kyle’s personal interests, including his creative hobbies and his role as the drummer for the band Relapse

Recorded March 21, 2024 at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel in St. Louis, MO during the Orthopreneurs RD course.

Generous support for this podcast comes from Allure Ortho & uLab Systems.

Musical Tributes:

• ’The Long and Winding Road’ by The Beatles
• ‘The Digital Orthodontist: Live!’ Theme Song

Timestamps

Side 1

[12:04] Early life in Arkansas

[29:19] How Kyle Met Anna

[33:00] Dental School in Memphis

[33:36] Specializing in Orthodontics

Side 2

[41:15] Saddle Creek Orthodontics

[47:58] Neon Canvas

[57:56] The Digital Orthodontist: Live! Podcast

[01:02:26] The Digital Orthodontist Facebook Group

Side 3

[01:07:58] All The Best Faces Wear Braces & Nothing Finer Than Aligners

[01:17:02] Mental Health

[01:23:58] Faith

Side 4

[01:32:41] The Beatles

[01:36:32] Progressive Rock

[01:40:37] Relapse

[01:43:09] Cooking

[01:44:37] Sneakers

[01:46:17] Photography

Join the community of forward-thinking orthodontists and catch up on every episode at illuminateorthopodcast.com — where innovation meets inspiration.

The Illuminate Orthodontic Podcast explores cutting-edge orthodontics and dentistry, offering orthodontists insights on innovation, patient care, custom braces, Invisalign & aligners, and 3D printing — while spotlighting leadership, practice growth, work-life balance, and the business of running a thriving orthodontic practice with creativity and entrepreneurship.

Dr. Chris Cetta hosts a special Illuminate Live edition of the podcast recorded during the Ortho Innovation Summit in Austin, Texas. This orthodontic innovator round table features Dr. Brandon Owen, Dr. Melanie Wang, and Dr. Jason Cope — three forward-thinking orthodontists who are driving the digital transformation of our profession. In this lively, in-person discussion, they explore emerging orthodontic technologies, the challenges of being early adopters, and what the future practice model might look like.

On this episode, you will discover:

• Why digital workflow adoption is both a challenge and a breakthrough for modern orthodontists
• How to push through resistance and setbacks when introducing new technology to your team
• Which orthodontic innovations and practice management tools are ripe for disruption
• What the future orthodontic practice might look like — from office design to staffing models
• Actionable advice for orthodontists and inventors looking to bring innovative ideas to life

Recorded March 2nd, 2024 at the Thompson Hotel during the Ortho Innovation Summit in Austin, TX.

Generous support for this podcast comes from KLOwen Custom Braces, Voxel Dental Solutions & ArchForm.

Bonus Content: Tom O’Grady’s Live Fender Rhodes Piano Set

• ‘Leave the Door Open’ by Silk Sonic
• ‘What’s Going On’ by Marvin Gaye (Donny Hathaway version)
• ‘Lovely Day’ by Bill Withers
• ‘Just the Way You Are’ by Billy Joel
• ‘I Can’t Help It’ by Michael Jackson

Join the community of forward-thinking orthodontists and catch up on every episode at illuminateorthopodcast.com — where innovation meets inspiration.

The Illuminate Orthodontic Podcast explores cutting-edge orthodontics and dentistry, offering orthodontists insights on innovation, patient care, custom braces, Invisalign & aligners, and 3D printing — while spotlighting leadership, practice growth, work-life balance, and the business of running a thriving orthodontic practice with creativity and entrepreneurship.

Dr. Jared Gianquinto is a technology-driven orthodontist based in California’s Central Valley. After serving as a Dental Officer in the U.S. Navy aboard the USS Ronald Reagan, Dr. Gianquinto returned to his hometown to start Gianquinto OrthoArts from scratch in 2011. Known for his innovation and early adoption of digital orthodontic workflows, Dr. G has built a reputation as a forward-thinking orthodontic leader with a passion for efficiency, custom braces, and elevated patient care.

On this episode, you will discover:

• How Dr. Gianquinto differentiated his orthodontic practice in a competitive market
• His transition from Navy dentist to innovative private practice orthodontist
• The role of KLOwen Custom Braces, uLab, and 3M Clarity aligners in his digital workflow
• How he uses InBrace and Grin Remote Monitoring to improve efficiency and patient experience
• Advice for orthodontists looking to implement new technology and grow a modern practice

Recorded October 27th, 2023 at Coastal Creative Studios in St. Petersburg, FL.

Generous support for this podcast comes from uLab Systems & the Journal of Clinical Orthodontics (JCO).

Join us for a live podcast experience, along with tacos & tequila, in Austin, TX during the Ortho Innovation Summit hosted by KLOwen Custom Digital Solutions! The Ortho Innovation Summit is will take place February 29th through March 2nd, 2024. Leap into the future and reserve your spot today!

Exclusive Illuminate Promo Codes (case sensitive, apply before checkout)

• illuminateDR - $270 off doctor registration
• illuminateSTAFF - $100 off team member registration
• Note: codes valid through 2/28/24

Musical Tributes:

• ’This Christmas’ by Donny Hathaway
• ‘Mele Kalikimaka’ popularized by Bing Crosby & the Andrews Sisters

Join the community of forward-thinking orthodontists and catch up on every episode at illuminateorthopodcast.com — where innovation meets inspiration.

The Illuminate Orthodontic Podcast explores cutting-edge orthodontics and dentistry, offering orthodontists insights on innovation, patient care, custom braces, Invisalign & aligners, and 3D printing — while spotlighting leadership, practice growth, work-life balance, and the business of running a thriving orthodontic practice with creativity and entrepreneurship.

Dr. Neal Kravitz is a highly respected orthodontist and innovative thought-leader who practices outside of Washington, D.C.

On this episode, you’ll learn about:

• Neal’s upbringing in Northern Virginia as the son of a dermatologist
• His involvement with the AAO, ABO and Angle Society
• How Neal became the Editor-in-Chief for the Journal of Clinical Orthodontics (JCO)
• A few of his top clinical & life pearls
• Neal’s perspective on some recent trends in orthodontics

Recorded July 8, 2023 at Coastal Creative Studios in St. Petersburg, FL.

Generous support for this podcast comes from The Aligner Intensive Fellowship & CAStrack.

Join us for a live podcast experience, along with tacos & tequila, in Austin, TX during the Ortho Innovation Summit hosted by KLOwen Custom Braces! The Ortho Innovation Summit will take place February 29th through March 2nd, 2024. Leap into the future and reserve your spot today!

Exclusive Illuminate Promo Codes (case sensitive, apply before checkout)

• illuminateDR - $270 off doctor registration
• illuminateSTAFF - $100 off team member registration
• Note: codes valid through 2/28/24

Join the community of forward-thinking orthodontists and catch up on every episode at illuminateorthopodcast.com — where innovation meets inspiration.

The Illuminate Orthodontic Podcast explores cutting-edge orthodontics and dentistry, offering orthodontists insights on innovation, patient care, custom braces, Invisalign & aligners, and 3D printing — while spotlighting leadership, practice growth, work-life balance, and the business of running a thriving orthodontic practice with creativity and entrepreneurship.

Dr. Sheldon Salins is an orthodontist known for his magnetic personality, signature bow ties, and a passion for storytelling that resonates with patients and colleagues alike. Based in the San Francisco Bay Area, Sheldon has built a thriving orthodontic practice rooted in authenticity, innovation, and community engagement. Whether he's rapping on stage or mentoring fellow orthodontists, Sheldon brings energy and optimism to everything he does.

On this episode, you will discover:

• How Sheldon grew his orthodontic practice through online reviews and authentic patient experiences
• Why LightForce Braces provided a breakthrough in esthetics and clinical efficiency
• Sheldon’s journey from South Florida to Harvard to launching a practice in San Francisco
• Practical tips for orthodontists on asking for Google and Yelp reviews
• The origin story behind his signature bow tie and its impact on personal branding

Recorded June 3, 2023 at the LightForce Future meeting in San Diego, CA.

Generous support for this podcast comes from Solventum and DentalMonitoring.

Musical Tributes:

• "Thriller" by Michael Jackson
• "The Great Pumpkin Waltz" by Vince Guaraldi from It’s The Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown soundtrack

Join the community of forward-thinking orthodontists and catch up on every episode at illuminateorthopodcast.com — where innovation meets inspiration.

The Illuminate Orthodontic Podcast explores cutting-edge orthodontics and dentistry, offering orthodontists insights on innovation, patient care, custom braces, Invisalign & aligners, and 3D printing — while spotlighting leadership, practice growth, work-life balance, and the business of running a thriving orthodontic practice with creativity and entrepreneurship.

Dr. Tim Dumore is a respected orthodontist and early technology adopter based in Winnipeg, Canada. Known for his signature red glasses and quirky sense of humor, Dr. Dumore has been a longtime innovator in orthodontics—embracing tools like Invisalign, Ortho2, uLab Systems, and LightForce braces while staying active in the Seattle Study Club and mission-driven care abroad.

On this episode, you will discover:

• How being an early adopter of orthodontic technology shaped Tim’s career and practice philosophy
• Clinical and workflow insights from using LightForce custom braces and uLab aligners
• Tips on offering product feedback to orthodontic companies and becoming part of beta groups
• Why joining an interdisciplinary network like the Seattle Study Club can elevate your orthodontic outcomes
• The business and personal motivations behind partnering with an OSO and giving back through mission work

Recorded June 2, 2023 at the LightForce Future meeting in San Diego, CA.

Generous support for this podcast comes from DentalMonitoring and Solventum.

Join the community of forward-thinking orthodontists and catch up on every episode at illuminateorthopodcast.com — where innovation meets inspiration.

The Illuminate Orthodontic Podcast explores cutting-edge orthodontics and dentistry, offering orthodontists insights on innovation, patient care, custom braces, Invisalign & aligners, and 3D printing — while spotlighting leadership, practice growth, work-life balance, and the business of running a thriving orthodontic practice with creativity and entrepreneurship.