The Orthopreneurs Podcast with Dr. Glenn Krieger – Details, episodes & analysis

Many orthodontists dream of running their orthodontic practices with less stress, fewer patient visits, and higher productivity. I welcome back to the podcast, someone who has been living that reality for decades.

In this episode, Dr. Ron Roncone shares his time-tested secrets for orthodontic efficiency. He reveals how he brought patient visits down to just 7.3 per case without sacrificing the quality of care.

How did he do it? Smart scheduling and eliminating inefficiencies had a huge impact.

Dr. Roncone is a respected leader in orthodontic efficiency and has decades of experience. His expertise has helped numerous orthodontists streamline their processes.

He pours all it out to help you transform your workflow for better results and reduce inefficiencies in your orthodontic practice.

Don't miss out on learning how to run a more efficient, profitable practice. Click here to listen to the full episode and take your orthodontic practice to the next level!

Key Takeaways

Introduction (00:00)
The strive for efficiency in orthodontics (01:28)
Reduce appointments and eliminate emergencies (07:34)
$600,000 production per team member (11:08)
Smart scheduling strategies (21:56)
Occlusion and treatment philosophy (37:28)
The cost of ignoring basic occlusal principles (45:16)
Continuing education in orthodontics (49:14)

Additional Resources

- Dr. Ron Roncone Course: The Just Short Of Perfect (JSOP)

- Register for the OrthoPreneurs Summit 2025: http://opsummit2025.com/

- For more information, visit: https://orthopreneurs.com/

- Join our FREE Facebook group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/OrthoPreneurs

I know it sounds crazy, but many of you are leaving money on the table every year by not acting early and signing up for meetings as soon as they become available. 

The OP Summit 2025 is your chance to grow your practice and enjoy the vibrant energy of Las Vegas. But, as always, ticket prices go up as time goes on.

Why pay $200, $400, or even $600 more later when you can secure your spot today? We're bringing together an incredible lineup of industry leaders to help you make 2025 your best year yet. Whether you’re aiming for clinical excellence or leadership skills, this summit has it all.

Register now at the lowest price available, book your hotel, and get ready for two of the best days of your professional life.

Sign up now at http://opsummit2025.com/ before prices rise, and join us for OP Summit 2025!

Key Takeaways

Introduction (00:00)
Details about OP Summit 2025 in Vegas (00:41)
Explanation of tiered pricing structure (01:36)
Encouragement to plan ahead and commit (02:05)
Addressing common excuses for not attending (03:03)
Final call to action for early registration (03:44)

Additional Resources

- Register for the OrthoPreneurs Summit 2025: http://opsummit2025.com/

- For more information, visit: https://orthopreneurs.com/

- Join our FREE Facebook group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/OrthoPreneurs

Building a successful orthodontic practice while maintaining a healthy work-life balance is a challenge that many orthodontists face.

I recently did an episode where I talked about building a 3 million plus practice. We also had some conversations about it in the OrthoPreneurs Facebook group.

I had the pleasure of sitting down with my friend and colleague, Dr. Brian Rochford, to discuss building a successful orthodontic practice.

Dr. Rochford and I share a similar philosophy when it comes to balancing practice growth and personal fulfillment.

Dr. Rochford joined his childhood orthodontist's practice and transformed it into a modern, efficient operation. He integrated digital technologies and adopted innovative management strategies that doubled his practice's size.

One of the takeaways from our conversation was the idea that a profitable orthodontic practice doesn't have to come at the expense of your personal life.

In fact, it's quite the opposite. Dr. Rochford created a "lifestyle practice" that allows for both practice growth and personal fulfillment. He discusses his transition to a fully digital practice, highlighting how technology has streamlined operations and improved patient care.

By implementing efficient systems, delegating effectively, and focusing on patient care, you can create a practice that allows you to enjoy a fulfilling work-life balance.

Listen to the episode now and learn more about building a fulfilling practice today.

Key Takeaways

Intro (00:00)
Joining and modernizing a practice (01:39)
Transition to digital orthodontics (03:25)
Balancing efficiency and growth (04:25)
Work-life balance strategies (09:46)
Learning from industry peers (15:20)
Importance of delegation and leadership (24:11)
Fitness and personal well-being (28:58)
Dr. Rochford’s home renovation journey (38:20)
Final thoughts (44:05)

Additional Resources

- Register for the OrthoPreneurs Summit at Sea (2024): https://opsummitatsea.com/

- For more information, visit: https://orthopreneurs.com/

- Join our FREE Facebook group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/OrthoPreneurs

Orthodontics is a remarkable profession that offers practitioners various avenues to shape their careers and practices.

Some orthodontists choose to practice independently, while others opt for large group practices. In today's discussion, we delve into the inspiring story of Dr. Ben Fishbein, a visionary orthodontist who has achieved remarkable success by leveraging hard work and strategic thinking.

Dr. Fishbein's journey is a testament to the power of determination and smart practice management.

In 2013, Dr. Fishbein purchased a small practice with just seven team members.

This small endeavor would eventually grow into an orthodontic empire consisting of eight offices and employing 94 dedicated team members by the time he joined Smile Doctors DSO in 2020.

This incredible growth occurred over approximately seven years, showcasing Dr. Fishbein's commitment and work ethic.

He emphasizes that before scaling your practice, it's crucial to determine what kind of lifestyle you desire. This self-awareness serves as the foundation for your orthodontic journey.

While his path may not align with everyone's goals, Dr. Fishbein believes tailoring your practice to your desired lifestyle is essential.

One of the key takeaways from Dr. Fishbein's story is the concept of working hard for certain points in your career to achieve your dreams.

His determination and willingness to put in the hours allowed him to achieve tremendous growth over a short period of time.

His wife humorously notes that he put in 30 years of orthodontics in seven years while he worked tirelessly to expand his practice.

Dr. Ben Fishbein has accomplished so much in such a short amount of time, and there are many lessons to learn.

Take a few minutes and learn what went into building a sizable group of thriving, growing orthodontic practices and how you can apply many of these lessons to your own practice.

Key Takeaways

Intro (00:00)

Dr. Ben Fishbein's origin story (02:12)

Ortho is an art and science but a business as well (08:56)

How to massively scale an orthodontic practice (10:12)

30 years of work in 7 years (13:45)

Fishbein Fundamentals course (20:58)

Hiring for success and delegating (24:31)

How Dr. Fishbein gets good team members (28:26)

Why you should have a call center (21:08)

Key metrics to track in your practice (33:41)

The decision to join a DSO (39:27)

Additional Resources

🔹 Fishbein Fundamentals In-Office Course: https://fishbeinfundamentals.com/

🔹 Register for the OrthoPreneurs Summit at Sea (2024): https://opsummit2024.com/

🔹 For more information, visit: https://orthopreneurs.com/

🔹 Join our FREE Facebook group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/OrthoPreneurs

Being recognized as a Key Opinion Leader (KOL) is a significant achievement in our profession. KOLs have the opportunity to share their knowledge and expertise with a broader audience of their peers.

KOLs often speak on behalf of companies or products within their field of expertise. They serve as educators, motivators, and advocates for these products or concepts.

But what does it really take to become a KOL, and what's life like on the other side of the stage?

Contrary to some misconceptions, being a KOL is not about fame or fortune, and neither is being on stage as glamorous as it appears.

It's about sharing a passion for something you believe in and helping others learn about it.

The reality is that it's hard work. Presentations require meticulous planning, scripting, and hours of practice. You also have to withstand some criticism and attacks.

But the takeaway from this episode is that if you want to improve your clinical skills, there's a valuable lesson to take from the KOL experience – document your cases meticulously.

By treating each case as if you were presenting it to a roomful of 500 people, you'll hold yourself to a higher standard. You'll pay closer attention to details, which is crucial for successful outcomes.

Tune in to learn more about documenting your cases!

Key Takeaways

- Intro (00:00)

- The life of a KOL (00:35)

- The challenges of reward of public speaking (01:39)

- Treat each case as if you were presenting it (03:50)

- How to be a better clinician (04:14)

Additional Resources

🔹 Your Voyage to Excellence... Register for the OrthoPreneurs Summit at Sea 2024: https://opsummit2024.com/

🔹 For more information, visit: https://orthopreneurs.com/

🔹 Join our FREE Facebook group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/OrthoPreneurs

When the news broke that the group formerly known as the Schulman Group had transformed into a Dental Support Organization (DSO), many of us were left scratching our heads.

What prompted this transition, and what does it mean for the members and the orthodontic profession as a whole?

In this episode, we chat with guests Chris Vranas, the Executive Director of SG Management, and Dr. Robert Bray, the President and CEO, to shed light on the decision and its implications.

The Schulman Group began as a study group in the 1980s and underwent a significant transformation in 2018.

It rebranded as a member-owned Dental Support Organization, known as SSG Management LLC, but informally referred to as "SG."

This shift was pivotal, as it marked a departure from the traditional study group model towards something more innovative, future-looking, and member-focused.

The organization is now independently owned by its members, who each hold an equal share in this orthodontic DSO.

So, what exactly does SG Management offer its members?

The answer lies in the advantages of being part of this unique DSO while still maintaining independent practice ownership.

Through collective purchasing power, preferred supplier agreements, and non-clinical practice management solutions, SG Management provides its member shareholders with competitive pricing and services.

But here's the key: members continue to run their own patient-centered practices. They are not even required to do business with the preferred providers.

In other words, SG Management preserves the essence of individual practice while enhancing it with the resources and benefits of a DSO.

In addition, members navigate the ever-changing marketplace by exchanging real-world clinical experience and practice management expertise.

Tune in to this episode to learn more about this unique model known as an inside DSO and how new practices can join.

Key Takeaways

- Intro (00:00)

- Meet Chris Vranas and Dr. Robert Bray (00:52)

- History of the Schulman Group (02:58)

- What makes SG Management different as an inside DSO (18:23)

- The driving force behind Schulman Group becoming a DSO (23:43)

- Is Schulman Group looking for practices to join (33:27)

- How you can join the Schulman Group (39:55)

Additional Resources

🔹 Learn more about joining the Schulman Group; https://www.schulmangroup.com/join/

🔹 Your Voyage to Excellence... Register for the OrthoPreneurs Summit at Sea 2024: https://opsummit2024.com/

🔹 For more information, visit: https://orthopreneurs.com/

🔹 Join our FREE Facebook group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/OrthoPreneurs

A few years ago, I had the privilege of meeting Darrel, a former Gulf War veteran.  He came into my office six years ago, seeking not just dental care but confidence and hope.

Darrel was embarrassed by his smile and found it challenging to even go out in search of employment.

Together, we worked to give him the smile he so desperately needed. However, it dawned on me that we, as a society, should never let veterans like Darrel slip through the cracks like this.

This realization led to the birth of "Embracing Our Warriors," a program close to my heart that aims to link orthodontists with veterans in need.

The program is designed to assist needy veterans, carefully vetted and qualified based on income and disability, to receive the orthodontic care they deserve.

Our goal is to ensure that no veteran is left without the smile and confidence they need to thrive in life.

Embracing Our Warriors is set to launch on Veterans Day, but there's a crucial element that we need your support for – funding.

Now, let me explain why this financial support is essential.

I've personally bootstrapped this organization for the last six months, covering expenses like hiring an executive director, advertising, infrastructure development, accounting, and legal fees out of my own pocket.

However, without adequate funding, there's a real risk that Embracing Our Warriors might have to shut down.

So, I'm reaching out to you, our community, our friends, and our allies.

Please consider visiting embracingourwarriors.org and making a donation. Your contribution will go a long way in helping us continue this vital work.

Together, we can honor our veterans, transform their lives, and change the world.

Tune in to this episode to learn more about Embracing our Warriors!

Key Takeaways

- Intro (00:00)

- Embracing our Warrior's mission (01:18)

- The power of a smile (02:38)

- Call for financial support (03:40)

- Veterans deserve our help (04:38)

- Changing lives together (05:12)

Additional Resources

🔹Please consider visiting embracingourwarriors.org and making a donation.

🔹 Your Voyage to Excellence... Register for the OrthoPreneurs Summit at Sea 2024: https://opsummit2024.com/

🔹 For more information, visit: https://orthopreneurs.com/

🔹 Join our FREE Facebook group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/OrthoPreneurs

In orthodontics, the name Dr. Luis Carriere is synonymous with innovation, clinical expertise, and a commitment to advancing the field.

While many may associate his name with the Carriere Motion Class II and Class III corrector, Dr. Carriere is much more than an inventor. He is a master clinician, a gentleman of the highest order, and a second-generation orthodontist following in the footsteps of his renowned father.

In this Greatest Hits Series, we revisit a popular episode where he graciously shared his insights into different clinical aspects of orthodontics.

Among these clinical aspects we talk about is the crucial role of the tongue in malocclusions and overall oral health.

The improper positioning of the tongue during functions like swallowing, chewing, and speaking can contribute to malocclusions and open bites.

Dr. Carriere stresses the importance of training patients to reposition their tongues correctly. Understanding and addressing the tongue's role in orthodontics is essential for achieving long-term stability and preventing relapse.

Tune in to learn from one of the leading experts in our profession.

Key Takeaways

- Meet the world-renowned Dr. Luis Carriere (01:19)

- Difference between practicing in Spain and the USA (06:58)

- What we must do as a profession to educate our patients (10:08)

- The Motion Appliance (17:39)

- The 5 components of Class II correction (19:39)

- TMJ disorders and mandible position (25:58)

- Orthodontic treatment and tongue positioning (34:26)

Additional Resources

🔹 Your Voyage to Excellence... Register for the OrthoPreneurs Summit at Sea 2024: https://opsummit2024.com/

🔹 For more information, visit: https://orthopreneurs.com/

🔹 Join our FREE Facebook group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/OrthoPreneurs

Today, I want to share a powerful insight I gained at the recent Orthopreneurs summit.

I was genuinely surprised by the number of doctors who attended with their teams - not just a couple of team members, but groups of 8 to 12 or even more.

If the opportunity arises for your team members to attend a meeting, I strongly urge you to consider it.

You might wonder, why bring the team?

Well, here's the thing: team members play a crucial role in shaping your office culture.

They take the knowledge and insights from keynote lectures and discussions and translate them into actionable steps for your practice.

Imagine the challenge of attending a meeting, coming back inspired, and then trying to convey that feeling and the brilliant ideas shared with your team.

It's not always easy, is it?

Tune in to this 5-minute Friday episode to hear more about the need to have your team attend meetings.

Key Takeaways

- Intro (00:00)

- Bring your team to meetings (00:43)

- Driving culture transformation (01:33)

- Invest in your team (02:43)

- Personal and professional growth (03:13)

Additional Resources

🔹 Your Voyage to Excellence... Register for the OrthoPreneurs Summit at Sea 2024: https://opsummit2024.com/

🔹 For more information, visit: https://orthopreneurs.com/

🔹 Join our FREE Facebook group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/OrthoPreneurs

The orthodontic industry is currently only about 10% consolidated, which means that a relatively small percentage of practices are part of organized groups or dental support organizations (DSOs)

However, this landscape is evolving rapidly, with more and more practices considering the possibility of private equity-backed partnerships.

Unfortunately, there is loads of misinformation and misconceptions that make it hard for people to understand how private equity-backed DSOs work properly.

To shed light on this often misunderstood topic, we sat down with Michael Kruspe, Chief Development Officer at Smile Doctors, the largest orthodontic-focused DSO in the U.S.

Private equity is a form of financing in the private markets. Unlike venture capital, which typically supports startups and new ideas, private equity focuses on mature businesses.

These businesses are already profitable and have established revenue streams. Private equity firms pool resources from private investors to invest in these companies with a track record.

One of the intriguing aspects of private equity in orthodontics is the recurring four to five-year timeline. Michael sheds light on why this timeframe is crucial.

Private equity firms aim to invest in orthodontic practices, help them grow, and eventually move them to a more capitalized private equity firm. This process typically takes four to five years.

Michael predicts that similar to general dentistry, orthodontics will eventually see a higher level of consolidation, potentially reaching 35% or more. This underscores the early-stage nature of the industry's transformation.

Whether you're an orthodontist considering private equity or simply curious about the industry's future, this conversation offers valuable insights into the world of private equity in the orthodontic industry and debunks common misconceptions.

Let's dive in.

Key Takeaways

- Intro (00:00)

- Meet Michael Kruspe, Chief Development Officer at Smile Doctors OSO (01:34)

- What is Private Equity in orthodontics (06:34)

- Understanding Private Equity timelines (08:15)

- What equity means for doctors in an OSO (12:51)

- How an OSO grows (16:12)

- Practice valuations and deal structuring (18:12)

- Misconceptions and myths around OSO's (25:23)

- Joint Venture model in OSOs (29:01)

- Is Smile Doctors too big? (37:24)

Additional Resources

🔹 Michael Kruspe's email: michael.kruspe@smiledoctors.com

🔹 Your Voyage to Excellence... Register for the OrthoPreneurs Summit at Sea 2024: https://opsummit2024.com/

🔹 For more information, visit: https://orthopreneurs.com/

🔹 Join our FREE Facebook group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/OrthoPreneurs