Clackamas Dental Consultant | Dental Practice Solutions

Fill Openings on the Doctors & Hygienists Schedule

By: Debbie Seidel-Bittke, RDH, BS

June 13, 2024

In today’s fast-paced dental industry, maintaining a full schedule is crucial for the success and profitability of your practice. Open holes in your schedule leads to significant revenue losses and disrupts the workflow in your dental practice.

This blog will guide you through effective strategies to fill openings on the doctor’s & hygienist’s schedule, ensuring that your practice runs smoothly and efficiently. From leveraging modern technology to implementing proactive patient communication, discover the best ways to keep your dental chairs filled with patients who want your care and keep your business thriving.

Preventing cancellations helps keep your patients remain healthy! The problem is that people think they have more important things to do than see their dentist!

Why Do You See Cancellations?

Let’s look at common reasons cancellations occur and how to mitigate them.

Legitimate Reasons for Cancelling

Life happens, and sometimes patients have valid reasons for cancelling:

Illness
Car troubles
Family emergencies
Work meeting

These reasons are understandable, and there’s little you can do to prevent them. Let’s also be aware that sometimes these last minute cancellations might be a cover-up for other issues.

Patients Forget Their Appointments

When patients claim they forgot their appointment, the real issue might be elsewhere. Genuine forgetfulness isn’t the problem, implementation of reminders is the problem.

Do you implement any of all of the following?

Calls
Texts
Emails

Overbooking Far in Advance

While being booked months in advance may seem like a good problem to have, it often indicates a shortage of providers and missed production opportunities.

This can be a good problem to have and offers opportunities to grow your dental practice. If you find yourself in a bottleneck with patients waiting weeks or months to see a provider plan to book a quick call so we can help redirect this situation which is costing you hundreds of thousands of dollars annually!

This is a different challenge than we will focus on in this blog.

When patients have to wait for weeks or months to get an appointment, you increase the likelihood of cancellations due to:

Changes in personal schedules
Financial shifts
Illness
Forgetting the importance of their treatment

Aim to schedule restorative and perio patients within 2-7 days. This will to minimize the above mentioned risks and keep your schedule running smoothly.

The real reason patients fail to keep their dental appointments is because they do not value their oral health.

It’s our role as a dental professional to help our patients understand that “Prevention costs a little money, and treating disease costs a lot of money.”

Urgency is key.

Think about the words you use when speaking to your patients.

Do you use words like “tooth decay and cleaning?”

Use words that paint a picture in your patients mind.

Change your words to these, for example: “hole in your tooth,” or “preventive care” or “gum disease.”

Make it easy for your patients to understand what they need. Never think patients truly understand the urgency of completing dental treatment. Imagine telling your patient their out-of-pocket payment will be $1500 a tooth with decay and a “deep cleaning” when they are thinking, “my gums always bleed”.

Now flip this conversation around a hole in their tooth and bacteria is sneaking in. Show patients the hole in their tooth and bleeding gums. Talk about health and saving money on treating disease. Explain that you are helping them put a halt to inflammation in their mouth and explain how inflammation (over the next five, ten yrs.) will cause other systemic problems. Know what systemic diseases are related or oral inflammation.

You must speak with passion about the topic and show enthusiasm in your voice as you talk about saving them money and putting a halt to disease!

If you don’t feel passionate about changing your patients life, neither will they.

Most patients will sit up, listen, and take action when you talk about helping them live a longer, healthier life, and explain how they will save money once they focus on prevention of disease.

Everything you say and do must benefit the patient.

Make it easy for your patients to “own their disease.”

Take away the stress of getting patients to “pay” for something. Guide your patients to make wise decisions that benefit them.

Once patients understand how your care will save them money, create a healthier, longer life and/or eliminate pain, they most likely “want” what they need.

It doesn’t matter what insurance pays for, maybe they are on state-aid, and they arrived to their appointment with a Gucci purse and maybe they drove to your office in a Mercedes! They most likely have an iPhone or mobile device that cost them a few hundred dollars.

You know this is a true fact, yet your patients do not want to accept your care!

Use words that create a picture.

Speak about benefits to them. Understand their values and know what their objections may be before they even have a chance to object to accepting care.

People will buy what they want, not what they need so get your patients to want your care! Motivate your patients to want a healthy mouth and a body that is healthy.

Patients who value their oral health, are far less likely to cancel or change their appointments last minute.

Filling Last-Minute Openings

Use these strategies to fill the holes:

Maintain a Short-Notice / ASAP List: Keep a list of patients willing to come in on short notice. Reach out to them as soon as an opening occurs.
Leverage Technology: Use automated systems to notify patients of last-minute availability. This can be done via text, email, or through your patient portal.
Optimize Your Recare System: Ensure your recre system is robust , dynamic, and up-to-date. Patients due for their routine hygiene appoihntments (“preventive care” NOT a “cleaning”!) may appreciate the opportunity to come in sooner. Ask us how to implement a cost-effective “engagement system to reach out to patients fast. Let us show you how to reach patients who need a hygiene appointment and another type of appointment such as an implant or bridge. We will show you how to quickly fill open holes with the best per patient production. Book a 15 min ZOOM call so we can show you howt this works.
Offer Incentives: Provide small incentives for patients who fill last-minute holes, such as your Smile Club membership, a discount on “INVISALIGN,” etc, or a free whitening pen.
Engage Your Team: Train your front desk staff to handle cancellations proactively and to efficiently manage the short-notice list.

Understand the reasons patients cancel and have a recare and cancellation strategy in place to keep your practice running efficiently.

We have solutions at your fingertips and offer white glove implementation. Check out the SMILE CLUB which is a proven strategy to keep patients on your schedule.

BOOK a quick no-cost opportunity call.

Take your hygiene department to the next level. Enroll in our course.

10 Strategies to Plug the Holes in Your Schedule

By: Debbie Seidel-Bittke, RDH, BS

May 13, 2024

Managing a dental office can be challenging, especially when faced with last-minute cancellations or openings in the hygiene and doctors schedule.

These unexpected gaps can disrupt workflow and impact productivity. However, with strategic planning and proactive measures, and a system in place, you can minimize these open holes and keep your schedule running smoothly.

Here are 10 effective strategies to help you plug the holes in your schedule and maintain a productive schedule:

1. Patient Audits: Encourage each team member to review and audit their patient list before the day begins. Identify patients due for hygiene appointments or those who have family members who need restorative or hygiene appointments.
2. ASAP List: Maintain an “ASAP” list with contact information for patients willing to fill last-minute openings. Utilize text messages for quick communication when a slot becomes available.
3. Utilize KPI’s: Consider using an app that your team can quickly log-in and view specific metrics. Each team member needs to have specific metrics that have nsights into your practice’s opportunities and scheduling gaps.
4. Daily Opportunity Sharing: Dedicate 10 minutes each day for the team to share specific opportunities, such as patients who need hygiene appointments or related family appointments, etc, etc.
5. Health History Updates: Ensure patients update their health histories and understand your appointment change procedures, minimizing last-minute cancellations. Make sure you also ask about the patients SMILE GOALS on your medical history or a separte Smile Evaluation (takes 60 seconds for the patient to complete).
6. Voicemail Message/Instructions: Update your voicemail message to inform patients about notification for scheduling changes. Your voicemail needs to let them know they must call during business hours to “Change” an appointment. Dedicate a specific number for them to contact the doctor when they must change an appointment last minute. FYI: These voice messages to change or cancel an appointment last minute are usually a “Scape Goat” and if they are told to call doctors mobile number, you will see these cancellation voicemail messages disappear!
7. Schedule Optimization: It works well to have one team member oversee your schedule. This is your go-to person when the schedule falls apart and they will notify the team in your morning 10-mins opportunity meeting about next hygiene openings, etc.
8. Recall List Outreach: Automate your outreach to patients with outstanding hygiene appointments.
9. Offer specials to your patients: During the times of year when you know patients are more likely to cancel, offer for example, an INVISALIGN Day or WHITENING DAY. Let patients know that when they come to your office on these specific days they receve a special discount.
10. Reward Loyal Patients/The Smile Club: Consider using this Dental Practice Growth System by Dental Practice Solutions. The Smile Club is a proven rewards program used by dental offices around the world.

The Smile Club is a patient loyalty, rewards system and it’s proven to:

Reduce last-minute cancellations
Grow New Patient Numbers
BOOST scheduled cosmetic cases
Increase per-patient hygiene production
Build a 100k profit center without adding to your overhead or patient chair time

By implementing these strategies, you can enhance scheduling efficiency, reduce last-minute cancellations, and maintain a productive workflow in your dental office.

Consistent communication, proactive planning, using a proven strategy and leveraging available resources are key to optimizing your schedule and enhancing patient care.

For further training and insights into practice success strategies, use the Dental Practice Growth System and/or consider attending one or all of our bi-monthly Dentist Power Hours.

BOOK a quick call to learn who we can support your growth without adding more patient chair time or increasing your overhead.

Together, we can achieve fuller and more productive schedules while delivering exceptional dental care to our patients!

Enhancing Dental Practices: The Role of a Dental Hygiene Consultant

By: Debbie Seidel-Bittke, RDH, BS

April 16, 2024

Efficiency is the bedrock of a thriving dental practice. Dental hygiene consultants, along with dental practice management consultants, serve as vital assets in streamlining dental clinics’ operations, elevating patient care, and boosting overall productivity.

In this blog, we’ll explore the invaluable role of these consultants in helping to optimize technology to reshape a practice’s dental hygiene team and increase the overall success of the practice.

Navigating the Dental Hygiene Landscape with an Expert

Dental practices are complex entities with various moving parts. Some of the many challenges that dental professionals face include: Managing patient appointments, keeping up with current hygiene services and technology, compliance with the dental hygiene process of care, coding and billing of specific dental hygiene treatment, all while delivering high-quality patient care.

This is where dental hygiene consultants’ step in with their specialized expertise.

Optimizing Operational Efficiency

One of the primary responsibilities of a dental hygiene consultant is to optimize the hygiene patient appointment. Dental hygienists in today’s world do more than just clean teeth.

How can dental hygienists do it all?! This is where a dental hygiene coach and consultant can become a valuable resource.

Dental hygiene consultants assess the current workflow, identify bottlenecks, and propose strategies to streamline processes. This can lead to significant time and cost savings for the entire dental practice. Consultants may suggest improvements in appointment scheduling, hygienist- clinician – patient verbiage, and the adoption of various technologies to enhance efficiency. The hygiene department is one of your main arteries to keep patients on the schedule and increase case acceptance.

Think of the dental hygienist as an associate to the dentist. They do a lot more than just clean teeth! The dental hygienist can and should drive productivity over to the doctor’s schedule and boost the current productivity if they are treating the patient effectively and utilizing the strategies provided from the hygiene consultant. What happens during the dental hygiene appointment will make or break a patient rescheduling and actually showing up for (at the very least) future preventive care appointments and scheduling any treatment that is diagnosed.

Elevating Patient Care

Providing exceptional patient-centered care must be a cornerstone of every dental practice. An effective dental hygiene consultant works closely with the entire team to improve patient care protocols and ensures that each patient receives individualized, quality care.

It’s important that the entire team knows what is happening in the hygiene department. Every team member must work in harmony. Just like an orchestra plays in harmony, the dental employees must all work well together; supporting one another in each role.

Dental hygiene consultants provide training on the latest dental hygiene services, including clinical instrumentation, patient communication skills to improve case acceptance, and properly sequencing the various hygiene patient appointments. Hygienists should also be able to understand how to bill treatment correctly for patient hygiene services and know what “should” and “must” be billed for private pay and insurance reimbursement, these steps work hand in hand with the front office in the practice.

By doing so, they help enhance the overall patient experience, leading to increased practice production, creating efficiencies, improving patient satisfaction and loyalty. You will also keep loyal employees a long time when you have a well-oiled system in place for your entire team!

Boosting Team Morale and Productivity

A harmonious and motivated team is essential for a successful dental practice. Dental hygiene consultants also focus on team dynamics and morale. They can provide guidance with team-building activities, and professional development opportunities. By fostering a positive work environment, consultants help improve employee retention rates and overall productivity. Boost productivity without working harder! Hygiene consultants understand how to get more done with less time!

Navigating Regulatory Compliance

Compliance standards and healthcare regulations are an ever-evolving and can be a daunting task. Dental hygiene consultants are well-versed in the latest OSHA & HIPAA regulations for dental hygienists and help dental practices navigate this complex landscape. Their expertise ensures that the practice adheres to all legal requirements, minimizing the risk of regulatory violations and potential fees.

Implementing Technology Solutions

In today’s digital age, technology plays a pivotal role in the efficiency of dental practices. Consultants often recommend and help implement technology solutions, such as electronic health records (EHR) systems, supporting dental hygienists to use 3D digital scanners, take intra-oral photographs and even the latest AI Dental Smile apps.

These technological advancements improve efficiency, team productivity, enhance data security and accuracy, along with faster claim approval and increase case acceptance.

Measuring Success and Ongoing Support

Dental hygiene consultants don’t just provide recommendations and disappear; they are committed to the long-term success of the dental practice. The best choice for a dental hygiene consultant is one who will measure the office (team members, hygiene department, appointments scheduled and cancelled, etc.), performance through various metrics to calculate the impact of their strategies and provide ongoing support and guidance to address emerging challenges.

The numbers do matter.

It’s important when hiring any consultant that you look at where you are today and evaluate your growth while you are working with the consultant. Numbers don’t change overnight but a well thought-out plan of action with the dentist- dental practice owner- practice manager- dental hygienist- and the dental hygiene consultant will provide sustainable success.

Know that it’s what you commit to implementing day after day and month after month that will create a difference in your dental practice success.

In conclusion, dental hygiene consultants are unsung heroes in the world of dental practice management. Their expertise in optimizing the dental hygiene department (integrating the entire team during the process), elevating patient care by providing proper diagnosis, having great communication with the patients and ensuring compliance is invaluable for dental practices looking to thrive in today’s competitive healthcare landscape.

By harnessing the skills and guidance of the dental hygiene consultant, dental practices will pave the way for a brighter and more efficient future.

Today is the best time to begin putting together your success strategy for 2024. How can we support your 2024 success strategy?

There is no one-size-fits-all!

BOOK A NO-COST STRATEGY CALL AND FIND OUT HERE

Solving the Dental Practice Conundrum

By: Debbie Seidel-Bittke, RDH, BS

April 8, 2024

In the world of dentistry, two significant challenges often loom large over dental practitioners: low reimbursement rates from dental insurance companies and the burden of high overhead costs.

These challenges can strain the financial health of dental practices, making it difficult to provide quality care while maintaining profitability. However, there is a solution that not only addresses these issues but also fosters patient loyalty and satisfaction and it’s called The Smile Club.

For many dentists, dealing with dental insurance companies can be frustrating. Dental insurance reimbursement is less than ever before, leaving dental practice owners with a significant gap between the actual cost of providing quality care for their patients and being paid for their services.

This situation is exacerbated by the ever-increasing overhead costs associated with running a dental practice, including rent, equipment maintenance, employee salaries, and supplies, etc.

As a result, dentists find themselves in a constant battle to provide affordable care for their patients with the need to keep their dental practice financially viable. This delicate balancing act leads to compromises in the quality of patient care and a reluctance to accept certain insurance plans altogether, which ultimately impacts patient access to dental services.

The Smile Club

The Smile Club is a membership program designed to revolutionize the way dental practices engage with their patients and navigate the challenges of the insurance landscape. The concept is simple yet effective. You may already have a patient membership plan and this can be an “add-on” to your current plan which motivates patients to schedule more cosmetic cases.

When enrolling patients into The Smile Club, dentists provide an incentive to continue preventive care services and it provides a reason to “show-up” for scheduled appointments.

Patients are rewarded with a free whitening pen when they pre-schedule hygiene appointments and show up for their preventive care (hygiene) appointments. Patients who join The Smile Club also receive discounts on teeth whitening products. As a member of The Smile Club, patients understand their responsibility as a patient in your dental practice. Patients who understand appointment expectation and have a reward attached are most likely to follow your dental practice procedures and policies.

Example of your procedure and policy:

Your patients understand they must call to “Change” an appointment and they must “Pre-schedule” hygiene appointments. It’s proven that when patients understand your expectation and know they receive something in return (Hence, a free whitening pen valued at $20 or more) they are most likely to show up for scheduled appointments.

Key Benefits of The Smile Club:

More patients ask to schedule and pay for cosmetic dentistry.
Patients experience whiter teeth for less time and money.
Patients pre-schedule” their future preventive care hygiene appointments.
Patients agree to show up for their dental appointments as pre-scheduled.
Any change of appointments needed patients call your office during business hours at least 72 hours to reschedule.
- Results to the practice: Less holes in your schedule”

Additional Benefits:

A predictable and reliable source of revenue.
Dentists buy quality, non-toxic, enamel-safe whitening gel.
The new technology LED light mouthpiece reduces chair time.
- No messy impressions or fabrication of trays
- No need for patients to sit under a ZOOM light for one hour or longer
The Smile Club should be used for New Patient Specials.

Market Potential

Currently, the teeth whitening industry is on schedule to be an 11 billion dollar industry but not because of dental offices selling teeth whitening products.1 Your patients are searching online for the best teeth whitening products when in fact, they really should consider buying their teeth whitening products from your dental office.

When your patients enroll in The Smile Club you teach them how to treat you when they need to “Reschedule their dental appointment.” The Smile Club greatly reduces those open holes in your schedule.

Dental Practice Solutions created The Smile Club with the intention of dental professionals learning “What their patients want for their smile.” We are creating a deeper level of what we call “Patient Centered Care” by learning what our patients want.

When we know what our patients want, they are more likely to pay and schedule for your care.

When asking patients what their smile goals are, most will tell you #1: they want whiter teeth. The #2 answer is, “I want straight teeth,” and it goes on from here to things like, “I don’t want to spend a lot of money,” or, “I want healthy teeth!”

The whiter teeth answer, leads to more cosmetic cases scheduled and the majority of these patients will leave your office enrolled in The Smile Club which means they leave with a teeth whitening kit to use at home. The Celebrity Smiles whitening system whitens teeth 2-4 shades within 10-15 minutes without chair time, nor messy impressions or fabrication of a whitening tray.

This save you time and brings immediate profits to your dental practice. Imagine your dental hygienist asking about the patients about smile goals and the patients leave with a whitening kit. Your ROI when patients leave your office with an at-home teeth whitening kit will very easily lead to $100,000 annual net production.

Your result is less patient chair time and more net production.

Financial Stability

Every dental practice owner must reinvest in their dental practice, whether by upgrading equipment, expanding services, or investing in continuing education for their employees.

The Smile Club fosters a sense of loyalty and belonging among patients. By joining the club, patients feel like valued members of their dental practice rather than just another insurance claimant. This strengthens the dentist-patient relationship and encourages patients to return for regular check-ups and treatments, leading to better oral health outcomes in the long run.

The Smile Club also promotes a preventive approach with patient-centered care to every dental office that utilizes The Smile Club.

By incentivizing routine preventive care appointments The Smile Club patient loyalty program helps patients maintain optimal oral health and avoid costly and invasive treatment for disease in the future.

The Smile Club offers a win-win solution for both dentists and patients alike. By breaking free from the constraints of traditional dental insurance and embracing a membership-based model, dental practices can overcome the challenges of low reimbursement and high overhead while providing superior care and building lasting relationships with their patients.

Whether you’re a dentist looking to enhance your practice, BOOST case acceptance for cosmetic cases, plug costly holes in your schedule or create a huge- simplified, cost-effective profit center, The Smile Club is the answer you’ve been looking for.

BOOK a quick call and discover how this works for your office.

Reference.

Teeth Whitening Market Forecast: https://bit.ly/10BILby2026

Transforming Practices: Consulting for Dental Business Success in Arizona

By: Debbie Seidel-Bittke, RDH, BS

March 27, 2024

Strategic guidance and expert advice wield transformative power, serving as formidable assets in navigating the intricacies of Arizona’s fiercely competitive dental industry. Amidst the dynamic landscape of dental businesses, the discerning choice to collaborate with a seasoned dental business consultant emerges as a pivotal strategy for attaining success. Such a partnership not only unlocks invaluable insights but also equips practitioners with tailored solutions and innovative approaches to thrive amidst the challenges and opportunities inherent in Arizona’s dental market.

Optimizing the Dental Hygiene Department

A well-functioning dental hygiene department is essential for the success of any dental practice. Dental hygiene department consulting focuses on optimizing the operations, workflows, and patient care within the hygiene department. By assessing current protocols, identifying areas for improvement, and implementing tailored strategies, practices can enhance efficiency, productivity, and patient satisfaction.

Maximizing Practice Efficiency

Efficiency is crucial to the success and profitability of a dental practice. A dental business consultant specializes in maximizing practice efficiency by streamlining processes, reducing waste, and optimizing resource allocation. By implementing efficient scheduling systems, workflow protocols, and administrative procedures, practices can save time and resources.

Improving Financial Performance

Financial management is crucial for a successful dental practice. Dental business consultants offer financial analysis, budgeting, and revenue optimization expertise. By conducting comprehensive economic assessments, identifying revenue opportunities, and implementing cost-saving measures, consultants help practices improve their bottom line and achieve long-term financial stability.

Enhancing Patient Experience

Delivering an exceptional patient experience is essential for building a loyal patient base and thriving in a competitive market. A Dental business consultant in Arizona focuses on enhancing the patient experience by improving communication, streamlining appointment scheduling, and implementing patient-centered care initiatives. By prioritizing patient satisfaction and comfort, practices can foster solid relationships and attract new patients through positive word-of-mouth referrals.

Navigating Regulatory Compliance

Compliance with state and federal regulations is non-negotiable in the dental industry. Dental business consultants offer expertise in navigating complex regulatory requirements, such as HIPAA, OSHA, and billing regulations.

Driving Practice Growth

Achieving sustainable growth and expansion is a common goal for dental practices in Arizona. Dental business consultants provide strategic guidance and support to help practices identify growth opportunities, expand their patient base, and increase revenue streams. By developing customized marketing plans, implementing referral programs, and leveraging digital marketing strategies, consultants help practices achieve their growth objectives.

Empowering Dental Teams for Success

A cohesive and empowered dental team is essential for a dental practice’s smooth operation and success. Dental hygiene department consulting empowers dental teams by providing training, mentorship, and professional development opportunities. By enhancing team communication, promoting collaboration, and fostering a positive work culture, consultants help practices attract and retain top talent, resulting in improved patient care and practice performance.

Implementing Strategic Marketing Initiatives

Effective marketing is important for attracting new patients as well as maintaining a solid presence in the community. Dental business consultants assist practices in developing and implementing strategic marketing initiatives tailored to their unique needs and target audience. Consultants help practices increase visibility, attract new patients, and differentiate themselves from competitors.

Embracing Technology for Innovation

A Dental business consultant in Arizona advocates for adopting cutting-edge technologies and digital solutions to streamline operations, enhance patient care, and improve practice performance. By implementing electronic health records, telemedicine platforms, and patient communication tools, practices can enhance communication, streamline workflows, and provide more convenient and accessible care to their patients.

Promoting Preventive Care and Patient Education

Preventive care is essential to maintaining optimal oral health and preventing costly and invasive dental procedures. Dental business consultants emphasize the importance of preventive care and patient education within dental practices. By educating patients about the significance of regular dental check-ups, oral hygiene practices, and preventative treatments, practices can empower patients to take control of their oral health and diminish the need for extensive dental treatments in the future.

Fostering Community Engagement and Partnerships

Community engagement is essential for building the local community’s trust, credibility, and goodwill. Dental business consultants encourage practices to actively engage in community outreach initiatives, such as health fairs, school presentations, and charitable events. By partnering with local organizations, schools, and businesses, practices can raise awareness about oral health, build relationships with community members, and attract new patients.

Unlock Success: Elevate Your Dental Practice with Dental Practice Solutions

Transforming your dental practice for success in Arizona requires strategic planning, expert guidance, and a commitment to excellence. By partnering with a dental business consultant in Arizona, practices can optimize operations, enhance patient care, and achieve business goals. Consider contacting Dental Practice Solutions to learn more about how their consultancy services can help transform your practice and position it for long-term success.

High Demand for Teeth Whitening Post-Pandemic: A Paradigm Shift for the Dental Office!

By: Debbie Seidel-Bittke, RDH, BS

March 20, 2024

A beautiful smile is always in style, so it’s no wonder dental practices everywhere continue to see a rise in demand for professional teeth whitening. Since the 2020 pandemic, whiter teeth have been very popular!1

If a dental clinician takes the time to ask a patient about their smile goals, a large majority of patients will respond by stating they want “whiter teeth.”

It’s reported that by 2026 sales of teeth whitening products in North America will break 11 Billion dollars! But wait! If you look at the last time a patient paid for teeth whitening in your dental office, when was that?

Many offices report offering ZOOM- in-chair whitening services but they can’t remember the last time a patient paid for this service. In office chair whitening takes at least 60 minutes with a patient sitting in your treatment chair. That chair should have a value of at least $600 an hour. And then, after the in-office whitening, your patient may need to have impressions taken, a whitening tray fabricated and they will return to pick up their trays so they can keep their teeth white indefinitely.

There is a better way to do teeth whitening! It does not include impressions or fabrication of a whitening tray. Patients no longer need to sit in a chair, under a light for sixty minutes to get whiter teeth!

How can a dental office choose a whitening system that is truly the best and serves as a profit center which also BOOSTS cosmetic cases acceptance, grows new patient numbers and reduces those costly holes in your appointment schedule?

The answer is, Celebrity Smiles Club!

Founder and CEO of Dental Practice Solutions created a dental practice growth system back in 2008 when there was an economic decline and patients did not routinely see their dentist. Unemployment was high. Cost of living was out of control (So we thought!) and the last thing on your patient’s mind was spending money at their dental office.

In 2008, Forever Smiles, became a popular patient loyalty-reward program that inspired and motivated patients to schedule and keep their dental appointments. In return when patients pre-scheduled their hygiene appointments and called the office (When necessary) to change appointments, they were rewarded with a free syringe of whitening gel. They still had to sit in the dental chair for impressions and a clinical team member had to fabricate a whitening tray!

During the pandemic of 2020, founder and CEO of Dental Practice Solutions, Debbie Seidel Bittke, created more advanced technology using LED lights to BOOST whiter teeth and in less time.

Teeth whitening pens were becoming popular which inspired Debbie to create what is now known as, Celebrity Smiles Club.

This whitening gel includes 32% carbamide peroxide with 6% potassium nitrate.

This whitening formula combined with Blue LED lights mean whiter teeth, faster (enamel safe and no sensitivity).

The outcome of this new system provides the same outcome as professional teeth whitening sessions that usually take sixty minutes with the patient sitting in the dental chair. Now, there is no need for impressions or fabrication of whitening trays. The patient leaves the dental office with their whitening kit and uses the LED light mouthpiece with whitening gel to more easily whiten their teeth.

Celebrity Smiles Club is far superior to anything that can be purchased over the counter.

With North American’s buying billions of dollars on teeth whitening products won’t’ you agree that it’s time dental offices make it much easier and more convenient to have whiter teeth?

It all begins with a simple question to every patient. It sounds something like this, “Mr. Patient, what is one thing we can do today that will make you very happy about your smile?”

Try asking this question of your patients.

“What is one thing we can do to make your smile look the best ever?”

Switch the question up into your own words. Trying asking a question that motivates your patient or inspires them to tell you what they want their smile to look like.

See for yourself that most patients will answer, “I want whiter teeth!”

Another response might be, “I want straight teeth.”

Some patients respond saying, “I don’t want to spend a lot of money on my teeth!”

When you have a large majority of your patients responding they want whiter teeth, and when you can more easily offer a system that is effective and easy to use, you will have more patients leave with a take home whitening kit.

Celebrity Smiles offers whitening without the impressions, fabrication of trays or patients sitting in your chair for an hour to have whiter teeth.

Many patients will join your Celebrity Smiles Club patient loyalty membership program where they pay “X” amount for a whitening kit. As a member, your patients agree to call the office 48 (and some offices are requesting 72 hours notice) to “change” an appointment.

When the patient pre-schedules their hygiene appointments, and keeps their dental appointments, or notifies the office with a phone call 48 or 72 hours prior to their appointment, they receive a free whitening pen at their routine hygiene appointment. They also receive discounts on any whitening products they want to purchase in addition to the free pen they received.

Each time a patient makes a purchase of Celebrity Smiles products your office makes money. Imagine each whitening kit yields $100 NET to your office and a whitening pen yields $20-15 NET profits to your dental practice.

A typical dental practice that implements the Celebrity Smiles Club system will yield in excess of $70,000+ NET production annually. It also helps to enroll more patients into cosmetic dentistry and it keeps patients returning to their pre-scheduled appointments.

Conclusion

Insurance companies are reimbursing for dental care lower than ever before. This is not going to get better! Since the pandemic of 2020, dental employees are paid more money for the same work they provided patients, pre-pandemic! Dental practice overhead is outta control!

Let’s create a paradigm shift by asking patients what their smile goals are.
Ask questions that lead patients to accept your care.
Help patients feel valued and help them own their disease.

When patients respond to your questions and tell you what THEY want, patients are 10Xs more likely to accept more cosmetic dentistry and your dental care a lot more easily.

Cosmetic dental treatment transforms smiles like no other dental care, providing that picture-perfect Celebrity smile. The advancement of clear aligners, implants and veneers, dental offices continue to see a rise in demand for these services from their patients.

Remember this…. People buy what they want, not what they need.

Ask your patients what they want for their smile and then give them something big to smile about!

BOOK a call and discover more about The Smile Club and how this can BOOST cosmetic cases, grow new patient numbers and reduce the holes in your schedule.

Resource.

Teeth Whitening Market Forecast. https://bit.ly/10BILby2026
Photo above is Mrs. Copper State America, Mrs. Kathleen Petty.

Dental Practice Solutions and Celebrity Smiles Club is an official sponsor for the Miss and Mrs. America State Pageants.

Oral Inflammation: A Journey Treating Disease to Total Health

By: Debbie Seidel-Bittke, RDH, BS

March 11, 2024

In the realm of healthcare, the mouth often serves as a gateway to understanding the broader state of one’s overall health. The journey from oral inflammation to total health is not merely about treating dental diseases; it’s about recognizing the interconnectedness between oral health and systemic well-being. In recent years, the scientific community has unearthed compelling evidence linking oral inflammation to a myriad of systemic conditions, underscoring the importance of holistic approaches in healthcare.

Oral inflammation, often manifested as gum disease (gingivitis and periodontitis), can be insidious. It begins as a seemingly innocuous condition characterized by swollen, bleeding gums but can escalate into a serious health threat if left unchecked. What many fail to realize is that oral inflammation is not confined to the mouth; it can serve as a precursor to more severe systemic diseases.

Research has demonstrated a clear association between oral inflammation and conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, respiratory infections, and even adverse pregnancy outcomes. The mechanisms underlying this relationship are complex but primarily revolve around the inflammatory nature of gum disease. Chronic inflammation in the oral cavity can trigger systemic inflammation, setting the stage for the development or exacerbation of various health issues.

Addressing oral inflammation entails more than routine dental care; it requires a paradigm shift towards a comprehensive approach to health and wellness. Dentists are increasingly adopting a holistic mindset, recognizing the interconnectedness between oral health and overall well-being. This shift is reflected in the emergence of integrative dental practices that prioritize preventive care, patient education, and collaboration with other healthcare professionals.

At the forefront of this movement is the recognition that oral health is not an isolated concern but an integral component of systemic health. Dental professionals are now delving deeper into the root causes of oral inflammation, exploring factors such as diet, lifestyle, genetics, and systemic health conditions. By understanding the underlying drivers of inflammation, clinicians can tailor treatment plans that address the root cause rather than merely managing symptoms.

Central to the journey from treating disease to achieving total health is the concept of personalized medicine. No two individuals are alike, and as such, their healthcare needs vary. Personalized oral health care involves a thorough assessment of each patient’s unique risk factors, health goals, and genetic predispositions. Leveraging advances in technology and diagnostics, allows clinicians to develop targeted interventions that optimize oral and systemic health outcomes.

Prevention lies at the heart of holistic oral healthcare. Empowering patients with knowledge and tools to maintain optimal oral hygiene and make informed lifestyle choices is paramount. From proper brushing and flossing techniques to mindful nutrition and stress management, patients play a proactive role in preserving their oral and systemic health.

In the pursuit of total health, collaboration among healthcare professionals is essential. Dentists, physicians, nutritionists, and other specialists must work together to address the multifaceted nature of health and disease. Integrated care models facilitate seamless communication and coordination, ensuring that patients receive comprehensive, evidence-based care that addresses their unique needs.

Beyond the confines of traditional healthcare settings, community engagement and education are instrumental in promoting oral health equity. Access to dental care remains a significant challenge for many underserved populations, exacerbating oral health disparities. By advocating for policies that prioritize preventive care and expand access to dental services, we can strive towards a future where oral health is a fundamental right for all.

In conclusion, the journey from treating oral inflammation to achieving total health is a multifaceted endeavor that transcends the boundaries of traditional healthcare. By adopting a holistic approach that addresses the root causes of inflammation, prioritizes prevention, embraces personalized medicine, and fosters collaboration, we can pave the way towards a healthier future for individuals and communities alike. Through collective effort and unwavering commitment, we can harness the transformative power of oral health to enrich lives and elevate overall well-being.

As we embark on this journey, let us not forget that oral health is not merely the absence of disease but a cornerstone of vitality and vitality and total health.

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Harness the Power of Photobiomodulation and Red Light Therapy in the Dental Practice

By: Debbie Seidel-Bittke, RDH, BS

January 25, 2024

Photobiomodulation (PBM) and red light therapy are transforming dental care, equipping dental professionals with simple, yet sophisticated tools to improve treatment results. In this short blog, we will examine the scientific principles underlying PBM, the advantages of Red light therapy, and their incorporation into dental practice.1

Additionally, we will explore the dual-purpose uses of Red LED lights in teeth whitening, presenting patients with a convenient at-home alternative.

Understanding Photobiomodulation (PBM)

Photobiomodulation (PBM), or low-level laser therapy (LLLT), employs low-level light to activate cellular function. Grounded in photochemical processes, PBM has garnered recognition across diverse medical domains, including dentistry.2

Mechanisms of Action

PBM boosts cellular function through light energy absorption. When tissues encounter low-level light, especially in the red and near-infrared range, it initiates a series of cellular reactions. Mitochondria, known as cellular powerhouses, absorb this light energy, resulting in heightened ATP production. This surge enhances metabolism, circulation, and the generation of anti-inflammatory mediators.

Applications in Dentistry

Dental professionals can utilize PBM for various purposes, including managing oral mucositis, a frequent complication of cancer therapies. PBM effectively reduces inflammation, speeds up tissue healing, and alleviates associated pain.

Consider a scenario where patients have a take-home Red LED light. If they sense a canker sore developing or experience a pizza burn, the Red light inside a mouthpiece can mitigate pain and prevent the unsightly sores.

However, the capabilities of this mouthpiece extend beyond pain relief. Read on to discover more about its dual-purpose LED light functionality.

Red LED Light Therapy in Dentistry

In the realm of PBM, Red light therapy holds particular importance for dental professionals. Red light, therapy for dental patients uses LED lights with 620 to 750 nanometers. These LED lights utilize distinct properties ideal for a variety of dental applications when a patient desire comfort after dental treatment or needs post-op healing.

Photonic Energy Penetration

Red light effectively permeates oral tissues, triggering cellular activity within the periodontal ligament, bone, and surrounding soft tissues. This level of penetration is essential for addressing a wide range of dental issues.

Anti-Inflammatory Effects

Inflammation commonly occurs in dental conditions, spanning from periodontal disease to postoperative swelling. Red light therapy showcases anti-inflammatory properties, effectively reducing inflammation and fostering expedited healing. Dental professionals can elevate postoperative recovery and effectively manage chronic inflammatory conditions through this therapy.

Wound Healing and Tissue Repair

Effective wound healing is crucial in dental care, particularly following surgical procedures. Red LED light therapy expedites tissue repair by enhancing fibroblast activity, collagen synthesis, and angiogenesis.

This makes it invaluable for surgical procedures, implant placement, scaling and root planing, and other treatments that demand optimal tissue healing.

Integrating Red Light Therapy Into Your Dental Practice

Education and Training: Acquire comprehensive education and training to grasp the scientific principles, safety considerations, and practical applications of Red LED light therapy.
Treatment Protocols: Establish standardized treatment protocols tailored to specific dental conditions, ensuring consistent and predictable outcomes.
Patient Communication: Clearly communicate with patients about the benefits of Red LED light therapy, addressing any questions or concerns they may have.
Integration with Existing Protocols: Seamlessly integrate Red LED light therapy into existing dental protocols, exploring its applications in pre- and postoperative care, periodontal maintenance, and orthodontic treatment.
Research and Continuous Improvement: Stay abreast of the latest research findings and technological advancements in Red LED light therapy through ongoing education and training, refining skills and enhancing the quality of care provided.

Expanding Applications: Dual Purpose LED Lights used when Whitening Teeth

Red LED lights expand their adaptability into cosmetic dentistry, particularly in teeth whitening. This dual-function approach brings advantages to both dental professionals and patients alike.

At-Home Teeth Whitening Using LED Lights

Historically, in-office teeth whitening required patients to sit under Blue LED lights.

Yet, Red LED lights have demonstrated equal effectiveness for teeth whitening. Dental professionals now have the option to provide patients with at-home whitening kits that incorporate Red LED lights, offering flexibility and accessibility.

Advantages of At-Home Teeth Whitening Using Red LED Lights

Convenience for Patients: At-home whitening kits offer flexibility, eliminating the need for prolonged in-office visits and the hassle of impressions or custom tray fabrication.

Comfortable Treatment Environment: Patients can whiten their teeth at home, avoiding potential discomfort associated with in-office procedures.

Imagine a patient membership plan that includes whitening discounts and complimentary whitening pens for patients who keep their (pre-scheduled) dental appointments.

Optimized Treatment Rooms: Utilizing Red LED lights for dual purposes optimizes treatment rooms, enhancing efficiency in the dental practice.

Having a patient spend one to two hours in a dental chair to whiten their teeth results in lost productivity. Ideally, the doctor’s treatment room should generate an average production of approximately $600 per hour.

How Red LED Lights Enhance Teeth Whitening

Combining Red LED lights with Blue LED lights for teeth whitening minimizes the risk of tooth or gum sensitivity during the whitening process.

Integration Strategies for Dental Professionals

Patient Education: Effectively convey the advantages of at-home teeth whitening with Red LED lights, highlighting convenience and comfort. Educate patients on the diverse uses of Red LED lights in dental treatment, post-operative care, and alleviating discomfort from canker sores and pizza burns.
Customized Whitening Kits: Design kits that incorporate Red LED lights, offering a comprehensive solution for efficient at-home teeth whitening.
Treatment Protocols: Establish precise treatment protocols for at-home teeth whitening using Red LED lights, providing thorough instructions for safe and successful outcomes.

Utilizing the take-home LED mouthpiece for teeth whitening streamlines the whitening process. Facilitating smile evaluations in the office, then presenting whitening options during discussions about cosmetic services and achieving brighter teeth creates another revenue stream and will give patients that WOW experience as a patient in your dental practice.

This smile conversation seamlessly integrates into hygiene appointments, transitions into more cosmetic cases and helps to more easily communicate the benefits of using take-home whitening for a radiant smile.

The benefits go beyond more cosmetic case acceptance but create a simple- additional revenue stream without patients spending time in your dental chair.

Follow-Up and Monitoring: Implement structured follow-up procedures to monitor progress and address any concerns or inquiries from patients effectively.

Conclusion

Photobiomodulation and Red LED light therapy represent cutting-edge tools for dental care. Understanding their mechanisms, applications, and integration strategies empowers dental professionals to harness their full potential. As dental technology expands in our profession, embracing innovative therapies like Red LED light therapy positions your dental practice at the forefront of patient-centric, evidence-based care.

The dual-purpose use of Red LED lights in therapeutic and cosmetic treatments underscores its role as a valuable tool for comprehensive dental care.

References.

Maria Emilia de Abreu Chaves, Angelica Rodrigues de Araujo, Andre Cost Cruz Piancastelli, Marcos Pinotti. Effects of low-power light therapy on wound healing: LASER x LED. An Bras Dermatol. 2014 Jul-Aug; 89(4): 616–623
Michale R. Hamblin, Ph.D.Photobiomodulation or low-level laser therapy. J Biophotonics. 2016 Dec: 9(11-12): 1122-1124

Book a quick call here to find out how to implement red light therapy and/or the latest teeth whitening technology in your dental office. Call our office and ask how to implement this technology:

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Your Path to Success: Why it’s Crucial for Dental Practice Owners

By: Debbie Seidel-Bittke, RDH, BS

December 19, 2023

As we approach 2024, today is the perfect time to reflect on the importance of having a well-crafted success plan.

Just like planning a trip across the United States, your dental practice requires careful navigation, preparation, and a roadmap to guide you towards your goals. In this blog, we will explore the significance of creating a success plan and how it can benefit your practice. So buckle up and let’s embark on this exciting adventure!

The Power of a Roadmap: Imagine embarking on a cross-country road trip without a map or GPS. The chances of getting lost or taking detours are high, leading to wasted time, money, and unnecessary stress.

Similarly, having a success plan acts as your roadmap, providing clarity, direction, and a clear vision of where you want your practice to be in December 2024. It serves as a guiding light, ensuring that you stay on track towards achieving your goals.

Preparation is Key: Just as you would check your car’s condition, fuel levels, and plan your rest stops before a road trip, a success plan helps you prepare your dental practice for the journey ahead.

By assessing your current strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats, you can identify areas that require improvement or enhancement. This allows you to allocate resources, invest in necessary equipment, and develop strategies that will maximize your chances of success in 2024.

Optimizing Efficiency: During a road trip, minimizing fuel consumption, planning efficient routes, and managing time effectively are key to reaching your destination smoothly.

Similarly, a success plan for your dental practice can help optimize efficiency. By setting realistic targets, streamlining workflows, and identifying potential obstacles, you can enhance productivity, reduce costs, and improve patient satisfaction. This proactive approach will position your practice for success in the coming years.

Adapting to Changing Landscapes: Just as road conditions and landscapes change during a long trip, the dental industry is also evolving. Technology advancements, shifting patient expectations, and industry trends can impact your practice’s success.

Therefore, a success plan acts as your compass, enabling you to stay abreast of changes, adapt your strategies accordingly, and remain competitive in a dynamic market. By routinely reviewing and revising your plan, you can ensure your practice is well-equipped to thrive in 2024 and beyond.

The Role of a Trusted Guide: While planning a trip, you may seek assistance from travel consultants or use a GPS to guide you. Similarly, partnering with a dental consulting service can be invaluable in creating a success plan.

They can offer expert advice, industry insights, and help you navigate potential challenges. Their experience and guidance can provide a fresh perspective, identify untapped opportunities, and provide the support needed to overcome obstacles on your journey towards success.

Conclusion: As we close out 2023, creating a success plan for your dental practice is like mapping your path to success. Just as a road trip requires planning, preparation, and a reliable roadmap, your practice deserves the same level of attention and care.

By developing a success plan, optimizing efficiency, adapting to changes, and seeking guidance when needed, you can position yourself for a prosperous future. Let’s embark on this exciting journey together and make 2024 a milestone in your dental practice’s success story!

Tired of low insurance reimbursements?
Tired of feeling like you’re doing all the work to be productive?
Do you want to see a change in your 2024 outcome?

Check out the hygiene department 3-Month virtual training here.

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Book a quick call so we can discover if this is a fit for your dental practice:

Safe travels towards your success in 2024 and beyond!

Grateful For…

By: Debbie Seidel-Bittke, RDH, BS

November 20, 2023

Happy Holidays!

As we gather to give thanks this season, I want to express deep gratitude to you for being who you are!

I appreciate your support which allows me to do what I love to do which is serve your dental practice needs, and help hygienists, dentists, and the entire team be more productive without working harder.

I am grateful that you also come alongside your Patients and share this important message that “optimal oral health helps us all live a longer and healthier life.”

This Thanksgiving, I extend warm wishes to you, your team, and your families.

May you continue to thrive. May you find joy and fulfillment in the positive impact you make on your patient’s total health!

Thank you for entrusting me and my team at Dental Practice Solutions with your dental hygiene departments, professional needs,

Wishing you a Happy Thanksgiving filled with gratitude, joy, and moments of reflection!

With love,

Debbie Seidel Bittke, RDH, BS