Dental Blog Updates 7

Why is my denture loose???

lspindeldds — Wed, 11 Jun 2025 04:36:26 -0700

Some Patients may have shrinkage of their jaw bone(s) after the denture was inserted and experience lack of seal. While bone resorption may play a role, in my experience there are a number of other possible causes.

Uneven bite is at the top of my list. If a dentures occlusion is unbalanced, when a patient closes, their denture may loosen.

Another common reason is that a patients muscle attachments are being impinged on. Muscle attachments are little bands of fibers that connect the cheeks, lips, and tongue to the jaws.

Over and under extended dentures can also cause dentures to be more likely to come loose. Under extended dentures have less surface area to help develop the adhesion to help keep a denture in place. Over extended dentures tend get dislodged by patients facial muscle movement or opening and closing.

A patient with a dry mouth may also find that their denture comes loose easily, since adequate saliva is needed for a denture to develop proper adhesion. Denture adhesives will help patients with dry mouth keep their dentures in place.

An improperly seated denture that rocks or fits the jaws unevenly will tend to get loose easily and this can be fixed by a visit to a dentist who can assess whether a denture is full seated using a cream called PIP paste.

If your denture is loose, it probably is a good idea to visit a dentist who is experienced in making and fitting dentures, in order to assess what, if anything can be done to improve your denture. Even If nothing can be done, implants often can placed and a full denture can often be modified to become an over denture that utilizes attachements that help keep a denture in place.

Everythings coming up Roses and daffodils?

lspindeldds — Tue, 10 Jun 2025 05:32:14 -0700

Even though I work hard to do excellent work and send my dental Labs clear impressions, not every lab fabricated restoration fits well in a patient's mouth. Yes, there are times when a restoration does seem to fit without any adjustments needed, but that is not what happens in most cases.

Part of a dentist job is to be methodical and check that each restoration is adequate and will actually help preserve a patient's tooth. Our patient may hope that their new crown or filling maybe perfect, but that is not always the case and while it may be true that 'perfection is the enemy of good' , we should not place inadequate restorations in our patients mouth, just because we are afraid to momentarily disappoint a patient or employer.

I take a bitewing radiograph when fitting a crown or after I place a new filling. Of course I have my fingers crossed that my new crown or filling fits perfectly, and often it is the case, but sometimes it is not. When this happens, I may try to adjust the crown, or reshape my filling and sometimes that is all that is needed. Sometimes no amount of adjustment will make a restoration perfect. Poorly fitting crowns, crowns with open contacts, or fillings with large voids should not be accepted and it is a dentist's job to figure out a next step that will create an acceptable restoration.

The solution may vary, but it is our job to recognize any problems and correct them. Sometimes a preparation needs to be refined further, and sometimes a new final impression needs to be done. Sometimes a new filling needs to be removed and redone. When any of these is the solution I take a deep breath and inform my patient of the need to 'try again'. If I have enough time I will do what is needed immediately or if not I will reschedule the patient.

Sometimes both my patient and myself are disappointed, but ultimately quality control is an important part of a dentists job. If we ignore this aspect of dentistry it can lead to a patients greater disappointment later and can definitely result in us experiencing guilt and regret at a later date. Often honesty is the best policy and long term it will help us enjoy our profession.

How do you handle referring cases to a specialist?

lspindeldds — Wed, 16 Apr 2025 04:59:08 -0700

As I have written before I participate in three Spear Study Clubs. Each club consists of a mix of general dentists and specialists. Because we meet frequently the members get to know each other quite well. It isn't a coincidence that most of my specialists are members of one or more of these club chapters.

When I refer a patient to specialist, ideally we either email or speak on the phone before the patient sees them. This is very helpful since it ensures we are on the same page and we both have better communication with our patients as well. I know why I want my specialist to see my patient but it helps me to hear what he thinks even before the patient gets to their office. Also surely it helps my specialist as well.

My favorite periodontist has an office in my building and often I will ask him to stop down to my office for a brief consultation with a patient prior to their making an appointment. This helps me to understand what he can and cannot do for my patient and helps us formulate their ultimate treatment plan. It also can save them the additional cost of paying him a separate 'Consultation fee' and seems to lessen my patients anxiety since they are familiar with him prior to visiting his office.

What Is Silver Diamine Fluoride?

lspindeldds — Sat, 12 Apr 2025 13:44:06 -0700

Silver Diamide Fluoride (SDF) is an FDA and ADA (American Dental Association) approved clear topical liquid that is used to treat cavities. It is applied to the cavity area of a tooth to control and stop the growth of the cavity. Young children, children with special health needs, any child who has a difficult time at the dentist or who may have a lot of cavities may benefit from this type of care. It can used as an alternative cleaning out decay with a drill and placing a restorative material .

For some patients, especially those who can't tolerate traditional fillings it has some advantages. It is painless and may stop cavity progression. It can help with tooth sensitivity and is an especially helpful alternative cavity treatment for children who are very young or struggle with longer appointment times.

How Does SDF Work? SDF is composed of two main components, silver and fluoride. The silver part acts on the bacteria causing the cavity while the fluoride helps to strengthen and remineralize the tooth. A third accessory component is diamine which makes the SDF into a liquid. SDF is Applied to Teeth after they are dried and any food or plaque is removed. It is applied with a small brush and allowed to dry for one to two minutes.

As with any treatment there are some issues with using silver diamide fluoride. It can cause staining of treated teeth since cavity areas will stain black. Healthy tooth structure will not stain, Additionally, it may not stop the cavities from getting deeper and other more traditional treatments may need to be discussed. It should not be used for children with a known silver allergy.

This is a guest post by my fellow Clinical Instructor at Mount Sinai : Dr Fern E Cytryn who also has a Pedodontic dental practice in New City. For more information on this topic and other pedodontic subjects please visit her website at: https://www.drfernsmile.com/

Why are there so many Manhattan dental offices available?

lspindeldds — Mon, 07 Apr 2025 18:25:33 -0700

Ever since the 2020 Pandemic, commercial realestate in our neighborhood has not been doing well. There are a lot of office space available and in our midtown neighborhood there are no longer many large employers renting space. Traditionally midtown dental practices relied on these large employers for supplying many of our patients. Also a number of long time residents of Manhattan have moved elsewhere.

In our building , 30 East 40th st, most tenants arevmedical and dental practices. Traditionally, because construction costs of dental offices were high enough that it discouraged dentists from moving to other buildings when there leases were up for renewal. We renewed our least last May and signed a five year lease. It seems that some of my colleagues have chosen not to renew.

ln the last two weeks , I was able to walk through six of vacant dental offices. The dentists left for a number of reasons including retirement, joining other dental practices, selling their practices or building in another location. Since building and equipping a dental office from scratch can be a significant expense ($300,000 and up) It is significant that there are so many available spaces. In the past it was not that difficult to find dentists who were interested to take over a lease of an existing office and even pay the dentist leaving a significant "key fee" if they turned over a turn key office.

I believe that younger dentists may not be keen to establish their own practices in midtown and most continue to work as associates for longer periods of time than previous generations of dentists. This is likely due to number of factors including competition from large "insurance practices" and the escalating costs of equiping a new office with state of the art equipment.

How are you taking impressions for crown and bridge in your dental practice?

lspindeldds — Thu, 03 Apr 2025 13:09:28 -0700

At the moment we are taking impressions two different ways. The traditional way is still valid and involves using elastomeric impression material, usually PVS type. Often this requires cord packing prior to taking the impression. If use properly it can take extremely accurate impressions . The models are poured up by the lab and mounted using a bite registration. The resulting dental restorations made on these models can fit extremely well. Some inaccuracies can result when the opposing models are mounted and can necessitate occlusal adjustments on the restorations before they are luted in the mouth.

We recently purchased a state of the art Trios 3D Scanner and my son has been using it extensively for taking full arch impressions of the mouth and opposing arch, even for single restorations. These scans, if done with appropriate care are extremely accurate. I believe their digital mountings are even more accurate than the 'old school' techniques that I use. We ask the lab to use their best 3d printer to print a hard uncut model and they use that to fit their milled crowns.

Taking digital impressions can still necessitate packing cord to clearly expose preparation margins and crown preps should be a clean and smooth as possible, since scanners can only optically impress details that are visible to them. Saliva, blood and gingiva can introduce inaccuracies.

Preparations need to be as smooth and continuous as is possible and steps or sharp edges or undercuts can result in poorly fitting restorations. This is true for both types of impressions , but is especially true for preparations that are to be digitally scanned.

I look forward to using the scanner myself for my patients. It is much easier to use to help fabricate night guards and essex retainers and we even have used it to duplicate dentures that my patients are happy with but want an extra spare.

How to market a dental practice in 2025?

lspindeldds — Sun, 30 Mar 2025 13:38:36 -0700

It used to be said that word of mouth was the best way to market a dental practice. It's sort of true now as well, but a little different then it used to be. When I first started out , it was more or less true because happy patients referred patients. Yes sometimes insurance could play a part, but most of our patients had insurance that allowed them excellent coverage, even when they went to an out of network dentist.

Now, most dental insurance plans are less generous with their payments to out of network dentists. We recently had a patient who had a crown completed in our practice and their coverage only allowed 50% of their "network" fee (which wasn't very generous) so my patient had to pay a fairly high amount that was at least two times the amount that their insurance covered. Clearly this low coverage may make patients more likely to choose an in network dentist instead of a word of mouth recommended fee for service dentist. This clearly limits our marketing to patients with some dental insurance plans.

That being said, Word of mouth recommendations are clearly still relevant. We find that a significant proportion of our new patients report that they liked our online reviews found in Reddit or Google. These sites feature real testimonials from my patients. Many comment on our honesty , the quality of care we offer and the thoroughness of our explanations.

Also, I find that people who meet dentists in social situations can sometimes ask for dental advice. While it is not possible to diagnose problems with certainty without an actual examination, there is no reason not to speak with those asking questions and help them understand possible treatment options, depending on what problems they end up having. I often suggest they come in for an initial appointment so I can offer advice after performing a proper examination.

Getting on insurance plans can be something of a double edged sword, since the fees they allow may end up dictating the style of dentistry that is delivered. While it is true that being on a bunch of insurance plans can bring many new patients to a dental practice, it can change the nature of a practice and force treatments to be "more streamlined".

Some of my online reviews say I am old school, and it's true. I believe it's a complement, since although our practice is extremely up to date, we treat our patients in a personal manner and spend time explaining their treatment options including the potential pros and cons of each choice. We never recommend more treatment than is justified and treat every patient as if they were a member of our family,

Will AI Replace Dentists anytime soon?

lspindeldds — Thu, 27 Mar 2025 16:19:14 -0700

I have been reading a lot about Artificial Intelligence impacting all sorts of professions. I found this quote byf Bill Gates on a website called Make it.

BillI Gates: Within 10 years, AI will replace many doctors and teachers—humans won’t be needed ‘for most thing—humans won’t be needed ‘for most things’

Artificial intelligence is already making in roads in all professions and obviously will have a greater and greater impact on all health professions in the forseeable future ( the next 10 years).

While I don't think expert health professionals will be completely replaced in immediate future, there will be greater and greater use of Artificial assist technology, probably reducing the numbers of experts health professionals that are needed.

This week we have been using our new 3 shape scanner to take digital impressions for our patients. It uses a great deal of artificial intelligence including taking and enhancing digital tooth impressions, taking shades , showing any problems with tooth preparations. There are more things that the software does, but I am still a neophyte using the software. Our patients are clearly impressed.

Its pretty clear that even though this technology is not new, it is getting better and more powerful every year. We used it to take an impression for tray aligner orthodontics and the software we used allowed a remote orthodontist to design the proposed movements. We will still have to perform any slenderizing of teeth to allow the proposed movements but it really doesn't seem to require us to be all that involved. I see no reason why a dental assistant couldn't be taking the digital impression and they might even be able to supervise subsequent visits , assuming they were well trained.

At NYU College of dentistry , the periodontal department is already placing some of their patients implants using a robot assist and my periodontist is using software to design and fabricate guided stints for his placement of implants and he loves it.

It is not much of a leap of faith to see that the number of highly paid dentists in the future should be diminishing, its just a question of when this will happen. If the reader is old enough , they may remember the Jetson Cartoon , where George went to work, pushed a button, and "supervised" a robotic factory. His only job was turning on and off the computers.

Are you still teaching at NYU?

lspindeldds — Wed, 26 Mar 2025 14:30:34 -0700

This April I will celebrate my 72nd birthday. I feel truly fortunate to still be active in my dental practice, three Spear Study Clubs and still enjoy being an attending at the Mount Sinai General Dental Practice Residency. I also have enjoyed being a clinical faculty at NYU and have found my experiences there truly rewarding. My experiences there not only helped me further develop my clinical skills but kept me stay engaged with helping train the next generation of dentists . That being said , Given some ongoing health issues,I have recently resigned from my faculty appointment at NYU College of Dentitry, because this was one commitment too many.

Teaching their was physically difficult , since I was a very active clinic instructor and worked with a large number of students every day. I loved it, but my health comes first.. so now I have moved my shcedule around and reserve Wednesday for my day off and a little R& R.

Do you take the new NY State mandated Child abuse course?

lspindeldds — Sun, 23 Mar 2025 11:17:06 -0700

I took a course offered by the New York State Office of Children and Family Services last weekend. It was supposed to take two hrs to complete and was free. It was supposed to take about two hours, but that doesn't incluede the time it took to register for the course and the course took closer to three hours to finish. The good news was that the questions that were asked could be answered incorrectly and the person taking the course wasn't required to go back and answer the questions again and again , until the correct answer was given. Instead, if you answered incorrectly , the correct answer was given along with the explanation for why it was the proper response.

According to the N.Y.State Ofice of Professions website:

Updated Mandated Reporter Training Requirements. Chapter 56 of the Laws of 2021 amended Social Services Law § 413 to require additional training to include protocols to reduce implicit bias in decision-making processes, strategies for identifying adverse childhood experiences, and guidelines to assist in recognizing signs of abuse or maltreatment while interacting virtually within the New York State Mandated Identification and Reporting of Child Abuse and Maltreatment/Neglect coursework. This law requires that mandated reporters, including those who have previously undergone the current training, complete the updated training curriculum by April 1, 2025. Information about approved training providers can be accessed on our website.

Although the topics covered are important, We dentists have had to take courses before on Child abuse reporting before and they were supposed to be a one time course requirement. I believe this new mandate was supposed to be a new, improved course that included recognizing implicit bias. This seems to me to be somewhat politically motivated, but it is the law in NY state so we must complete this or risk maintaining our New York State Dental license. There is a link that will allow you to print your certificate and a link that forwards the certificate to the office of professional licensing.

I liked that it was free and the answers were provided if you got the answer wrong. If you haven't yet completed an approved course, the completion of this course will fulfill your requirement.

Whats new for 2025 in the Practice?

lspindeldds — Sat, 04 Jan 2025 16:06:06 -0800

I have spent limited time in my practice since June because I had a medical condition taken care of. I have had a lengthy period of recuperation.but the good news is I am doing well and starting Jan 2, I am seeing patients in my office and have returned to being an attending at the Mount Sinai general dental practice residency program.

My son has been doing a great job holding down the fort and will continue collaborating with me as an associate dentist. We just put a deposit down on a 3 Shape cordless scanner, that will allow us to take digital impressions for restoration,s without us having to use silicone impression materials. This technology doesn't work well for every situation but it is the right time for us to start using it.

My son also works part time in other dental practices and has been using digital impressioning technology routinely and he likes it and he and his patients have been happy with the results it provides. I look forward to using it as well, when it provides the best results. It is not appropriate for every situation , since it has some difficulty capturing bevelled preparation and can be sometimes hard to us for subgingival crown prep finishing lines.

How long do crowns last?

lspindeldds — Sat, 02 Nov 2024 16:25:13 -0700

Nothing lasts forever, but the reason for having a crown done is to "preserve your tooth". Often patients avoid going along with a dentists idea of making a crown for their tooth and instead ask can have a filling.

he truth is that almost any tooth can have a filling but the larger the restoration, the less predictable the result. Teeth with large fillings can me more prone to recurrent decay, food impaction( due to faulty contacts) and fracture ( since the tooth structure is compromised by not having a crown).

The other day I was at my office. My son David was treating a longstanding patient of mine whose crown had come off. I peeked into his mouth and it was clear that he had experienced a fair amount of gingival recession around the tooth and he had developed recurrent furcal decay( decay between the roots).

David cleaned out the decay and filled it with a glass ionomer restoration and was able to recement the crown. I looked through my patient's old paper chart and found that it was made in 2001, which meant that his crown was 23 years old. After this recementation this crown may remain in service for number of more years . His tooth had an endodontic procedure prior to having a crown and was not likely to stand the test of time since it would have been at high risk for fractue with a large filling due to it's compromised tooth structure.

Do all of my crowns last for 23 years? absolutely not. I really can't guarantee how long my patients crowns will last, but most do last for a good long time ( more than 10 years). That being , it is clearly possible for crowns to last less than five years and some fillings last for thirty years. Often the determining factor is how well the procedure was performed and whether it was the type of procedure that was optimal for the patient's tooth.

Meet ANNIE AI: Your Front Office’s New Best Friend

Adrian Lefler — Fri, 25 Oct 2024 10:15:43 -0700

Meet ANNIE AI: Your Front Desks Awesome Assistant

Artificial intelligence has revolutionized countless industries, and dentistry is no exception. we’ve witnessed firsthand the transformative potential of AI in streamlining dental practice operations. Today, I’m excited to introduce ANNIE, our new AI-powered front office assistant designed to be your front desks best friend.

The Annie AI Revolution in Dentistry
Annie AI: Enhancing, Not Replacing, Human Connections
Annie AI Provides 24/7 Phone Coverage
Annie AI Manages Web Chat
Annie is The Future of Dental Practice Management
Embrace the Future of Dentistry with Annie AI
FAQ’s

The ANNIE Revolution in Dentistry

ANNIE is built on conversational AI and has made remarkable strides in the last year. ANNIE offers human-like interactions that can manage complex conversations with ease. While some in the dental industry may feel apprehensive about integrating AI into their workflows, it’s crucial to recognize the immense benefits that she can provide.

I recently spoke with an office manager who expressed concerns about AI undermining patient relationships. This is a valid worry, as the profitability of dental practices hinges on the quality of these connections. However, it’s important to understand that ANNIE isn’t here to replace human interaction, but to enhance it. She’s not here to undermine practice patient relationships, but to improve them.

ANNIE AI: Enhancing, Not Replacing, Human Connections

ANNIE is an extension of your front desk dental team, not a replacement. By handling routine tasks, ANNIE frees up your staff to focus on what they do best: building meaningful patient relationships.

Problem: Overwhelming Administrative Tasks

Your front desk may often find themselves drowning in administrative duties. From answering basic phone call questions, responding to messages and chat, and scheduling appointments, these tasks can consume a significant portion of the day. This constant stream of interruptions can prevent staff from giving their full attention to patients in the office, potentially compromising the quality of care and patient relationships.

Solution: AI-Powered Task Management

ANNIE steps in to handle these routine tasks, allowing your team to focus on in-person patient interactions. By managing web chats, phone calls, updating patient records, ANNIE frees up your staff’s mental bandwidth, enabling them to provide more personalized, attentive care to patients in the office. This shift allows for deeper, more meaningful patient relationships, as your team can dedicate their energy to understanding and addressing complex patient needs without constant interruptions.

ANNIE AI Answers Office Calls While Your on Vacation

Problem: Missed Opportunities and Patient Frustration

The limitations of traditional phone systems in dental practices lead to numerous issues:

Unanswered Calls: Dental practices miss 30-35% of incoming calls, resulting in lost revenue and patient dissatisfaction.
Limited Availability: After-hours callers often encounter voicemail systems, leading to incomplete communication and potential patient attrition.
Inconsistent Information Delivery: Different staff members may provide varying levels of detail or inconsistent information, leading to confusion.
Inefficient Use of Staff Time: Receptionists spend a significant portion of their day answering repetitive questions, reducing time for more critical tasks.
Lack of Immediate Emergency Triage: After-hours dental emergencies may not receive prompt attention or guidance, potentially leading to worsened conditions.
Appointment Scheduling Delays: Patients calling outside office hours can’t book appointments immediately, risking loss of potential bookings to competitors.

These issues not only result in lost revenue but also negatively impact patient satisfaction and loyalty, potentially damaging the practice’s reputation and growth potential.

Solution: ANNIE’S Round-the-Clock Availability

Annie provides a comprehensive solution to these phone-related challenges:

Continuous Accessibility: ANNIE offers 24/7 phone coverage, ensuring every call is answered promptly, regardless of the time or day.
Intelligent Call Handling: Using advanced voice recognition and natural language processing, ANNIE can understand and respond to a wide range of patient inquiries effectively.
Consistent Information Delivery: ANNIE provides uniform, accurate information about the practice, procedures, and policies, eliminating inconsistencies in communication.
Efficient Triage of Emergencies: For after-hours dental emergencies, ANNIE can assess the situation, provide immediate guidance, and escalate urgent cases to on-call staff if necessary.
Real-Time Appointment Scheduling: ANNIE integrates with the practice’s scheduling system, allowing patients to book or reschedule appointments at any time, maximizing booking opportunities.
Personalized Patient Interaction: By accessing patient records and also being trained on unlimited practice data, ANNIE can provide personalized responses, taking into account the caller’s history with the practice.
Efficient Call Routing: For complex inquiries requiring human expertise, Annie can intelligently route calls to the appropriate staff member or department.
Sales Opportunities: ANNIE can be trained to introduce membership plans, specific services, and specials. She can easily integrate this information into phone calls potentially improving conversion to scheduled appointments.

By implementing ANNIE for 24/7 phone coverage, dental practices can transform their patient communication from a potential bottleneck into a powerful tool for patient engagement and practice growth. This AI-driven solution ensures that every call is an opportunity to enhance patient satisfaction and streamline practice operations, regardless of when it comes in.

Revolutionizing Dental Practices with an AI Phone Assistant

In the rapidly evolving world of dentistry, conversational AI is making waves as a game-changing technology. At the forefront of this revolution is ANNIE, a sophisticated tool built on advanced language models that enable natural, human-like interactions. ANNIE is going to be your front desks new friend and they won’t want to do their jobs without her help.

The Annie AI Revolution in Dentistry
Annie AI: Enhancing, Not Replacing, Human Connections
Annie AI Provides 24/7 Phone Coverage
Annie AI Manages Web Chat
Annie is The Future of Dental Practice Management
Embrace the Future of Dentistry with Annie AI
FAQ’s

Meet ANNIE: The Dental AI Phone Assistant that Transforms Patient Communication

Imagine this scenario: A patient calls your dental practice outside office hours, experiencing tooth pain. Instead of reaching voicemail, they’re greeted by Annie, your dental AI phone assistant:

Patient: “Hi, I’m having some tooth pain. Can I get an appointment?”

Annie: “I’m sorry to hear you’re experiencing discomfort. I’d be happy to help you schedule an appointment. Can you tell me a bit more about the pain you’re experiencing?”

Patient: “It’s a sharp pain in my back molar when I eat or drink something cold.”

Annie: “Thank you for that information. Based on your description, it sounds like you might be experiencing tooth sensitivity. I recommend scheduling an appointment with Dr. Smith as soon as possible. We have an opening tomorrow at 2 PM or Friday at 10 AM. Which would work better for you?”

ANNIE moves beyond rigid phone decision trees where patients get stuck in trying to get to a live agent but can’t because that option is not offered. ANNIE offers a natural and responsive experience. Unlike earlier AI models, ANNIE leverages cutting-edge natural language processing to understand context, nuance, and intent, allowing for fluid, dynamic conversations that adapt to each unique patient interaction.

Let’s explore seven reasons why ANNIE, a state-of-the-art dental AI phone assistant, is going to be your front desks favorite new friend.

1. ANNIE Takes Office Calls While You’re at Dinner

Capturing all inbound phone calls is a significant challenge for dental practices, especially during evenings, weekends, and lunch breaks when many potential patients are actively searching for dental services. The strict schedules maintained by dental practices often complicate the opportunity to connect with patients outside regular business hours. While sending calls to voicemail may seem like a simple solution, approximately 80% of patients that are send to voice mail don’t leave a message. Why risk losing valuable patients simply because they are reluctant to leave messages.

2. You’re Front Desk Won’t be Slammed Anymore

Even during regular office hours, dental practices often face bandwidth issues. Front office staff are overwhelmed with various tasks, making it challenging to answer every incoming call, not to mention webchat. ANNIE provides crucial support by handling overflow phone calls and managing web chat during open office hours. By taking on these communication tasks, ANNIE frees up the front office team to focus on other critical responsibilities, and giving them time to pay attention to the patient in the office. Ultimately you’ll be improving overall practice efficiency and ensuring that no patient phone call or chat inquiry goes unanswered.

3. Far More Advanced that Integrated Voice Response

There are other ways to manage evening, weekend, and overflow phone calls. One way is with an Interactive Voice Response (IVR). You know what these are if you’ve called Verizon. It’s the phone call where you want to speak with a live agent but the automated voice forces you to choose from a set of options. And, if your experience is like mine, you get stuck trying to bypass the IVR because you just have a simply question but it’s not one of the options from the IVR. Eventually you get frustrated and hang up. Rigid decision trees like an IVR solve some inquiries but they may not address the specific needs of your patient.

ANNIE’S conversational AI capabilities provide a significant improvement over these systems. By engaging in human-like conversations, ANNIE offers a more satisfying and efficient experience for patients.

4. More Efficient than Outsourced Live Agents

Many dental practices rely on outsourced call centers that lack the ability to provide personalized, practice-specific information to patients. It’s always nice to speak with a human being but it’s not uncommon that the quality of outsourced phone agents drops to the lowest common denominator, which is to simply get a patient name, phone number, and email.

ANNIE stands out by offering highly integrated and educated interactions and can be programmed with an extensive, almost unlimited, knowledge base about your practice. This allows for more informative and tailored conversations with patients, addressing their unique concerns and questions effectively. Patients receive accurate, personalized responses, enhancing their overall experience and trust in your practice.

The Future of Dental Practice Interaction: AI Dental WebChat vs. Traditional Models

If you’ve ever needed to access customer support through webchat, you’re likely familiar with what a frustrating experience it can be. Why, just the other day we heard a story about someone who accidentally ordered five pounds of sour candy during a night of ill-advised impulse shopping, and the automated webchat was very unhelpful in understanding the situation.

Just as our friend (ahem) learned, traditional webchats often suffer from a lack of reliability and quality control. As a dentist, the ability to communicate important information to patients quickly, accurately, and without creating negative experiences has become more important than ever as competition increases. One solution is AI dental webchat. Surpassing both live chat and traditional chatbots, AI dental webchat has marked a revolution in technology to make operations easier and more effective in the average dental office.

But how does AI dental webchat compare to previous options? Let’s take a look at how tools like Annie AI enhance patient interactions, streamline operations, and elevate the overall patient experience. Whether you’re trying to explain why you need to cancel a bulk order for sour belts, or whether you’re just trying to communicate accurate information to patients, it’s worth understanding how AI chat stacks up against other options.

Typical Chatbots
Live Chat
AI Web Chat
Conclusion
FAQ

Evaluating Web Chat Systems

In this article, we’ll delve into three types of web chat systems—typical chatbots, live chat, and AI-powered chat agents—to explore how they stack up against each other and why AI web chat services, like Annie, are the future of dental practice communication.

Typical Chatbots

Chatbots are automated systems designed to guide a chat conversation using predefined scripts and decision trees. They are often the first line of interaction on many websites, guiding users through a series of options to resolve their queries. However, their limitations are evident:

Rigid Interaction: Chatbots operate on an “if this, then that” model, which constrains conversations to predefined pathways. This often results in frustrating user experiences where the bot’s responses are not directly related to the patient’s initial question.
Limited Flexibility: Many chatbots do not allow patients to ask open-ended questions, instead offering a set of options like “Schedule an appointment,” “Questions about insurance,” or “Request a callback.” This can be restrictive and impersonal.
Basic Functionality: While chatbots can handle simple, repetitive tasks efficiently, they struggle with more complex or nuanced inquiries, leading to a lack of depth in customer service.

Despite their cost-effectiveness and ability to handle certain types of patient questions, the impersonal and rigid nature of chatbots often falls short in delivering a robust and user-friendly patient experience.

Live Chat

Live chat involves hiring a human agent to manage a dental practice webchat. Usually these are outsourced agents working at a call floor. This approach aims to provide the website visitor with an experience that feels like they are speaking with a team member from the practice.

However, several challenges persist:

Quality Control: The quality of live chat interactions can vary significantly. Agents may be managing dozens of chats simultaneously, leading to delayed responses and a lack of personalized attention.
Training and Knowledge: Live agents may not be deeply familiar with the specific nuances of a dental practice, resulting in generic or incomplete answers to patient queries.
Scalability Issues: Live chat services require a substantial human workforce, making it less scalable and more expensive compared to generative AI dental webchat solutions.

While live chat offers a human-like experience, the variability in response quality and the high operational costs can undermine its effectiveness.

AI-Powered Chat Agents

Enter AI-powered webchat, the new frontier in webchat technology. AI webchat leverages advanced AI models such as ChatGPT, to deliver highly personalized and reliable interactions. This technology and these AI models have come online in the last eighteen months.

One standout example is Annie, an AI chat agent designed specifically for your dental practices. Here’s why AI-powered chat agents are a game-changer:

Natural Language Processing (NLP): Annie AI can understand and interpret human language with remarkable accuracy, enabling more natural and engaging conversations.
Personalization: AI webchat agents like Annie can be fine-tuned to the specific needs and nuances of a dental practice. They can access an unlimited amount of background information, ensuring that responses are tailored to the practice’s procedures, services, and tone.
24/7 Availability: Unlike human agents, AI chat agents provide round-the-clock service, ensuring that patient queries are addressed promptly, regardless of the time of day.
Scalability and Efficiency: AI chat agents can handle an unlimited number of interactions simultaneously without compromising on response quality, making them highly scalable and cost-effective.

By combining the best of both worlds—automation and personalization—AI-powered webchat agents offer a superior solution for dental practices looking to enhance patient engagement and streamline their communication processes.

What's new in the practice?

lspindeldds — Sat, 19 Oct 2024 05:46:35 -0700

My son David joined my practice last September and is seeing patients. He is doing a great job and the feedback from our patients has be extremely promising. The timing couldn't be have better since I have needed a surgery and the medications I am currently taking will render me immunocompromised for the next couple of months. All of my staff has stayed on and my son is truly talented and capable dentist. I really look forward to returning to practice as soon as my doctor(s) give me the green light. The truth is I feel better now than I have in the last few years and I have a great support system. It also has been heartening hearing from concerned friends, patients and colleagues.

Sometimes, just sometimes, something that seems bad news, can turn out to be good. In my instance it has been a positive experience that has been given me improved health. While my hospital stay was not a bowl of cherries, it was necessary and I received excellent care. I am truly fortunate and look forward to returning to work. For now I am in the office on Thursdays. If all continues to go well I plan on treating patients starting in January.

16 Google Search Statistics for Dentists to Know

Megan Nielsen — Fri, 20 Sep 2024 10:41:14 -0700

Google Search Statistics for Dentists: What You Should Know

It’s no secret that Google is the lifeblood of online visibility, and that’s especially true for dentists who want to attract new patients. It’s not just a hunch; data proves that online search is a critical component for success in growing your dental practice.

Because we love dental practice-related data at My Social Practice, we’ve put together another collection of the best statistics that prove why every dentist needs a robust online presence.

Ready for our round-up of Google search statistics for dentists?

General Statistics
Traffic Statistics
Local SEO Statistics
Google Search Statistics for Dentists: TLDR
FAQ

General Statistics

Almost 92% of the total global search volume comes from Google

As of December 2023, Google dominates the search engine market with a staggering 91.6% share of all global searches. In comparison, Bing holds only 3.8% of the global search volume. It’s crucial to prioritize optimizing for Google search in your online dental marketing strategy, regardless of your specialty.

The top Google search result receives almost 28% of all clicks online

SEO is critical in a successful dental marketing strategy. According to a recent study by Backlinko, almost 28% of all online clicks are received by the top-ranking search result on Google. This means that more than a quarter of people searching on Google could potentially visit your website. In comparison, the second and third-ranked results receive 15.8% and 11% of clicks, respectively. On the other hand, ranking 10th on Google might only get you 2.4% of clicks, and being on the second page of results gives you less than a 1% (0.63%) chance of being clicked at all.

The average time for a user’s first click is 14.6 seconds

On average, it takes a Google searcher about 14.6 seconds to click on a search result. This means that you have approximately 14 seconds to make your website stand out among others on the search results page. People usually click on the highest-ranking results, but their behavior can also change depending on the layout of the search engine results page (SERP) for different search queries. For example, searches for local businesses will usually display Google Business Profiles on a map, so it’s important to focus on your local SEO as well.

65% of users click on organic Google results

The landscape of Google search results is always evolving with new features such as snippets, video carousels, and image packs. Despite these changes, research shows that the majority of users still favor the traditional blue-linked organic search results. According to Backlinko, 65% of users click on organic results more than any other feature, and 10% even click on multiple organic links.

The majority of Google search queries are 3 to 4 words long

Data from Semrush shows that 38.2% of Google queries consist of three to four words, while 31.6% consist of one to two words. Only 3.5% of search terms are over 11 words. These statistics suggest that most users formulate their search queries using question words or location-specific terms, such as “dentist near me” or “best dentist in [location]”. It’s important to keep these Google search stats in mind when planning your keyword strategy.

More than 61% of searches with a specific intent are conducted on Google

Billions of searches are made on search engines every day. Not all of them have a specific intent; many are contextually driven (for example, searching for something related to something else, like looking up an actor after searching for a film) or just casual browsing.

However, out of all the online searches with specific intent, whether to visit a particular website or to find directions to a specific location, 61% are done on Google. This means that compared to other search engines, Google has more users who are much more likely to become high-quality leads.

How Gemini AI Chatbot Can Help Dentists

When technology and the online landscape change at a breakneck pace, dentists must stay ahead of the curve to provide excellent patient care and run a successful practice. At My Social Practice, we understand how overwhelming it can be to juggle patient communications, administrative tasks, and marketing efforts while trying to grow your business. That’s why we’re always looking for cutting-edge technology to make dentists’ lives easier. One of the latest innovations we’re excited about is Google’s Gemini AI chatbot, now integrated into Gmail. This AI-powered tool can help you streamline your inbox, saving valuable time and improving your productivity so you can focus more on what really matters: your patients.

What is Google’s Gemini AI Chatbot?
Why AI is Essential for Dental Practices
How Google’s AI Can Streamline Your Inbox Management
Improving Communication and Patient Care with AI
Enhancing Productivity with AI-Powered Inbox Management
The Bottom Line: How Google’s Gemini AI Chatbot Can Help Dentists
FAQ

What is Google’s Gemini AI Chatbot?

As the demands on dental professionals continue to grow, incorporating AI into daily operations is becoming less of a luxury and more of a necessity. Dentists aren’t just responsible for patient care—they also have to handle the logistics of running a business, which includes managing communication, scheduling, and administrative tasks. This is where AI tools like Google’s Gemini chatbot come in, offering a solution to streamline these processes and help dentists spend time focusing on patients.

AI’s role in dental healthcare has expanded significantly in recent years, with many dental practices adopting AI-driven software for patient management, diagnostic tools, and marketing. Gemini adds another layer of efficiency by assisting with email management—an area that can quickly become a time-consuming burden for busy dental teams. By automating tasks like sorting emails, finding specific information, and generating contextually appropriate replies, Gemini helps dentists and their staff save time and improve their workflow.

Why AI is Essential for Dental Practices

Did you know that the activity on your dental practice’s social media platforms are included in the ranking algorithm? That’s right, dental practice SEO and dental social media marketing work in tandem. Staying active on your social media accounts presents yet another opportunity to improve your Google rankings.

When you post on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, or any of the other social media platforms, your followers can comment, share, and like the posts. We call this social media engagement. Engagement is easily recognized by search engines and helps to identify authorities in an industry.

How Google’s AI Can Streamline Your Inbox Management

Google’s Gemini AI chatbot can help dentists because it offers several powerful tools to help streamline your inbox, saving time and increasing efficiency. Here’s how Gemini can simplify your email management:

1. Summarize Long Email Threads

Gemini can instantly create clear, concise summaries of lengthy email conversations.
This is especially useful for reviewing patient discussions, treatment plans, or insurance claims without reading every message.
Example: “Summarize the email chain about John Doe’s treatment options.”

2. Efficient Email Search

Instead of manually searching emails, ask Gemini to locate specific details, such as patient appointment confirmations or vendor communications.
This ensures you can access critical information quickly, even when buried deep in your inbox.
Example prompts:
- “Find emails from Delta Dental about claims.“
- “Show all emails related to Sarah’s upcoming appointment.”

3. Contextual Smart Replies

Gemini can generate tailored replies based on the context of an email conversation, saving you time while maintaining a professional tone.
Whether it’s a patient asking about treatment options or scheduling, Gemini suggests appropriate responses for you to select.
This feature is perfect for dental staff managing a high volume of emails while still needing to reply quickly and efficiently.

4. Mobile and On-the-Go Access

Gemini’s features are available on both web and mobile, allowing you to manage your emails from anywhere—at the office or between patient appointments.

Perplexity Now Has As Many Searches In a Month As They Did In 2023: How Dentists Can Use Perplexity

Megan Nielsen — Wed, 11 Sep 2024 10:25:48 -0700

How Dentists Can Use Perplexity

Across the internet, artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping how people search for information, and this trend is now impacting the dental industry. One of the newest and fastest-growing AI search tools, Perplexity AI, is making waves by offering a unique alternative to traditional search engines like Google. With its ability to provide real-time answers from trusted sources, Perplexity is rapidly gaining popularity among users seeking quick, reliable information. For dentists, understanding how platforms like Perplexity change the search game is crucial for staying competitive and ensuring patients find accurate, trustworthy details about their care.

Perplexity’s Meteoric Rise
AI and Search in Dentistry—Why It Matters
Perplexity Vs. Google: A Game Changer for Dental SEO?
Tips for Dentists to Stay Ahead of AI Trends
Key Takeaways: How Dentists Can Use Perplexity
FAQ

Perplexity’s Meteoric Rise

Perplexity AI’s rapid growth is turning heads in the tech world. Since the beginning of 2024, the platform’s usage and revenue have skyrocketed, growing sevenfold after securing a $250 million investment. This has propelled Perplexity into the ranks of the fastest-growing AI search engines, with the platform now answering over 250 million queries in a single month—compared to 500 million for all of 2023. This incredible momentum is positioning Perplexity as a serious contender in the AI search space, rivaling tech giants like Google and OpenAI.

One of the biggest shifts driving this growth is Perplexity’s transition from a subscription-based model to an advertising-focused approach. By moving into the $300 billion search advertising industry, Perplexity is now directly competing with Google’s well-established dominance. This shift signals a significant change in how businesses—including dental practices—might need to approach their digital marketing strategies. As the platform begins to monetize through ads, there will be new opportunities to reach potential patients searching for services and information, changing how dentists can use Perplexity.

While Perplexity’s advertising model is still evolving, the company has already secured partnerships with major publishers like Time and Fortune, and it plans to share a portion of its ad revenue with content creators. This focus on quality sources is key to maintaining trust with users, which could make it a valuable tool for businesses, including dental practices, to target patients more effectively. By understanding Perplexity’s evolving business model, dentists can better position themselves to benefit from this new AI-driven search engine.

AI and Search in Dentistry – Why It Matters

As artificial intelligence continues to transform how people search for information, platforms like Perplexity AI are poised to reshape the way patients find dental care. Traditionally, search engines like Google have been the go-to for potential patients looking up symptoms, treatments, or local dentists. However, with Perplexity’s AI-powered system, users now receive direct, real-time answers sourced from reliable publications, creating a more efficient and trustworthy search experience.

For dentists, this shift in how people search means it’s more important than ever to ensure that their practice information is accurate and readily accessible. Patients might increasingly rely on AI tools to quickly answer questions about oral health, treatment options, or how to find a nearby dentist. This could lead to changes in patient expectations—seeking fast, reliable information rather than navigating through multiple websites. Ensuring your practice appears in AI-driven search results could be key to attracting new patients and determining how dentists can use Perplexity

Moreover, AI search platforms like Perplexity prioritize high-quality sources, which means that dental practices will need to focus on creating credible, informative content to stand out. This includes maintaining an active online presence, optimizing local SEO, and providing clear, patient-friendly information on dental services. By staying ahead of these AI trends, dental professionals can enhance their online visibility and ensure they remain competitive in an evolving digital landscape.

Perplexity vs. Google: A Game Changer for Dental SEO?

The rise of Perplexity AI presents a new dynamic in the world of search engine optimization, potentially shaking up how dental practices need to approach their online dental marketing. While Google has long been the dominant force in search, Perplexity’s unique focus on providing direct answers from credible sources could give it a competitive edge, particularly for users looking for fast, reliable information. This shift may require dentists to rethink their dental SEO strategies to maintain visibility in this evolving landscape.

Perplexity’s transition to an advertising-based model, much like Google’s, means businesses can start placing ads to reach potential patients through AI-driven queries. However, Perplexity’s emphasis on trusted sources and its growing partnerships with major publications may influence the types of content that appear in search results. For dentists, this could mean that high-quality, informative content will play an even larger role in staying competitive. Instead of relying solely on traditional SEO tactics, dental practices will need to create authoritative content that reflects expertise in oral health and dental services.

Additionally, as Perplexity’s ranking system evolves to prioritize well-researched, reliable information, dental professionals must ensure their practice is well-represented across trusted sources. Listings on reputable platforms, patient reviews, and strong local SEO efforts will be essential to capturing patient attention in an AI-powered search environment. By staying informed about these developments and adapting their SEO strategies, dentists can leverage Perplexity’s rise to enhance their practice’s visibility and reach.

Key Concepts

Challenges in Dental Marketing: The biggest hurdle for dental teams is consistency in digital marketing, especially with social media. Practices often lack time to create authentic, engaging content, which leads to inconsistent efforts.
Success in Social Media Marketing: Practices that maintain consistency with in-house content creation, like snapping photos with patients, tend to excel without needing a large marketing budget.
Importance of Customization: Marketing strategies for dental practices require a tailored approach based on the practice’s size, team, and resources. Flexibility in service offerings is essential to meeting these diverse needs.
Fast-Moving Digital Marketing Landscape: Dental marketing is constantly evolving, making it hard for dentists to keep up. My Social Practice focuses on educating clients to make informed decisions.
AI in Marketing: Cutting-edge AI dental marketing tools give practices a competitive advantage, like My Social Practice’s AI-driven chat systems.

Additional Resources

For further learning, check out our other AI-centered dental marketing webinars and blog posts:

Dentistry 3.0: The Revolution of AI Dental Practice Marketing

5 Incredible Ways to Use AI in Dental Care

Mastering AI Prompting for Dentists: The Powerful WWWAC Method

Does ChatGPT and AI Copywriting Damage Dental SEO?

Meet the Presenter:

Adrian Lefler, CEO and Cofounder of My Social Practice

Adrian Lefler, CEO of My Social Practice, is a seasoned expert in the dental marketing industry with 14 years of experience. He is widely recognized for his engaging and informative presentations. Based in Suncrest, Utah, Adrian shares his life with his wife, four children, and a lively mix of pets. My Social Practice is a leading dental marketing company, and Adrian is passionate about helping dental professionals succeed in this dynamic field.

AI Dental Consultants Webinars

Truth Behind Dentistry: Dental Marketing Masterclass [Recorded Podcast]

Dental Marketing Masterclass In this episode of Truth Behind Dentistry, Adrian Lefler of My Social Practice del

15 Dental Website Statistics Dentists Should Know

Megan Nielsen — Thu, 05 Sep 2024 10:43:00 -0700

Dental Website Statistics You Should Know

With more potential patients finding their dentist online, a fast, brand-friendly dental website is more critical than ever. Your website serves multiple functions: it increases your visibility online, establishes your dental branding, makes vital patient information easily accessible, and creates a first impression for prospective patients who visit.

At My Social Practice, we understand the importance of your dental website in attracting and retraining patients. And because we’re a bunch of nerds (very cool nerds), we like to support our statements with cold, hard facts.

We’ve compiled dental website statistics and data to help you learn why you need a website, and best practices for designing yours.

General Statistics
Design Statistics
AI Statistics
User Experience Statistics
Search Statistics
Dental Website Statistics: The Bottom Line
FAQ

General Statistics

More than 93% of website traffic comes from Google

Statistics from website visitors indicate that more than 93% of the world’s web traffic is routed through Google. Additionally, Google search stats reveal that the platform processes over 8 billion searches daily. Dentists should adhere to Google’s best practices and focus on SEO tactics that focus on the search giant.

Only about 40% of websites rank on the first page of search engine results

More than 58% of total website traffic comes from mobile

When designing your website, it’s crucial to prioritize a mobile-first approach. In the first quarter of 2023, statistics show that 58.3% of all web traffic comes from mobile devices. This marks a steady increase over the past five years and reflects a 7% rise from 2020. As smartphones become more advanced, people use them to search for local businesses like family dentists with increasing frequency.

Blogs get you 67% more leads every month

After creating a user-friendly dental website, the next important step is to add a blog. Stats show that blogs can increase leads by almost 70%. Blogging is an excellent way to add a personal and human touch to your brand by sharing its values with your audience. Additionally, dental blogging can improve your website’s search engine optimization (SEO) by demonstrating its authority in your industry.

Design Statistics

38% of people report they would stop interacting with a badly-designed website

The abundance of dental websites means that potential patients have plenty of choices. If a website is difficult to navigate, 38% of users are likely to leave and visit other sites that offer the same content without the hassle. It’s important not to miss the chance to engage your visitors by ensuring they don’t bounce off your page right away. Use dental website design best practices to ensure your site appeals to visitors.

Social Media and AI Songs for Dentists

Have you ever heard of an “earworm”? Even if you’re not familiar with the term, you’ve definitely experienced one: a catchy tune that involuntarily pops into your brain over…and over…and over again. Log onto TikTok or Instagram, and you’ll see short-form videos jumping onto every new musical trend at lightning speed. Some even fight for noble causes, like begging McDonald’s to fix their ice cream machines while lip-syncing to Sabrina Carpenter.

While we always recommend putting a dental spin on any trending hashtag, a savvy dentist might wonder how to use an earworm in dental marketing. If you’re looking for some original social media content to dazzle your followers, consider a new way to create an earworm of your own: AI songs for dentists.

Using AI for Social Media
AI Songs for Dentists
Create Your Practice Theme Song
Celebrate With a Seasonal Party Song
Introduce a New Product
Share a Passion for Puns
Commiserate Through Song
AI Songs for Dentists—Try It!
Additional Resources
FAQ

Using AI for Social Media

We’ve come up with some practical applications and ideas for this technology. Include specific details to give your songs some personality—you might be inspired to think of an even better concept.

We’ve included some examples with each idea, along with lyrics general enough that any practice can use them. Feel free to use these on your social media, and remember to tag My Social Practice on Instagram or Facebook!

AI Songs for Dentists

Show Off Your Moves With a Seasonal Party Song

Some truths are self-evident, among them: Monster Mash is great. However, we think Dr. Vlad the Vampire Dentist just might be the next big thing in supernatural holiday party songs.

At the very least, this would make a great reel. Grab some plastic vampire fangs and get a little spooky for your social media accounts:

Dr. Vlad the Dentist

There’s a dentist in town, Dr. Vlad’s his name
His office is dark, lit by candle flame
He works late nights when the moon’s so high
Folks keep wondering about him
And I might know why

He treats every smile like a work of art
When he demands you floss it’s like a stake through the heart
He might seem a little spooky in the candlelight
But he throws a great party
On Halloween night

He’s a little bit eerie
In a cloak and a hood
But no one can deny
Wow, his teeth are so good

Dr. Vlad’s not a vampire, no not at all
He’s just a dentist
Though I admit he’s quite tall
Works by night in a spooky hall
But his dental care
Is supernatural

He avoids garlic bread and mirrors in kind
Pulling teeth’s a little bloody but he doesn’t seem to mind
His tools are sharp, and his fangs—I mean, teeth
Are the best in town
At least that’s the belief

Ignore the cape, the fangs
And the bat in flight
He’s just a normal dentist
Who works at night

Dr. Vlad’s not a vampire, no not at all
He’s just a dentist
Though I admit he’s quite tall
Works by night in a spooky hall
But his dental care
Is supernatural

Dr. Vlad’s office, it’s a curious sight
Candles flicker softly in the dead of night
He greets you with a smile, sharp and so bright
And reassures you kindly
“I don’t bite

AI in Dentistry: New Strategies & Tips for Dental Consultants: [Recorded Webinar]

Adrian Lefler — Tue, 03 Sep 2024 11:34:24 -0700

AI in Dentistry: Tips for Dental Consultants

In this recorded webinar, we explore the groundbreaking impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the dental marketing industry, specifically focusing on how dental consultants can leverage these advanced tools to enhance their services and support dental practices more effectively. As the digital landscape evolves, it’s crucial for dental consultants to stay ahead of the curve by adopting new technologies that streamline operations, reduce costs, and improve client outcomes.

The webinar begins with an introduction to three significant ways AI is revolutionizing dental marketing. First, we delve into the realm of AI-generated imagery and video, demonstrating how tools like MidJourney are making graphic design more accessible and cost-effective. We highlight the capabilities of AI in creating logos and other marketing materials, substantially cutting down the time and expense involved. Additionally, we discuss AI-driven video solutions such as Flythroughs, which enable dental practices to produce high-quality office tours using just a smartphone, minimizing the need for professional video services.

Next, we shift our focus to AI-powered copywriting tools like ChatGPT, Google Gemini, and Perplexity, providing practical insights on how dental consultants can use these platforms to craft compelling content with ease. We offer guidance on effective prompting techniques, ensuring that the generated copy aligns with the specific needs of dental practices.

Lastly, we introduce cutting-edge AI technologies that enhance communication and customer service for dental practices. This includes showcasing the capabilities of ANNIE, an AI-powered web chat assistant, and discussing how AI can be integrated into phone systems to manage calls during off-hours or busy periods, providing seamless support without additional staffing costs.

Throughout the webinar, attendees have access to several free downloads and QR codes, providing valuable resources that can be immediately implemented to start utilizing these AI tools in their own consulting practices or to educate their clients on these innovative solutions.

What You’ll Learn in This Webinar

Understand the Role of AI in Dental Marketing: Gain insights into how artificial intelligence is transforming the dental marketing landscape, specifically in terms of imagery, video creation, and copywriting.

Explore AI Tools for Graphic and Video Design: Learn about AI-driven tools like MidJourney for graphic design and Flythroughs for video production, and understand how these technologies can reduce costs and improve marketing efforts.

Master AI-Powered Copywriting: Discover the capabilities of AI platforms such as ChatGPT, Google Gemini, and Perplexity for generating high-quality, customized content, and learn practical tips on how to effectively prompt these tools.

Enhance Communication with AI: Explore the latest advancements in AI for managing web chat and phone systems with ANNIE and understand how these tools can improve customer service and operational efficiency for dental practices.

Implement AI Solutions in Consulting Practice: Access practical resources, including downloads and QR codes, to start integrating AI tools into your consulting services, enhancing your offerings and providing value to your dental practice clients.

Additional Resources

For further learning, check out our other AI-centered dental marketing webinars and blog posts:

Dentistry 3.0: The Revolution of AI Dental Practice Marketing

5 Incredible Ways to Use AI in Dental Care

Mastering AI Prompting for Dentists: The Powerful WWWAC Method

Does ChatGPT and AI Copywriting Damage Dental SEO?

Meet the Presenter:

Adrian Lefler, CEO and Cofounder of My Social Practice

Adrian Lefler, CEO of My Social Practice, is a seasoned expert in the dental marketing industry with 14 years of experience. He is widely recognized for his engaging and informative presentations. Based in Suncrest, Utah, Adrian shares his life with his wife, four children, and a lively mix of pets. My Social Practice is a leading dental marketing company, and Adrian is passionate about helping dental professionals succeed in this dynamic field.

AI

An ounce of prevention?

lspindeldds — Sat, 08 Jun 2024 12:22:35 -0700

When discussing oral health, preventing problems from worsening is the way to go. Small fillings are better than waiting until problems worsen. A small filling can lessen the need for a root canal or an extraction in order fix the problem once it worsens.
Getting cleanings and check ups also lessons the probability of patient developing periodontal poblems. Brushing well and flossing also keep the teeth cleaner and less likely to develop smooth surface decay (not in the pit and fissures).
Unfortunately many patients ignore the dental problems until they are hurting. By this point prevention is not an option and our fixes, sad to say, are not guaranteed to permanently fix tooth problems. Often by the time a patient "feels" significant tooth pain the situation is so advanced that the long term prognosis for their tooth is compromised even after their problem is addressed.
This is why dentists advise their patients to come for checkup and cleanings every 6 months. Of course many times they have no significant problems , but that is desirable and getting a thorough cleaning will help provide and maintain optimal oral health. If you haven't been to your dentist this year,why not call your dentist for an appointment now.

Is dentistry going to the dogs?

lspindeldds — Sat, 06 Apr 2024 06:39:47 -0700

Acrylic dentures ,as a opposed to cast framework partial dentures, are used for patients whose remaining teeth have a guarded prognosis due to mobility, bone loss and /periodontal disease. Patients who are candidates for these often do not want to remove their remaining teeth and may not find implants an affordable option. Since these "transitional" dentures are made from acrylic, adding additional teeth is a relatively easy procedure that involves taking a pickup impression and sending this with the denture to the lab so that they can pour up a new model and add a replacement tooth to the denture.
These all acrylic dentures are a common choice for patients who don't wand definitive comprehensive treatment but instead just want to replace their currently missing teeth.
The other day, one of our residents filled out her Rx to the laboratory for fabrication of an acrylic partial denture. These partial appliances are all acrylic with the acception of hand bent wires to help clasp the teeth. These are called wrought wire clasps . They work well and can be adjusted with an three (or two) pronged pliers to fit even better.
According to vocabulary.com wrought is an adjective meaning shaped to fit by ors if by altering the contours of a pliable mass (as by work or effort)
Recently, one of our residents filled out her Rx to the laboratory about the fabrication of an acrylic partial denture. she asked for rottweiler clasps.When asked about her doggy dentures she just replied that how she thought it was spelled. I guess she must have missed the lecture about all accrylic dentures.

Dental pain and diagnosis?

lspindeldds — Sun, 31 Mar 2024 14:31:24 -0700

Patients often present with dental pain and would like to get a diagnosis and appropriate dental treatment. They often complain of a tooth ache, which is not very specific, since There can be a number of causes for tooth pain and there are many differential causes. Often my residients and students try diagnosing using the dental radiographs as their primary tool. Dental radiographs are just one of the items in our tool box. For me , the first thing I do is ask the patients a bunch of questions... When do you have pain? do you have pain on biting, pain after eating, hot or cold sensitivity or prolonged pain. The answers to these questions have a lot to do with narrowing down why the patient is having pain. I definitely look at the radiographs to see if their is an obvious problem in the quadrant they are feeling pain( perapical radiolucency or a large carious lesion).
If a tooth is sensitive to cold it means that it is vital and any teeth with root canals in the area can not be the source of cold sensitivity. Swelling usually means the presence of an infection and the swelling should be palpated to see where it is located intraorally. Pain on biting is a often one of the symptoms and I often will have my patient bite on the wooden part of a cotton tip applicator so they may better localize which tooth is the culprit. Pain on biting can indicate a cracked filling, a large carious lesion or or an infection due to an irreversible pulpitis or necrotic pulp that is causing an infection.
Coming up with a differential diagnosis can be complicated and should involve a trip to a knowledgable dentist. Relying on xrays alone is usually a bad idea. Its best best to have you dentist interview you and check you out in person so that he or she can come up with a more accurate assessment of what type of dental problem is causing your pain.

How do you perform examinations?

lspindeldds — Mon, 15 Jan 2024 07:08:45 -0800

Our study club just watched a lecture on how he does examinations of his patients..It makes alot of sense. 'First he goes over problems he sees and gives a tour of the mouth to his patient. Then he explains what could happen if the problems are not addressed. Only after this initial tour does he go over possible treatment options.
I use a similar approach with my patients. I find that this allows patients to better understand their problems and why I recommend specific treatments. Also the last part of the exam is the cost of various treatment options as well as the pros and cons of each choice.
I find that hearing about cost of treatments , especially if given at an earlier point of the exam can keep my patient from "hearing" my explanations, since once they hear the cost they can fixate on picking an inferior but less costly treatment plan. After all, who wants to spend thousands of dollars completing their treatment. This is especially true if they don't understand the ramifications of choosing their least expensive treatment option. Often I explain that I would probably choose a specific option for one of my own family and this can help my patient understand which plan is most ideal.
Of course finances do play a role in choosing which treatment plan is best for a patient , but I would like my patient to make a truly informed decision, not just solely based on cost. If they opt for the least expensive option they will understand any limitations and risks associated with this most affordable treatment plan.

You don't take my insurance?

lspindeldds — Wed, 06 Dec 2023 08:52:22 -0800

Our office does take a number of different plans. I personally am a Delta Premier Provider and a Cigna Provider. My son David has joined Metlife Dental Insurance. That being said our office a fee for service dental practice that participates with a few dental insurance plans. We have plenty of patients that have plans that we are out of network for, but we bill their dental insurance and then bill them the for what is not covered.
We treat all our patients the same way regardless of which insurance they have. Appointments are usually scheduled for one hour (or two for crown preparations) . This amount of time makes it possible for us to have sufficient time to ensure a uniform high standard of care.
Since dental offices need to cover their expenses and make a profit to pay their dentist/owner, some offices have procedures engineered to be done in shorter amounts of time. By this I mean, they try to figure out techniques that are more efficient but hopefully still allow them to produce an adequate standard of care. Some offices succeed and some do not.
When I first got out of my residency in 1981 I worked in a number of "Insurance offices" and while it was good for me to help develop dental skills and become efficient, I really didn't enjoy playing "beat the clock" ( I am really dating myself with this reference). Now , most days I truly enjoy working at a more leisurely pace and the dental procedures I perform routinely turn out well with results that are durable and don't cause problems.

Did David join your dental practice?

lspindeldds — Mon, 13 Nov 2023 14:21:33 -0800

My son is practicing in my office on Thursdays.. We did our own version of Trading Places. He finished his Mount Sinai general practice residency in June and I started as an attending there on Thursdays and he now works in my office on Thursdays. He has joined Metlife dental plan an is a preferred provider with them and he is in the process of joining a couple of other plans.
My assistant Jennifer is helping him find where everything is and he is sharing my treatment room with me. He can work on other days as well, but he has filled up his other week days by working in other dental offices. I encouraged him to get experience in a wide variety of dental settings and he has three other part time positions.
He seems to be enjoying dentistry and he is a fine addition to our dental practice. I have been thinking about him joining me since he started dental school and am extremely happy to have him join me and my staff in our dental practice.

Are implants are more predictable than teeth?

lspindeldds — Sun, 22 Oct 2023 15:05:27 -0700

Don't get me wrong... I think having the ability to treatment plan implant restorations has added a great tool to most dentist's tool box, but sometimes salvageable teeth are extracted to facilitate implant placement and a definitive full arch fixed restoration. I myself do this when the bone is needed to place an implant that will serve as an abutment for a multi implant treatment plan. Sometimes teeth do get in the way.
That being said, there seems to be an increasing tendency for dentists to advocate the removal of all remaining teeth to fabricate a "hybrid" full arch implant restoration. There is a nasty joke going around about all on 4 implant cases ... they are great unless one of the implants doesn't take or last long and then the entire case can be considered a failure since there is no such thing as an all on three case.
Also many patients are encouraged to have expensive full arch implant treatment cases without empasizing the need for the cleansability of their implant restorations and the importance of adequate patient home care and frequent cleanings at their dentist. Implants can develop peri implantitis , a condition similar to periodontal disease. This is characterized by progressive bone loss around an existing implant.
Sometimes its better to kick the can down the road for many patients, even if it means they will have a partial or full denture made. Maxillary full dentures can be very satisfactory if made well and can be highly esthetic and their fabrication rarely breaks the bank or requires a patient to take out a second mortgage on their house.
All on 4 cases can be wonderful but they are expensive and if they don't stand the test of time, most of the patients will either end up wearing a full denture or spending more money in a second go around since it will be necessary to have and additional implant(s) placed and a new temporary and permanent bridge fabricated.

You're attached to your teeth, but are they attached to you?

lspindeldds — Sun, 17 Sep 2023 20:35:56 -0700

Probably because I currently see patients in three settings I see a whole lot of different patients from varying socioeconomic backgrounds. The patients who I see in my private practice and who buy into preventive maintenance and good home care do very well and even into their nineties have most of their teeth. The patients I see during my teaching tend to have less money allocated to their dentistry and have mouths that are missing more teeth. Also they are more prone to severe bone loss due to ongoing periodontal disease.
It is not terribly uncommon for a patient at one of my days spent teaching to come in with a mouth full of loose teeth that probably should be removed. The other day one such young patient in her thirties came in and had been told by her dentist she needed to have her teeth removed. Sure enough they all were loose without good bone support. Sooner or later her teeth will fall out or get infected. She explained that she was very attached to her teeth and would like to save them but unfortunately There is no cure for her gum disease and no predictable way to grow bone around her teeth either.
This seems to be a dilemma facing many patients from disadvantaged backgrounds who may only go to the dentist when a tooth is hurting them and the sad end result is that many of these people end up wearing dentures, either partial or full because most can not afford implant supported replacement teeth. This dental tragedy probably could have been avoided if they had been taught properly how to care for their own teeth at home and have a good cleaning at least once per year. Instead our profession has let them down since all too often dentists can be focused on restorative procedures rather than preventive dentistry.
Educating our patients and helping them understand the importance of proper home care, proper diet and appropriated and timely dental care is one of our most important functions as dentists . We are,after all, physicians of the mouth and it is our primary duty to truly help our younger patients maintain their oral health. No , not all dental problems can be "fixed" but instead are handled by us. Hopefully we do our best but no amount of "fixing" beat preventing the problem in the first place.

The forest for the trees?

lspindeldds — Mon, 14 Aug 2023 03:16:07 -0700

In general good quality patient dental care should be about helping our patients achieve the best dental care possible. This doesn't necessarily entail getting our patients to spend maximum money. Instead it is about our ability to educate our dental patients about the factors that can undermine their dental health and lead to tooth loss. Most times tooth loss can be prevented through early intervention and patient education about the importance of home care and showing them how to achieve optimum dental health.
Most often dentists do not get paid for the time spent on educating our patients. Instead there seems to be an increasing emphasis in health care about achieving efficiencies. and insuring our ability to generate a profits in spite of the ever increasing costs of delivering dentistry in an optimal fashion.
In my opinion our government and the insurance companies bear a certain responsibility for these developments. Both the government and the insurance companies seem to be emphasizing efficient and affordable health care which is fine, but let's not throw the baby our with the bath water... Our primary responsibility as dentists is to do no harm and do our best to help our patients maintain dental health. The hippocratic oath never mentions efficiency or affordability.
Sometimes it seems that many of the "mandated" courses that I am forced to take to stay credentialed involve the principal of preventing law suits and or fines from the government, but actually have little to do with insuring that my patients receive the best dental care possible.
As an Instructor at NYU College of Dentistry I remain in contact with many young dentists who are just starting out and many report the pressure they are under from their employer to be productive as possible and to support aggressive treatment plans. While this may make sense to their employers who want to maximize profits, it has nothing to do with the ultimate well being of their patient's dental health , especially if they are not allowed enough chair time to provide optimal dental services.
Personally, I believe the public would be better protected by our government if it spent more time analyzing out comes and quality of care and less time spent on posturing about protecting the public and paying lip service to affordable healthcare.

Why do most dental schools require a significant number of hours shadowing a dentist?

lspindeldds — Wed, 02 Aug 2023 11:57:19 -0700

When I went to dental school shadowing was not required. My only experience was as a patient. When I started dental school I was surprised how "difficult" dentistry could be. After all, my uncle was my dentist and he always made my care look easy. I had a lot to learn when I started school. I am not sure if I fully understood the difficulties involved with running a practice, seeing patients and making them happy. If I had shadowed I would have had a much better understanding about what is actually involved in being a practicing dentist.

We are currently hosting a recent college graduate who is taking a gap year and I asked her how much shadowing she needs and she reported that most schools require 100 hours of shadowing. I think this is a good thing, since the amount of schooling required to complete a dental degree is both time consuming and expensive.

Not all dentists are comfortable having a prospective dental student shadow them in their office, but many are and with a little research applicants should have no problem finding offices to host them. Shadowing may prevent them from making a costly investment and help that dentistry is the right career for them. If it isn't they have time to make their plan B.

Dentist Post-Op Questions

o360team — Tue, 18 Jul 2023 15:23:20 -0700

If you are undergoing a dental procedure or operation, you will be given a set of post-operative instructions to abide by in the hours, days, and weeks after your treatment. Following these instructions is essential to preventing infections in surgical sites, protecting restorations, and minimizing the possibility of experiencing complications. Post-operative instructions vary from procedure to procedure, but you are still sure to have some questions regarding care. Dr. Angelica Isaza will be available to answer those questions and respond to any concerns you may have.

Try to anticipate some of the questions you may have about your post-operative care and ask them prior to your treatment.

Some of the most common post-op questions include:

How should I manage pain following my procedure?

How long should I experience discomfort?

Do I need to follow any special dietary guidelines?

Is it safe for me to drink through a straw?

Will I be able to drive myself home after my procedure?

Will I need to take an antibiotic?

Will I need to return to your office for a follow-up appointment?

When will my permanent restorations be ready?

How do I care for my removable prosthesis?

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I talk with my dentist about the questions I have regarding my post-operative care?

Yes. Your post-operative care is contingent on you understanding everything about the recovery process and your responsibilities in caring for your surgical site.

What should I expect when I speak with my dentist?

Our office will allocate enough time in your consultation and pre-operative exam to listen to your concerns and answer any questions you may have. You should also be provided a phone number that you can call following your procedure to discuss any questions that may come up at that time.

Is there anything I can do to make the process easier?

Yes. Begin thinking of any questions you may have about your post-operative care, and begin writing them down. You’ll be ready to ask all of your questions when the opportunity arises without missing any important details.

Dental Health and Your Diet

o360team — Tue, 18 Jul 2023 15:21:58 -0700

Your body works hard to convert the foods you eat into energy. You may not think twice about what you are eating – especially when it comes to grabbing an afternoon snack or sipping on a vanilla latte on your commute. But the food you put in your mouth affects more than just your waistline. The truth is, your diet has a direct effect on your overall dental health. Developing good eating habits can lead to excellent oral health free of decay and gum disease. The American Dental Association recommends avoiding certain foods that can expedite decay, such as foods high in sugar.

Did you know…

that eating a slice of pie in the afternoon could be more dangerous to your oral health than eating the same piece of pie as a dessert after dinner? According to the ADA, snacking between meals – especially on sugar-filled foods – can more rapidly lead to decay than eating the same foods with meals. If you must eat the mid-afternoon pie, reach for the toothbrush afterward. Better yet, swap the pie for a nutritious, sugar-free snack like string cheese or some baby carrots.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I change my eating habits to better my oral health?

Probably. But never start a new diet without first consulting with your physician. If you are on a special diet, be sure to speak with our dentist about the types of foods you should be eating that comply with your diet and can also optimize your oral health.

What types of changes will my dentist recommend?

In addition to avoiding sugary foods, the ADA recommends drinking plenty of water each day and avoiding snacks between meals whenever possible. It is also important to consume nutritious foods from each of the major food groups, including whole grains, vegetables, lean proteins, low-fat dairy, and fruits. Not only will you improve the health of your teeth and gums, but you may drop a pant size too!

Are there any other habits I should be adopting to improve my oral health?

Yes. You should be flossing daily and brushing twice daily using a soft-bristled toothbrush. You should also be visiting our office at least twice per year for oral exams and professional dental cleanings.

Bad Breath

o360team — Tue, 18 Jul 2023 15:20:57 -0700

Having bad breath can be an embarrassing problem – especially if you are regularly face to face with other people. Known professionally as halitosis, bad breath plagues many people every day. Most cases of bad breath can be remedied by efficiently brushing the teeth. However, some types of bad breath are chronic or recurring, which may warrant a visit to the dentist.

Did you know…

that bad breath can be caused by something as simple as eating too much garlic, or that it could be a serious symptom of a disease? Some of the most common causes of bad breath include dry mouth, certain medications, use of tobacco, poor dental hygiene, and oral infections. In rare cases, bad breath may be a sign of diseases like cancer or gastroesophageal reflux.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need treatment for my bad breath?

If your bad breath does not improve despite self-care techniques, such as dietary adjustments and thorough tooth brushing, you should make an appointment our office about pursuing professional treatment. Keep in mind that short-term remedies like gum, breath mints, and mouthwash may temporarily freshen breath, but they are not a solution to the underlying problem.

What should I expect my dentist to do about my bad breath?

Your visit will begin with an examination and questions about your daily habits, such as the types of foods you eat and the medications you take. Dr. Angelica Isaza may then inspect your mouth for signs of decay, infections or gum disease that could be causing your bad breath. If your chronic bad breath cannot be traced to an oral problem or daily habit, you may be referred to a physician for further evaluation.

Is there anything I can do to maintain better breath?

Yes. If bad breath is a source of embarrassment for you, try to keep breath fresheners on-hand at all times. Sleep with your mouth closed, as this prevents dry mouth and helps tame morning breath. Eliminate odor-causing foods from your diet, such as garlic and onions, and make an effort to brush your teeth and tongue every morning and night. Finally, be sure to visit our office for professional cleanings at least twice per year to remove built-up plaque that can cause chronic halitosis.

Tooth Decay Prevention

o360team — Tue, 18 Jul 2023 15:19:37 -0700

A child’s oral health must be protected from birth through adolescence and into adulthood. Unfortunately, many children develop tooth decay early in life – a condition that can progress into serious oral health problems. Keeping a child’s teeth strong and healthy requires preventative measures. At our pediatric dental practice, prevention is the foundation of all we do. After all, it is far easier and more affordable to avoid oral disease than it is to treat it.

Did you know…

that most children do not get the preventive dental care that is recommended for them? According to the Department of Health and Human Services, only half of U.S. children visit a dentist for preventive purposes each year. Of those who do, children under age 5 are least likely to see a dentist compared to older children over age 6. But early childhood prevention is important for establishing a healthy mouth that lasts a lifetime.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should preventative dentistry start for my child?

Prevention begins early. A mother’s diet while pregnant will contribute to a child’s developing primary teeth in the womb. After birth, parents should cleanse a baby’s gums and begin brushing the teeth gently as they emerge. Infants should visit a pediatric dentist for a preventive care exam no later than age one.

Besides brushing, what else can be done to prevent early childhood caries?

Diet plays an important role in a child’s dental health. Sugar feeds the bacteria responsible for tooth decay and gum disease. Limiting foods and beverages containing sugar deters cavities and helps protect the enamel. Avoid giving your child sugary juices, candies and sodas, and never let your child go to bed with a bottle.

What can my child’s pediatric dentist do to prevent decay?

Depending on your child’s age, oral health and risk factors, a pediatric dentist may recommend in-office preventive treatments to help stave off tooth decay. For example, fluoride treatments may help strengthen the teeth – especially in children with low exposure to fluoride in local water sources. Another option is dental sealants, which are placed on newly erupted permanent molars to fill in pits and crevices that are susceptible to decay. As your child grows and becomes more active, his or her dentist may recommend the use of a sports mouth guard when participating in contact sports like soccer or gymnastics.

Periodontal “Gum” Disease Prevention

o360team — Tue, 18 Jul 2023 15:18:22 -0700

Gum disease (also called periodontal disease) is an infection of the tissues that support your teeth. It is a major cause of tooth loss in adults. Because gum disease is usually painless, you may not know you have it. At each regular checkup the dentist will measure the depth of the shallow v-shaped crevice (called a sulcus) between your tooth and gums to identify whether you have gum disease.

Gum disease is caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on the teeth. These bacteria create toxins that can damage the gums.

Periodontal diseases attack just below the gum line in the sulcus, where they cause the attachment of the tooth and supporting tissues to break down. As the tissues are damaged, the sulcus develops into a pocket; generally, the more severe the disease, the greater the depth of the pocket.

Periodontal diseases are classified according to the severity of the disease. The two major stages are gingivitis and periodontitis.

Gingivitis

In the early stage of gum disease, called gingivitis, the gums become red, swollen and bleed easily. At this stage, the disease is still reversible and can usually be eliminated by daily brushing and flossing.

Periodontitis

In the more advanced stages of gum disease, called periodontitis, the gums and bone that support the teeth become seriously damaged. Whereas healthy gums and bone anchor teeth firmly in place, infected gums can cause teeth to become loose, fall out, or have to be removed by a dentist.

Some factors increase the risk of developing periodontal disease:

Tobacco smoking or chewing

System-wide diseases such as diabetes

Some types of medication such as steroids, some types of anti-epilepsy drugs, cancer therapy drugs, some calcium channel blockers, and oral contraceptives

Bridges that no longer fit properly

Crooked teeth

Fillings that have become defective

Pregnancy

If you notice any of the following signs of gum disease, see the doctor immediately:

Gums that bleed easily

Red, swollen, tender gums

Gums that have pulled away from the teeth

Persistent bad breath or bad taste

Pus between your teeth and gums

Permanent teeth that are loose or separating

Any change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite

Any change in the fit of partial dentures

It is possible to have periodontal disease and have no warning signs.
That is one reason why regular dental checkups and periodontal examinations are very important. Treatment methods depend on the type of disease and how far the condition has progressed.

Good oral hygiene at home is essential to keep periodontal disease from becoming more serious or recurring. You don’t have to lose teeth to periodontal disease. Brush regularly, clean between your teeth, eat a balanced diet, and schedule regular dental visits for a lifetime of healthy smiles.

Fluoride and Decay Prevention

o360team — Tue, 18 Jul 2023 15:16:33 -0700

Fluoride is a naturally occurring element that has been shown to help strengthen teeth in children and also prevent decay in people of all ages. Topical fluoride, in particular is helpful for promoting oral health. The American Dental Association has publicly endorsed the use of fluoride for the prevention of dental caries, as has the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Medical Association.

Did you know…

that you might be drinking fluoride every day without knowing it? Many communities add fluoride to the public water supply in an effort to promote better dental health. You can find out if there is fluoride in your tap water by contacting your local water utility. Keep in mind that if your primary source of drinking water is bottled, you may not be getting fluoride. You can contact your bottle water company or manufacturer to find out if fluoride is in your water. If not, speak with your dentist about getting professional fluoride treatments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need fluoride treatments?

You may need fluoride treatments if your drinking water is not fluoridated or if you are experiencing certain symptoms, such as receding gums. Fluoride treatments can also provide oral support and prevent decay if you wear orthodontic braces or are taking medications that cause dry mouth.

What should I expect during fluoride treatments?

Fluoride treatments are painless and can be administered our office at your twice-yearly check-ups and cleanings. Our dentist will distribute fluoridated gel, foam or varnish into a tray and place it over your teeth. The treatment takes only a few minutes and is only required between one and four times per year.

Is there anything I can do to supplement my fluoride treatments?

Yes. The ADA recommends supplementing your fluoridated drinking water or fluoride treatments with a fluoridated toothpaste.

How to Floss Your Teeth

o360team — Tue, 18 Jul 2023 15:15:10 -0700

Flossing is an important part of an oral hygiene routine, but research suggests that fewer than half of Americans do so daily. Flossing is simple and only takes an extra couple of minutes per day. Developing a healthy habit of flossing can prevent tooth decay and gum disease, and it may allow you to keep more of your natural teeth as you age. So what is the most effective means of flossing?

Pull the floss taught and slide it between two teeth.

Pull against the side of one tooth, creating a “C-shape” and sliding upwards to remove plaque build-up.

Pull against the opposite tooth edge using the same technique.

Repeat this process for each tooth until all inner surfaces have been flossed.

Don’t forget to floss the backs of your molars!

Need some extra tips?

The American Dental Association recommends using a strand of floss approximately 18 inches in length. It is important to only use clean floss as you move between the teeth. One of the easiest ways of doing this is by looping each end of the floss around your fingers and beginning to floss with the area closest to one end. If you have never flossed, be sure to ask your dentist for a quick in-person tutorial at your next check-up.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I be flossing?

Yes. The ADA recommends that everyone floss in order to prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Even if you have restorations, such as crowns or veneers, good oral hygiene is essential for prolonging their use and maintaining your oral health.

What types of results should I get from flossing?

You may not experience immediate results from flossing, but over time, your habit will pay off. Flossing can prevent tooth decay, gum disease and tooth loss – all of which can be highly inconvenient and expensive to treat. A piece of floss that costs just pennies could save you thousands of dollars later on.

Is there anything else I should be doing in addition to flossing?

Yes. In addition to flossing, you should be adopting proper brushing techniques and visiting your dentist at least twice per year for examinations and professional dental cleanings.

Electric vs. Manual Toothbrushes

o360team — Tue, 18 Jul 2023 15:13:42 -0700

Preventative dentistry is about more than just visiting your dentist twice yearly for an exam and thorough cleaning. In fact, the majority of your preventative care is done at-home as a part of your normal hygienic routine. Many residents use manual toothbrushes to remove debris and plaque from their teeth. However, electric brushes have become widely popular in recent years, leaving some to wonder whether one type is better than the other.

Did you know…

the American Dental Association does not lean toward one type of brush over the other? It does, however, acknowledge that people with upper body mobility restrictions may better benefit from an electric toothbrush instead of a manual brush. Regardless of which type you decide is right for you, the ADA recommends that all brushes be soft-bristled so as to avoid abrasions that can lead to decay and receding gum lines.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which toothbrush should I be using?

You can effectively brush your teeth with either a manual toothbrush or an electric one. However, the rapid movements of motorized versions may be more effective at removing plaque from the teeth and gum line. If you have questions about which toothbrush is best for you, speak with Dr. Angelica Isaza about it at your next visit. She may recommend an electric brush with an oscillating head or a brush that includes a timer to let you know how long to brush.

What types of results should I be getting from by toothbrush?

Regardless of whether you choose an electric brush or a manual brush, it should be easy for you to maneuver in your mouth and behind your back teeth. If the head is too big, it may not be effectively removing plaque from your teeth.

My electric toothbrush was expensive. Do I need to change it as often as a manual brush?

Yes. Your toothbrush should be replaced at least once every three to four months or whenever you notice fraying. However, most electric toothbrushes come with interchangeable heads. In other words, you won’t need to replace the entire device – only the brush itself.

How to Brush Your Teeth

o360team — Tue, 18 Jul 2023 15:12:04 -0700

Brushing your teeth is probably a standard part of your daily routine, but chances are you aren’t following the American Dental Association’s guidelines for cleaning your teeth properly. The ADA currently recommends that you brush your teeth at minimum of two times each day – preferably morning and night or anytime you eat foods that contain sugar. When you brush, your toothbrush should be tilted at a 45 degree angle to your gum line. As you brush, be sure to remove debris from every surface of the teeth – including the backs of the teeth, near the gum line, and on chewing surfaces. It is also important to brush your tongue, as bacteria can accumulate there and cause malodorous breath.

Did you know…

that the type of toothbrush you use makes a difference in your oral health? The ADA recommends using a soft-bristled toothbrush with a head that is ergonomically proportioned to the inside of your mouth. Many patients erroneously believe that medium or hard-bristle toothbrushes are more efficient; but these brushes can actually cause abrasions to the teeth and gums, making them more vulnerable to decay. The ADA also recommends replacing your toothbrush about four times yearly or whenever the bristles become frayed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I change my brushing habits?

You may need to change your brushing habits if you are experiencing signs of poor oral hygiene. Examples of common symptoms include bleeding or reddened gums, excessive plaque build-up, decaying teeth and receding gum lines. To find out if you are brushing correctly or if you need to change your brushing habits, make an appointment at our office for a full consultation.

What should I expect if I begin brushing my teeth correct?

The benefits of proper tooth brushing techniques may not be experienced immediately, but they are noticeable long-term. Over time, brushing too hard or not brushing enough can produce oral health complications that cannot be reversed and require special treatment. By adopting proper brushing habits, you could avoid expensive dental bills in the future.

Is there anything else I need to do in addition to brushing properly?

Yes. It is important that you also floss daily and use toothpaste that contains fluoride each day. You should also schedule dental exams and professional cleanings in at least twice per year.

Implant Supported Bridge

o360team — Tue, 18 Jul 2023 14:57:32 -0700

An implant-supported bridge is similar to a regular dental bridge, but it is supported by implants and not by natural teeth. It is a non- removable restoration. A minimum of two implants are used to support the missing teeth. Dr. Isaza evaluates the cases to determine the recommended number of implants necessary for the treatment. Several factors play a role when restoring the missing teeth with an implant supported bridge. Sometimes anatomy, esthetic and finances play an important role in the decision of making an implant supported bridge, single implants or a removable restoration.

Achieving Aesthetic Excellence with Metal-Free Partial Dentures: Introducing Reflex™ Plus by Glidewell Dental Labs

Norman Medina DDS — Fri, 16 Jun 2023 09:06:18 -0700

Reflex Plus by Glidewell Dental Lab

Introduction: As a dentist, I understand the importance of providing our patients with aesthetically pleasing dental solutions. When it comes to partial dentures, finding an option that combines functionality and a natural appearance can be a challenge. Fortunately, Glidewell Dental Labs has introduced a groundbreaking product called Reflex Plus, which promises to revolutionize the world of metal-free partial dentures. In this blog post, we will explore the significance of esthetic-looking partial dentures and delve into the exciting features of Reflex Plus, as well as touch upon a few other products in the market, such as Duraflex partials and Valplast partials, that have been used in the past.

The Importance of Esthetic-Looking Partial Dentures: When patients require partial dentures to replace missing teeth, their primary concern is often how the restoration will affect their appearance. As a dentist, we strive to deliver optimal results that not only restore oral function but also enhance the patient’s self-confidence. Esthetic-looking partial dentures play a crucial role in achieving these goals. They blend seamlessly with the patient’s natural teeth, providing a comfortable and visually appealing solution.
Introducing Reflex Plus: The Metal-Free Marvel: Glidewell Dental Labs’ Reflex Plus offers an innovative solution to the quest for esthetic-looking partial dentures. This remarkable product combines cutting-edge technology with exceptional esthetics, providing a superior option for patients in need of partial denture restorations. Here are some key features that make Reflex Plus stand out:

Metal-Free Composition: Reflex Plus is entirely metal-free, which eliminates the appearance of metal clasps commonly found in traditional partial dentures. The result is a restoration that seamlessly blends with the natural teeth, ensuring a harmonious smile.

Exceptional Esthetics: The material used in Reflex Plus offers remarkable translucency, mimicking the appearance of natural teeth. This allows for seamless integration with the patient’s existing dentition, providing a natural smile.

Enhanced Durability: Reflex Plus boasts excellent mechanical properties, ensuring a long-lasting restoration that can withstand the rigors of everyday oral functions. Its resistance to fracture and wear enhances patient satisfaction and reduces the need for frequent repairs or replacements.

Patient Comfort: The lightweight and flexible nature of Reflex Plus makes it incredibly comfortable for patients to wear. The absence of metal clasps eliminates potential discomfort or irritation that can occur with traditional partial dentures.

Embrace the Future with Reflex Plus: As a forward-thinking dentist, it is essential to stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in dental materials and techniques. Reflex Plus by Glidewell Dental Labs represents a significant step forward in the field of esthetic-looking partial dentures. By offering patients a metal-free option with exceptional esthetics, durability, and comfort, Reflex Plus allows you to provide a superior level of care and meet the increasing demand for natural-looking dental restorations.https://youtu.be/d-zFHILZJaI

https://glidewelldental.com/solutions/removable-prosthesis/flippers/reflex-plus

The post Achieving Aesthetic Excellence with Metal-Free Partial Dentures: Introducing Reflex™ Plus by Glidewell Dental Labs appeared first on Seasons of Smiles.

World Oral Health Day 2023: How to Keep Your Teeth Healthy and Beautiful

Matheus Nascimento — Fri, 16 Jun 2023 07:28:40 -0700

Every year on March 20th, people worldwide celebrate World Oral Health Day. This day is dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of oral health and promoting good oral hygiene practices.

The theme for World Oral Health Day 2023 is “Be Proud of Your Mouth.” This theme highlights the importance of maintaining good oral health for your teeth and gums and overall well-being and confidence.

Why is oral health important?

Oral health is an essential part of overall health and well-being. Poor oral health can lead to many problems, from tooth decay and gum disease to more severe health issues like cardiovascular disease, respiratory infections, and dementia.

Maintaining good oral health is not just about having a bright, white smile. It’s also about preventing tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health problems that can cause pain, discomfort, and tooth loss.

How to keep your teeth healthy and beautiful

There are several things you can do to maintain good oral health and keep your teeth healthy and beautiful:

Brush your teeth twice a day
Brushing your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste is essential for removing plaque and preventing tooth decay. Use a soft-bristled brush and brush in a circular motion, paying attention to all surfaces of your teeth and gums.

Floss daily
Flossing is as important as brushing to prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Floss at least once daily to remove food particles and plaque between your teeth and gum line.

Limit sugary and acidic foods and drinks
Sugary and acidic foods and drinks can damage your teeth and lead to tooth decay. Limit your intake of these foods and beverages, and choose healthier options like fruits, vegetables, and water.

Visit your dentist regularly
Regular dental checkups and cleanings are essential for maintaining good oral health. Your dentist can identify problems early on and provide treatment to prevent them from worsening.

Quit smoking
Smoking can cause oral health problems, including tooth discoloration, gum disease, and even oral cancer. If you smoke, quitting is one of the best things you can do for oral health.

By following these simple steps, you can keep your teeth healthy and beautiful and be proud of your mouth!

Final thoughts

World Oral Health Day is an important reminder of good oral health and hygiene. Caring for teeth and gums prevents oral health problems and maintains overall health and well-being. So, take the time to brush, floss, visit your dentist regularly, and be proud of your mouth on World Oral Health Day 2023!

Join the #MouthProud Challenge

https://www.worldoralhealthday.org/mouthproud-challenge

Here are some organizations that are involved in promoting World Oral Health Day 2023:

FDI World Dental Federation

The FDI is the leading organization organizing World Oral Health Day. Their website provides information on the day’s events, resources, and ways to get involved.

Website: https://www.fdiworlddental.org/world-oral-health-day

FDI has created a WOHD smartphone game called ‘Mad Mouths’, available under the same name at Apple Store and Google Play. If you want to view the short WOHD video (it’s fun), it is on You tube at:

World Health Organization

The WHO is a global health organization that promotes health and well-being worldwide. They provide resources and information on oral health, including how to prevent and treat oral diseases.

American Dental Association

The ADA is a professional organization for dentists in the United States. They provide resources and information on oral health for professionals and the public.

Website: https://www.ada.org/publications/ada-news/2021/march/commemorate-fdi-world-oral-health-day-on-march-20

Oral Health Foundation

The Oral Health Foundation is a UK-based charity that promotes oral health awareness and education. They provide resources and information on how to maintain good oral health.

Website: https://www.dentalhealth.org/world-oral-health-day-2023

These are just a few examples of organizations promoting World Oral Health Day 2023. There may be many other organizations involved in your local area or country.

The post World Oral Health Day 2023: How to Keep Your Teeth Healthy and Beautiful appeared first on Seasons of Smiles.

When is your son David joining your practice?

lspindeldds — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 07:33:59 -0700

David finishes his general practice residency July 1rst. Even though he has passed all his licensure exams, He has to wait one -three months for his NYS license. Accordingly he will join our practice in September and probably be seeing patients primarily on Thursdays. He may see pattients on additional days if he is available.
Clearly my staff, myself and David are excited for him to join us and many of my patients are asking me about Davids plans. Many of them have known him since he was a small child who often came to my office to visit us. I would dress him up in a smock , gloves and a mask and introduce him as "Dr. David"
Although it was a "secret fantasy" that someday he would become a dentist, I never really promoted this to David and it was his idea to become a dentist like his father. I couldn't be happier with his progress and look forward to working side by side with him over the next years.

What days are you seeing patients in the office?

lspindeldds — Sun, 21 May 2023 08:52:54 -0700

For the last 5 years I have been teaching at NYU College of Dentistry on Fridays. Recently I started teaching on Thursdays as an attending at the Mount Sinai supervising the residents in their general practice residency program. I changed my office schedule so that for the time being we are open to see our patients Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. My son David is planning on joining the practice sometime this September and he may end up seeing his patients on Thursday or Friday.
Fortunately, even though we have condensed our schedule to three days, it still is fairly easy to book an appointment in our practice since we usually have openings each week and most patients do not have to wait more than a week to see us. Emergencies can still be accommodated sooner if needed.
Recently, I went see one of my doctors and his physician assistant teased me that I am a workaholic. She may have a valid point, since I haven't been slowing down even though I am old enough to be collecting social security. In addition to the work I have already mentioned, I participate in three Spear Study Clubs which awards me with about one hundred hours a year of continuing education credits. The truth is I still love working and making a difference for my patients as well as helping train our next generation of dentists. I find my work is invigorating and still enjoy learning new things and being an active member of my profession.

The show goes on

Ryan Lee — Mon, 31 Oct 2022 06:00:00 -0700

Dear readers,

Every piece of media has its lifespan, and the ASDA Blog is no exception. This entry is the final ASDA Blog post. The ASDA Editorial Board will now solely focus on Contour magazine.

When I was in high school, I used to listen to The Bugle podcast hosted by Andy Zalzman and John Oliver. When Oliver’s HBO show Last Week Tonight blew up, episodes of The Bugle grew increasingly scarce, until one day they announced they would discontinue the show. I felt devastated.

But the show survived in reality and in spirit. Years later, Zaltzman revived The Bugle, which he and rotating guests host. The Bugle also exists in spirit on Oliver’s show. The biting satire that made The Bugle so outrageous now permeates throughout the long rants on Last Week Tonight. The shows may have changed, but the people who made them have not.

Which brings me back to ASDA Blog. I’ve been part of the ASDA Editorial Board for three years, starting in 2020. I witnessed transitions ASDA made when the pandemic hit including Contour shifting from print and digital delivery to a digital-only publication. Despite this change, our writers embraced the new Contour and continued to tell the profound stories of dental students. The same will happen with the ASDA Blog transition. While we will no longer update the blog, we will find a home in Contour for all our blog writers. The spirit of the blog will continue to thrive there.

Let’s take this moment to celebrate the stories we have covered in the blog in recent years. Here are some of my favorites:

“Threads of my white coat” – Ethan Nguyen, Pacific ’24, wrote poetically about what dentistry means to him, using the white coat as a symbol for his life story.
“The importance of the medical illustrator today” – Alan Booth, Pittsburgh ’22, detailed how traditional illustrations help dental students learn anatomy in ways that remain irreplaceable by photography.
“Best podcasts for dental students” – Stephanie Jaipaul, Georgia ’22, honored International Podcast Day with a listicle of podcasts to keep dental students informed about their profession.

As my term on the Editorial Board approaches its own conclusion, I look back at my time with incredible fondness. Serving the Editorial Board has been an opportunity of a lifetime. It opened the door in my dental school education to places outside the clinic and classroom that I never would have imagined. We have a great team. I can’t wait to see what the next Editorial Board will bring and what the future of ASDA publications will look like.

~ Ryan Lee, Texas-Houston ’23, ASDA Editor-in-Chief

The post The show goes on appeared first on ASDA Blog.

Creating your Election Day roadmap

Colton Cannon — Wed, 26 Oct 2022 06:00:00 -0700

It is that time of year again: the leaves are changing color, pumpkin-flavored lattes are back in stock and you’re inundated with political ads from all directions. This November you have the opportunity to cast your vote and participate in the hard-fought civic duty we call “the election system.”

Whether you’re a political novice or a die-hard political activist, your votes are worth the same. Here is how I research candidates and prepare to cast my vote on or before Nov. 8.

First, understand your political beliefs and values. Some people have a clear-cut party belonging. Others fall somewhere in between on the political spectrum. The Pew Research Center quiz on determining your political typology is incredibly helpful. In this quiz, pick your stance on critical issues and topics that are politically relevant. With the information from this quiz, you can get your baseline that can broadly guide your electoral selection.
Find out which candidates you are eligible to vote into office. Use the Sample Ballot Lookup from Ballotpedia. Simply enter your address and the site will construct a sample ballot with the candidates who are running.
Conduct further research on candidates’ stances, voting histories and brief biographies. I often go beyond the Sample Ballot Lookup tool to study the candidates. I seek input and opinions from people I trust and whose advice I value. It’s essential to research all candidates and not pre-select them without the due diligence of investigation.
Understand candidates’ views on issues important to dentistry. The legislators we elect have a direct impact on how we practice dentistry today and in the future. Use ASDA Action’s scorecard feature to see how your congressperson has voted on important dental issues such as the Oral Health Literacy and Awareness Act or the Ensuring Lasting Smiles Act. You can also see if your legislator has co-sponsored or demonstrated their support for various other dental-related bills.
Construct your voting guide. This guide will list the candidates you choose for each respective office. Come Nov. 8, the guide will serve as your roadmap and provide confidence that you are electing the officials that best suit your political beliefs.
Cast your ballot. Your options on how to vote and the voting regulation of your state are critical. Consult vote.gov to view your state’s rules. First, make sure you are registered to vote or live in a state that allows for same-day registration. Once registered to vote, you can determine how you want to vote. Depending on your state and your situation you may qualify for absentee balloting. This allows you to submit your ballot prior to the election date via mail. If you choose to vote in person early or on Election Day, vote.gov will provide your polling place location. Polling places are typically located near your permanent address.

The day arrives on which you are eligible to submit your ballot. You now feel confident and well-informed on the decisions you are making. The vote is cast and you participated in one of the greatest honors of living in a democracy. At this moment, you can feel proud that you have done your civic duty.

This November, the theme of Advocacy Month is Midterm Minute. ASDA is focusing on quick and easy ways to get involved with advocacy (sometimes it takes only 60 seconds). I hope this article gives you the framework and guidance to spend a Midterm Minute and make the most of your voting privileges. Check out what else ASDA has planned for the month.

~ Colton Cannon, Minnesota ’23, Immediate Past President

The post Creating your Election Day roadmap appeared first on ASDA Blog.

A dental quest among the Lakota

Abigail Romano — Wed, 19 Oct 2022 06:00:00 -0700

A little-known but admirable outreach program for dentists, hygienists and dental students is the St. Francis Mission Among The Lakota Dental Clinic in South Dakota. Situated just inside the western border of the Rosebud Indian Reservation, the clinic offers free dental care to the Lakota people. For nine years, the clinic has been serving those in high need of dental care.

When I started dental school at the University at Buffalo, my father and I made a pact that we would do an outreach trip together if we got the opportunity. My father, Dr. Michael Romano, is a general dentist in Liverpool, New York, and a 1985 graduate of UBSDM. Toward the end of my third year, my father read an article about the dental clinic at Rosebud Indian Reservation in the American Dental Association monthly newspaper. It seemed like the perfect opportunity since the clinic is run solely by volunteer dentists across the country.

I presented the information to my school administration. They embraced the opportunity to send a group of fourth-year students and granted us financial support. At the beginning of my fourth year, eight students, my father and Dr. Gambacorta from UB Dental school traveled to St. Francis Mission for a week-long trip.

View of the outside of the St. Francis Mission dental clinic.

The Lakota people were welcoming and grateful to have us. We worked in the clinic alongside a dental hygienist and assistant who were native to the area and knew the community well. We saw patients of all ages with various complex dental needs. Since we were there for only a week, we had to identify what was most critical for each patient and treat them as efficiently as possible.

This trip gave me a new appreciation for what I can do as a general dentist. It was essential to take a big-picture approach to complex cases and at the same appointment address those needs. We performed extractions, restorations, pulpotomies and even biopsied one patient with a suspicious lesion. This outreach trip emphasized the privilege I have as a dentist to significantly impact a community’s healthcare.

Sunrise walk through the neighborhood along the cemetery. Pictured is Dr. Michael Romano.

Not only did the Lakota people graciously accept our dental care, they also welcomed us into their homes and spaces. Our first night there we attended an outdoor pow wow where Native Americans from all over the country in full native dress gathered and participated in traditional dances and ceremonies. Later in the week, we joined a sweat lodge ceremony at the home of one of the workers at the clinic. Inside the hot, darkened domed lodge, we sat close together in a circle, listened to singing and prayer, and connected with ancestors. It was a moving experience. I felt honored to have been welcomed into that sacred space.

Artwork found in the St. Francis Mission dental clinic.

We also toured a museum next to the dental clinic filled with authentic Lakota art and historical artifacts. The guide taught us about the history of the Lakota people and the surrounding Native American tribes that used to occupy the lands. It was eye-opening to hear stories that happened right on my home soil that I had never learned about in my years of education. I will be forever grateful to the Lakota people for welcoming us into their community and sharing their stories.

I am also grateful for everyone who was on this trip with me: my classmates, Dr. Gambacorta and especially my dad. I’m privileged to have a father who is a dentist. Having this professional and personal experience with my father, learning from him and providing care to this community together was a bonding moment. I was reminded why I chose a career path in dentistry in the first place.

~ Abigail Romano, Buffalo ‘23

Featured image: The University of Buffalo dental team outside St. Francis Mission Dental Clinic. Pictured from left to right: Dr. Gambacorta, Dr. Romano, Abigail Romano, Taryn More, Marty Jones of St. Francis Mission, Drew Hanna, Elisabeth Estep, Brooke Thornhill, Olivia Marziale, Pallavi Mathur and Mike Casab.

The post A dental quest among the Lakota appeared first on ASDA Blog.

Dental Blog Updates 7

Why is my denture loose???

Everythings coming up Roses and daffodils?

How do you handle referring cases to a specialist?

What Is Silver Diamine Fluoride?

Why are there so many Manhattan dental offices available?

How are you taking impressions for crown and bridge in your dental practice?

How to market a dental practice in 2025?

Will AI Replace Dentists anytime soon?

Are you still teaching at NYU?

Do you take the new NY State mandated Child abuse course?

Whats new for 2025 in the Practice?

How long do crowns last?

Meet ANNIE AI: Your Front Office’s New Best Friend

Meet ANNIE AI: Your Front Desks Awesome Assistant

Table of Contents

The ANNIE Revolution in Dentistry

ANNIE AI: Enhancing, Not Replacing, Human Connections

Problem: Overwhelming Administrative Tasks

Solution: AI-Powered Task Management

ANNIE AI Answers Office Calls While Your on Vacation

Problem: Missed Opportunities and Patient Frustration

Solution: ANNIE’S Round-the-Clock Availability

Revolutionizing Dental Practices with an AI Phone Assistant

Table of Contents

Meet ANNIE: The Dental AI Phone Assistant that Transforms Patient Communication

1. ANNIE Takes Office Calls While You’re at Dinner

2. You’re Front Desk Won’t be Slammed Anymore

3. Far More Advanced that Integrated Voice Response

4. More Efficient than Outsourced Live Agents

The Future of Dental Practice Interaction: AI Dental WebChat vs. Traditional Models

Table of Contents

Evaluating Web Chat Systems

Typical Chatbots

Live Chat

AI-Powered Chat Agents

What's new in the practice?

16 Google Search Statistics for Dentists to Know

Google Search Statistics for Dentists: What You Should Know

Table of Contents

General Statistics

Almost 92% of the total global search volume comes from Google

The top Google search result receives almost 28% of all clicks online

The average time for a user’s first click is 14.6 seconds

65% of users click on organic Google results

The majority of Google search queries are 3 to 4 words long

More than 61% of searches with a specific intent are conducted on Google

How Gemini AI Chatbot Can Help Dentists

Table of Contents

What is Google’s Gemini AI Chatbot?

Why AI is Essential for Dental Practices

How Google’s AI Can Streamline Your Inbox Management

1. Summarize Long Email Threads

2. Efficient Email Search

3. Contextual Smart Replies

4. Mobile and On-the-Go Access

Perplexity Now Has As Many Searches In a Month As They Did In 2023: How Dentists Can Use Perplexity

How Dentists Can Use Perplexity

Table of Contents

Perplexity’s Meteoric Rise

AI and Search in Dentistry – Why It Matters

Perplexity vs. Google: A Game Changer for Dental SEO?

Key Concepts

Additional Resources

Meet the Presenter:

Adrian Lefler, CEO and Cofounder of My Social Practice

Truth Behind Dentistry: Dental Marketing Masterclass [Recorded Podcast]

15 Dental Website Statistics Dentists Should Know

Dental Website Statistics You Should Know

Table of Contents

General Statistics

More than 93% of website traffic comes from Google

Only about 40% of websites rank on the first page of search engine results

More than 58% of total website traffic comes from mobile

Blogs get you 67% more leads every month

Design Statistics

38% of people report they would stop interacting with a badly-designed website

Social Media and AI Songs for Dentists

Table of Contents

Using AI for Social Media