The Golden Age of Orthodontics

Are you ready to elevate your orthodontic practice while sidestepping legal pitfalls? Curious about harnessing AI ethically or managing patient challenges with confidence? Dive into this episode of The Golden Age of Orthodontics with hosts Dr. Leon Klempner and Amy Epstein, joined by Trey Lawrence, CEO of the AAO. We explore essential strategies for today’s orthodontists: navigating the complexities of social media to avoid HIPAA violations, crafting airtight informed consent processes to shield against malpractice, and responding to negative reviews without escalating risks. Trey shares critical advice for new grads on spotting contract red flags, like misleading non-compete clauses, and offers best practices for dismissing disruptive patients while protecting your staff and practice. Plus, we tackle the ethical and legal questions surrounding AI’s growing role in diagnosis, treatment planning, and marketing. There’s never been a better time to be an orthodontist—tune in to stay informed and thrive! IN THIS EPISODE:  * (00:00) Protecting your practice isn't optional, it's essential * (07:27) Discussion of being an introvert and the impact that has on professionals * (12:35) Common legal blind spots for orthodontists are HIPAA violations and Social Media Litigation * (17:38) Trey Lawrence advises new grads or young associates on interviewing and job offers * (20:39) HIPAA laws on negative reviews, malpractice and informed consent * (30:38) Should you dismiss a patient, and if so, what is the best practice * (35:52) What legal and ethical questions should orthodontists consider regarding AI KEY TAKEAWAYS:  * Orthodontists often overlook HIPAA violations on social media, such as disclosing patient information without consent, like naming patients or showing them in posts without proper authorization. * Young orthodontists should avoid mislabeled independent contractor agreements and unclear non-compete clauses, especially in multi-location practices, and seek affordable legal review before signing. * Avoid defending yourself online to prevent HIPAA violations; instead, use a curated response like, "There's been a misunderstanding, please contact our office," to begin an offline conversation. * Ensure informed consent involves direct doctor-patient interaction or at least an offer to discuss with the doctor, and document this process to strengthen legal defense against malpractice claims. RESOURCE LINKS People + Practice  - Website [https://www.pplpractice.com/]  Leon - Email [Leon@pplpractice.com] Amy - Email [amy@pplpractice.com] People + Practice - Email [http://pplpractice.com] AAO - Website [https://www2.aaoinfo.org/login/?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=22455789539&gbraid=0AAAAADM_KiyYBaxro9vXvN7Ndzlw_aQfT&gclid=Cj0KCQjwrPHABhCIARIsAFW2XBM0mx0hWCj5vf3ZfQVKZLTakfEL-eOCqO1GoNx0qMfMs64knHYn-pIaAtrLEALw_wcB] Trey Lawrence - The Orthattorney - Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/theorthattorney/] GUEST BIO:  The AAO is thrilled to announce Trey Lawrence's appointment as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective March 1, 2024. Mr. Lawrence, a proven executive at the AAO, has successfully led the association’s advocacy and legal efforts and is poised to lead the organization to its next chapter of growth and innovation.  “Trey Lawrence was a clear choice, and we are thrilled to have him take on the role as CEO,” said Myron Guymon, DDS, MS, AAO President. “We are confident that he is the perfect leader to guide the AAO into the future,” continued Dr. Guymon. “His strategic vision, strong leadership skills, and a commitment to collaboration will play an instrumental role in advancing our strategic plan and ensuring the continued success of the orthodontic specialty.”  Mr. Lawrence has a distinguished career spanning nearly 25 years in law practice and advocacy. Most recently, he served as vice president and general counsel for the AAO, where he led the AAO’s advocacy program to unprecedented successes in the AAO’s history, in addition to leading the AAO’s legal team. For the past five years, Mr. Lawrence has represented the AAO before members of Congress, federal regulatory agencies, state legislatures, state dental boards, state attorneys general, and other organizations throughout dentistry and healthcare.  Throughout his career, Mr. Lawrence has demonstrated a strong commitment to zealous advocacy for clients and, for the last five years, on behalf of AAO members and their patients, making him a perfect fit for the AAO’s mission.   “I am honored to be appointed as the new CEO of the AAO,” said Mr. Lawrence. “I am passionate about the field of orthodontics and firmly believe in the AAO’s mission to advance the art and science of orthodontics through education, advocacy, and research. The last five years have been the highlight of my career working closely with the AAO community, including our dedicated members, Board of Trustees, and staff, and I look forward to continuing this work to further strengthen the association and ensure its continued success in the role of CEO.”  KEYWORDS: Golden Age of Orthodontics, Orthodontics, Orthodontic Practice, elevate your orthodontic practice, AI in Orthodontics, American Association of Orthodontics, AAO, Trey Lawrence, TheOrthAttorney, Legal Pitfalls, patient challenges, Dr. Leon Klempner, Amy Epstein, Practice Strategies, HIPAA, HIPAA Violations, consent processes, harnessing AI ethically, AI Diagnostics, AI treatment planning, AI Marketing, stay informed, Introverts, proper authorization, legal review, young associates, contract red flags, non-compete clauses, legal pitfalls, HIPAA laws, independent contractor agreements, best practice, offline conversation, document this process, prevent HIPAA violations, strengthen legal defense,  malpractice claims, patient information, legal and ethical questions, patient challenges, Social Media Litigation, Malpractice, Patient Information, Consent Issues, Non-Compete Clauses, Independent Contractor, Contract Review, Legal Blind Spots, Online Reviews, Negative Reviews, Curated Response, Offline Communication, Informed Consent, Malpractice Defense, Doctor-Patient Interaction, Documentation, Patient Dismissal, Disruptive Behavior, Staff Protection, Ai Ethics

What if you could cut appointment times nearly in half and reduce total visits without sacrificing results? On this episode of The Golden Age of Orthodontics, Dr. Leon Klempner and Amy Epstein talk with Dr. Brandon Owen, founder of KLOwen Braces, about the power of digital customization, indirect bonding, and how to ease your practice into next-gen efficiency. Don’t miss this conversation to explore how tech changes the game for patients and doctors, direct-printed brackets, and self-ligating systems. Remember, there has never been a better time to be an orthodontist!  IN THIS EPISODE:  * (00:00) Introduction * (05:43) Dr. Owen shares his experience with digital customization and indirect bonding * (13:27) How do you customize if you are not printing a bracket * (18:55) Easing a practice into accepting this workload shift as advantageous * (26:33) Dr. Owen talks about two different pathways of implementation  * (33:48) The system cuts the number of visits from 18 to 10  * (38:50) Discussion of the self-ligating (SL) bracket KEY TAKEAWAYS:  * Combining customized appliances with digital indirect bonding dramatically streamlines treatment. By digitally planning bracket placement and tailoring prescriptions to individual tooth morphology, orthodontists can reduce treatment time, save visits (up to seven in some cases), and minimize chair time and adjustments—ultimately improving patient and doctor experiences. * Instead of printing custom brackets, KLOwen’s system is customized using advanced digital planning tools. This allows orthodontists to reverse engineer ideal outcomes and apply precise bracket positioning and prescriptions without expensive manufacturing, making the technology more accessible for every patient, not just those willing to pay a premium. * The real value in custom fixed appliances and aligner technology isn’t just about faster treatment; it’s about easier and more efficient appointments. By minimizing hands-on doctor time and leveraging remote monitoring, orthodontists can drastically reduce unnecessary in-office visits and reduce their own clinical burden. RESOURCE LINKS People + Practice  - Website [https://www.pplpractice.com/]  Leon - Email [Leon@pplpractice.com] Amy - Email [amy@pplpractice.com] People + Practice - Email [http://pplpractice.com] KLOwen Braces - Website [https://klowenortho.com/] Dr. Owens - Email [brandon@klonortho.com] GUEST BIO:  Brandon Owen, DDS, MS, is President and Founder of KLOwen Braces and a practicing orthodontist at the Owen Orthodontic Center in Lakeway, TX. He won the OrthoInnovator Award in 2019 from the American Association of Orthodontists, Honorable Mention for the AAO OrthoInnovator Award in 2024, and has created eight original patents and numerous continuation patents.   Dr. Owen is a Board-Certified Orthodonticist and a member of the Angle Society. He also consults for over a dozen digital orthodontic companies and conducts research at the University of Alberta on the OSIM as an adjunct faculty member. Dr. Owen named his company KLOwen in memory of his oldest son, Keller Logan Owen, who passed away suddenly in 2011.

Welcome to The Golden Age of Orthodontics, hosted by Dr. Leon Klempner and Amy Epstein. As GP referral models shift and corporate dental groups expand, more pediatric dentists and orthodontists are joining forces to stay competitive. But is this model right for everyone? Today, we’re joined by Dr. Chris Teeters, an orthodontist who collaborates with his wife, Dr. Morgan Teeters, a pediatric dentist. They’ll share the benefits and challenges of integrating their specialties while maintaining separate brands. We’ll also discuss marketing strategies, referral dynamics, and the balance of business and marriage. Plus, we’ll highlight the importance of in-person connections through events like the Mother of Pearl Conference. Register now for the early bird discount. Remember, there has never been a better time to be an orthodontist! IN THIS EPISODE:  * (04:52) Blending an orthodontic and a pediatric practice and working with your spouse * (08:57) The advantages and disadvantages of two practices in the same building  * (13:33) Discussion on referrals between their practices and marketing * (17:39) Dr. Teeters shares advice on engaging in a combined orthodontic and pediatric practice concept * (19:27) Discussion of the Mother of Pearl Conference and the Orthodontic Pearls podcast KEY TAKEAWAYS:  * Dr. Chris Teeters and his wife, Dr. Morgan Teeters, have successfully integrated orthodontics and pediatric dentistry under one roof while maintaining separate brands. This model fosters referrals between the two specialties and ensures continuity of care for young patients transitioning from pediatric dentistry to orthodontics. * Their desire to serve both children and adults drove them to keep their practices separate. The pediatric practice has a superhero-themed child-centered environment, while the orthodontic office has a spa-like aesthetic, making it more appealing to adult patients. * While online podcasts like Orthodontic Pearls provide valuable clinical insights, live conferences—such as the Mother of Pearl Conference—offer a unique opportunity for orthodontists to network, learn from top speakers, earn CE credits, and build lasting relationships.  RESOURCE LINKS People + Practice  - Website [https://www.pplpractice.com/]  Leon - Email [Leon@pplpractice.com] Amy - Email [amy@pplpractice.com] People + Practice - Email [http://pplpractice.com] Orthodontic Pearls - Podcast [https://open.spotify.com/episode/3vQHyUOtF2mQAA4jfRR7wQ] Dr. Chris Teeters - Email [christeeters@gmail.com] Dr. Chris Teeters - Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/TeetersOrthodontics] Mother of Pearl Conference - Register for Early Bird Rates - Website [https://orthodonticpearls.org/mopc-2025/] Call Dr. Teeters at 415-608-6148

Welcome to The Golden Age of Orthodontics, the podcast that helps orthodontists compete on expertise and trust. Hosted by Dr. Leon Klempner and Amy Epstein, this show explores technology and strategies shaping modern orthodontics. In this episode, Dr. Adam Reynolds shares how Grin’s remote monitoring transformed his practice, improving efficiency, patient care, and growth. Learn why he chose Grin over other platforms, how a dedicated remote care team enhances treatment, and why differentiation is key to attracting new patients. Plus, hear real patient feedback on how Grin improves accessibility, convenience, and outcomes. Thinking about remote monitoring? This episode has what you need to know. Remember—there has never been a better time to be an orthodontist! IN THIS EPISODE:  * [4:59] Dr. Adam Reynolds reveals the vision for his practice: Orthodontic Design Co. * [10:38] Why Dr. Reynolds chose Grin remote monitoring system and implementation  * [16:35] How does Dr. Reynolds promote patient–centered care * [20:41] Dr. Reynolds discusses the ROI of overall business growth and how they maximize Grin * [26:36] Setting your practice apart and takeaways from patients KEY TAKEAWAYS:  * Custom digital braces, aligner therapy, and remote monitoring aren’t just innovations—they’re game-changers for orthodontic efficiency, treatment planning, and patient care. * A well-executed remote monitoring system improves patient experience by providing continuous support, reducing unnecessary visits, and making care more accessible. * True differentiation comes from aligning innovations with patient priorities. Direct engagement and feedback ensure technologies like digital monitoring enhance their experience in ways that truly matter. RESOURCE LINKS People + Practice  - Website  [https://www.pplpractice.com/] Leon - Email [Leon@pplpractice.com] Amy - Email [amy@pplpractice.com] People + Practice - Email [http://pplpractice.com] Ortho Design Co. - Website [https://orthodesignco.com/orthodontic-expert/] All In Orthodontic Practice Start Up - YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxitKOFl72o25CQANCjLeGg/videos] BIOGRAPHY:    Dr. Adam Reynolds is the visionary founder of Orthodontic Design Co., based in Madison, Alabama. Passionate about creating confident smiles, he has built a reputation for delivering cutting-edge orthodontic care tailored to each patient’s unique needs. Dr. Reynolds emphasizes the importance of personalized treatment plans, leveraging the latest technology and innovative techniques to achieve exceptional results. His practice is built on a foundation of patient-first values, ensuring every individual feels cared for, informed, and comfortable throughout their orthodontic journey. An award-winning artist, Dr. Reynolds brings a unique creative perspective to orthodontics, designing custom braces and crafting distinctive treatment experiences. His ability to blend science and artistry sets Orthodontic Design Co. apart as a leader in innovative orthodontic care. Beyond the clinic, Dr. Reynolds is a strong advocate for patient education and digital transformation in dentistry. His mission is to merge science, technology, and artistry to create confident, lasting smiles—one patient at a time.

Welcome to The Golden Age of Orthodontics, the podcast that keeps orthodontists ahead of the curve in innovation and patient care. Join hosts Dr. Leon Klempner and Amy Epstein as they explore groundbreaking advancements shaping the future of orthodontics. In today’s episode, they welcome Dr. Neil Warshawsky, founder of Get It Straight Orthodontics, to discuss the transformative impact of direct 3D printing and digital workflows. Together, they delve into the revolutionary changes brought by this technology, from producing pre-polished clear aligners and nightguards to the role of teledentistry in enhancing patient care. The discussion highlights the environmental necessity of reducing waste through direct printing and recycling practices. There has never been a better time to be an orthodontist. IN THIS EPISODE:  * [5:20] Dr. Neil shares his background and contributions to orthodontics * [7:11] Exploring the new wave of direct printing technology * [17:06] Predictions for the future of aligners and direct printing versus thermoforming * [24:33] The benefits of Ortho FX nighttime aligners * [31:14] The role of teledentistry and the importance of patient comfort KEY TAKEAWAYS:  * Revolutionary 3D printing has transformed orthodontics by producing clear aligners and nightguards with pre-polished surfaces, streamlining the process and reducing waste compared to traditional thermoforming methods. * The daily production of millions of non-recyclable aligner models highlights the need for sustainable practices, such as direct printing and recycling initiatives, to minimize environmental impact. * Customization and patient-centered approaches in orthodontics are essential for achieving better outcomes. Leveraging innovative technology like teledentistry and custom-made appliances addresses diverse patient needs, including those with special requirements. Consistency and comfort are key factors for success with aligner therapy. RESOURCE LINKS People + Practice  - Website [https://www.pplpractice.com/]  Leon - Email [Leon@pplpractice.com] Amy - Email [amy@pplpractice.com] People + Practice - Email [http://pplpractice.com] Dr. Neal - Email [drneal@getitstraight.com] Dr. Neal - LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/neil-warshawsky-98b6a76]