T-bone Speaks Dentistry

The dental lab–dentist relationship has transformed dramatically over the past 25 years—and it’s evolving faster than ever. From the rise of digital workflows to the pressure of pricing and competition, today’s labs aren’t just making products, they’re providing services, designs, and collaborative support that shape the future of dentistry.   In this episode, T-Bone sits down with BJ Kowalski of RoeDentalLabs to talk about how technology, guided workflows, and AI are reshaping the way dentists and labs work together. You’ll learn why vertical integration doesn’t have to be overwhelming, how labs can meet you wherever you are in your digital journey, and why the future may be less about “working with a lab” and more about “working with a lab designer.”   From trial smiles to full arch workflows, discover the innovations that help dentists deliver better results, faster, while still keeping profitability in check. @02:37 – How the dentist–lab relationship has shifted in the digital age @05:29

Do you ever wonder why some dental practices struggle with case acceptance—even when the clinical work is top-notch? Often, the real issue starts long before the patient ever sits in the chair. The truth is, your front office team may be unintentionally sabotaging big cases without even knowing it. From missed opportunities on the phone to using the wrong words with potential patients, these small mistakes can cost you thousands in lost revenue. In this episode, we break down why your patient’s buying process begins the moment they call your practice—and how training your front office team could be the single most important investment you make this year. You’ll learn how to turn phone calls into powerful first impressions, frame conversations around benefits instead of fear, and set the stage for case acceptance before the consultation even begins. @02:21 – Are You Training the Wrong Team Members First? @03:59 – Why the Front Office Call Is Your True First Impression @09:44 – Why Dentistry Has Changed and

Do you find yourself running a dental practice with great clinical skills—but constant team conflict is draining your energy? Are you frustrated when staff nod in meetings, only for nothing to change later? Do you wish people just got it and kept up with your fast pace? In this episode, we’re getting real about the emotional dynamics inside dental teams and why understanding personality types—especially using tools like the Enneagram—can be the breakthrough you didn’t know you needed. Our guest, Sarah Wallace of Enneagram MBA, helps decode why team communication fails, how leaders unintentionally demotivate great people, and how to tailor your leadership style to actually get buy-in, not burnout. @06:04 - Why Saying "Yes" Changes Nothing @10:15 - Direct Talk That Backfires @19:00 - The Loyal Skeptic @26:11 - Read Patients, Close More Cases @34:52 - Ask This, Boost Case Acceptance @45:59 - When Words Hurt, Not Help Connect with Dr. Tarun Agarwal,DDS  LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/in

Do you ever feel like your dental practice is running at full capacity, but your bank account tells a different story? You're not alone—and more importantly, you’re not stuck. Many dentists fall into a cycle of high-effort, low-return, feeling like they’re working harder than ever but still struggling financially. In this powerful episode of the Dentistry Made Simple podcast, Meredith and T-Bone tackle the four biggest “revenue killers” that prevent dental practices from reaching consistent six-figure months. They share real-world examples, practical scripts, mindset shifts, and laugh-out-loud role-plays that expose the habits and blind spots holding you back. If you're tired of grinding and ready to actually grow, this episode is your roadmap to simpler systems, smarter leadership, and higher revenue—without burning out. @01:46 – Not Having Enough New Patients @03:18 – Making It Easier to Schedule @07:40 – Not Charging Enough for Services @13:46 – Not Doing Enough Per Patient @19:20 – Not Closing the

Do you keep hearing “I’ll think about it” from patients—and wonder what went wrong? The truth is, when patients stall, it’s not them. It’s you. This episode breaks down why treatment acceptance often stalls, what “I’ll think about it” really means, and the systems you need to replace polite rejections with confident yeses.   Join us as we expose the myth that dental case acceptance is about selling, and instead redefine it as leadership, clarity, and building trust. You’ll walk away understanding why confidence, conversation, and consistency—not complexity—are the true game-changers in your dental practice.   @01:12 – What “I’ll think about it” actually means @04:12 – The moment patients start to check out mentally @06:02 – Awareness tools and why photos matter @08:54 – Urgency through scheduling structure @14:00 – What to say when you hear “I’ll think about it” @19:05 – How the 3D Mastermind solves these issues   Connect with Dr. Tarun Agarwal,DDS  LinkedIn : https://www.link

Have you ever walked past your front desk and thought, "That's not how I would have said that to a patient"? Yeah, me too. I used to get frustrated, but then I realized something important—it's not their fault. It's ours as leaders. If our team doesn’t speak with the same confidence and clarity we do, it’s because we haven’t taught them how.   In this episode, I’m walking you through how to build your Practice Language Playbook—a simple but powerful tool to make sure your entire team communicates with alignment, value, and clarity. When your assistant, front desk, and hygienist all speak the same language (yours), your patients trust you more—and they say yes more often.   I’ll also share some of the exact scripts we use, how we train our team through roleplay, and why your language is one of the most important parts of your leadership. If you want your practice to run smoother, this episode is for you.   Hit play now—and let’s align your team one phrase at a time. Want to connect or g

Do you feel like the world of dentistry is shifting faster than you can keep up? Are the rising wages, dwindling hygiene staff, and growing influence of DSOs leaving you wondering what’s next for private practice? In this episode, I sat down with my longtime friend and podcasting pioneer Dr. Alan Mead to unpack a critical and controversial topic that’s sweeping through the profession: “hygiene light.” We dove deep into the Nevada bill that's igniting fiery debates, explored how mid-level providers are reshaping the profession, and discussed how dentists can pivot, survive—and thrive—through these changes. This episode isn’t just about what’s happening—it’s about how we can take control of our future. Whether you’re a seasoned dentist, a new grad, or a hygienist trying to navigate the chaos, this conversation will offer clarity, context, and a solid path forward. Timestamps: @05:20 – What's Actually Happening in Nevada @09:30 – The Hygiene Pay Boom & Shrinking Labor Pool @14:40 – The Medical Mo

Do you feel like the dental industry keeps getting more complicated, with more tech, more demands, and more chaos? You’re not alone—and this week’s episode delivers a refreshing return to simplicity, clarity, and strategy.    After a six-month podcast hiatus, I’m back with a powerful solo episode unpacking the three key shifts that transformed his practice—and a timeless truth that still drives everything he does.   This episode is more than just an update. It’s a masterclass in how to realign your practice with intention, how to recognize patterns of dysfunction before they spiral, and how to lead your team with connection and clarity. Whether you're overwhelmed with new tech, struggling with team alignment, or just feeling off-rhythm—this is your reset button.   Hit play now to reignite your focus and reclaim simplicity in your dental practice.   Join the 3D Growth Club If you're ready to grow your implant, ortho, or airway practice with a real community that gets the gri

In this episode of Dentistry Made Simple, T-Bone is joined by a guest from the Simplify Dentistry podcast for a heartfelt and eye-opening conversation about the evolution of modern dentistry. Together, they dive into how the industry has shifted from mom-and-pop practices to thriving businesses, and what that means for dentists today. They share real stories about navigating the challenges of DSOs, lessons learned from a certain aligner company, and the power of strategic growth when building—or selling—a practice. This isn’t just about dentistry; it’s about embracing change, finding opportunities, and redefining success in a rapidly evolving world. Plus, they offer practical tips you can apply tomorrow to take control of your future and make a lasting impact.   01:12 Dentistry Evolution (Growing and Selling the Practice) 11:40 Earning more with DSOs 16:23 Certain Aligner Company Story 25:03 Who is T-Bone? 36:33 Network Providers 43:17 Tips for others to Apply to their life tomorrow   Conn

In this episode, Dr. Ahmad Al-Hassiny breaks down the game-changing role of digital scanners in modern dentistry. From CEREC and Trios to Medit, Dr. Al-Hassiny talks about how these tools are making single-visit treatments a breeze and improving everything from crowns to hygiene work. He also shares why scanners are now a must-have, especially for full-arch cases. Next is the world of 3D printing and how it’s revolutionizing dental workflows. Dr. Al-Hassiny walks us through top printers like Formlabs, SprintRay, and Accurata, showing how they’re speeding up processes like surgical guides and full-arch prosthetics. But he also gives some solid advice on why you shouldn’t rush into printing permanent crowns just yet—there’s still a lot to consider. Curious about Dr. Ahmad Al-Hassiny’s take on digital scanners? Check out his insights on the topic in his blog here: Institute of Digital Dentistry Blog. @02:40 – Digital Scanners: What’s Hot in the Market Right Now @07:50 – Which Digital Scanner Is Worth Your

3d Dentist Pro App In this episode of Dentistry Made Simple, I’m diving into how simplifying your dental practice can help you achieve more by doing less. I’ll share my strategies for escaping the grind of time-intensive dentistry, cutting down clinical days, and maintaining—or even increasing—your production by focusing on high-value procedures. My goal is to help you design a practice that aligns with your personal and professional goals so you can work smarter, not harder.  Join the 3D Dentist App! Explore tools, resources, and exclusive content to take your dental practice to the next level. Download for free on Google Play or the App Store and connect with nearly 700 dentists working toward smarter dentistry. Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=three.d.dentistspro&hl=en-USiOs: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/3d-dentists-pro/id6495485556  @03:03 - 3D Dentist Pro App@05:11 - The Three Types of Production@07:30 - Earning More by Working Less@10:21 - Escaping Time-

In this episode, we are joined by Amol Nirgudkar to tackle one of the biggest challenges in modern dental practices: maintaining a steady flow of high-value patients and maximizing appointment scheduling efficiency. We explore how digital marketing and direct-to-consumer strategies have transformed patient acquisition while uncovering pitfalls like missed calls—25-30% of which go unanswered during business hours—and low scheduling rates, with only 55-60% of calls leading to appointments. Our guest shares actionable insights on boosting these numbers to 80-85% using tools like AI, ensuring the right patients fill your schedule without compromising your practice’s fit.    @02:32 - Unaddressed Issues in Dentistry: Patient Flow & Missed Calls@05:14 - Training AI to Identify Call Issues & Improve@12:31 - Leveraging DSO Patients@18:00 - Identifying the Right vs. Wrong Leads@25:52 - Using Data to Achieve Success@28:17 - Understanding Costs Connect with Dr. Tarun Agarwal,DDS  LinkedIn : ht

In this episode, we’re joined by Kevin Fryer, co-host of the Very Clinical Podcast and longtime Cleveland Browns fan, to share a surprising milestone—after 35 years in dentistry and at age 61, Kevin took his first-ever two-week consecutive vacation. We explore why it took so long, the fears and challenges of hiring an associate, and how he built a practice that allowed him to step away. Kevin opens up about the mindset shifts, logistical hurdles, and benefits of prioritizing rest and work-life balance. His story is a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to design a career that works for you.   @01:02 - Why Dentists Struggle with Taking a Two-Week Vacation @05:37 - Finally Taking the Leap: The Big Tri @10:31 - How Kevin Prepared to Step Away from the Practice @15:02 - What Happened During the Two-Week Break @18:45 - Key Realizations from the Experience Connect with Dr. Tarun Agarwal,DDS  LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/in/tbonespeaks/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tbonespea

In this episode, I am joined by Dave Roehr of Proceed Financing to discuss the ins and outs of third-party financing in dentistry. We explore how offering flexible financing options can drive revenue and help patients afford the care they need. From choosing the right financing partners to achieving high approval rates and navigating credit scores, Dave shares valuable insights on creating a seamless process for both the practice and the patient. Whether you're new to financing or looking to optimize your current system, this episode is packed with actionable advice! @01:44 - Third Party Financing and Market @10:53 - Factors to look for a Third Party  @20:19 - Why you need Multiple Financing Partners @30:28 - High Approval Rate & Credit Scores @48:10 - Considering Best Practices  @26:23 - Payment Time Frame Connect with Dr. Tarun Agarwal,DDS  LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/in/tbonespeaks/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tbonespeaks Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tbon

In this week’s episode, we’re tackling a topic many of us face: feeling stuck. Whether it’s in your personal life or your practice, hitting a plateau can be frustrating, but it’s also an opportunity for growth. I’ll share insights from my own experiences and coaching calls, exploring how to recognize when you’re stuck, what triggers it, and practical strategies to regain momentum. From refining case acceptance processes to professionalizing your business, we’ll discuss how to push past the low-hanging fruit and take your practice to the next level. Plus, I’ll highlight the shift from running a small DFB (Drill, Fill, Bill) practice to building a scalable, professional operation that reignites your passion and drives sustainable growth. @01:33 - Being Stuck @02:26 - Having Different Mindset @07:30 - Topline and Bottomline Plan @13:56 - Reverse Engineering Plan @19:17 - Evaluating the Team   Connect with Dr. Tarun Agarwal,DDS  LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/in/tbonespeaks/ Facebook: h

In this episode, Meredith and I discuss simplifying the dental business and creating effective team incentives. We believe that dental practice management doesn’t have to be complex and that team members should have clear, measurable ways to earn additional income each month. We revisit the importance of strategic planning and talk about using scorecards to track progress and align incentives with practice goals, emphasizing that well-defined goals and structured bonuses can boost team morale and commitment.   @01:16 – Episode Recap & Updates @02:23 – Creating a Bonus Plan System @05:33 – Introducing Non-Production-Based Bonuses @07:04 – Setting a Quarterly Clinical Focus @10:04 – Designing Effective Team Incentives   Connect with Dr. Tarun Agarwal,DDS  LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/in/tbonespeaks/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tbonespeaks Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tbonespeaks Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tbonespeaks   Who is Dr. Tarun Agarwal?

In this episode, we dive into the world of strategic planning for 2025 and how I’m making the process easier in my practice. I believe it all starts with me getting clear on my financial, clinical, and long-term goals while keeping an eye on the realities we’re facing right now. Once I have that vision, I bring my dentists and practice leaders into the conversation to ensure everyone is on the same page.    We typically spend about an hour outlining the key components together. I also value their feedback—it really helps us fine-tune our strategy. With two months left in the year, now is the perfect time to make adjustments before the new year rolls around.  @04:53 Top Line Revenue @09:16 Where is the revenue going to come from? @12:16 Revenue Breakdown @18:34 Working Internally @20:15 How to Achieve and Track These Goals   Connect with Dr. Tarun Agarwal,DDS  LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/in/tbonespeaks/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tbonespeaks Tiktok: https

In this episode, we dive deep into the fundamentals of case acceptance and the power of small improvements. Often, we focus on big, sweeping changes to move the needle, but it’s the last mile—the extra 1%—that makes all the difference. Join us as we explore how consistently fine-tuning your processes can lead to significant growth, especially as the year-end chaos approaches. We’ll break down practical strategies to enhance patient communication, improve case acceptance, and optimize your practice, all with zero cost to acquire new patients.   Discover how sticking to the basics and refining key areas of your practice can lead to better results down the road.   @03:50 – Four Fundamentals of 3D Dentistry @08:44 – Minimizing Team Mistakes @15:06 – Analyzing the Data @17:05 – Treatment Presentation @22:11 – Marketing Strategies   Connect with Dr. Tarun Agarwal,DDS  LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/in/tbonespeaks/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tbonespeaks Tiktok: https://

In this episode, Meredith and I discuss bringing orthodontics back into our practice after a break during the pandemic. We reflect on the success we had pre-pandemic, managing 60-70 cases annually, and how staff changes and the pandemic led us to refer all ortho cases out. Now, with the growing demand for orthodontic treatments, we’ve decided it’s time to reintegrate ortho into the practice. We talk about the importance of having a dedicated team member, or "champion," to lead the program, our goals for managing 5-10 cases per month, and the strategies we plan to use, including marketing efforts and leveraging new tools to ensure success.   @02:32 Bringing Ortho Back @06:34 Why We’re Starting Again @08:59 Simplified Planning Process @15:32 Clinical Process @17:38 Current Status and Future Goals   Connect with Dr. Tarun Agarwal,DDS  LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/in/tbonespeaks/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tbonespeaks Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tbonespeaks Instagram

In this episode, Meredith and I dive deep into the four key fundamentals of achieving successful case acceptance in dentistry. These core principles are essential for ensuring patients understand their dental health needs and agree to treatment plans. We also discuss how to implement these strategies effectively in practice for optimal results.  Maintaining focus on these four fundamentals is critical for achieving high case acceptance and ensuring a thriving practice. As a dental professional, your communication approach and understanding of your patients' values will shape your success. Don't forget—education should come after case acceptance to create a smoother, more positive experience for your patients. Mastermind Program for January 2025 is sold out, make sure you book for our July 2025 at 3d-dentists.com/application  If you are still reading up to this point, we would like to thank you for listening to our podcast. We are now on our 380th episode and hope you will continue listening