Where Should I Live & Practice?
Every graduating orthodontic resident faces this question. All react differently based on who they are and what they want but most fall into one of two broad categories. Let’s discuss the options lo...
The Wind of Change
As a counter to what was put fourth in the Winds of Change article published in Orthodontic Products, I would like to offer a few thoughts. This article appears to be a promo for the mutability an...
If I Could Go Back
I’m often asked, “Knowing what you know now, what would you tell yourself on the day you graduated ortho? Thinking about this is a great exercise and I keep a list that I look at/update often...
Satisfaction Guaranteed- Scripting For Post-Debond Problems
When I finished residency in 2004 I bought a tiny little practice in Jonesboro, Arkansas. I was scared to death and my wife and I were happy to live in Arkansas instead of the East Coast where I grew ...
Let it Go.
By: Dr. Kyle Fagala As a certifiable control freak, this has been one of the hardest lessons I’ve had to learn. As orthodontists, we routinely fret about 2 degrees of incisor rotation or a 1 mm midl...
Do You Want Braces Back On?? – Retainer Scripting
We work so hard to get a great smile and occlusion for our patients. The patients and parents invest a ton of money and time in getting the smile of their dreams. We are all so happy the day the brace...
You Finished Early. Do I Get Money Back? – Scripting
As illogical as it is, we orthodontists occasionally have to deal with patients who expect money back when we finish early. There are several ways to handle this issue easily and with no stress. The e...
How To Deal With Ortho Emergency Calls – Scripting
Ring, Ring… Your office: Hello, Dr. Smith’s office. How may I help you? Mom: My daughter has an emergency and we need to get in to see the doctor. Your office: Oh, I’m so sorry to hear that. Is ...
Achieving Repair Zen (scripting included)
We all have to deal with them. It happens daily in the orthodontic office. What am I talking about? Broken brackets! Though we orthodontists make a huge deal out of the inevitable, broken brackets are...
Getting Mom to Say “Yes” to Auto-Draft (scripting included)
Few things strike terror into the hearts of orthodontists and TCs more than the idea of asking people for their bank account or credit card info to set up a recurring payment. One possible exception i...