Digital orthodontics is transforming the specialty, and in this episode of the Golden Age of Orthodontics, hosts Dr. Leon Klempner and Amy Epstein sit down with Align Technology CEO Joe Hogan to explore what's next for orthodontics. Joe Hogan discusses 3D printed aligners, AI in orthodontics, and how clear aligner technology continues to evolve. He addresses pricing concerns and competitive positioning, and reveals Align's roadmap for direct printing, promising greater design flexibility and efficiency. Learn how AI technology enhances orthodontic treatment planning and discover why Hogan believes technology will expand—not replace—the orthodontic profession.

What you will Learn in this Episode:

✅ How digital orthodontics and 3D printing technology are revolutionizing aligner manufacturing, with Align's development of variable wall thickness aligners that mimic the orthodontic digital workflow advantages of traditional brackets while reducing waste by 95%.

✅ The strategic reasons behind Invisalign cost comparison with competitors, including how comprehensive aligner treatment pricing differs globally.

✅ Why orthodontic IP protection matters for innovation, and how Align's billion-dollar investment in ClinCheck software and iTero scanner technology creates efficiency tools that reduce weekend treatment planning time for practitioners.

✅ Joe Hogan's perspective on AI in orthodontics and whether technology will replace orthodontists—plus how orthodontic practice efficiency improvements will actually expand the marketplace and enhance the profession rather than diminish it.

Subscribe to the Golden Age of Orthodontics and our sister podcast, Practice Talk, hosted by Lacie Ellis, wherever you listen to stay updated on orthodontic innovation and real-world practice strategies. Visit People in Practice for more insights and to connect with our team for practice growth solutions.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 Joe Hogan, Align Technology CEO, discussing the future of digital orthodontics and clear aligner technology innovation

07:18 Align's strategic focus on clear aligner therapy versus custom digital braces, and addressing the resurgence of brackets among younger patients

10:25 Joe defends Align’s IP, noting decades of innovation and significant R&D investment

13:36 Invisalign cost comparison explained: why US pricing differs from international markets, new flexible comprehensive aligner treatment options and marketing questions

22:56 Direct 3D printed aligners roadmap: CubiCure acquisition, bio-based resin development, variable wall thickness advantages, and orthodontic practice efficiency gains

28:58 AI in orthodontics and the future of the profession: why technology enhances rather than replaces orthodontists and expands the adult patient marketplace

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

💎 Align Technology is pioneering 3D printed aligners with variable wall thickness capabilities through their CubiCure acquisition, enabling customized force application—40 mils on molars versus 10 mils on incisors—that mimics orthodontic digital workflow advantages of traditional brackets while eliminating 95% manufacturing waste and promising future cost efficiencies for practitioners.

💎 Invisalign treatment planning efficiency has dramatically improved with 20-25% of cases now "touchless" requiring minimal orthodontist input at the end, thanks to ClinCheck software, iTero scanner technology, and cloud-based systems that free doctors from weekend treatment planning sessions and enable better remote orthodontic...

Early orthodontic treatment is transforming how practitioners approach phase one treatment for growing patients. In this episode of the Golden Age Of Orthodontics, hosts Dr. Leon Klempner and Amy Epstein welcome Dr. Don Spillers, a board-certified orthodontist and leading voice in Invisalign First therapy. Dr. Spillers shares how clear aligners for kids are revolutionizing pediatric orthodontics, offering superior compliance, better hygiene, and remarkable arch development without traditional metal appliances. The conversation explores the business impact of treating patients at age seven versus only offering observation, the role of digital orthodontics in the growth of modern practice, and the best age to start orthodontic treatment for children.

What you will Learn in this Episode:

• How early orthodontic treatment with Invisalign First delivers superior patient compliance and clinical outcomes compared to traditional orthodontic appliances like palatal expanders and headgear

• The business impact of implementing aligner therapy for growing patients – including how observation and recall strategies may be costing your practice significant patient attrition to competitors

• Why digital orthodontics is revolutionizing phase one treatment with innovations like the Invisalign palatal expander, mandibular advancement wings, and complete digital workflow integration

• How treating children during active growth phases supports airway development and arch development, often eliminating the need for primary or permanent tooth extractions

Subscribe to the Golden Age of Orthodontics and our sister podcast, Practice Talk, hosted by Lacey Ellis, wherever you listen to stay updated on orthodontic innovation and real-world practice strategies. Visit People in Practice for more insights and to connect with our team for practice growth solutions.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 Introduction to early orthodontic treatment debate, the evolution of phase one treatment with clear aligners and personal insights from Dr. Leon and Amy Epstein

02:34 Meet Dr. Spillers

09:55 Dr. Don Spillers' journey from Invisalign skeptic to faculty member, teaching digital orthodontics and aligner therapy worldwide

15:43 Patient experience and business impact of implementing Invisalign First – including compliance advantages and practice growth from 30% early intervention orthodontics

19:21 Clinical innovations, including Invisalign palatal expander, mandibular advancement wings, and CBCT integration, showing bone change and airway benefits

28:00 The marketing reality of observation versus treatment – why delaying orthodontic treatment leads to patient attrition and the future of digital pediatric orthodontics by 2030

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Early orthodontic treatment with Invisalign First offers a complete digital workflow from scanning to retention, with new tools including the Invisalign palatal expander, mandibular advancement wings, and occlusal blocks – providing every appliance needed to treat growing patients without traditional metal devices

• Children ages 7-8 demonstrate superior compliance compared to teenagers, with parents reporting kids remind them when it's time to change aligners – plus treatment causes no pain, allows normal eating and sports, and improves hygiene compared to traditional orthodontic appliances

• Practices implementing phase one treatment with aligner therapy experience significant business growth, as observation strategies lead to substantial patient attrition to competitors – moms want immediate...

Clear aligners, digital workflows, and orthodontics shape the future of dental care. Dr. Leon Klempner and Amy Epstein, hosts of the Golden Age of Orthodontics podcast, explore innovations like clear aligners and lab partnerships with Darren Buddemeyer, CEO of DynaFlex. How do technology and trust-based relationships drive practice efficiency? You will hear the answer to that question and discover how labs evolve from vendors to partners, supporting orthodontists with advanced tools and collaboration to thrive in a competitive landscape.

What you will Learn in this Episode:

✅How digital orthodontic workflows enhance practice efficiency in modern orthodontics.

✅ The role of clear aligner systems and AI in overcoming corporate competition and practice consolidation.

✅ Benefits of lab partnerships with advanced 3d printing and CAD/CAM technology.

✅ Building trust-based relationships for innovation in remote monitoring.

✅ Evolving from vendors to partners using in-house printing and digital workflows.

Subscribe to the Golden Age of Orthodontics and our sister podcast, Practice Talk, hosted by Lacey Ellis, wherever you listen to stay updated on orthodontic innovation and real-world practice strategies. Visit People in Practice for more insights and to connect with our team for practice growth solutions.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 Clear aligners, AI, and digital workflows in orthodontics

09:13 Darren's journey at DynaFlex emphasizes trust-based relationships and team growth in orthodontics

16:52 Digital orthodontic workflows driving practice efficiency amid corporate competition and DSOs

20:40 DynaFlex and proprietary product development

25:33 Lessons on adopting 3d printing, AI, and clear aligner systems ahead of the curve for lab partnerships

29:50 Trust-based relationships are key to a successful practice

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

💎 Digital workflows and clear aligners are transforming orthodontics for better practice efficiency.

💎 DynaFlex’s lab partnership leverages CAD/CAM technology and 3d printing to support orthodontics.

💎 Digital orthodontic workflows enhance practice efficiency against corporate competition.

💎 Early adoption of AI and clear aligner systems strengthens lab partnerships in orthodontics.

ABOUT THE GUEST:

Darren Buddemeyer is the CEO of DynaFlex, an orthodontic and dental sleep medicine manufacturing company bringing bright smiles and a good nights’ sleep to thousands of people worldwide. Darren took the reins of DynaFlex 30 years ago and grew it from a very small lab to a major manufacturer of orthodontic products, orthodontic appliances and dental sleep medicine devices.

Darren learned the value of hard work from a young age. He started working at DynaFlex at the young age of 14, doing odd jobs at the lab. Every week, Darren gave his next-door neighbor – who worked not too far from the company’s lab – $10 in gas money so he could get a ride to work.

Those early lessons in the value of a hard day’s work would eventually pay dividends. Today, during Mr. Buddemeyer’ s tenure, DynaFlex has become one of the leading companies in the dental industry. Its reach is worldwide.

Darren Buddemeyer - LinkedIn

Dynaflex - Website

Join Dr. Leon Klempner and Amy Epstein as they interview Dr. Scott Law, a trailblazing Orthodontist, Philanthropist, and Entrepreneurial Spirit behind Smile Doctors. From humble beginnings to leading a 550-location organization, Dr. Law shares how leadership and culture fuel success in orthodontics. His insights on branding, authenticity, and mentorship, paired with practical tips for navigating technology expenses and fostering relationships, make this episode a must-listen for orthodontists seeking practice growth and a lasting impact through coaching and philanthropy. Remember, as Dr. Leon always says, “There has never been a better time to be an orthodontist!”

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (00:00) Introduction
• (04:04) Discussion on philanthropy: Smile Rescue and Mount Kisco Childcare Center
• (07:20) Dr. Scott Law, co-founder of Smile Doctors, the largest OSO with over 550 locations
• (11:14) Smile Doctors' growth from a single practice to a billion-dollar organization, emphasizing culture and leadership
• (15:19) “Speed of the Leader, Speed of the Team," linking leadership pace to team performance
• (18:04) Overhead, staffing costs, technology expenses and sound business strategies
• (21:46) Branding as a reflection of practice culture, stressing authenticity to attract patients
• (27:20) Dr. Law stresses relationships and systems for private practices to thrive with OSOs
• (29:43) Dr. Law shares his podcast and offers coaching for orthodontists

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Strong mentorship, authentic leadership, and a values-driven culture are essential for lasting success in orthodontics and dentistry.
• Innovation and meaningful partnerships fuel sustainable business growth while leaving a positive legacy in the community.
• Aligning authenticity, values, and influence ensures both professional excellence and personal fulfillment.

RESOURCE LINKS:

People + Practice - Website

Leon - Email

Amy - Email

People + Practice - Email

About Smile Doctors | Family Orthodontists in Over 25 States

Scott Law - Co-Founder/CCO at SmileDoctors | LinkedIn

Smile Doctors Off Mute - Podcast

KEYWORDS: Orthodontics, Leadership, Practice, Culture, Philanthropy, Entrepreneurial Spirit, OSO, Team Performance, Digital Orthodontics, Practice Growth, Staffing Costs, Technology Expenses, Overhead, Branding, Authenticity, Relationships, Mentorship, Coaching, Dr. Scott Law, Smile Doctors, Smile Doctors Off Mute Podcast, Golden Age of Orthodontics, Practice Talk, Smile Rescue

Today on the Golden Age of Orthodontics, we’ll explore the controversial topic of early orthodontic treatment. Dr. Daniel Grob, a board-certified orthodontist with over 40 years of experience, discusses the benefits and challenges of early intervention. He emphasizes the importance of developing facial width and addressing oral habits in young patients.

Dr. Grob challenges traditional views on early treatment, arguing that cone beam X-rays have changed how orthodontists assess patients. He focuses on creating width for future development rather than just straightening teeth. Dr. Grob aims to complete phase one treatment in 15 months or less and phase two in 18 months or less.

The discussion covers the prevalence of oral habits like mouth breathing and nail biting in young patients seeking early treatment. Dr. Grob shares insights on educating parents and general dentists about the signs of maxillary deficiency and the benefits of early intervention.

The episode also addresses the marketing aspects of promoting early orthodontic treatment. Dr. Grob emphasizes the importance of building relationships with pediatric dentists and other specialists for referrals. The hosts discuss strategies for reaching parents directly through educational advertising. The conversation concludes with clinical advice for younger practitioners considering early treatment.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (00:00) Intro: Early orthodontic treatment debate
• (02:28) Meet Dr. Daniel Grob
• (10:14) Cone beam X-rays changed approach to early treatment
• (14:47) Parent demand and concerns driving early ortho
• (16:49) Prevalence of oral habits in early treatment patients
• (24:42) Partnering with pediatric dentists for referrals
• (29:51) Evaluating transverse dimension and expansion needs
• (33:37) Compliance with Invisalign for young children
• (34:59) Resources to learn more about pediatric orthodontics
• (37:51) Closing thoughts and call for listener feedback

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Early orthodontic treatment is about more than just straightening teeth. Dr. Grob’s focus is on developing facial width and balance, which can lead to better long-term outcomes. Using cone beam imaging has revolutionized how he approaches early treatment by allowing him to assess the transverse dimension more accurately.
• Oral habits play a significant role in malocclusions. Nearly half of the patients Dr. Grob sees for early treatment have some type of habit like mouth breathing or nail biting that impacts their dental development. Identifying and addressing these habits is crucial for successful early intervention.
• Partnering with pediatric dentists and educating parents about the benefits of early treatment has been key to Dr. Grob’s practice's success. By starting treatment between ages 6-9 when appropriate, we can often help avoid more complex interventions later on and simplify the overall orthodontic process for many patients.

RESOURCE LINKS

People + Practice - Website

Leon - Email

Amy - Email

People + Practice - Email

The Pediatric Orthodontist Facebook Group

KEYWORDS: orthodontics, golden age of orthodontics, early orthodontic treatment, pediatric orthodontics, transverse dimension, oral habits, cone beam x-rays, phase one treatment, facial balance, orthodontic practice growth, non-extraction orthodontics, orthodontic marketing, pediatric...

Let's flip the script! Typically, Dr. Leon Klempner and Amy Epstein pose the tough questions, delving into the latest trends and innovations that shape the world of orthodontics. But on this special episode of The Golden Age of Orthodontics, they're in the hot seat! With their podcast nearing an incredible 1.5 million views, they've invited Alison Werner, the sharp editor-in-chief of Orthodontic Products, to turn the tables and get their story.

Tune in as Alison uncovers the journey of "People in Practice" and how this father-daughter duo built a platform dedicated to helping orthodontists not just survive, but truly thrive in this golden age. Remember, as Dr. Leon always says, “There has never been a better time to be an orthodontist!”

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (00:00) Intro: Let's Flip The Script!
• (03:30) Meet Alison Werner
• (05:00) The genesis of starting the Golden Age of Orthodontics, renaming it to reflect a thriving industry and achieving nearly 1.5 million views
• (10:33) Father-daughter duo in business and the dynamics of family working together
• (14:03) Differentiating client practices with digital tools, focusing on patient benefits and favorite guests
• (26:02) The different types of orthodontic practices that People + Practice serves
• (30:03) The shift from DIY marketing to professional guidance
• (32:23) Subscribe to Orthodontic Products magazine

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• The podcast's shift from "Survival Guide" to "Golden Age of Orthodontics" signifies a reframe from merely coping with industry changes to recognizing and leveraging opportunities for growth and prosperity.
• Effective orthodontic marketing hinges on highlighting patient benefits derived from technology, not just the technology itself. The focus should be on the improved experience, not only the advanced equipment.
• People + Practice offers specialized digital marketing strategies designed to meet the distinct needs of orthodontic practices at every stage—from startups and those undergoing transitions to established practices seeking renewed growth and even those preparing for sale. In today's rapidly evolving orthodontic landscape, professional guidance is essential as relying on outdated methods or untrained staff is no longer sufficient to compete and ensure sustained growth effectively.

RESOURCE LINKS

People + Practice - Website

Leon - Email

Amy - Email

People + Practice - Email

Ep. 67 - Is Align Technology Still Committed to Orthodontists

Ep. 72 - Protect Your Practice With Trey Lawrence

Ep. 63 - Practice Embezzlement, What You Need to Know With Financial Forensic CPA David Harris

Ep. 59 - The Past, Present and Future of Orthodontics with Chris Benson

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

Leon - Email

Amy - Email

People + Practice - Email

AAO - Website

Trey Lawrence - The Orthattorney - Instagram

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...

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

Leon - Email

Amy - Email

People + Practice - Email

KLOwen Braces - Website

Dr. Owens - Email

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.