Ash welcomes CJ Carroll from Dental Intelligence, a leading provider of dental analytics software. They discuss the pressing questions many dentists have about practice data—how to interpret analytics reports, which key performance indicators (KPIs) matter most, and whether investing in dental analytics is worth it for your practice.

CJ explains how Dental Intelligence integrates seamlessly with major practice management software like Dentrix, Eaglesoft, and Open Dental to transform complicated data into actionable insights. From tracking provider performance and hygiene reappointment rates to revealing untapped revenue hiding in unconverted treatment plans, CJ breaks down how analytics empower owners to make smarter management decisions. Whether you’re a new dental startup or a seasoned practice owner, this episode sheds light on the real-world benefits of embracing data-driven growth, streamlining workflow, and ultimately maximizing your practice’s potential.

To find out more about Dental Intelligence, visit: https://www.dentalintel.com/

Key Topics Discussed:

• Overview of Dental Intelligence and its analytics tools
• Key performance indicators for dental practices
• Importance of data accuracy and common mistakes
• Onboarding process and ongoing support
• Suitability of analytics for startups versus mature practices
• Capturing lost production and reactivating patients
• Tracking patient flow, attrition, and recaptured patients
• Integrating with practice management systems
• Using analytics for employee bonuses and performance plans

Ash is live at the Southwest Dental Conference, and he welcomes David Mitchell, a third-year dental student at Texas A&M with a background in accounting. David joins the show to ask key questions that many dental students have about transitioning from school to the business side of dentistry. Ash provides guidance on topics including choosing a practice location, building a team of professional advisors, exploring financing options, and the importance of reviewing associateship agreements.

The conversation covers practical steps dental students and new grads can take to better position themselves for professional and financial success. Ash discusses building relationships with legal, accounting, and insurance professionals, and emphasizes tailoring decisions to individual circumstances—whether deciding to open a practice, join a DSO, or remain an associate. Other important topics include managing personal finances, setting up retirement savings, and the differences between working in DSOs versus private practice.

Key Topics Discussed:

Transitioning from dental school to professional practice

• Choosing a practice location and its impact on personal life

• Importance of building a trusted team of legal, accounting, and financial advisors

• How to evaluate and negotiate associateship agreements

• Deciding between opening a practice, joining a DSO, or becoming an associate

• Understanding compensation structures and non-compete clauses

• Differences between DSO/corporate dentistry and private practice

• Managing personal finances and planning for taxes as a new dentist

• Retirement planning options such as IRAs, SEP, and 401k

• Recommended resources and strategies for gaining business knowledge in dentistry

Ash is joined by Kelly Majdan, VP at One Digital and founder of Power Through Wellness. Kelly brings a rare perspective to the conversation, combining retirement planning expertise with wellness coaching experience. The discussion centers on why balancing wealth and health is critical for dental practice owners, both for themselves and their teams.

Ash and Kelly talk through common misconceptions about 401k plans, especially among dental practice owners. They share practical information about the real costs of starting a retirement plan, available tax credits, and how offering benefits like a 401k can help practices stay competitive in today’s job market. The episode also covers how employee wellness connects to financial performance and how stress can impact long-term outcomes for dental teams. Finally, Kelly gives advice on preparing for retirement, outlining steps for dentists who are 10 to 15 years from transitioning out of their practice, including involving the right financial and health professionals.

To find out more and connect with Kelly, visit: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellymajdan/

Key Topics Discussed:

• Connecting health and financial wellness for long-term success
• Misconceptions about starting a 401k in dental practices
• Costs, tax credits, and plan design flexibility for retirement plans
• Employee benefits as tools for recruitment and retention
• The increased awareness and value of 401k plans among Millennial and Gen Z employees
• Integrating wellness initiatives into dental practices
• Addressing burnout and chronic stress in dentistry
• The importance of team strategy and involving experts in planning retirement