Dr. Bicuspid Editor-in-Chief Kevin Henry joins me to discuss some crazy current events! A California dentist has been sentenced to 75 years to life in state prison after what prosecutors called a "reign of terror." The man's crimes included multiple sexual assaults against five female patients and an extern, with victims ranging in age from 19 to 73. Prosecutors said he treated the women "as his playthings," committing the assaults while they were under anesthesia and alone in his office.
What broke the case open was the courage of a dental assistant, who secretly filmed one of the assaults, exposing the abuse and ending years of unchecked violence. The conversation examines how this could happen inside a dental practice where patients should feel safest and the red flags that every dental professional must recognize. From patient safety and sedation oversight to the ethics of working alone with anesthetized patients, this disturbing story forces the industry to confront hard truths about accountability and protection.
Our discussion continues into the state of the dental profession today. A new Delta Dental study shows preventive care has finally returned to pre-pandemic levels, but capacity hasn't caught up. Hygienist shortages continue to strain practices, and legislative moves across states like licensure compacts and the rise of oral preventive assistants aim to fill the gaps.
There's also a sharp look at data trends: claims show a rise in occlusal guards and fillings, signaling more stress-related wear and tear, and new fraud triggers are catching the attention of insurers. Teresa and Kevin unpack how AI, remote admin roles, and shifting workforce models are reshaping the business of dentistry and what every practice owner needs to know to adapt.
🔗 Links Discussed in the Podcast
'Reign of terror' dentist sentenced to 7 decades-plus in prison
Updated research shows preventive dental care has nearly returned to pre-pandemic levels
Chew on This! A Dental Podcast
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Beyond the Operatory Career Workshop: Have you ever wondered what career opportunities in dentistry exist beyond clinical care? Whether you're a dentist, hygienist, assistant, or manager, this full-day, in-person workshop is your chance to explore new paths in speaking, coaching, consulting, and more.
Join Teresa and Angela on March 6th, 2026 in Northern Virginia. Limited to just 20 attendees.
Registration is open. Secure your spot today:
🔗 https://www.beyondtheoperatory.com/
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I created Dental Revenue Network to foster collaboration and networking amongst RCM professionals. Billing company owners and billing professionals will have access to skill building sessions, current carrier news and insurance discussions beyond "what's the code?" Check it out - I hope you'll join! https://dentalrevenuenetwork.mn.co/
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Medical Billing Made Easy! Dental Classroom Online: https://www.dentalclassroomonline.com/
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My insurance course Dental Insurance Design and Management is geared toward those who want to understand the how and why of insurance. As a loyal podcast listener, please use "NTMT" for a $75 courtesy toward your investment.
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Visit odysseymgmt.com to check out my book, webinars and courses.
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Don't forget to check out my other podcast Chew on This - A Dental Podcast!
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