Welcome to The Golden Age of Orthodontics, the podcast that keeps orthodontists ahead of the curve in innovation and patient care. In today’s episode, hosts Dr. Leon Klempner and Amy Epstein are joined by Jose Hogan, President and CEO of Align Technology They delve into how Align is reshaping the future of orthodontics with breakthrough technologies and digital solutions. Joe shares insights on how orthodontists can embrace the digital shift, addressing the challenges and benefits of transitioning to digital workflows. From AI and 3D printing advancements to reducing treatment times and minimizing office visits, this conversation looks into the transformative power of digital orthodontics and Align’s ongoing commitment to supporting orthodontic practices worldwide. Tune in to learn how these innovations reshape patient care and practice efficiency in the orthodontic industry. Remember, there has never been a better time to be an orthodontist.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [4:40] Joe Hogan explains how Align Technology supports orthodontists
• [10:24] Joe predicts digital trends and advancements for 2025
• [14:20] Joe is hopeful that a stronger economy will be favorable to orthodontists
• [18:47] Joe addresses concerns from the orthodontist community
• [25:09] Why are so many orthodontists still using brackets and wires rather than Aligner Therapy

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Under Joe Hogan's leadership, Align Technology invests over $350 million annually in digital orthodontics, focusing on groundbreaking tools like ClinCheck and 3D controls tailored for orthodontists. Despite serving general dentists, Align Technology remains committed to innovation and partnerships within the orthodontic community.
• Joe Hogan highlights three innovations shaping orthodontics: the iTero Lumina scanner for faster, precise imaging, the five-minute ClinCheck for touchless digital workflows, and 3D printing as a breakthrough in aligner manufacturing. These advancements set Align Technology apart, focusing on groundbreaking platforms rather than incremental changes.
• Despite aligners handling 95-100% of orthodontic cases, widespread adoption could be improved by the workflow transformation required for digital integration. Joe Hogan highlights the efficiency gains of aligners—reduced treatment time, fewer visits, and scalability—while acknowledging the challenges for orthodontists in retraining staff and adapting to a digital-first approach. This shift demands commitment from practitioners.

RESOURCE LINKS

People + Practice - Website

Leon - Email

Amy - Email

People + Practice - Email

Align Technology - Website

BIOGRAPHY:

Joseph Hogan, President and CEO of Align Technology, has led the company to significant financial success over the past eight years. With extensive leadership experience from ABB and GE Healthcare, where he increased revenues by 25% and doubled them from $7 billion to $16 billion, Hogan brings a wealth of expertise in business strategy, market development, and operational management.

In this episode of The Golden Age of Orthodontics Podcast, Dr. Leon Klempner and Amy Epstein are joined by Dr. Shankar Rengasamy Venugopalan, Chair of the Department of Orthodontics at Tufts University. Together, they discuss the transformative impact of AI on orthodontics and digital treatment plans. They’ll explore AI's role in treatment planning, emphasizing the need for transparency in AI algorithms and the importance of orthodontists' clinical judgment, as well as some of the limitations of AI. Dr. Venugopalan highlights the biological factors influencing tooth movement and reassures that AI cannot replace human expertise and patient-doctor relationship. Now is the time for orthodontists to embrace, rather than fear, technological advancements to enhance patient care through innovative approaches.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [3:30] Meet Dr. Venugopalan's background and expertise in orthodontics and AI
• [5:09] Precision medicine and its relevance in orthodontics
• [10:34] Dr. Venugopalan gives an overview of AI applications in diagnosis and treatment planning in orthodontics. Insights into the current state of AI research and its clinical applications.
• [19:12] The potential for integrating genomics and multi-modal data in orthodontic treatment. Plus, a discussion on the limitations and challenges associated with AI in orthodontics.
• [28:24] Will AI replace the need for orthodontists or serve as a supportive tool in treatment planning?
• [33:26] It is important to consider the patient’s biology in treatment outcomes and the inherent limitations of AI tools in this regard
• [38:21] Dr. Venugopalan encourages the development of holistic clinical knowledge beyond just biomechanics in orthodontics and expresses hope for the integration of AI in improving patient outcomes.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• AI is currently being applied in various aspects of clinical orthodontic practice, from diagnosis to treatment monitoring. These applications not only streamline clinical workflows but also enhance the quality of care provided to patients.
• Despite its potential, AI in orthodontics faces several challenges and limitations. One major concern is the quality and diversity of data used to train AI models, as biased or incomplete datasets can lead to inaccurate predictions. Additionally, the integration of AI into clinical practice requires significant investment in technology and training, which may be a barrier for some practices.
• While technology offers numerous benefits, it is essential for orthodontists to maintain their clinical judgment and expertise. Technology should be viewed as a tool that enhances, rather than replaces, the orthodontist's skills and knowledge. As technology continues to advance, the role of orthodontists is evolving to encompass new skills and responsibilities. In the future, orthodontists will need to be proficient in digital tools and data analysis to effectively incorporate technology into their practice. They will also play a crucial role in interpreting AI-generated insights and integrating them into personalized treatment plans.
• As the field becomes more tech-driven, orthodontists will have the opportunity to enhance patient care through innovative approaches, while also navigating the ethical and practical challenges that come with technological integration.

RESOURCE LINKS

People + Practice - Website

Dr. Leon - Email

Amy - Email

People + Practice - Email

Welcome to The Golden Age of Orthodontics, the podcast for orthodontic professionals eager to stay at the forefront of innovation and patient care. Today, hosts Dr. Leon Klempner and Amy Epstein are joined by the esteemed Dr. Luis Carriere, member of the Editorial Review Board for the American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics (AJODO) and contributing editor of the Journal of Clinical Orthodontics (JCO). Dr. Carriere will share his expertise on improving patient and parent communication, particularly with young patients, to foster a sense of responsibility in their orthodontic journey. This approach boosts compliance and eases anxiety, transforming the patient experience. Plus, we'll dive into the mechanics and advantages of the motion appliance, including its role in dental alveolar movement and its long-term impact on growth. Get ready to explore practical tips, insights on the latest orthodontic tools, and a vision of future innovations—because there has never been a better time to be an orthodontist.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [2:50] Dr. Luis Carriere explains his approach to talking to young patients about their orthodontic journey
• [10:23] The importance of treatment plans that engage young patients and improve their cooperation
• [18:03] How to attract other patients to your practice by communication
• [22:31] A deep dive into the motion appliance: its function and focus on dental alveolar changes rather than skeletal modification
• [33:19] Dr. Carriere shares his insights on the future innovations

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Encourage young patients to take responsibility for their orthodontic treatment by treating them as young adults. Understanding the "why" behind their role enhances cooperation
• Educational tools and proactive communication build trust and establish credibility with patients and families, making your practice a trusted authority
• The motion appliance primarily works through dental alveolar movements, creating a stable environment for growth in the correct sagittal and anterior direction, thus promoting long-term effectiveness

RESOURCE LINKS

People + Practice - Website

Dr. Leon's - Email

Amy Epstein's - Email

People + Practice - Email

Carriere System - Website

Dr. Luis Carriere - Facebook

Dr. Luis Carriere - LinkedIn

BIOGRAPHY: Luis Carriere DDS. MSD. PhD.

Dr. Luis Carrière obtained his dental degree from the University of Complutense in Madrid in 1991. He then attended the University of Barcelona, where he completed his Orthodontic training and received his Master of Science in Orthodontics in 1994. In 2006, he received his Doctorate in Orthodontics, Cum Laude, from the University of Barcelona.

Dr. Carrière won the “Joseph E. Johnson Award” in 1995 and the International Design Award Delta Gold ADI-FAD 2009 for the “Carriere Distalizer MB.” Dr. Carrière is a Member of the Editorial Review Board for the American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics (AJODO) and a contributing editor of the Journal of Clinical Orthodontics (JCO).