Craig & Pete Talk to @TheDSOGuy about orthodontic Startups, Marketing, and Offshore Hires

Bulletproof Dental Practice

The Bulletproof Dental Podcast Episode 358

HOSTS: Dr. Peter Boulden and Dr. Craig Spodak

GUESTS: David Ensley

DESCRIPTION

In this conversation, Craig and Peter interview David Ensley, an orthodontist and part of a dental service organization (DSO). They discuss various topics including the use of Twitter for networking, the differences between GP and ortho startups, the importance of location and visibility for dental practices, the use of Google Ads and CRM for marketing, and the benefits of hiring offshore employees. David shares insights on in-house financing in orthodontics and the challenges of cash flow in the beginning. He also emphasizes the value of specialized roles and better talent that can be obtained through offshore hiring. David shares insights on managing remote teams, finding the right talent, and creating a pathway to ownership for dentists.

TAKEAWAYS

• Orthodontic startups face challenges with cash flow in the beginning due to the longer treatment times and monthly payment plans.
• Location and visibility are crucial for dental practices, and retail locations with high vehicle traffic are preferred.
• Google Ads and CRM systems like Go High Level can be effective tools for marketing and lead management.
• In-house financing is more common in orthodontics due to the longer treatment times and the ability to break up payments throughout treatment.
• Hiring offshore employees can provide access to specialized roles and better talent at an affordable price. Remote workers can bring efficiency and specialization to a dental practice or DSO.
• Partnerships in a DSO can provide a pathway to ownership and increase retention and quality.
• Collaboration with professionals outside of dentistry can bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas.
• Twitter can be a valuable platform for learning, networking, and engaging with professionals from various industries.

CHAPTERS

00:00 - Introduction

04:14 - Challenges and Considerations for Ortho Startups

10:10 - The Importance of Location and Visibility

15:19 - Using Google Ads and CRM for Marketing

20:54 - Benefits of Hiring Offshore Employees

25:50 - Introduction to David Ensley and Remote Workers

27:04 - Partnerships: A Pathway to Ownership in a DSO

30:15 - Reciprocity and the Democratization of Ownership in Dentistry

35:26 - Competition and Efficiency in the Orthodontic Market

39:06 - Collaboration and Learning Beyond Dentistry

44:32 - The Power of Twitter for Networking and Knowledge Sharing

46:02 - Future Plans and Invitation to Connect

REFERENCES

Bulletproof Mastermind

Bulletproof Summit 2025

David Ensley