#38 - The Rise of the Fractional CHO: Janet Hagerman on Doubling Case Acceptance with Communication + AI

In this episode of Dental Tech Talks, we sit down with Janet Hagerman — international speaker, author of Selling Dentistry, and one of the first to define the role of the fractional Chief Hygiene Officer (CHO). Drawing from decades of experience leading hygiene systems at a 100+ practice DSO, Janet unpacks why so many case presentations fail — and how a better partnership between doctors and hygienists can change that overnight. From triaging treatment into “911, preventive, and cosmetic” categories to integrating AI call tracking and diagnostic tools, Janet shares her proven approach to doubling (or tripling) case acceptance — while keeping human connection at the center. We also dive into how communication soft skills are becoming the missing piece in AI-powered practices, and why every DSO needs two clinical leaders: one for dentists, and one for hygiene.