5 Things That Drive Orthodontists CRAZY l 5MF

In this Five Minute Friday, I’m having a little fun with the frustrations almost every orthodontist knows too well. From referring dentists taking on cases they probably shouldn’t, to patients armed with questionable Google advice, to parents insisting their child wears elastics when the evidence says otherwise, I’m counting down a few of the things that make practicing orthodontics uniquely entertaining — and occasionally maddening.This isn’t a deep clinical lecture or a practice-management masterclass. It’s a reminder that sometimes the best thing we can do is laugh at the situations we all experience. I share a few stories from my own career, including one unforgettable headgear compliance story, and talk about why boundaries, patient cooperation, and realistic expectations matter. If you’ve ever stared at a patient and thought, “There is absolutely no way you’re wearing those elastics,” this episode is for you.💬Quotes“If someone needs a mirror to put headgear in or to put rubber bands in, you know they’re not wearing them.”— Dr. Glenn Krieger “You don’t refer nearly enough patients to me for me to help you through this anymore.”— Dr. Glenn Krieger 🎯 Key TakeawaysIntro: The things that drive orthodontists crazy (00:36)Referring dentists treating cases beyond their limits (01:04)Knowing when to stop bailing someone out (01:48)When patients bring Google advice into the operatory (02:37)A surprising adult maxillary protraction case (03:18)Parents who only want after-school appointments (04:59)The biggest frustration: kids who don’t wear elastics or aligners (05:53)The legendary headgear compliance story (06:30)Honorable mentions: plaque and patients who “don’t look” at their smiles (07:44)🟦 Additional ResourcesI’ve seen firsthand how much easier orthodontics feels when you realize you’re not the only one dealing with these frustrations.So now I want to hear yours. What patient habit, parent interaction, referral situation, or everyday orthodontic annoyance drives you absolutely crazy? Share it in the Orthopreneurs community and let’s compare notes. Sometimes the best medicine is realizing we’re all dealing with the same stuff — and being able to laugh about it together.👉 Airway Meeting: https://web.orthopreneurs.com/arizonasleepandairway2026 👉 For more information about Orthopreneurs, visit: https://orthopreneurs.com/👉 Become an OrthoPreneur and join the free Facebook group:https://www.facebook.com/groups/