Ep 15: Navigating Modern Dentistry: An Insider's Perspective

Dr. Lawrence Kotlow is a board-certified pediatric dentist—a specialist dedicated to treating children, from birth, infants, and toddlers. He is well known for his concern and understanding of mothers who wish to breastfeed. He is an internationally known expert on the diagnosis and treatment of abnormally attached lingual frenums, also known as tongue-tie. Dr. Kotlow sees infants as early as a day after birth for the revision of tongue-tie using laser surgery to eliminate the need to place infants in the operating room or the need for drugs for treatment.   In this episode, Dr. Lawrence Kotlow, a board-certified pediatric dentist, discusses his background and experience in the field of dentistry. He talks about his journey from pharmacy school to dental school and how he started his practice in Albany. Dr. Kotlow emphasizes the significant advancements in dental technology, particularly in the use of lasers, which have revolutionized pediatric dental care, making it less stressful for patients, staff, and dentists. He highlights the various types of lasers and their applications, such as soft tissue and hard tissue procedures, and how they have changed the way dental procedures are performed. Dr. Kotla also emphasizes the importance of training and understanding the physics behind laser dentistry for practitioners.   The episode delves into the challenges and rewards of adopting new technologies in dentistry, with a focus on the learning curve involved in mastering laser dentistry. Dr. Kotla shares his insights on the importance of staff, common-sense approaches to practice management, patient education, and spreading information about advancements in the field. He views dentistry not just as a vocation but as a hobby and encourages practitioners to enjoy what they do and choose the aspects of dentistry they are passionate about. The episode concludes with Dr. Kotlow discussing his efforts to bridge the gap between dentistry and the medical community, highlighting the systemic effects of dental issues and the need for collaboration between healthcare providers.   Here’s what to expect this episode: Enjoyment in Dentistry: The importance of enjoying your work in dentistry. They suggest that when you're passionate about what you do, it makes everything else fall into place, despite the challenges that may arise. Challenges in Modern Dentistry: How dentistry has evolved with the internet and patient reviews, highlighting the impact of negative biases in the media. They also mention the influence of insurance companies on dental practices. Patient Experience: The concept of enhancing the patient experience in dental care. The use of technology, such as lasers and digital X-rays, is discussed as a way to make dental visits more pleasant and efficient for patients, especially children. Exit Strategy Considerations: Planning for an exit strategy from a dental practice. They advise practitioners to carefully consider when and how to transition or retire, taking into account their financial needs and the potential value of their practice. Balancing Work and Personal Life: The importance of maintaining a balance between work and personal life, especially as one gets older. The speaker mentions how personal and family factors can also influence decisions about continuing or transitioning in the dental field.     Connect with John Creekmur: https://www.kiddsteeth.com/meet-the-doctor Connect with Stan Kinder: https://www.everythingdso.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices