The Truth Decay Podcast: Talking Dollars and Sense with Sara Baker and LaRae McMullen

In the wild world of Dental Billing, here is one reason for dental claim denials that makes us irrationally angry every time we see it.Not because it's complicated.Not because insurance did something sneaky.But because it's 100% preventable.Timely filing.(nooooooooooo)The denial that basically says: “You did the work… but you waited too long to tell us about it.”(which suuuuuuuucks)Which means the treatment was completed, the claim existed, the revenue was earned……and then the deadline passed.Money gone.In Episode 27 of The Truth Decay Podcast, Sara Baker and LaRae McMullen break down one of the easiest revenue leaks in dentistry — and why so many offices still fall into it.Because timely filing isn’t really about insurance rules.It’s about SYSTEMS. (Baby, spoiler alert: it's always about systems.)When claims sit for weeks…When rejected claims aren’t monitored…When no one checks the unsent claims report…That’s when deadlines quietly pass and thousands of dollars disappear. poofIn this episode we cover:• What timely filing actually means• Why deadlines vary wildly between carriers• Why in-network offices can lose 100% of the revenue• Why out-of-network offices face brutal patient conversations• And the simple systems that make timely filing denials almost impossibleInsurance companies already have plenty of reasons to deny claims...In dental billing, we got 99 problems every day.Don't let timely filing issues be one of them.🎧 Episode 27 is live now on all podcast platforms📺 Watch on YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L7YDo_fI7Y4📩 Questions? Email us at [email protected]🌐 Learn more at sddentalsolutions.com

My dental billing brochachos, let us paint a very real picture, we in the biz see every single day:You post an insurance payment from a carrier you’re in-network with…and it’s higher than what you estimated.Sounds like a win! Woohoo!Until you realize:• There’s now a credit sitting on the patient’s account.• You under-collected at the time of service.• Your estimate was wrong.• Your reporting is about to look reeeeal messy.Here’s what actually happened.Your fee schedule in the PMS was outdated.In Episode 26 of The Truth Decay Podcast, Sara Baker and LaRae McMullen pull back the curtain on a quiet systems issue that distorts estimates, inflates adjustments, and makes your numbers unreliable.Because consider this:Insurance does not calculate payment off whatever fee happens to be in your software.It calculates payment off the contracted allowed amount tied to your agreement.So if your practice management system is using old contracted fees — or submitting UCR, which Sara has a beef with, come fight her — your estimates are built on the wrong foundation from the start.Which means:You’re collecting the wrong patient portion.You’re adjusting production later.And you’re making financial decisions based on numbers that were never accurate to begin with. (agh!)In this episode, we break down:• Why outdated PPO fees create credits and under-collections• How bad fee data quietly wrecks your reporting• What to check inside your PMS immediately• Why fee schedules are legal contract terms — not suggestions• And how (yes) you can negotiate themIf your adjustments feel high or your estimates feel off, this might be why. Come take a listen!🎧 Episode 26 is live on all major platforms📺 Watch on YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JzIJV7yFY9g📩 Questions? Email us at [email protected]🌐 Learn more at sddentalsolutions.com

What up, my fellow enamel enthusiasts! Riddle me this: What’s one of the biggest collection killers hiding in plain sight inside dental offices? It’s not insurance. It’s not patients. It’s how you start the conversation.See, the minute you lead treatment planning with,“Let’s see what your insurance covers…”—You’ve handed control of the narrative to a third party.You’ve shifted the value of the doctor’s diagnosis from clinical necessity --> a benefits summary.And when the claim doesn’t pay?Now the patient is confused.Now they’re questioning the diagnosis.Now your statements are getting ghosted.Because somewhere along the way, you accidentally taught them that coverage equals necessity.In this episode of The Truth Decay Podcast, Sara Baker and LaRae McMullen break down the difference between a Care-First Communication Approach and a Coverage-First Communication Approach—and why that distinction directly impacts your ability to collect.If your financial conversations start with benefits instead of health, you’re quietly devaluing treatment before the patient ever says yes.You’ll learn: • Why leading with insurance creates distrust when claims get denied • How coverage-first language makes treatment sound optional • What care-centered communication actually sounds like • Why “we’ll see what insurance says” kills your leverage • How conviction (not clinical expertise) builds patient trust • Why offices that lead with care collect faster and with fewer complaintsSara and LaRae also address the fear of “scaring patients off” by talking about money upfront—and why avoiding the conversation creates far more damage than having it.Because here’s the truth: Patients don’t leave over cost. They leave over confusion.So let's clear up that confusion, bay-bees! <3 Listen today and let us know what you think. ⸻🎧 Available on all major podcast platforms📺 Watch the full episode on YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZyInp6t_vxo 📩 Questions? Email us at [email protected] 🌐 Learn more at sddentalsolutions.com

Okay, dental billing friendos: You took 4 bitewings and six PA X-rays, billed them correctly, and still got denied because insurance saw it and went, ‘oh hey, process those bad boys as an FMX.’We've all seen it before - that math ain't mathing, yet that's what happens.Because if you're not paying attention to how those images are billed, bundled, processed, and frequency-limited, you could be accidentally triggering denials, flirting with write-offs, and surprise patient balances—just for trying to get clear, diagnostic pictures! How dare you!In this episode of The Truth Decay Podcast, Sara Baker and LaRae McMullen unpack the (potentially) messy issue of dental X-ray billing: what makes an FMX an FMX, when bitewings and PAs get bundled (whether you like it or not), and how a few smart tweaks to your billing workflow can save you cash, claims, and chaos.They'll break down:Why billing multiple X-rays often get processed as a D0210 (FMX)How frequency limitations turn potential benefits into a denied claimWhy you should never bill insurance "just to see if they'll pay"The carrier math behind X-ray bundling (and how to work with it)How to ethically bill individual images without triggering FMX processingWhen and how to talk to patients about potential out-of-pocket portionsYou’ll also get a deep dive into:The difference between diagnostic needs and benefit policiesWhy X-rays deserve to be valued (and paid for!)Scripts and tips for leading a care-centered financial conversationIf your front desk is tired of surprise denials, your ledger is full of FMX write-offs, or you’re just ready to take control of how X-rays get submitted and paid—this one is for you.🎧 Available on all major podcast platforms📺 Watch the full episode on YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KPrf3KP0jKY📩 Questions? [email protected]🌐 Learn more at sddentalsolutions.com#DentalBilling #FMXConfusion #DentalInsurance #DentalPracticeManagement #TruthDecayPodcast #RevenueCycleManagement #DentalClaims #BillingTips

“Wait — My Dental Insurance Didn't Cover It?” 😬 (SRPs, Denials, and the Conversation You Forgot to Have)For those SRPs, you thought you did everything right. Diagnosed the periodontal disease. Treatment planned SRPs (appropriately) and explained the necessity. "We'll send this to your insurance." Provided great care to your patient. And then… 💣The claim got denied. The patient got big mad. And your front desk is stuck holding the billing grenade. Sound familiar?That’s because scaling and root planing (SRP) lives in a weird gray zone: ✅ Absolutely clinically necessary. ❌ Often doesn't meet criteria for insurance coverage.In this episode of The Truth Decay Podcast, Sara Baker and LaRae McMullen break down the messy overlap between clinical care and coverage criteria—and how to stop the chaos before it starts.Because here’s the truth: SRPs are absolutely essential to treating periodontal disease. But when you center the conversation around what insurance “might” pay—instead of what the patient needs—you set yourself (and your team) up for frustration.🎧 You’ll Learn:Why SRPs get denied even when treatment is spot-onThe most common insurance criteria for SRP approval (and how to document them)What to say before the appointment to set clear expectationsThe difference between care-centered and coverage-centered languageHow one missing detail in your charting can cost you the claimWhen to appeal—and when to skip the fightWhy “surprise billing” is really a systems problem, not a patient oneListen now and learn how to protect your team, your treatment plans, and your bottom line—one clean claim at a time.🎧 Available on all podcast platforms📺 Watch the Full Episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DIJvdeFtq1U📥 Download Your Free Resource:“SRP Billing Playbook: Scripting Ideas, Charting Tips + What the Carriers Usually Require” → thetruthdecaypodcast.com📩 Want us to tackle your burning billing questions? Email: [email protected] More tools + training: sddentalsolutions.com#TruthDecayPodcast #DentalBilling #SRP #PerioBilling #DentalInsurance #CleanClaims #PatientPortions #BillingTransparency #PrivatePracticeTips #RevenueCycle

🚫 This Claim Is a Mess, Bro: How to Stop Getting DeniedWe know by now I love my silly questions.... what’s faster: submitting a clean claim—or spending six months appealing a denial, involving three people, five headaches, and one existential crisis? Exactly.In this episode of The Truth Decay Podcast, Sara Baker and LaRae McMullen are on a mission to save you from the unnecessary chaos of dirty claims. Because despite what you may have heard, most denials aren’t inevitable. They’re preventable—with better systems upfront.This one’s not about blame. It’s about billing systems that actually work—systems that protect your time, your money, and your team’s sanity.You’ll learn:✅ What actually defines a “clean claim” (and why it’s not just “submitted”)✅ The most common errors that get claims kicked back—and how to fix them✅ Why 5 extra minutes on the front end saves you weeks of rework✅ The documentation checklist every office should have✅ How to time your claims for consistency, not chaos✅ Why boring billing is usually the best billing✅ And why “insurance just doesn’t pay” is often a polite way of saying “we missed a step”If your team is stuck reacting to denials instead of preventing them, this episode is your roadmap to revenue stability—one clean claim at a time.🎧 Available on all major podcast platforms📺 Watch the full episode on YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PA0R0fcgQ2s📥 Download your free resource: • “Clean Claims Checklist: What to Send, When to Send It” → thetruthdecaypodcast.com 📩 Have a question? Email us at [email protected] 🌐 Learn more at sddentalsolutions.com#DentalBilling #CleanClaims #RevenueCycleManagement #DentalPracticeSuccess #DentalOfficeEfficiency #TruthDecayPodcast #SDDentalSolutions #ClaimDenials #InsuranceBilling #PracticeManagement #DentalTeamSuccess #DentalAdminLife #AppealLessCollectMore

Running a dental practice means making a hundred decisions a day: Where to push, what to fix, when to fight back, and when to let go.But if you’re constantly stressed, stuck on repeat with the same issues, and burning energy on the wrong things... it’s time to ask: Are you climbing the right hill… or just setting fire to the wrong one? (We have thooooughts...)Because let’s be honest: You’re fighting SRP denials like they’re a federal crime… But the real problem? Patients never knew they owed anything in the first place. You’re charging full UCR fees on in‑network Invisalign… Then yelling at the insurance company when they pay what you signed the contract to accept.Sound familiar?In this episode of The Truth Decay Podcast: Talking Dollars and Sense, Sara Baker and LaRae McMullen get real about something every dentist needs to hear: you’re probably wasting emotional energy on the wrong battles... while the real leaks are happening right inside your systems.We break down:Why obsessing over individual claims won’t fix systemic problemsThe difference between a one‑off error and a recurring process failureHow to recognize when you’re reacting emotionally and when you’re strategizing smartlyWhat hills are actually worth dying on… and which ones are just burning timeHow to move from a culture of avoidance to one of accountabilityThis isn’t just about denials.It’s about energy, systems, and leadership, and why the right focus starts at home.You’ll learn: 🎯 What it really means to choose your battles wisely 🎯 How recurring issues point to broken processes, not bad luck 🎯 The patterns your team is silently begging you to fix 🎯 Why blaming individuals won’t stop the cycle — but fixing systems will 🎯 A simple “hill audit” to map where your energy is going 🎯 How to turn one‑offs into learning opportunities, not stress loopsWhether you’re stuck relitigating the same denials every week… or you’re ready to level up your systems so they catch problems before they start, this episode gives you the clarity to lead with strategy, not emotion.🎧 Available on all major podcast platforms📺 Watch the full episode on YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ikF7L-QntVU → thetruthdecaypodcast.com 📩 Have a question? Email us at [email protected] 🌐 Learn more at sddentalsolutions.com#TruthDecayPodcast #DentalPracticeManagement #SystemsNotSymptoms #DentalBilling #DenialManagement #DentalLeadership #ProcessImprovement #PrivatePracticeLife #DentalOfficeSuccess

It’s not the economy. It’s not your fees.It’s the 90+ day column on your AR report that’s quietly setting your practice on fire.Well, Dr. Dentist, lucky you... you have us to help! Gird your loins, bc it's time for an AR audit — and a system reset.In this episode of The Truth Decay Podcast, Sara Baker and LaRae McMullen tackle the real root of AR chaos: broken systems.They’ll show you how to identify the leaks, clean up the mess, and build a billing flow that will take your AR report from looking like a CVS receipt to a clean, controlled report you’re not afraid to open.You’ll learn: ✅ The AR aging benchmarks that reveal when you’re in trouble ✅ Why co-pay chaos becomes AR disaster ✅ What to do when statements are ignored like junk mail ✅ 6 silent system failures that bloat your AR ✅ How to build a multi-touch follow-up process that actually works ✅ Why this isn’t about bad patients — it’s about broken workflows ✅ And how to get your revenue actually flowing againIf your AR feels overwhelming, inconsistent, or just totally neglected — this is the episode that gives you clarity and control.🎧 Available on all major podcast platforms📺 Watch the full episode on YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XulQZWWkvvI → thetruthdecaypodcast.com 📩 Have a question? Email us at [email protected] 🌐 Learn more at sddentalsolutions.com#SDDentalSolutions #DentalBilling #Dental #Dentistry #RevenueCycleManagement #DentalPracticeManagement #InsuranceVerification #DentalInsurance #ARManagement #PracticeGrowth #DentalOfficeSuccess #ClaimManagement #PrivatePracticeLife #BillingSolutions

You know that $25 co-pay you didn’t collect? "Aaaaah, it's okay... we'll just bill you. No big deal!"We hate to tell you, but it is actually kind of a big deal. (sorryyyyyy)Because let's be real, it's probably not just one that you didn't collect — it’s a whole bunch. Amirite?Trust us: do that a few dozen times a week, and suddenly you’re working full throttle… but still can’t make payroll.In this episode of The Truth Decay Podcast, Sara Baker and LaRae McMullen go full real-talk on a problem hiding in plain sight: uncollected patient portions.They’ll show you how to identify the cracks in your collections system, how to stop “chasing” balances, and exactly what your team needs to say, sign, and show to get paid upfront—without sounding like a debt collector.You’ll learn:How one uncollected co-pay can spiral into chaosThe key signs your billing system is too “reactive”20 practical steps for presenting & collecting estimates the right wayScripts and language that reduce pushbackWhy vague estimates kill trust, retention, and revenueHow to turn financial conversations into normal conversationsWhat your front desk should say before treatment starts — not afterIf your AR is creeping up, your team is tired of playing collections cop, or you’re ready to stop writing off balances just to avoid a hard convo — this is your fix.🎧 Available on all major podcast platforms📺 Watch the full episode on YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JLZsweBGuOs📥 Download your free resource: • “Estimated Patient Portion Collection Playbook - 20 Steps to Collecting Co-Pays with Confidence" → thetruthdecaypodcast.com 📩 Have a question? Email us at [email protected] 🌐 Learn more at sddentalsolutions.com#SDDentalSolutions #DentalBilling #Dental #Dentistry #RevenueCycleManagement #DentalPracticeManagement #InsuranceVerification #DentalInsurance #ARManagement #PracticeGrowth #DentalOfficeSuccess #ClaimManagement #PrivatePracticeLife #BillingSolutions

My adorable periodontal party people:Lemme guess. You’ve got a “dedicated” in-house billing person. They know how your office works! They're great! Until the front desk calls in sick… Until your patients start walking in for their appointments... Until the phones start ringing…And now your "billing person" is checking patients in and out and answering phones instead of chasing claims and following up on past due balances. AGH!Sound familiar?(Tale as old as tiiiiiiime... no but for real that literally happens all the time right?)In this episode of The Truth Decay Podcast, Sara Baker and LaRae McMullen break down one of the biggest financial questions that dental practice owners find themselves facing in 2026: the in-house vs. outsourced billing dilemma.Whether you’re trying to save money, stabilize collections, or just avoid the next staffing disaster, this episode will help you weigh your real costs — and make a smart, scalable decision.You’ll learn:Why one person can’t handle billing and everything else, all the timeThe real math behind in-house billing costs (spoiler: it’s more than you think)How outsourcing solves for PTO, sick days, and turnoverWhy good billing needs consistency — not chaosThe difference between DIY chaos and full-scale RCMWhat gets missed when billing is pulled to the front deskWhy outsourcing is no longer a “last resort” — it’s a strategic moveIf your claims are sitting, your AR is ballooning, or you’re just tired of the hiring merry-go-round — this one’s for yoooou.🎧 Available on all major podcast platforms📺 Watch the full episode on YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DQCnjob1774 → thetruthdecaypodcast.com📩 Have a question? Email us at [email protected]🌐 Learn more at sddentalsolutions.com

My enchanting enamel enthusiasts... picture this: you’re slammed. The schedule’s packed. The vibe is busy.But the bank account?…crickets.That “we feel slammed but we can’t make payroll” energy is more common than you think — and it usually means one thing: you’re flying blind on your numbers.In this episode of The Truth Decay Podcast, Sara Baker and LaRae McMullen run a full KPI check-up. Because whether you feel rich or feel broke, only the numbers can tell you the truth.And when they’re ignored? Your AR stacks, collections stall, and profitability disappears into the void.You’ll learn:What a healthy AR Ratio actually looks like — and why it mattersThe difference between net and gross collections (and why it’s killing your cashflow)Why over-90-day AR = a systems failureHow to actually read your KPI reports — not just run themThe metrics that reveal whether your systems or your team need a tune-upWhy “busy” doesn’t always mean “profitable” — and how to fix itWhether your numbers look fine or feel scary, this episode will help you figure out where your practice is actually bleeding — and what to do next.🎧 Available on all major podcast platforms📺 Watch the full episode on YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NpJ5LtLs_ZQCome check us out → thetruthdecaypodcast.com📩 Have a question? Email us at [email protected]🌐 Learn more at sddentalsolutions.com

If you’ve ever heard a patient say, “Wait… why do I owe anything?” — congrats, you’ve just discovered what happens when your front desk is operating in a culture of avoidance instead of a culture of accountability. And nothing tanks cash flow faster.In this episode, Sara and LaRae dig into one of the most expensive cracks in the dental workflow: the missing, rushed, or terrified money conversation at check-in. Because it doesn’t matter how clean your claims are — if no one prepped the patient before treatment, your AR is about to turn into a bonfire.💥 In this episode, you’ll learn:Why “We’ll just bill your insurance!” is the most expensive sentence in dentistryHow avoidance culture at the front desk silently destroys collectionsWhy even great front-desk employees fail without training and scriptingHow verification, communication, and expectation-setting protect revenueHow your AR Ratio exposes deeper process issues💡 Top takeaways: 1️⃣ Your front-desk process IS your billing process — build it intentionally. 2️⃣ Money conversations aren’t rude. Surprise bills are. 3️⃣ Accountability beats avoidance every time — for patients, teams, and collections.Sara and LaRae share real stories from practices where great people were set up to fail, not because they didn’t care — but because no one created a system that empowered them to succeed. You’ll walk away with the exact scripts, touchpoints, and workflow improvements that transform your front desk into the first line of revenue protection.🎧 Available on all major podcast platforms📺 Watch the full episode on YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uiQeOxeIGoU📩 Have a question? Email [email protected]🌐 Learn more → sddentalsolutions.com

Dearest dental divas and dinosaurs: you know the sound a denial makes when it hits your desk? It’s the same one your soul makes when you realize this is the third one today. That you weren't ready for. 😩But here’s the truth: a denial isn’t the end of the world: it’s a test of your systems. The real disaster isn’t the claim that got denied… it’s what happens next. (Spoiler: if your plan involves “just resubmitting it,” we need to talk.)In this episode, Sara Baker and LaRae McMullen break down how most offices accidentally turn denials into chaos: by avoiding them, panicking, or treating them like bad omens instead of normal business events. They’ll show you how to flip the script: how to handle denials faster, prep patients better, and stop letting “let's just submit it again!” tank your cash flow.💥 In this episode, you’ll learn:Why denials aren’t failures — but ignoring them isHow to tell the difference between appealable and unappealable claimsThe right way to build an appeal ladder that actually worksHow to prep patients so “not covered” doesn’t equal “angry call later”Why communication — not billing — is your biggest AR problem💡 Top takeaways: 1️⃣ Denials don’t cause chaos. Your response does. 2️⃣ A “clean claim” isn’t enough — you need a clean follow-up system. 3️⃣ Prep patients early. Surprises destroy trust (and collections). 4️⃣ Build your appeal ladder and train your team to own it.Sara and LaRae also share real stories of offices drowning in denial piles — and how a few small process changes turned it all around. Because when you treat denials as data, not drama, your entire billing system gets smarter.🎧 Available on all major podcast platforms📺 Watch the full episode on YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZuIoPh6Tk1E 📥 Download your free resource: Build Your Appeal Ladder! 📩 Have a question? Email [email protected] 🌐 Learn more → sddentalsolutions.com

Oh my sweet, well-meaning dental friendos: you don’t need a ski mask and burner phone to commit insurance fraud; sometimes all it takes is posting the wrong code and thinking, “Eh, it’s close enough.”(Spoiler alert: it's not close enough.)In this episode, Sara Baker and LaRae McMullen break down the everyday billing mistakes that can quietly turn your claims from compliant to questionable... even when your intentions are good. From listing the wrong treating provider to “using” benefits creatively, they’re exposing the gray areas where good offices get in trouble.💥 In this episode, you’ll learn:How innocent billing habits can trigger serious compliance issuesWhy “helping” patients with coverage can backfire fastThe four mistakes that get practices audited most oftenHow to build systems that protect your license and your sanity💡 Top takeaways:Always list the actual treating dentist: no exceptions.Disclose accident-related treatment accurately, every time.Train your team (and retrain them) on ethical billing and coding.Code for what you did: no more, no less.Sara and LaRae also share real-world examples of how “tiny” claim errors can snowball into massive headaches, and what you can do this week to make sure your practice isn’t next.🎧 Available on all major podcast platforms📺 Watch the full episode on YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ljIUbjSyZnU📩 Have a question? Email us at [email protected]🌐 Learn more at sddentalsolutions.com

You told them about their periodontal issues,You warned them about the risks — again and again.You handed them the referral. Every. Single. Visit. ...they never listened.Buuut… you never wrote any of it down.Fast forward to now: the patient has moved, listened to their new dentist, (wtf man) and are threatening to sue you for negligence.And what do your notes from their last visit say?“Perio hx — [ no change ]”(Oof. Dat template overreliance tho)In this episode of The Truth Decay Podcast, Sara Baker and LaRae McMullen break down the silent killer of clean claims and court cases: weak clinical notes.They dig into a real malpractice case where a dentist’s memory didn’t hold up — but a well-written chart might have. You’ll learn the three reasons your notes matter more than you think (plus a rad bonus reason). And do you know what SOAP notes are? Welp, you will now! We're talking about SOAP notes (that don’t suck. You lucky duckies.)You’ll learn:Why clinical notes are financial, legal, and operational protectionThe difference between telling the story vs. parroting the codeHow templated notes, generic entries, and assistant-authored charts can burn youHow to use the SOAP framework without sounding like a robotWhat to write when patients refuse treatment or ghost referralsHow great notes can boost case acceptance, retention, and trustWhether you’re trying to win an appeal, dodge an audit, or just stop your future self from screaming “Who WROTE this?!” — this episode gives you the tools to start charting like a boss.🎧 Available on all major podcast platforms📺 Watch the full episode on YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=abM1qQcKMI8📥 Download your free resource:• Clinical Notes Power Checklist + SOAP Note Builder→ thetruthdecaypodcast.com📩 Have a question? Email us at [email protected]🌐 Learn more at sddentalsolutions.com

They look official. They feel reassuring. Sometimes they are even confused with “pre-authorizations" (they are not the same!)But let’s be clear: predeterminations are just estimates.And when your team—and your patients—don’t understand that, the result is confusion, complaints, and sooo many avoidable write-offs.In this episode of The Truth Decay Podcast, Sara Baker and LaRae McMullen unpack the real purpose of pre-treatment estimates (aka predeterminations), and the process-wide impact they can have when misunderstood or misused.You’ll learn:The difference between predetermination (PPO) and preauthorization (DHMO)The pros and cons of using pre-ds—and when they actually helpWhy predeterminations are not a replacement for real insurance verificationThe four things every team member must explain when presenting an estimateWhy Targeted Appointment Verification often provides faster, better answersHow overusing pre-ds delays treatment, damages trust, and bloats your ARWhether you’re trying to reduce surprises for patients or streamline your financial conversations, this episode helps you separate helpful tools from harmful habits.🎧 Available on all major podcast platforms📺 Watch the full episode on YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zwh4bos-yJY📥 Download your free guides: • “Pros and Cons of Pre-Determinations” • “Four-Part Potential Financial Obligation Conversation Script” → thetruthdecaypodcast.com📩 Have a question? Email us at [email protected]🌐 Learn more at sddentalsolutions.com

“Nah, it's cool. Just submit it under the owner’s name for now.”Famous last words. 💀If you’ve ever heard that advice—or worse, given it—this episode is for you.In this episode, Sara Baker and LaRae McMullen break down a rampant—and risky—practice happening in dental offices across the country: submitting claims under the wrong provider to “keep things moving.”Whether you’re onboarding a new associate, purchasing a practice, or navigating out-of-network transitions, this conversation is for you.We cover:The difference between credentialing and contracting (and why both matter)Why billing under another provider's information is considered fraud, even when “everyone does it”Real-life situations where claims were delayed, payments misrouted, and provider trust destroyedWhat goes wrong when legal teams and brokers skip over billing strategy during a saleHow submitting under the wrong name can trigger audits, refunds, or even in-network removalYou’ll also learn:✔️ When and how to start the credentialing process✔️ Why providers must be credentialed—even to be out-of-network✔️ What to put on your provider onboarding checklist✔️ How to protect cash flow during ownership transitions without compromising complianceIf you’re thinking:“But it’s just temporary…”“We didn’t know they needed to be credentialed yet…”“The broker said it was fine…”…this episode will change the way you approach provider setup forever.🎧 Listen on all major platforms📺 Watch full episodes on YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hEYxjX5ZVdo📩 Contact us at [email protected]🌐 More resources at sddentalsolutions.com📥 Download our Provider Onboarding + Credentialing Checklist at thetruthdecaypodcast.com

The Power of Smarter Dental Insurance Verification:How Targeted Insurance Verification Protects Your Practice and Patient TrustMy dear dental friends: what if your insurance verification system wasn’t just inefficient—but unethical, unmeasurable, and quietly costing you thousands?In Part 2 of our deep dive on verification, Sara Baker and LaRae McMullen lay out exactly why the old way of doing things—full breakdowns, routine write-offs, and “we’ll bill your insurance” scripts—just doesn’t cut it anymore.This episode gives it to you straight. We’re talking about:Why skipping real financial conversations is more than an oversight—it’s a riskHow outdated verification systems inflate your AR and erode patient trustThe hidden cost of fluoride, exams, and X-rays that are routinely written offWhat the ADA Code of Ethics actually says about patient portions—and what your office may be doing wrongHow to audit your adjustments report to find out where the leaks are happeningWe walk you through how a Targeted Appointment Approach (TAA) gives your team:✔️ Clear steps to verify 3 days before the appointment✔️ Accurate, real-time estimates entered directly into the PMS✔️ A script to explain what an estimate actually means✔️ The tools to train patients and team members to expect clarity—not confusionPlus:✅ Why outsourcing verification isn’t enough if you’re still not talking to patients✅ How to stop adjusting off production you never got permission to post✅ The mindset shift from “insurance handles it” to “we lead the conversation”This isn’t just about compliance. It’s about protecting your revenue, your relationships, and your reputation.🎧 Listen wherever you get your podcasts📺 Watch full episodes on YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mPsIkIc_eXU📩 Questions? Email us at [email protected]🌐 Visit sddentalsolutions.com for more support📥 Download the free Ethical Verification Checklist at thetruthdecaypodcast.comThank you!!

Insurance Verification Overload? Full Breakdown vs. Targeted ApproachWhy Full Breakdowns Aren’t Always Smart—Try Targeted InsteadIs your insurance verification process leaving you overworked and underpaid?In this first of a two-part deep dive, Sara Baker and LaRae McMullen unpack one of the most overused, misunderstood, and inefficient processes in dental billing: the Exhaustive Full Breakdown. If your team is spending 30 minutes gathering insurance info before every new patient visit—only to get burned later—you’re not alone.But there’s a smarter way: the Targeted Appointment Approach (TAA).This episode covers:Why full breakdowns feel safe—but often waste time and payrollWhat actually goes into a targeted, effective verification processHow to time your verification for accuracy and impactHow to reduce unpaid balances by getting estimates right before the visitWhy even preventive appointments deserve real verificationYou’ll also hear:Common mistakes practices make with tools like Trojan or AI-based plan readersHow to use your practice management software as a live, dynamic estimation engineWhat to do if your treatment plan is months old—and how to flag changes before the patient walks inIf you’ve ever found yourself asking, “WHY are we still writing off fluoride?”—this one’s for you.Actionable tips, mindset shifts, and a better path forward for your front office team—all inside this episode.Don’t miss Part 2, where we dig into how better verification builds long-term patient trust and compliance.🎥 Watch full episodes on our YouTube channel → https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Obikq7h2Kpg📥 Subscribe to The Truth Decay Podcast on your favorite platform so you never miss an episode.📧 Got questions? Want us to cover something specific? Reach out to us at [email protected]🌐 Learn more at sddentalsolutions.com

My dental friendos: when a practice is struggling with collections, insurance aging, or accounts receivable, we find that it’s easy to assume the front desk just isn’t doing their job. But in our experience, it isn't usually a people-problem... It’s typically a system problem. Or lack thereof. (yiiiiikes)In this episode of The Truth Decay Podcast: Talking Dollars and Sense, Sara Baker and LaRae McMullen share a client story that tells this tale: a dental office was convinced their front desk staff was the issue. However, once we got inside, we discovered a different perspective: their team was working hard, but without structure, guidance, or the right tools.Today's conversation explores why even talented, dedicated staff can’t thrive without clear systems — and how the right processes can transform your collections, efficiency, and morale.What you’ll learn in this episode:Why front desk burnout is often caused by broken workflows, not bad employeesHow outdated fee schedules and missing processes quietly derail collectionsThe essential reports you should be running (and what they reveal)Two simple ways to start uncovering what your team really needs to succeedHow systems create accountability, clarity, and consistent results💡 Takeaway: Your front office isn’t failing. Your systems are. And the good news? Systems can be fixed.📺 Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QpA2NA-STNk🎧 Or listen on Apple, Spotify, or any major podcast platform — just search The Truth Decay Podcast.💬 Got questions or want to share your story? Reach out at [email protected] or connect with us at sddentalsolutions.com.#truthdecaypodcast #dentalbilling #dentalpodcast #frontdesk #dentistrybusiness #practiceprofits #officemanagerlife

“Waaait, Dr. Dentist Office... why did you send me this bill? But I paid everything I was supposed to! You TOLD me I wouldn’t have to pay anything else!”If that conversation sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Confusion about patient portions is one of the biggest sources of billing disputes, frustrated patients, and lost revenue in dental practices.In this episode of The Truth Decay Podcast: Talking Dollars and Sense, Sara Baker and LaRae McMullen explain how to talk about patient portions clearly, consistently, confidently, and why they are not optional (wait, WHAT). Because again, here’s the truth: patients aren’t upset that dentistry costs money… they’re upset when that bill is a surprise (and like, not the good kind). Why set up a situation where patient portions are some weird mystery? It can be straightforward. Let's get you set up for success! Points we discuss include:The 3 key definitions to understanding patient portions: deductible, co-insurance, and co-pay (though in dentistry, one is a lil' loosey goosey, let's be real - listen and let us know if you agree!)Why writing off patient portions isn’t just bad policy—it’s a compliance violationHow surprises kill trust (and your AR) while clear estimates build stronger relationshipsThe 5 steps to making patient portions simple:Verify benefits earlyLet your PMS work for youCheck benefits per appointmentUse the same scripts every timeGet 👏 it 👏 in 👏 writing✨ To make this even easier, we’ve created a free resource: 5 Steps for Making Patient Portions Simple. Download it at thetruthdecaypodcast.com and use it to train your entire team.📺 Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lk364o8-UNQ🎧 Or listen on Apple, Spotify, or any major podcast platform — just search The Truth Decay Podcast.💬 Got a question or story about patient portion struggles? We’d love to hear it. Reach out at [email protected] or connect with us at sddentalsolutions.com.#truthdecaypodcast #dentalbilling #dentalpodcast #patientportions #practiceprofits #dentistrybusiness #dentistlife #officemanagerlife #dentaladmin

Dental friendos: Is your treatment coding aligned with today’s opportunities, or stuck in last year’s rules and denials?If your team is stuck appealing the same zero-pays over and over, wasting hours on claims that will never get paid, it’s time to rethink your coding processes.In this episode of The Truth Decay Podcast: Talking Dollars and Sense, Sara Baker and LaRae McMullen share a real-world story of a periodontal office that spent countless hours fighting appeals for codes that were never payable in the first place. The problem wasn’t effort — it was their expectations.Points we discuss include:Why appealing every denial isn’t productive (and what to do instead)How to make coding reflect clinical truth and financial realityThe importance of keeping your CDT book updated every yearFinding codes you’re missing — hidden revenue opportunities you may not be billingBuilding “bundled” or “exploding” codes in your PMS to save time and reduce errorsWhy documentation and billing must align to make your records audit-proof✨ One of the most effective ways to save time and money is to educate your team and automate coding where possible. Stop asking “What can we bill?” and start asking “What did we do?”📺 Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/VSNEJC_VsyA🎧 Listen on Apple, Spotify, or any major podcast platform — just search The Truth Decay Podcast.We’d love to hear from you! Visit us at sddentalsolutions.com or send us an email at [email protected]. Whether you have questions, stories, or just want to say hi — we’re here, and we’d love to connect.#truthdecaypodcast #dentalbilling #dentalpodcast #dentalcoding #dentistrybusiness #practiceprofits #dentistlife #officemanagerlife #dentaladmin

Dental friendos, please ask yourself: Do you have a culture of avoidance, or a culture of accountability in your practice? If you’re afraid to ask — or if you don’t know — you maaaay already have your answer. And it could be costing you far more than money.Ultimately, ethical billing isn’t just about compliance — it’s about protecting your practice, your patients, and your profits. (Dolla dolla bills y'all)In this episode of The Truth Decay Podcast: Talking Dollars and Sense, Sara Baker and LaRae McMullen share a real story of a practice where lack of oversight led to fraud, $75K in paybacks (yiiikes), and broken patient trust. More importantly, they unpack how it could have been avoided with systems, accountability, and leadership from the top down.Points we discuss include:Why legality and ethics are not the same thingHow unchecked reports and missing oversight create red flagsSimple safeguards: daily daysheet review, deposit verification, and audit trailsBuilding a culture of accountability and ethical decision-makingWhy leadership, not good intentions, drives ethical systems✨ Start today: Review your daysheets, match deposits, and make your stance on accountability crystal clear to your team.📺 Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/gd6_tgry7Rg🎧 Listen on Apple, Spotify, or any major podcast platform — just search The Truth Decay Podcast.And don’t forget to grab our free Billing Oversight Questions List and 3-Minute Ethical Billing Checklist at thetruthdecaypodcast.com.#truthdecaypodcast #dentalbilling #ethicalbilling #dentalpodcast #dentistrybusiness #practiceprofits #dentistlife #officemanagerlife #dentaladmin

Dentist friends! Collections don’t have to feel like a battlefield — and they don’t have to hurt your patient relationships. (No for real)If your AR follow-up feels like conflict or avoidance, it’s time for a better system. Like, yesterday.In this episode of The Truth Decay Podcast: Talking Dollars and Sense, Sara Baker and LaRae McMullen talk about how to manage final patient balances and AR follow-up in a way that protects both your cash flow and your reputation. From financial policies to staff scripts, they’ll walk through how clarity, consistency, and tone can transform your collections process.Points we discuss include:Why avoidance or aggression both create AR chaosHow upfront financial conversations prevent surprise balancesSystems for proactive billing and patient AR follow-upScripts and training to empower staff with confidenceBest practices for tone, communication, and escalation✨ Want to protect both your revenue and your patient relationships?Listen now on your favorite podcast platform or watch the full episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jgTxAQmtQyUAnd hey! Don’t forget to grab our free Collections Communication Script Guide at thetruthdecaypodcast.com Finally, come visit us at sddentalsolutions.com — questions, thoughts, topics, that you want to hear about, anything. We would love to hear from you!#truthdecaypodcast #dentalbilling #dentalpodcast #collections #dentistrybusiness #practiceprofits #officemanagerlife #dentalpractice #dentaladmin

So, dental practice administrators: does your insurance aging report make you want to look the other way?If your 90+ claims column is lurking in the shadows, getting bigger and more overwhelming every single day... we see you. You're not alone! And ignoring it is costing you real money.In this episode of The Truth Decay Podcast: Talking Dollars and Sense, Sara Baker and LaRae McMullen explain how insurance aging reports go buck wild, why it’s not about negligence but overload and disorganization, and how to finally take control without losing your mind.Points we discuss include:The telltale signs of a bloated insurance aging reportWhy unresolved claims = “easy money” that often goes uncollectedThe 5-step clean-up blueprint (segment, dedicate, track, prioritize, systematize)Insider tips from our experienced insurance aging specialistsAction steps to start regaining control todayListen now on your favorite podcast platform or watch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/5MZnpnqtXokVisit us at thetruthdecaypodcast.com for our free downloads:Insurance Aging Clean-Up Blueprint, andInsider Tips from the SDDS Billing Team at sddentalsolutions.com.#truthdecaypodcast #dentalbilling #dentalpodcast #dentalcollections #insuranceaging #dentistrybusiness #officemanagerlife #dentistlife #practiceprofits #dentalpractice

Did you know that the average dental practice is only collecting 91% of what is owed to them? You might be losing thousands every month — without even realizing it.For a $200K-producing office, that’s $18,000 gone. Every. Single. Month.In this episode of The Truth Decay Podcast: Talking Dollars and Sense, Sara Baker and LaRae McMullen uncover the “missing 9%” hiding in your AR. They share the four most common reasons collections fall short, why it’s not always neglect (but often overwhelmed, under-supported teams), and how surprises — not dentistry’s price tag — are the real killer of your collections.Some of the points we discuss include:How even “good” collection months can hide thousands in lost revenueThe four biggest AR killers we see in dental practicesWhy overwhelmed teams avoid statements (and how that hurts collections)The connection between patient surprises, trust, and payment delaysHow defined, documented systems protect both revenue and relationshipsListen now on your favorite podcast platform or watch the full conversation on YouTube. Download the free Where’s Your Missing 9%? checklist to audit your own process and start putting that lost revenue back where it belongs — in your practice.#truthdecaypodcast #dentalcollections #adjustedproduction #revenuecycle #dentalbilling #practiceprofits #dentistlife #officemanagerlife #dentalofficemanagement #insuranceaging #dentalpodcast #dentistrybusiness

Heeeey dentists: are you ignoring your credit balance report? It might cost you more than you think — including your license.Welcome!! In this debut episode of The Truth Decay Podcast, Sara Baker and LaRae McMullen dig into why unaddressed credit balances are a silent threat to your practice’s financial health and legal compliance.From real-world audit wins to the professional code that could trip your practice up, we break down how to clean up your credit balance report, refund properly, and protect your bottom line. We’ll also walk you through an easy-to-implement review strategy that keeps you on track — and out of trouble.🎯 Key topics:• Dental credit balances• California BPC § 732 discussion• Risk management for dental practices• Compliance and patient trust• Dental accounting systems• Credit balance audit strategies💥 Don’t miss this one. Hit play, then subscribe for real, applicable advice to help your dental practice thrive.📧 Questions? Reach out at [email protected]🌐 Visit us at sddentalsolutions.com