Show notes
"You have to have a vision, a strategy, and a story." Connect With Our SponsorsSolventum - https://go.solventum.com/clarityGreyFinch - https://greyfinch.com/jillallen/A-Dec - https://www.a-dec.com/orthodonticsSmileSuite - https://getsmilesuite.com/ Summary In this episode of Hey Docs!, host Jill Allen talks with Malcom C. Riley, Director of Orthodontic Clinical Education and Early Career at Align Technology, about the evolving landscape for new orthodontic practice owners. Malcom shares his career path into supporting orthodontists and outlines how rising student debt, increased competition, and today’s “Amazon mindset” consumer behavior are changing practice building. They discuss opportunities for startups to differentiate through digital workflows, virtual consults and care, visualization tools like iTero and Outcome Simulator Pro, and social media storytelling, as well as the growing importance of adult orthodontics amid declining birth rates. Malcom explains what makes an aligner-focused model profitable: intentional operations, ongoing education, and community/mentorship. He also highlights Align’s new practice owner program, including courses, team training, and marketing support. Connect With Our Guest Align Technology - https://www.aligntech.com/[email protected] Takeaways New practice owners face higher costs but also unmatched opportunity to stand out with digital-first workflows.Adults are a huge, underserved growth market for orthodontics.Visualization tools turn treatment into an emotional, easy "yes."Consumers today have an “Amazon mindset” when it comes to choosing a practice.Building a practice that’s aligner-focused from day one can improve efficiency and easier than trying to introduce new technology into an established practice.Virtual care builds convenience and loyalty without extra office visits.Orthodontic treatment is shifting from "one and done" to lifelong, repeat relationships with patients.Different generations need different communication styles and approaches.Success comes down to vision, ongoing education, and community/mentorship.Entrepreneurship can feel lonely — leaning on peers and mentors makes a big difference.Align's New Practice Owner Program offers education, marketing, and clinical support to help new doctors grow.Chapters 00:00 Introduction03:40 Career Journey to Align08:07 Align Education Programs10:11 New Owners and Tech Shift11:57 Costs Competition and Digital15:06 Startup Advantage with Digital18:52 Adult Market Opportunity22:22 Communicating Across Generations25:00 Lifelong Ortho Relationships28:32 Aligner Profitability34:03 Community Mentorship Mindset37:44 Digital Workflow Tools41:06 Virtual Care Connectivity44:42 Generational Patient Communication46:44 New Practice Program Pillars52:10 Contact InfoEpisode Credits: Hosted by Jill AllenProduced by Jordann KillionAudio Engineering by Garrett LuceroAre you ready to start a practice of your own? Do you need a fresh set of eyes or some advice in your existing practice?Reach out to me-
