Ortho2 Users Group Meeting

THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY VIEW COMPLETE CLASS LIST

THURSDAY

The Sound of Leadership

10:30 AM

Speaker: Aaron Smalls - Host, Keynote Speaker, and DJ

The professional workplace is undergoing a transformation, and The Sound of Leadership is at the forefront of this change.

The Sound of Leadership is an innovative, interactive experience that blends keynote insights with live musical performance, illustrating the parallels between DJing and affective leadership.

As we confront the feeling of isolation and disconnectedness in the workplace brought on by technological advancements, it’s essential to cultivate a culture of creativity, belonging, and motivation.

The Sound of Leadership offers a fresh perspective on navigating the complexities of leading through change.

These days you probably can't throw a stone without hitting a DJ. And I’m here to tell you that DJing isn’t simply about choosing records – and leadership isn’t simply about running an organization.

The Sound of Leadership is an entertaining, engaging, and applicable remix to the typical keynote inspiring leaders to transcend the status quo, foster a vibrant organizational culture, and create impactful connections with their teams and market.

Edge Cloud Review and Preview

1:30 PM

Speaker: Chad Kellner - Ortho2 Vice President of Development

Join us for an exciting session that celebrates the innovations of Edge Cloud. Discover the changes we’ve made throughout the past year and get an exclusive first look at the additions on the horizon. Buckle up, because we're about to take you on a ride that will ignite your imagination and revolutionize your perspective. Don't miss out on the excitement!

Orthodontic Market Overview: Trends and Insights for 2025

2:30 PM

Speaker: Shannon Patterson - Partner, Bentson Copple Patterson & Associates

In this presentation, Shannon Patterson will analyze the current business state, trends, and existing benchmarks of the orthodontic market, offering insights to help practice owners make strategic decisions. She will present up-to-date industry data, explore shifts in consumer behavior, discuss buying behavior trends, and examine demographic changes affecting the specialty for 2025. This session aims to provide orthodontists and their team with a clearer understanding of market dynamics to better prepare for the future.

Friday

8:30 AM

Edge Cloud 201

Speaker: Steve Volcko - Ortho2 Regional Manager

Ever wonder if you’re truly making the most of Edge Cloud? Whether you’re just getting started or looking to dive deeper, this friendly 90-minute session is for anyone looking to connect the dots and uncover hidden gems in the software. We’ll start with a quick refresher, then dive into a tour of Edge Cloud’s best features, packed with insider tips. Walk away with a clearer understanding, new tools for your practice, and a few laughs along the way.

Clinical Implementation of New Technology

Speaker: Andrea Cook - Orthodontic Clinical Consultant, Andrea Cook Consulting

New technologies offer innovative treatment options for patients. New technology requires an investment not only in purchasing the equipment but also in team training for successful integration, all while continuing to meet all the standards for infection prevention and sterilization. This course will help doctors and the clinical team understand the new technology, determine which technology is the best fit for their practice, and how to apply it to their offices. Tips and tricks to make the transition smooth will be discussed. New products on the market will be introduced that will help your team develop clinical excellence.

Powerful Strategies to Increase Referrals, Starts, and Five-Star Reviews

Speaker: Dr. Roger Levin - Founder and CEO, Levin Group

Referrals are the lifeblood of every orthodontic practice. Referrals come from five primary sources - patients, parents, referring doctors, your community, and social media. Attend this motivating class and you will learn how to get more new patients so your practice can start more cases and grow production. And as an added bonus, you will also find out how five-star customer service can lead to five-star reviews from all your new patients!

Beyond Just Digital: Unlock Your Practice Potential by Integrating Traditional, AI, and Online Marketing

Speaker: Beth Leach - Marketing Director, Orthodontic Revolution

Are you ready to elevate your orthodontic practice's marketing strategy? Don't miss this game-changing session designed to transform your approach to marketing. Learn how to seamlessly integrate traditional methods with cutting-edge AI and online marketing to attract more patients and boost your practice's growth. This dynamic presentation will equip you with the latest tools and techniques to stay competitive and thrive in today's digital age. Elevate your marketing efforts and drive your practice to new heights by attending this must-see event!

Bits and Banter: Edge Cloud Round Table

Speaker: Derek Dohrman - Ortho2 Software Support Advanced Tech and Lead Trainer

Group up and get comfortable! We are about to have a group discussion about anything regarding Edge Cloud you want to talk about. Well, almost anything. We will moderate the discussion, but this class is really led by you. Learn what others are doing in Edge Cloud and get to know different ways to utilize and optimize the software you have already grown to love.

10:15 AM

Mastering Edge Cloud Security: Safeguarding Your Patients' Information

Speaker: Cathie Morton - Ortho2 Implementation Specialist

When it comes to security in Edge Cloud, it's important to emphasize the protection of sensitive patient and office data. This includes the security of office team members, what they have access to, and what people outside the office have access to. We will review security settings which can allow for individualized access for team members, secure communication, and security reporting. We’ll also talk about resources you can use to stay on top of security threats when it comes to your hardware.

Community Matters: Envisioning, Creating, and Implementing Your Practice Brand Identity in Your Community

Speaker: Dr. Christos Papadopoulos - Orthodontist, PapadopSmiles Orthodontics

After associating for five years, Dr. Papadopoulos returned to his hometown and opened his start-up practice with a purpose of giving back to his community. This presentation will discuss building your practice brand and identity, cultivating unique ideas to mutually benefit your community and your practice growth, and making practice ownership feel truly rewarding.

New Patient Exams: Timing is Everything

Speaker: Kayla Hoorelbeke - President, Informed Image, LLC

…and your time starts now! As a treatment coordinator, the salesperson of the practice, those 30 or 60 minutes of the new patient exam are your time to show what you know. However, without a well-executed plan and specific order of operations, you may be facing an uphill battle. By studying key sales concepts in consumer behavior and the appropriate combination of these skills, you can pass the new patient exam with flying colors.

Basics to Goal Setting-Understanding Edge Cloud Financials

Speaker: Kim Betke - Ortho2 Software Support Representative

You do not have to be a math wizard to understand Edge Cloud financials. Learn how financials work with contracts, payments, adjustments, reports, and more. This class will start at the beginning and go over all things financial including the financial editors, payment accounts, miscellaneous charges, and adjustments. In addition, we’ll cover patient accounts and look at contracts, other fees, and payments. Let’s set financial goals in your dashboard and crush them!

The Art of Customer Service

Speaker: Cathy Jugovic - Owner & Orthodontic Consultant, Jugovic Consulting

Join Cathy Jugovic for a comprehensive class designed to elevate your practice's customer service. Learn proven techniques and strategies to enhance client interactions, build lasting relationships, and create a positive, welcoming environment. Discover how exceptional customer service can transform your practice and drive success.

11:30 AM

Unlocking Efficiency: Edge Cloud Workflow Automation Strategies

Speaker: Derek Dohrman - Ortho2 Software Support Advanced Tech and Lead Trainer

Stop doing so much work! Let Edge Cloud automate your processes for you. From automatic status changes and stack entries to emailing letters and posting charges, Edge Cloud workflows are there for you. Work smarter, not harder and learn how workflows can help you live your best software life!

Fusing Tradition and Innovation … Igniting Case Acceptance

Speaker: Cindi James - Director of Training, Peniche & Associates

Join Cindi James in exploring the fusion of tradition and innovation in orthodontic care. Discover how to create a modern, patient-centered experience by blending timeless values with cutting-edge techniques. Learn strategies to boost case acceptance and practice growth by adapting to evolving patient needs and preferences. Dive into emerging trends in patient engagement, utilizing digital platforms for accessibility and convenience. Explore practical methods for integrating technology and interactive education to empower patients on their orthodontic journey. Gain actionable strategies to enhance the orthodontic patient experience, foster lasting relationships, and ensure practice success in a dynamic market.

Learning objectives:

Understand the importance of blending traditional patient care values with modern innovations in orthodontic practice.
Identify strategies to increase case acceptance by aligning services with evolving patient expectations.
Acquire actionable strategies to foster lasting patient relationships and position your practice for continued success in a dynamic market.

Your Orthodontic Financial Ratios Roundup

Speaker: Jackie Shoemaker - President, JMShoemaker Consulting, Inc.

With your Ortho2 software, your CPA, and some third-party statistical services, it’s easy to assume your financial figures are accurate and relevant. However, without analyzing some of the nuances within your Ortho2 software, you may find yourself bucked off the bull! The goal is to review your financial health from an accounting perspective to establish policies, benchmarks, and comparisons so you can then determine how to maximize your cash flow and ultimately increase profitability.

Keeping Your Patients in Focus With Edge Imaging

Speaker: Leslie Mehalek - Software Support Representative

Do you have "Paparazzi" inspirations? Photos, X-rays, ceph tracings, morphing, Oh My! Learn how to master the art of Edge Imaging! No need to have a "Poker Face" - you will learn all the ins and outs of Edge Imaging to help you earn the "Applause" that your office deserves!

Who's Your Who?

Speaker: Jill Allen - Practice Management Consultant, Jill Allen & Associates

Discover how shifting your focus from 'how' to 'who' can transform your operations, patient care, and overall success. By identifying and partnering with the right experts and team members, you can streamline tasks, enhance efficiency, and unlock unparalleled growth. This dynamic approach fosters innovation and empowers you to achieve more significant results with less effort. Don't miss this opportunity to learn practical, actionable strategies to revolutionize your practice and achieve your biggest goals with the power of collaboration.

2:00 PM

Ads - Website Clicks to Conversions: Unlocking Internet Marketing Mastery

Speakers: Mary Kay Miller, Steven Busch, Jeff Slater

Feeling lost in the digital marketing maze? Wondering if your budget is hitting the mark or if your strategies are actually working for ROI? Ready to take the next big step but not sure where to go? If these questions keep popping up, then this lecture is for you! In today's world, prospective new patients are more active online than ever, researching you and your competitors on Google and social media. Are you making the right impression? Don't get left in the dust! Let's make sure you're not just in the race but leading it!

Course Objectives:

Boost your digital game in all areas of Internet marketing.
Map Your Digital Footprint: Learn how to track your online presence like a pro and see exactly where your marketing is paying off.
2025's Hottest Strategies: Get the inside scoop on the most effective ways to attract new patients online and stay ahead of the curve in 2025.
AI Unleashed: Dive into how artificial intelligence can supercharge your marketing, revolutionize your strategies, and drive results like never before!

Let Me Introduce You to Your Newest Employee - Edge Cloud

Speaker: Cathie Morton - Ortho2 Implementation Specialist

Using Edge Cloud to its fullest capability is like having another employee. The software can handle tasks, streamline processes, and provide valuable insights like a dedicated team member by leveraging its features and functions. With proper set-up and use, Edge Cloud becomes an indispensable asset, contributing to productivity and efficiency across different areas of the office. In this class, you’ll learn how Edge Reminders, AutoReceipts, Edge Broadcast, Online Forms (and so much more!) can make it feel like you have an extra person on your team.

Evolving Industry Trends With Digital Solutions and Patient Expectations

Speaker: Michelle Shimmin - Founding Partner & Business Analyst, Shimmin Consulting

The field of orthodontics is constantly evolving with new technologies, treatment modalities, and patient expectations emerging. To stay competitive, relevant, and most importantly, profitable you need to embrace and adapt to these changes. This process requires effective leadership and management skills. In an economy where staffing is one of the largest practice struggles, it's imperative you nail this process.

Healers Versus Stealers: How Orthodontists Get Embezzled From

Speaker: Wendy Askins - Certified Fraud Examiner, Prosperident

Take an inside look at embezzlement in orthodontic practices.This class will cover:

How enterprising thieves skirt control systems in practices.
Warning signs of embezzlement that should not be ignored.
How to divide duties between team members to reduce risk.
Good hiring practices to keep embezzlers out.
Simple and manageable systems for ﬁnancial controls.

This presentation will be an immersive experience and you will be able to hear from both thieves and victims.

Orthodontic Insurance – Bring it On!

Speaker: Tina Byrne - Practice Consultant, Byrne Consulting/Ortho Team University

Insurance coordinators have one of the most complex jobs in the office, but managing patient benefits doesn’t have to be stressful. Staying updated on orthodontic insurance trends, understanding policy details, and developing strong communication skills are essential. Leveraging technology for claims tracking and patient information management can significantly enhance your efficiency and make your role more rewarding.

3:45 PM

Edge Cloud Strategies for How Your Patients and Parents Communicate With You

Speaker: Kim Betke - Ortho2 Software Support Representative

Patients and parents aren’t always able to communicate with you during your office hours, but they can stay connected 24/7. There are some great ways your patients can interact with your office at all hours of the day. We’ll discuss several features in Edge Cloud such as Online Scheduling, Edge Proposal, inVisit, website access, and online forms.

Navigating Ortho2 With Cathy Jugovic: Key Reports for Efficient Practice Management

Speaker: Cathy Jugovic - Owner & Orthodontic Consultant, Jugovic Consulting

Join Cathy Jugovic to embark on a journey to practice success through navigating your Ortho2 reports. Discover the power of essential reports and master their usage on a daily, weekly, and monthly basis for transformative results. Learn how to save money and make money by leveraging these tools. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to elevate your practice's financial performance.

Syncing Minds: The Art and Science of Treatment Coordination

Speaker: Diana Weaver - Partner, Director of Consulting, Shimmin Consulting

Join Diana for an engaging exploration into the intricate world of treatment coordination, where psychology meets effectiveness. In this lecture, we’ll delve into the psychology behind what creates the highest caliber orthodontic treatment coordinator. Discover the inner workings of the human psyche as it relates to ever-changing patient needs and expectations. This lecture will equip you with elevated insights and strategies to enhance your skill set.

Customize and Prioritize Your Edge Cloud Treatment Hub

Speaker: Leslie Mehalek - Software Support Representative

Treatment Hub is where all the action is! Oral hygiene, treatment notes, findings, sequencing, imaging, patient information...everything here is critical to your patient care and practice. In this class, you will learn how to customize your treatment hub to fit your needs! Create drop-down lists, appointment styles, and filters to minimize chart entry time. Please join me and learn how to make Treatment Hub work FOR you!

Accentuate the Positive! Rejuvenating Passion and Purpose

Speaker: Joan Garbo - Owner, Joan Garbo Consulting

You know all those upbeat, happy, the-glass-is-always-full, positive, energetic with or without the morning coffee people? BE ONE! That doesn’t mean you need to imitate or act like them. That wouldn’t be authentic, would feel weird, and is difficult to sustain.

The good news is you have your unique expression of purpose and passion for life and it’s what’s wanted and needed today and every day. The double good news is you can uncover and recover yourself! In this edutaining seminar you will learn how to:

Tap into your well-spring of joy and happiness
Express your unique style of enthusiasm
Rejuvenate your natural, inherent passion for making a difference in life
Turn stress into energy

Have your practice be a place that patients are proud to be a part of and brag about to their family and friends.

Saturday

8:30 AM

Set Your Day Up for Success With Edge Cloud’s Scheduler

Speaker: Kim Betke - Ortho2 Software Support Representative

Scheduling can be a nightmare, but it does not have to be. Learn how to set up your schedule so it works for you – everything from the basics to extra functionality so you can master your schedule. We will talk about the scheduler bar, smart scheduler, restricting/prohibiting times in the Scheduler, groups/chains, and doctor time scheduling. Let’s optimize your time and schedule more efficiently.

Sterilization, Organization, and Efficiency in Today’s Orthodontic Office

Speaker: Andrea Cook - Orthodontic Clinical Consultant, Andrea Cook Consulting

Today’s orthodontic teams are challenged with having the time, knowledge, and equipment to process instruments and achieve compliance with the CDC guidelines and sterilization protocols. From processing to storage, multiple steps must be included to ensure your instruments are safe for your patients. Clinical efficiency is greatly increased with proper storage and organization in your sterilization and clinical areas. Having everything your clinician needs during an appointment is critical to running appointments and your schedule on time. We will review the current Guidelines for Infection Control in Dental Health-Care Settings, 2003 as well as the recent update to these guidelines. We will discuss tips and tricks to help make instrument reprocessing safe, fun, and effective for the orthodontic team!

Harnessing AI: Supercharge Your Marketing, Social Media, Video, Voice, and More!

Speaker: Beth Leach - Marketing Director, Orthodontic Revolution

Curious about how AI can transform your marketing strategy? Do you know how AI can boost your social media presence, enhance your video content, or improve your voice marketing? Join Beth Leach for a dynamic session where these questions and more will be answered. Learn how AI can help you captivate your audience, increase patient engagement, and take your practice's growth to new heights. Discover the latest AI-driven tools and techniques that will revolutionize your marketing efforts and leave your competition behind. Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to see the future of marketing in action!

What’s Your Why: Discovering Your Practice’s Brand Story

Speaker: Jill Allen - Practice Management Consultant, Jill Allen & Associates

Every story needs a detailed setting, an admirable hero, and a villain that is up to no good. But, like any good story, our practices need a strong sense of purpose and a collaborative goal to help us win the day. Our practice's narrative is one of the most influential aspects of our business. Who we are and what we do defines our company culture and our patients' image of us. We know this storyline is essential for our marketing efforts, but you might be surprised to find that it is critical for your team too. Follow Jill as she rewrites what it means to be a good leader within your practice and how those efforts affect your team's happiness and longevity.

Edge Cloud Spring Cleaning: Best Practices for Cleanup

Speaker: Derek Dohrman - Ortho2 Software Support Advanced Tech and Lead Trainer

Whether you’ve been using Edge Cloud for a while or are starting out, there’s a good chance it could use a good cleanup. From cleaning up your needs appointment list to doing a good scrub down of the editors by removing duplicates, this class will focus on some best practices to keep the software in peak working condition.

9:45 AM

Unlock Your Potential - Gain the Ultimate EDGE in Your Role

Speaker: Tina Byrne - Practice Consultant, Byrne Consulting/Ortho Team University

This presentation delves into the comprehensive features, detailed reports, and powerful functions of Edge Cloud, designed to keep you at the pinnacle of your field. Learn how Edge Cloud can significantly boost your efficiency, productivity, and overall performance in your role.

The Shift: From Orthodontic Team Member to Office Manager

Speaker: Brittani Wyrick and Megan Wyrick - Founders of TWO, The Wyrick Outlook

This session focuses on the critical aspects of transitioning from an orthodontic team member to an office manager, emphasizing culture shift, overcoming negativity, managing team turnover, and understanding new expectations. We'll explore strategies for fostering a positive environment, handling challenges, and committing to long-term success. Gain practical insights and actionable advice to confidently navigate this career evolution and thrive in your new leadership role.

Harnessing Digital and Relationship-Based Marketing Strategies

Speaker: Tony Peniche - Director of Innovation, Peniche & Associates

Join Tony Peniche to discover the power of digital and relationship-based marketing strategies that drive growth in orthodontics. Learn to balance patient engagement, streamline operations, and boost your practice with data-driven campaigns and strong patient relationships. Embrace innovation, take calculated risks, and differentiate your practice from the competition. This session will equip you with the essential tools to elevate your marketing strategy and achieve unparalleled success in your orthodontic practice.

Can We Talk? Effective Patient Communication Using Edge Cloud

Speaker: Cathie Morton - Ortho2 Implementation Specialist

Let's discuss how to communicate effectively with your patients using Edge Cloud. You are probably aware of Edge Cloud’s ability to send appointment reminders, text messaging, or emailing statements. But what about asking for reviews or notifying patients of an office closure? Come and find out how to maximize these channels to your benefit, and maybe even wow your patients.

How to Create the Ideal Schedule

Speaker: K. Ryan Alexander - President, Alexander and Sons

Nothing affects the entire practice, its stress level and marketability, more than the scheduling system. This lecture will detail the main steps and principles necessary to create an ideal schedule that runs on time while also allowing for flexibility to meet your patients’ needs. This includes the development of a doctor time template, as well as the time-tested principles and game plan necessary to handle your patients on time.

11:00 AM

Be Curious, Not Judgmental: Lasso Learning Lessons

Speaker: Jill Allen - Practice Management Consultant, Jill Allen & Associates

Everyone pulls for Ted Lasso! I am pulling for you as well. Like the series, even our practices can experience teamwork and culture gaps. In this research-based and story-filled class, you will learn tips you can immediately apply to understanding personalities within communication, managing conflict, and designing a great culture. Be prepared to laugh and be inspired. The only requirement is to remain curious!

Edge Dashboard Dynamics - Driving Success With Real-Time Data

Speaker: Sue Hanen - Orthodontic Consultant, Ortho Team University

This course will provide an in-depth understanding of the Edge Cloud Dashboard, highlighting its features and benefits for different practice roles. Attendees will learn how to leverage real-time data to enhance efficiency, productivity, and overall practice success. By the end of this course, you'll be equipped with the knowledge and tools to unlock the full potential of the Edge Cloud Dashboard. This will enhance your practice's efficiency and empower you to make data-driven decisions that can drive your practice's success. Learning Objectives * Understand the unique features and data insights the Edge Cloud Dashboard offers for different roles, including administrative and clinical teams, orthodontists, and practice managers. * Discover how to use the Dashboard in your specific role to simplify tasks and enhance your daily workflow, making your work more efficient and effective. * Learn strategies for using the Dashboard to monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and identify areas for improvement. * Gain practical tips on setting up and customizing the dashboard to meet specific practice needs.

The Importance of the Pre-Party: Straight Consulting’s Three-Step Setup

Speaker: Alisha Holbert - Practice Consultant, Straight Consulting

This presentation breaks down EXACTLY what your practice needs to be doing in order to raise your conversion rate tomorrow. We will dive into the tips and strategies of the Straight Consulting Three-Step Setup, or what I also like to call the Pre-Party. Our goal is to spark the buying process from the jump and to have them 80% ready to close before they ever step foot into your practice. Trust me, it's all in the prep work!

Where’s the Money?

Speaker: Edwina Wood - Consultant, Full Smile/Mari's List

Remember the TV commercial’s question, “Where’s the beef?” In today’s orthodontic practice, our questions should be, “Where’s the money?” We will focus on developing a practice budget, how to organize your inventory, and where to find savings when ordering supplies. We’ll also see how you can find hidden production. Let me show you how to lower your overhead and increase your production. "Where's the money?" you ask. Come find out!

Edge Cloud Animations - The Key to More Starts for Your Office

Speaker: Leslie Mehalek - Software Support Representative

Would you like to increase starts in your office? Did you know that 65% of the population learns visually and 30% auditorily? Edge Animations can explain treatment to 95% of the folks you are speaking with! In this class, you will learn how Edge Animations can build your social media and marketing presence, educate patients and responsible parties, and of course close those new patient exams!