Episode
AME: The Averages
- Published
- Jul 20, 2026
- Duration seconds
- 1852
- Processing state
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- https://dentalhacks.libsyn.com/ame-the-averages
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Summary
Alan discusses the distinct economic realities of general dentistry, focusing on why the industry relies almost exclusively on a traditional flat-fee structure rather than complexity-based or hourly pricing. While individual clinical procedures exist on a vast continuum—ranging from effortless five-minute wins to grueling, unpredictable clinical nightmares—general practitioners routinely charge the exact same fee for both extremes. Alan breaks down how profitability structurally relies on "the averages," where highly efficient, straightforward procedures inevitably subsidize the time-consuming and difficult cases. The episode explores the unique consumer pressures of dentistry that mandate this setup: unlike the bureaucratic insulation of medicine, dentists are required to provide transparent, upfront financial estimates to patients navigating static insurance maximums. Ultimately, Alan challenges the status quo of the standard fee schedule, opening a debate on whether independent practice owners should implement tiered pricing models for high-complexity cases or simply accept the math of the middle. Join the Very Dental Facebook Group using one of these passwords: Timmerman, Paul, Bioclear, Hornbrook, Gary, McWethy, Papa Randy, or Lipscomb! The Very Dental Podcast network is and will remain free to download. If you'd like to support the shows you love at Very Dental then show a little love to the people that support us! We're proud to be supported by the folks at Net32! I'm a big fan of the Bioclear Method ! I think you should give it a try and I've got a great offer to help you get on board! Use the exclusive Very Dental Podcast code VERYDENTAL8TON for 15% OFF your total Bioclear purchase, including Core Anterior and Posterior Four day courses, Black Triangle Certifi…