Episode 959

959: The Secret Behind Selling Dentistry Without Selling – Dr. Tom Hedge

Published on: 22nd October, 2025

959: The Secret Behind Selling Dentistry Without Selling – Dr. Tom Hedge

How do you sell dentistry without selling? In this episode, Kirk Behrendt brings in Dr. Tom Hedge, founder of The Houston Dentists Tanglewood, to review a recent presentation he gave at Smile Source Exchange and share his secret to selling dentistry without actually selling. To learn how to get patients to buy without feeling like they're sold to, listen to Episode 959 of The Best Practices Show!

Learn More About Dr. Hedge:

More Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:

Episode Resources:

Main Takeaways:

  • Always take photos of new patients. It is a critical step.
  • Use digital photography for patient education. Let them do the talking.
  • Never treat a stranger. Ask good questions and get to know your patients.
  • Consider hiring a remote employee. They can free up you and your team’s time.
  • Make it as easy and as convenient as possible for patients to schedule appointments.
  • There isn't one big thing to make your practice better; there are a thousand little things.

Snippets:

0:00 Introduction.

0:52 Dr. Hedge’s background.

4:56 What most dentists get wrong about photography.

7:01 Selling without selling, explained.

8:46 Does Dr. Hedge invest in marketing?

9:44 All you need is an iPad.

10:09 Self-limiting beliefs about taking photos.

11:03 Let patients do the talking.

11:36 Benefits of a remote employee.

16:03 Benefits of using Weave.

16:58 Dr. Hedge’s philosophy on hygiene.

19:05 The future of technology in dentistry.

22:43 Advice for dentists.

24:24 About Smile Source Exchange.

27:35 Final thoughts.

Dr. Tom Hedge Bio:

Dr. Tom Hedge is widely known as one of the top-notch cosmetic dentists in the United States. He received his Bachelor’s degree from Kenyon College in Gambier, Ohio, where he majored in biology and chemistry. While studying at the Ohio State University College of Dentistry, he conducted research resulting in the publication of seven abstracts and one paper, which received numerous awards at the state and national levels. After graduating from dental school, he completed a general practice residency at Richland Memorial Hospital in Columbia, South Carolina. This advanced education included training in anesthesia, pediatrics, emergency medicine, geriatrics, TMJ treatment, endodontics, periodontics, orthodontics, oral surgery, prosthetics, and implantology.

Dr. Hedge is nationally recognized not only for excellence in clinical programs, but for sound business practices that make full use of the newest technologies in dentistry. He is an alumnus of the renowned Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies, as well as the Pankey Institute for Advanced Dental Education. Dr. Hedge is a frequent contributor to dental publications, as well as professional development magazines. 

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About the Podcast

The Best Practices Show with Kirk Behrendt
Elevate Your Dental Practice: Insights & Strategies from Industry Leaders
Welcome to The Best Practices Show, hosted by Kirk Behrendt, founder of ACT Dental (https://www.actdental.com/) and a leader in dental practice coaching. This podcast is your gateway to discovering the hidden gems and tactics used by the most successful dental practices worldwide.

At ACT Dental, we have meticulously curated strategies that have consistently proven effective in elevating dental practices. Our podcast, The Best Practices Show, extends our commitment to sharing this wealth of knowledge. Each episode features interviews with renowned dental professionals and industry leaders who have made significant strides in their practices. They share their experiences, insights, and the challenges they've overcome, offering a unique perspective that you won't find anywhere else.

Why should you listen to The Best Practices Show? Whether you're a seasoned dentist, a new practice owner, or somewhere in between, this podcast is tailored to inspire and educate. Our goal is not just to provide you with information but to transform the way you think about and run your dental practice. We delve into topics ranging from advanced clinical techniques and practice management to leadership skills and personal growth.

Kirk Behrendt, a respected figure in the dental community, brings his vast experience and infectious enthusiasm to each episode, making complex topics both understandable and engaging. As the CEO of ACT Dental, Kirk has helped countless dental practices thrive by focusing on holistic development - professionally, personally, and within their community.

Our commitment to authenticity and practical advice sets The Best Practices Show apart. We don't just talk about theories; we dive into real-life applications you can implement immediately in your practice. Our community-centric approach means we're always listening to our audience and constantly evolving our content to meet your needs.

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Kirk Behrendt