January 19, 2024

Originally Posted at the Trussville Tribune.

BIRMINGHAM — An orthodontics practice with local ties, Birmingham Orthodontics, announced in a press release on Friday, Jan. 19 that Dr. Nada Souccar had joined its team.

Dr. Souccar is an orthodontist with a distinguished career that spans 17 years and includes more than a decade of instruction at the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Dentistry, where she most recently served as an associate professor.

Birmingham Orthodontics is an orthodontic practice based in Birmingham, Ala. In addition to the Trussville clinic on Main Street, it has clinics located in Alabaster, Greystone and Hoover. The practice employs more than 60 employees, and Dr. Souccar joins a staff of orthodontists that includes founder Dr. Michael McCarthy, Dr. Erika Hartman, Dr. Careybeth Rivers, Dr. Katelyn Feinberg and Dr. Alexis Pugh.

“I couldn’t be more thrilled to be joining the caring, patient-focused team at Birmingham Orthodontics,” Dr. Souccar said. “I take immense pride in helping patients create beautiful smiles and seeing the impact orthodontic care can have on their success and self-esteem. I know my new colleagues share my passion for providing the best and most advanced orthodontic treatment.”

Dr. Souccar has lived in Birmingham since 2009 and earned both her Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry (DMD) and her Orthodontic Certificate from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. She has received numerous awards for her research and teaching, including the Fred and Dianne Garrett Biomedical Research Award and the Eugene E. West Fellowship Award, both from the American Association of Orthodontists Foundation, and the University of Alabama at Birmingham’s President’s Award for Excellence in Teaching.

A member of the American Association of Orthodontists and Southern Association of Orthodontists, Dr. Souccar is a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics.

Birmingham Orthodontics consists of 4 practices operating under Rock Dental Brands in Alabama.

January 19, 2024

Originally Posted on Arkansas Business.

Rock Dental Brands of Little Rock continued its expansion with new affiliations in four states.

Four practices have joined the dental services organization:

• Cardinal Orthodontics, an orthodontic practice based in Missouri
• Smile Concepts Orthodontics, an orthodontic clinic in Apopka, Florida
• Meade Moore Pediatric Dentistry, a children’s dentistry clinic in Germantown, Tennessee
• Arkansas Oral & Facial Surgery Center, a facial and oral surgery practice with locations in northwest Arkansas

“We believe that the integration of these four excellent and regionally recognized dental providers into the Rock Dental Brands network will create exciting opportunities for growth and collaboration,” Kristi Casey, CEO of Rock Dental Brands, said in a statement. “Together, we will continue to raise the bar in dental care and orthodontics for patients, leveraging our collective expertise to improve the oral health and overall well-being of those we serve.”

The dentist-owned practice management group now operates 108 dental offices in five states, including Arkansas, Missouri, Tennessee, Alabama and Florida.

January 15, 2024

Originally Posted at The Jonesboro Sun.

JONESBORO, Ark. (1. 15, 2024) — Westrock Orthodontics announces its co-founder Dr. Mark Dake is now providing orthodontic services at its Jonesboro clinic, located at 2606 Browns Lane, and its Paragould clinic, located at 2713 Kingshighway. Westrock Orthodontics brings high-quality orthodontic care to 56 locations across Arkansas, Missouri and Tennessee. 

Dr. Dake provides specialized braces and Invisalign® treatment plans for children, teens and adults. He holds a Silver Tier status for his expertise in Invisalign® treatment. Dr. Dake’s passion for orthodontics and the health of his patients has served as a driving force behind the success of Westrock Orthodontics.

“Providing children and families with happier, healthier smiles is one of my life’s greatest gifts, and I’m overjoyed to start practicing at our Jonesboro location,” Dr. Dake said. “We have an exceptional team here. The level of experience and capability is truly remarkable. I look forward to contributing my expertise alongside these seasoned professionals as we continue to provide top-notch orthodontic care.”

Dr. Dake opened his first orthodontics practice in West Plains, Mo., over 30 years ago, before partnering with Dr. Bryan Hiller in 2009 to establish Westrock Orthodontics’ parent company, Rock Dental Brands. Rock Dental Brands now includes more than 100 clinics and 900 team members. 

Dr. Dake received his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Missouri-Kansas City. He later went on to complete his Master of Science in Dentistry and Orthodontic Certification at the Baylor College of Dentistry in Dallas. 

For more information about Dr. Dake and the services he provides to Jonesboro patients,  visit westrockortho.com

About Westrock Orthodontics

Westrock Orthodontics is an oral health care brand with more than 50 affiliate clinics in Arkansas, Missouri and Tennessee. For more information, visit www.westrockortho.com. 

January 10, 2024

Originally Posted on Becker’s Dental + DSO Review.

Despite many execs expecting economic challenges to slow DSO activity, Rock Dental Brands is remaining flexible and committed to its expansion goals.

Chief Growth Officer Jake Sligh recently spoke with Becker’s to discuss the Little Rock, Ark.-based DSO’s growth efforts, the trends he is following today and how the organization plans to adapt amid a challenging economic climate. 

Editor’s note: Responses were lightly edited for length and clarity.

Question: What are your DSO’s top priorities in 2024?

Jake Sligh: We remain steadfast in our commitment to expanding the practices we serve and championing innovation wherever possible throughout the Rock Dental Brands network. In 2024, we will continue to build a culture that wholeheartedly embraces industry-changing technology and recruits top-tier talent. We aim to help shape the future of healthcare through investment in exceptional doctors, advanced technology and our invaluable workforce.

Q: What are some key strategies in place to expand and grow your footprint?

JS: Rock Dental Brands has devised robust strategies aimed at expanding our footprint and bolstering our presence in our key markets. These include strategic acquisitions and partnerships within our current geographic footprint and also accessing new, strategic geographic regions. It is important that we continue to build out the density of our network to continue to build multispecialty networks of providers who can seamlessly take care of their patients’ needs. Furthermore, we will continue leaning on our internal data infrastructure to drive additional organic growth within our existing footprint. 

Q: What are the biggest challenges facing DSOs today?

JS: It continues to be a challenge to address workforce shortages. In response, we are investing in our people in more ways than one. That means a focus on culture and creating an environment where our people can thrive. It also means a comprehensive look at our pay and benefits to ensure they are competitive. In terms of additional challenges, DSOs are pressed to develop flexible and agile operational models to respond to market dynamics, and we also continue to see competition from mail-order dental services, although the recent closure of SmileDirectClub might indicate a shift there.  

Q: Many DSO execs are expecting slower growth amid a challenging economy. What are your thoughts on this? 

JS: While economic challenges may lead to expectations of slower growth within the DSO industry, Rock Dental Brands remains resilient and adaptable. We acknowledge the potential impact but are confident in our ability to navigate these challenges by optimizing operational efficiencies, streamlining processes and doubling down on our commitment to innovation. These strategic initiatives position us to mitigate adverse effects and continue our growth trajectory despite economic headwinds.

Q: What are the top trends you are following now?

JS: We are closely monitoring several industry trends that shape the future of dental care. These include the integration of telehealth solutions in dental services and personalized patient-centric care models driven by technology. Embracing these trends aligns with our commitment to innovation and enhancing patient outcomes. Industry expertise and innovation go hand-in-hand, so we partner with the best providers and then we look to them to vet new technologies and ensure that patient care is always front of mind. 

Q: What is your proudest accomplishment of 2023?

JS: In 2023, one of our proudest achievements was the successful expansion of our network into new territories. This year, we added new practices near St. Louis, Orlando and Memphis, and we strengthened our offerings in Arkansas. We now have more than 100 affiliate dental clinics in five states, marking a significant milestone for Rock Dental Brands. Our work has resulted in a thriving workforce of nearly 900 employees. This strategic growth allowed us to extend our reach and services to more communities, reaffirming our commitment to providing exceptional dental care while expanding our footprint in line with our mission to serve diverse populations with excellence. 

December 21, 2023

Originally posted on Talk Business & Politics.

SmileDirectClub, a prominent player in direct-to-consumer teeth straightening, on Dec. 8 announced the immediate shut-down of its global operations. This abrupt closure significantly impacts its customers and has raised pertinent questions about the future of the mail-order clear aligners business. Dr. Mark Dake, chief clinical officer of Rock Dental Brands in Little Rock, offers insights on the implications of this event.

Q: SmileDirectClub was an industry leader in direct-to-consumer dentistry, with a valuation of close to $9 billion in 2019. What insight can you offer into what happened?

Dr. Mark Dake: I believe that SmileDirectClub serves as a cautionary tale for the dental industry and unfortunately for its customers, who placed trust in what seemed like a wise investment to improve their smiles. To give you some background, SmileDirectClub was established in 2014 and pledged to revolutionize orthodontics by providing consumers direct access to custom-fit, clear plastic aligners. Their business model boasted convenience and accessibility and was widely viewed as innovative.

For those with insight into the complexity of orthodontic procedures, there were red flags right away with this approach. It hinged on customers self-administering dental impressions at home and, most importantly, removed the crucial element of clinically-supervised treatments with a certified orthodontic specialist.

Over time, initial concerns about the risks associated with DIY dental care have been realized in our orthodontic clinics. Our doctors often encounter individuals seeking corrections after inadequate treatment from at-home kits, with some cases presenting irreversible issues. We watched SmileDirectClub face lawsuits and scrutiny for misleading advertising, claims of FDA violations and use of non-disclosure agreements to stifle unhappy customers. All of this culminated in SmileDirectClub filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in late September, ahead of its recent closure.

Q: Multiple national news outlets have reported an uproar from SmileDirectClub’s customers, who are sharing their experiences online. Where does this closure leave them?

Dr. Dake: I’ve been watching the news unfold with everyone else, and it looks like many customers are left with incomplete treatment. It’s been reported that individuals with payment plans are expected to keep paying and that, for those two million customers, SmileDirectClub’s “Lifetime Smile Guarantee” is null and void.

There’s ambiguity right now in terms of exactly how many people are affected — but one thing is really clear. The collapse of SmileDirectClub serves as a strong reminder of the importance of patient care, oversight and accountability in the delivery of dental services. The best move for those who were affected by this is for them to seek professional care from a local dental provider who specializes in orthodontics.

Q: How do you respond to individuals skeptical of the traditional dental industry’s critique of direct-to-consumer dental care, dismissing it as mere protection of their own interests?

Dr. Dake: I get it. This is business, and in that sense, DIY dental kits are competition for certified orthodontic specialists. However, at the end of the day, this is about upholding an adequate standard of care and adhering to ethical principles in how patients are treated. Rock Dental Brands and all of our clinics and providers hold those standards and principles very dear.

With orthodontic treatment, you’re shifting the teeth and also addressing jaw alignment. It can reshape a person’s whole facial structure. Errors in impressions can lead to aligners causing discomfort, and they can also lead to long-term effects like overbite, underbite or root fractures. There are bones, ligaments and nerves involved. All of this highlights the importance of professional medical supervision.

Q: With this in mind, to what do you attribute the popularity of at-home teeth straightening, and how has traditional dentistry responded?

Dr. Dake: One big draw for DIY teeth straightening is the convenience factor. Everyone is busy, and if there’s an opportunity to take care of something at home instead of coming into an office for an appointment, that’s attractive. To that end, many orthodontists now offer remote monitoring, which means you still receive professional treatment and supervision, but in the comfort of your own home.

There are probably some direct-to-consumer kit customers who equate in-clinic orthodontics with old-school braces, so they turned to the kits in an ad they saw for clear aligners, but many orthodontists offer this treatment as well.

Finally, I think there is a misconception that orthodontic treatment isn’t attainable financially. While that might have been true in decades past, that’s just not the case today for most families. My hope is that the SmileDirectClub closure will serve as a wake-up call for direct-to-consumer brands and help consumers make the best possible decisions for their oral health.

Editor’s note: Dr. Mark Dake is the chief clinical officer and co-founder of Little Rock-based Rock Dental Brands, a group of doctors who provide multidisciplinary care in pediatric dentistry, orthodontics, general dentistry and oral surgery. The practice management group has more than 100 affiliate clinics in five states. The opinions expressed are those of the author.

March 8, 2023

On this International Women’s Day, we want to express my admiration and gratitude for all that women do. Women are the backbone of our organization, and their contributions have helped to shape our industry in so many positive ways. Their commitment to excellence, unwavering dedication, and boundless energy have inspired us all to be better, to do more, and to never give up.

We are proud to be a part of a company that values and supports women. We recognize the importance of diversity and inclusivity, and we know that our success is built on the foundation of our talented and driven female team members. They are the ones who are setting the example for future generations of women, not just in the dental industry but in all aspects of life.

On this International Women’s Day, we challenge you to be bold, to be brave, and to continue to push the boundaries of what is possible. Let’s work together to break down barriers, shatter stereotypes, and create a world where women are valued and respected for the amazing individuals that they are.

We’re honored to work alongside such an incredible group of women. Thank you for all that you do, and for the impact that you have made on our industry and our communities.

March 1, 2023

We are thrilled to announce that our NEW Rock Dental Brands website is now LIVE! It is now easier than ever to find out more information about Rock Dental, the culture we thrive on, and the amazing services that we offer for prospective doctors and employees.

Rock Dental Brands was built by providers, for providers. We take the administrative burden off of our doctors so that they can focus on taking excellent care of their patients. We trust our doctors to determine the proper treatment necessary for each and every one of their patients. We do not influence treatment plans or require daily production numbers – we know you have it handled. 

Rock Dental Brands has a variety of locations that vary from orthodontic care, pediatric dental care, oral surgery, and general family dentistry. We partner seamlessly alongside all of our individual brands and support them in our main mission: to increase the standard of quality patient care throughout their lifetime.

For more information, visit www.rockdentalbrands.com. 

About Rock Dental Brands

Founded in 2015 by Dr. Mark Dake, Merritt Dake, and Dr. Bryan Hiller, Rock Dental Brands is a progressive practice management group based in Little Rock, Ark. The company provides support to 102 general dentistry and dental specialist affiliates in Arkansas, Missouri, Tennessee, Florida, and Alabama. Its oral health care brands include Westrock Orthodontics, Rock Family Dental, Impact Oral Surgery, Leap Kids Dental, Birmingham Orthodontics, Coastline Orthodontics, and a host of other independent brands.

February 16, 2023

February is Children’s Dental Health month and Dr. Emily Cheek of Leap Kids Dental wants parents to know the best ways they can help their kids maintain their dental hygiene through the early stages of life.

“Parents play an important role in promoting early dental habits,” said Cheek. Cheek recommends beginning dental visits with children between the ages of six and twelve months or by the time they get their first tooth.

“A lot of parents think you don’t have to take them in until they are 3 or 5 years old. Unfortunately, by that time, they could have a mouth full of cavities,” she said. One of the biggest things parents can do to help is to monitor their child’s diet and hygiene habits early on. When watching their diet, it’s good for children to eat lots of fruit, and protein and stay away from junk food. “One thing people don’t realize is juice, Kool-aid, Gatorade and sodas can can cause lots of tooth decay. Unfortunately, some people see no harm in juice, but it’s really just pure sugar, so a lot of times juice or any kind of liquid with a lot of sugar in it can cause cavities between the teeth a lot of the time,” said Cheek.

As always, it is recommended to brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, even for babies. “As soon as teeth start touching that’s an indication that we want to start flossing as well,” added Cheek. According to Cheek, one of the most common misconceptions about children’s dental health is parents thinking they don’t need to treat decay in baby teeth. “That is a complete myth because baby teeth plan an important role in facial development, jaw growth, eating and talking,” said Cheek.

Before the first tooth comes in, Cheek recommends softly rubbing a child’s gums to keep
them clean and help the child get used to the daily practice of teeth cleaning. “Whenever that first tooth comes in, they are already used to this and the habit is ingrained,” she said. She added that it also the health of baby teeth affects how permanent teeth develop. “If you have a baby tooth that becomes an abscess, it can cause damage to the permanent teeth as well,” she said.

Cheek also recommends monitoring children’s sucking habits. “One thing maybe parents don’t realize is having a thumb-sucking or pacifier habit can cause some changes in their teeth and jaw if they are on it for too long. That’s something you want to have a one-on-one conversation with your dentist about,” she said. “A lot of times when February is Children’s Dental Health month kids are young, having that sucking habit is completely normal and healthy, we just don’t want it to extend passed a certain age,” she said. Cheek recommends children be off of pacifiers by age three and thumb-sucking before the
first tooth comes in.

National Children’s Dental Health Month is sponsored by the American Dental Association.
The month-long national health observance works to bring together thousands of dedicated
professionals, healthcare providers and educators to promote the benefits of good oral health
for children, their caregivers, teachers and many others.

The Saline Courier – 8 Feb 2023