173. Lower Case Acceptance, Higher Value Dentistry

Do you feel frustrated when patients say no to treatment? Do you wonder if pushing for higher case acceptance is always the right move? In this episode, I’m breaking down why lowering your case acceptance rate might actually be a sign you’re leveling up—and how to turn those "nos" into long-term wins.

I’ll share why I’d rather have a 20% acceptance rate on 10K cases than 100 500 fillings, how to spot the real reasons behind patient objections (hint: it’s not always money), and my team’s proven scripts for leaning into "no" without sounding pushy. Plus, I’ll reveal why I lead every case with sedation and flexible payment options—even for patients who don’t "seem" anxious.

Timestamp:

@07:41 – Case Acceptance Math

@08:28 – 4 Reasons for "No"

@12:59 – Sedation Secret

@14:18 – Financial Menu Hack

@16:08 – Patient Booking Truths

@17:07 – 3 Types of "No"

Who is Dr. Sully Sullivan?

Who is Dr. Sully Sullivan?

Dr. Sully is a fourth-generation dentist from Nashville, Tn. After receiving his doctorate of dental surgery from the University of Tennessee, he moved back to Nashville to practice with his father. By continuing to invest in his education through adult orthodontics, soft tissue grafting, dental implants, third molar extractions, and obstructive sleep apnea, he helped double his practice in just 24 months.

As a millennial, he truly believes in working smarter not harder, which has led him to utilize technology to not only deliver better patient care but more efficient care. Dr. Sullivan regularly uses CEREC, 3D imaging with Galileos, 3D printing, and multiple lasers. In addition to his practice, he started the Millennial Dentist Podcast in February of 2017 to help push his fellow colleagues to take their dental careers to the next level. Dr. Sully lectures around the country on cone beam technology, cad/cam dentistry, obstructive sleep apnea, and practice management. He is also an ambassador for the 3D-Dentist teaching facility in Raleigh, NC.

As always, thanks so much for listening! If you like the show, we would love for you to review the show on Apple Podcasts as well as spread the word! If you have any questions or want to get in touch, shoot me an email at [email protected] 

Links and Resources

Email: [email protected] 

The Millennial Dentist Website: http://millennialdentist.com/ 

Millennial Dentist Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/MillennialDentist 

Millennial Dentist Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/millennialdentist/