Q&A Dr. Sean K. Carlson
Dr. Sean K. Carlson
The AI Strategist Helping Orthos Scale Without Burnout
Respected worldwide for his contributions to CBCT, 3D imaging, and airway-focused orthodontics, Dr. Sean K. Carlson is now focused on something entirely different: simplifying success. A graduate of Harvard University and UCSF, Dr. Carlson has spent over 25 years in practice, pushing the boundaries of technology and innovation.
In 2023, he introduced Ortho 3.0—a next-generation model built on customization, automation, and outsourcing. After two decades in a traditional setup, he launched Simple Orthodontics, a bold new venture redefining what a lean, future-ready practice can be.
At OP Summit 2025, his session “Do Less, Achieve More: Zen and the Art of Outsourcing” is designed to challenge everything you thought you knew about how a modern ortho practice should operate—and offer a better way forward.
Q: Dr. Carlson, your talk is called “Do Less, Achieve More.” What does that mean in the context of orthodontics?
A: It means orthodontists are doing way too much of the wrong things. From managing HR, to micromanaging treatment plans, to trying to be their own IT department—most doctors are burning themselves out on tasks that don’t require their expertise. This session is about learning to let go—strategically.
I’m going to show how I completely reimagined my practice by focusing only on what I do best—treatment planning and patient care—and outsourcing or automating the rest. It’s about building a model that works for your life, not one that drains it.
Q: What inspired you to change everything? Was there a breaking point?
A: Yes—and I think many doctors can relate. I looked up one day and realized I had built a successful practice… but I was miserable. I had no time, constant stress, and I felt like I was always reacting instead of leading. So I took a step back and asked: What if I rebuilt everything with clarity, purpose, and freedom at the center?
That’s what this talk is about. I’ll walk attendees through how I blew up the comfortable model and rebuilt it with three pillars: Customization, Automation, and Outsourcing. And spoiler: the practice became way more profitable—and my life, way more balanced.
Q: Most people know you from clinical innovations like 3D imaging. How is this talk different from your past lectures?
A: It’s completely different. This isn’t about CBCT or airway—it’s about rethinking the business side of orthodontics. My goal is to help other doctors realize they don’t have to be everything to everyone.
I’m going to share what to outsource, what to automate, and how to protect your time. It’s a mindset shift—from “I need to control everything” to “I only need to focus on what truly matters.” I’ll also share real numbers: how this approach increased revenue while lowering my weekly hours. No fluff—just what works.
Q: What will doctors leave with after attending your session?
A: They’ll leave with a new lens through which to view their practice. I’ll share a step-by-step breakdown of my C.A.O. model, examples of tools and vendors I use, and ideas they can implement the very next day.
Most importantly, they’ll walk away with permission to stop trying to do it all—and a blueprint for building a future-ready, efficient, profitable, and enjoyable practice.
Q: Any final message for Summit attendees deciding whether to attend your talk?
A: If you’ve ever thought, “There’s got to be a better way,”—this is that better way. I took a huge risk by letting go of the “old school” and building something new. It was uncomfortable. But it was the best decision I’ve made in 25 years of practice.
This session is for anyone who’s ready to practice smarter, not just harder. I’ll challenge your assumptions—but I’ll also hand you the tools to build something that works for you. Let’s reset the rules—and enjoy the process again.
Work less. Earn more. Stress less. Lead better.
Join Dr. Sean K. Carlson at OP Summit 2025 in Las Vegas.
🎟 Use promo code CARLSON200 to save $200 on registration.
You don’t need to do it all. You just need a better system.
