More management and insurance knowledge in my newsletter: https://www.odysseymgmt.com/newsletter

What if your child’s speech or chewing could give you clues about hidden developmental delays?

Did you know that your child’s visit to the dentist could hold hidden insights into their overall development? Join host Teresa Duncan and guest Ann-Marie DePalma as they unravel the fascinating connections between a child’s oral health and early signs of developmental delays—including conditions like autism. Discover why dental professionals might be the first to spot clues, from speech impediments to tongue ties, and how these seemingly minor oral challenges can indicate deeper issues in your child’s physical and cognitive growth.

But there’s more: Ann-Marie explains how both clinical and administrative dental teams can play a critical role in identifying and supporting children with developmental delays, by looking for patterns during appointments and asking the right questions when families call. You’ll also learn practical advice for parents—from understanding what happens if a tongue tie isn’t treated, to the significance of early referrals for therapies such as myofunctional therapy.

And it’s not just about childhood—this episode explores broader themes of women’s health in dentistry, including the role of hormones during menopause and their surprising link to conditions such as TMJ, TMD, and chronic headaches. Plus, get an insider’s view on how artificial intelligence is transforming how dental offices track development, screen for health risks, and make the entire patient experience (from online scheduling to payments) more accessible.

Whether you’re a parent concerned about your child’s speech, a dental professional encountering more patients with autism or developmental delays, or someone curious about the intersection of oral health, women’s health, and modern technology, this episode is packed with essential insights and actionable tips to help you be proactive at every age and stage.

Connect with Ann-Marie:

Website:https://depalmaannmarie.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annmariedepalma/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ann.marierdh/

Check out our previous Podcast:

NTMT #159 Ep 99: Artificial Intelligence: What's The Big Deal? https://directory.libsyn.com/episode/index/id/24754176

-------------

I created Dental Revenue Network to foster collaboration and networking amongst RCM professionals. Billing company owners and billing professionals will have access to skill building sessions, current carrier news and insurance discussions beyond “what's the code?" Check it out - I hope you'll join! https://dentalrevenuenetwork.mn.co/

-------------

Medical Billing Made Easy! Dental Classroom Online: https://www.dentalclassroomonline.com/

Use ODYSSEY for a 10% courtesy

-------------

*Is your AR out of control? Is your admin team burning out? 😩 Maybe it's time for help. It's easier than you think and you'll wonder why you didn't do it sooner. Have a conversation with Wisdom Dental Billing to see how they can help. Reach out them here: http://withwisdom.com/teresaduncan

-------------

Synergy Dental Partners offers lower prices for your dental supplies and services

https://www.odysseymgmt.com/synergy

NTMT listeners receive a 2 Month Free Trial + a 3rd Month if you buy anything from any vendor during the trial period. Also, new Darby customers receive a $200 Darby statement credit with a purchase.

-------------

My insurance course Dental Insurance Design and Management is geared toward those who want to understand the how and why of insurance. As a loyal podcast listener, please use "NTMT" for a $75 courtesy toward your investment.

-------------

Visit odysseymgmt.com to check out my book, webinars and courses.

-------------

Don’t forget to check out my other podcast Chew on This - A Dental Podcast!

**If you like the show then I’d appreciate a good rating. Tell your friends. Even podcasters ask for referrals!**

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@odysseymgmt