Category Archives: After Dental School

Managing student loan debt as a new dentist

As new dentists, we can all remember that gut-wrenching moment when we received an email from our loan servicer warning us that our payments would be due soon. Looking back at our time as dental students, we spent years learning the intricacies of prepping the most ideal class II restoration, administering anesthetic and memorizing mnemonics in order to… Read More »

What I learned in my general practice residency

Going back to school for a general practice residency after four years in private practice was not what I imagined it to be. It was better. The only regret I have is not having done it right out of school, despite my mentor advising me to do so. Had I taken her advice, I would have been gifted… Read More »

Trust the timing of your life

Almost a decade of education later, you finally have your professional degree. Up till this point, much of your existence was probably consumed by planning — for finals, practicals, competencies, standardized tests, interviews, the list likely goes on and on, if you are like me. As graduation festivities end and people move on with their own lives, it… Read More »

Patient autonomy vs. patient-pleasing as a new dentist

The day we obtain our dental license, our role changes from student to doctor. After a lifetime of being told what to do by “grown-ups,” teachers and professors, the roles reverse. It can be challenging when confronted by patients asking us to do things we are not comfortable with doing, especially if we want to please our patients.… Read More »

Organized dentistry: What’s in it for me?

If you’re a new grad, you’ve definitely asked yourself this question about organized dentistry. “What’s in it for me?” If no one has said this to you before, I see you and acknowledge the challenges that you face as a new doctor. It’s a balancing act. You’re working long hours, gaining speed and proficiency, learning how to communicate… Read More »

With dentistry, enjoy every day of your work

Happiness. Passion. Fun. Dr. Chang I believe these are the three main qualities that you should look for in your dental career, aside from helping people. Of course, many people pursue dentistry as a career for various reasons, such as fulfillment of their financial aspirations, owning their own business, or to selflessly help people. We choose dentistry because… Read More »