Category Archives: Helping You Succeed as a Dentist

From Google University to Facebook Dental School: Are we too dependent on instant internet knowledge?

When I was preparing to start my practice in 2008, Facebook was just in its toddler stage. I started with a basic profile and I shared some family photos. I searched for, and found some long-lost friends from childhood. To me, Facebook was merely a channel to share my personal life with a small trusted circle of friends; a place to… Read More »

Here’s to the innovators

“The nail that sticks out gets hammered down.” This proverb comes from the Japanese culture, one that is often believed to value conformity over deviance. Blending in is safe and comfortable. Standing out is risky and unsettling. Our basic human instincts tell us to stay under the radar in order to survive and thrive. While status quo is easier, it is not… Read More »

Careers aren’t upward straight lines, they’re waves

Last night, I watched from across Elliot Bay as a sea of colors illuminated the sky. One second past midnight brought a burst of reds and blues and purples and whites, proudly announcing that the New Year has come once again. I truly love the holidays, that’s for certain. I think they are so valuable for a lot… Read More »

Five keys to finding the perfect associateship

I traveled a lot after graduating dental school. As a result, I’ve had three different associateships. Starting out as an associate after dental school provides a wonderful opportunity to observe, learn and grow. Additionally, if you are able to associate at more than one practice, you quickly learn how different clinics function. Few operational aspects become apparent within… Read More »

Six pearls for the dental soul

It has been a year since I received my doctorate in dental surgery. I still remember graduation day and the unparallel feeling of walking across the stage to obtain my glossy paper with the official seal. The day solidified the many years of hard work and preparation for a second career that I deemed respectable and enriching. During… Read More »

Burnout: Finding your why to avoid the burn

You’ve been practicing as an associate dentist for a couple of years, and you feel pretty confident in your skills. No longer is seeing patients and carrying out complex procedures terrifying, and your imposter syndrome is mostly in check. You should feel like you’re at the top of your game, but perhaps you’re gradually feeling like you’re stuck… Read More »