5 Tips to Succeed as a New Clinician (Coming From 2 Veterans!)
Did YOU just earn a dental degree and snag a job as a new clinician?
It’s exciting, it’s nerve-wracking, and yes, it’s a huge learning curve! But don’t worry, because Dr. Paul Marshall and Dr. John Dubin, two veteran dentists who’ve been around the block a few times, are here to share some words of wisdom. They’ve seen the ups, the downs, and the in-betweens of this profession, and are here to pass on 5 tips that can make your journey a bit smoother. So, let’s dive in! 👇
- Work to Live, Don’t Live to Work
Dr. Marshall is big on this one. Your practice is a big part of your life, but remember… it’s not your entire life. It’s essential to strike a balance—work hard, but also make time for the things and people you love. Mentorship can be a huge help here. Whether it’s joining a group like Empowered Dentistry or finding a local mentor, having someone to share experiences with can be a game-changer in maintaining a healthy work/life balance.
- Fuel Your Journey With Passion
Dentistry is way more than just a 9 to 5 job—it’s a calling. If your heart’s not in it, it can turn into a daily grind, affecting not just your work, but your personal relationships too. Dr. Marshall believes that a genuine love for what you do is the rocket fuel for success in this field. Yes, not every day is going to be a walk in the park. But when you’re passionate, you’re driven to be your best, which translates to top-notch care for your patients.
- Never Stop Being a Student
Dr. John Dubin highlights a fun fact: the dental world is always buzzing with new stuff. Think of it as an app store with endless updates—new gadgets, cool techniques, and game-changing materials. As a new dentist, this is your playground! Staying updated isn’t just about being in the loop, it’s your way to wow your patients. Dive into workshops, attend seminars, and soak in some more education to level up your skills. This is your ticket to being the dentist everyone loves!
- Put Your Patients at the Heart of Your Practice
Both veterans feel strongly that the heart of dentistry is patient care. As a young dentist, you must prioritize building strong relationships with your patients. Dr. Marshall goes as far as to suggest getting involved in local organizations to better understand your community and the folks who live within it. Listen to their concerns, answer their questions, and make them feel comfortable. Effective communication is key to a successful dental practice. (Remember—happy and satisfied patients are more likely to recommend your services and return for future appointments!)
- Embrace the Bumps on the Road
Dentistry, like any profession, comes with its challenges. There will be difficult cases, unexpected complications, and demanding schedules says Dr. Dubin. But hey… that’s part of the game! Stay resilient, be adaptable, and remember, every hiccup is a chance to learn and grow.
Want More Tips and Tricks? Zyris Has Your Back!
The world of dentistry is filled with discoveries, smiles, and yes—a few challenges too. And remember, it’s not just about the daily grind but the joy and fulfillment that comes from being there for your patients. Every day is a new chapter to learn, to grow, and to make a tiny part of the world better with your skills.
And hey, why go at it alone? Tune into the Dental Voice podcast on Spotify, where seasoned dentists share their tips, tricks, and little nuggets of wisdom that can make your journey easier (and a lot more fun!)