Dental Associateship 101

<strong>About the Hosts:</strong></p>Dr. Savanah Craig is a dedicated dental professional navigating her early career paths post-graduation. With a background rooted in comprehensive dental care, Dr. Craig holds experience from her residency at Prisma Health (formerly Palmetto Health Richland) in Columbia, South Carolina. She is committed to advancing her skills in implantology, IV conscious sedation, and various other facets of modern dentistry.</p>Dr. Ronnetta Sartor, an experienced dental practitioner, completed her residency at the same institution and has solidified her reputation by attending multiple job interviews to find the perfect associateship fit. Her nearly five-year tenure at her chosen associateship (prior to acquiring her own practice) underscores her dedication to professional growth, mentorship, and patient care. She is versed in a variety of dental specialties, including 3D dentistry and surgical procedures.</p><strong>Episode Summary:</strong></p>Navigating the transition from dental school to professional practice can be challenging. In this compelling episode of "Beyond Graduation," Dr. Savanah Craig and Dr. Ronnetta Sartor delve deeply into the intricacies of securing an ideal dental associateship. Both doctors share their personal experiences and the critical lessons learned while seeking and securing their positions in the competitive dental field.</p>Dr. Sartor recounts her extensive journey through numerous job interviews, highlighting the significance of finding a practice that genuinely feels right. Emphasizing the importance of gut instinct, she discusses her prioritization of mentorship and practice environment over mere employment. Dr. Craig adds her perspective, stressing the necessity of aligning clinical skills and practice philosophies, especially after acquiring advanced training in residency. Together, they explore the essential questions to ask, the red flags to watch for, and the nuances of integrating into a new practice successfully.</p><strong>Key Takeaways:</strong></p><ul> <li><strong>Gut Feeling Matters:</strong> Trust your instinct when evaluating potential associateships; you'll often "just know" when you've found the right fit.</li> <li><strong>Critical Questions to Ask:</strong> Inquire thoroughly about new  patient allocation, team dynamics, and whether the practice supports continuing education.</li> <li><strong>Importance of Team Integration:</strong> Get a sense of the practice's team culture and ensure they are ready to support an additional doctor.</li> <li><strong>Evaluate Financial Logistics:</strong> Understand the pay structure, collection rates, and other financial aspects like health insurance and malpractice coverage.</li> <li><strong>Look for Mentorship Opportunities:</strong> Seek a practice that not only offers mentorship but also allows for professional autonomy and growth.</li></ul><strong>Connect with Us:</strong></p><ul> <li><strong>Savannah Craig, DDS</strong>: @savanahcraigdds</li> <li><strong>Ronnetta Sartor, DMD</strong>: @dr_sartor</li> <li><strong>FutureDentists Beyond Graduation</strong>: @futuredentistsbeyondgraduation</li> <li><strong>Dental Residency Guide and Beyond Graduation eBooks</strong>: <a href="https://ignitedds.com/subscription-resources/">https://ignitedds.com/subscription-resources/</a></li></ul>We invite you to dive into the full episode to gain deeper insights into securing a successful associateship and to subscribe.</p>

00:22:32

Self-Care for Dentists

<strong>About the Hosts:</strong></p>Dr. Savanah Craig is a practicing dentist who, alongside navigating the early years of her career, co-hosts the "Beyond Graduation" podcast. She is passionate about sharing her journey and experiences with other professionals and graduates in the field of dentistry. Dr. Craig is also actively involved in guiding new graduates through tools like the Dental Residency Guide and Beyond Graduation eBooks.</p>Dr. Ronnetta Sartor is a dental professional known for her hands-on approach and dedication to involvement in mentorship and co-hosting the "Beyond Graduation" podcast. Dr. Sartor shares her real-life experiences and insights, particularly focusing on the importance of self-care in the demanding field of dentistry.</p><strong>Episode Summary:</strong></p>In this engaging episode of "Beyond Graduation," Dr. Savanah Craig and Dr. Ronnetta Sartor dive deep into the significance of self-care for dental professionals. Kicking off with a light-hearted revelation about Dr. Craig’s recent massage chair purchase, they illustrate the pivotal role of finding joy and relaxation amid the rigors of a dental career.</p>The discussion sheds light on the physical and mental toll dentistry can impose and highlights practical self-care strategies that both hosts have incorporated into their routines. Dr. Sartor emphasizes the importance of stretching, routine exercise, and massages, while Dr. Craig underscores the necessity of regular strength training to alleviate chronic pain. The conversation also explores how their self-care practices have evolved through various life phases, including practice ownership and personal changes. The hosts stress the multifaceted nature of self-care, advising listeners to cater to their physical, mental, and emotional well-being proactively. They highlight how dental professionals can maintain a healthy work-life balance despite the demanding nature of their profession.</p><strong>Key Takeaways:</strong></p><ul> <li><strong>Self-Care in Dentistry</strong>: The importance of self-care for dental professionals to sustain      their careers and personal well-being.</li> <li><strong>Physical Wellness</strong>: Incorporating strength training, stretching, and regular massages to prevent common physical ailments in dentistry.</li> <li><strong>Routine Development</strong>: Creating and maintaining a self-care routine that fits individual      schedules and responsibilities.</li> <li><strong>Mental Health</strong>: The critical link between physical well-being and mental health, and strategies to manage stress effectively.</li> <li><strong>Work-Life Balance</strong>: Tips for dental professionals to balance their professional obligations with personal life, ensuring their own well-being does not suffer.</li></ul><strong>Connect with Us:</strong></p><ul> <li><strong>Savanah Craig, DDS</strong>: @savanahcraigdds</li> <li><strong>Ronnetta Sartor, DMD</strong>: @dr_sartor</li> <li><strong>FutureDentists Beyond Graduation</strong>: @futuredentistsbeyondgraduation</li> <li><strong>Dental Residency Guide and Beyond Graduation eBooks</strong>: <a href="https://ignitedds.com/subscription-resources/">https://ignitedds.com/subscription-resources/</a></li></ul>For all dental professionals navigating through the early years of their career, this episode is a treasure trove of practical advice on maintaining physical and mental health. Dr. Craig and Dr. Sartor’s insights will not only inspire but also equip you with actionable steps to better care for yourself. Tune in!</p>

00:22:58

Mental Fortitude

<strong>About the Hosts:</strong></p>Dr. Savanah Craig is a practicing dentist who is passionate about sharing her journey and experiences as she navigates the early years of her dental career. With a commitment to patient care and dental education, Dr. Craig is an advocate for resilience and adaptability in the field of dentistry.</p>Dr. Ronnetta Sartor is a seasoned dentist with years of experience in the field. With a deep understanding of patient care and dental practices, she brings a wealth of knowledge and empathy to her profession. Dr. Sartor is dedicated to mentoring new dentists and fostering a supportive environment for colleagues to thrive.</p><strong>Episode Summary:</strong></p>In this insightful episode of "Beyond Graduation," Dr. Savanah Craig and Dr. Ronnetta Sartor delve into the crucial topic of mental toughness in dentistry. From handling patient anxieties to managing expectations, they discuss the multifaceted challenges that dental professionals face and the resilience required to navigate them. Dr. Sartor emphasizes that dentists often encounter initial negative perceptions, stating, "It's hard when someone hates you and they haven't even met you yet just based on what you do for a living."</p>Throughout the episode, Dr. Craig and Dr. Sartor exchange their own strategies for developing mental toughness, including maintaining a sense of humor and giving oneself grace. They highlight the importance of having candid conversations with patients about the realistic outcomes and necessary upkeep of dental treatments. Dr. Sartor notes, "There's nothing that I can do that's going to not have any risks. Every treatment option will have risks and benefits." Incorporating these practices helps manage patient expectations and fosters more successful treatment outcomes.</p><strong>Key Takeaways:</strong></p><ul> <li><strong>Developing Mental Toughness:</strong> Dentists must build resilience to handle negative perceptions and challenging patient interactions effectively.</li> <li><strong>Importance of Communication:</strong> Clear, thorough communication with patients is critical for setting realistic expectations and preventing misunderstandings.</li> <li><strong>Continuous Learning:</strong> Keeping up with the latest research a</li> <li><strong>Balancing Humility and Expertise:</strong> Dentists should acknowledge the limits of current dental materials and techniques while striving to provide the best care available.</li> <li><strong>Team Support:</strong> A cohesive, supportive team is essential for maintaining a positive environment and delivering exceptional patient care.</li></ul><strong>Connect with Us:</strong></p><ul> <li><strong>Savanah Craig, DDS</strong>: @savanahcraigdds</li> <li><strong>Ronnetta Sartor, DMD</strong>: @dr_sartor</li> <li><strong>FutureDentists Beyond Graduation</strong>: @futuredentistsbeyondgraduation</li> <li><strong>Dental Residency Guide and Beyond Graduation eBooks</strong>: <a href="https://ignitedds.com/subscription-resources/">https://ignitedds.com/subscription-resources/</a></li></ul>In this engaging episode, Dr. Savanah Craig and Dr. Ronnetta Sartor offer valuable insights into the mental resilience required for a successful dental career. Their candid discussion on patient relationships and personal growth is a must-listen for all dental professionals. Stay tuned for more enlightening conversations on "Beyond Graduation."</p>

00:20:27

Accountability

<h3>About the Hosts:</h3>Dr. Savanah Craig and Dr. Ronnetta Sartor are two dynamic dental professionals exploring life post-graduation. Dr. Savanah Craig, a self-professed perfectionist, navigates her career with an intrinsic drive for precision and a passion for growth through mentorship. Dr. Ronnetta Sartor brings a culture of honesty, humility, and accountability to both her practice and her interactions. As enthusiastic practitioners, they are dedicated to learning from each experience, fostering a supportive environment for their teams, and ensuring comprehensive patient care.</p><h3>Episode Summary:</h3>In this engaging episode of "Beyond Graduation," Dr. Savanah Craig and Dr. Ronnetta Sartor dive deep into the complexities of owning mistakes and embracing the learning opportunities they present, especially within the field of dentistry. This conversation offers a window into the challenges and growth experiences that come with dental practice and personal development.</p>In the spirit of authenticity, Dr. Sartor shares her approach to owning mistakes, recognizing them as essential learning moments for both herself and her dental team. She highlights the impact of vulnerability and accountability in building a supportive team culture. Dr. Craig candidly discusses the difficulty of confronting her own mistakes, stemming from her perfectionist tendencies, but also acknowledges the significance of growth through these experiences. Together, they stress the importance of setting patient expectations, understanding the transience of dental work, and communicating effectively for better outcomes.</p><h3>Key Takeaways:</h3><ul> <li>Owning up to mistakes is vital for personal growth and building trust within a dental team.</li> <li>It's crucial to set realistic expectations with patients regarding the permanence of dental work.</li> <li>Maintaining professional humility helps humanize dental practitioners and fosters a culture of mutual learning.</li> <li>Effective communication with both team members and patients is key to successfully navigating setbacks.</li> <li>Treating others the way they need to be approached and leveraging their strengths can lead to a more harmonious and effective clinical environment.</li></ul><strong>Connect with Ronnetta Sartor: @dr_sartor</strong></p><strong>Connect with FutureDentists: @futuredentists</strong></p><strong>Connect with Future Dentists Beyond Graduation: @futuredentistsbeyondgraduation</strong></p><strong>-books for further reading sponsored by IgniteDDS:</strong></p><ul> <li><strong>Dental Residency Guide and Beyond Graduation eBooks: </strong><a href="https://ignitedds.com/ebooks"><strong>igniteDDS.com/eBooks</strong></a></li></ul>Do not miss the full exploration of real-life experiences and professional insights in this episode of "Beyond Graduation." Dr. Craig and Dr. Sartor offer invaluable perspectives that resonate with dental professionals at any stage of their career. Stay tuned for more conversations that illuminate the path to excellence in both dentistry and life beyond academia.</p>

00:20:21

Celebrating Wins!

<h3>About the Hosts:</h3>In this episode of Beyond Graduation, we're introduced to Dr. Ronnetta Sartor and Dr. Savanah Craig, two dentists navigating the early stages of their careers post-graduation. Dr. Sartor graduated from dental school in 2017, completed her GPR residency in 2018, and has experienced various roles—from associate to practice owner—since then. As of August 2022, she acquired a practice near her residence and has been working towards its development and growth. Dr. Craig is an alum of The Ohio State University, class of 2022, and completed a GPR residency in South Carolina. Shortly after, she began working as an associate in a large group practice, where she continues to cherish the collegiate environment and collective expertise.</p><h3>Episode Summary:</h3>Join us on this episode of Beyond Graduation as Dr. Savanah Craig and Dr. Ronnetta Sartor dive into the victories and lessons of their early professional journeys in dentistry. With Dr. Sartor celebrating one year of practice ownership and Dr. Craig marking six months as an associate, we gain unique perspectives on what it takes to forge a successful path in the dental industry.</p>From the nuances of transitioning from schooling to professional practice, to the growth that comes from facing the challenges of practice ownership, they share insights on patience, learning, and adapting to change. Dr. Sartor reflects on the importance of pacing oneself and the pressures associated with rapid progression. Dr. Craig emphasizes the significance of a strong support system and the openness to ongoing learning and asking for help.</p><h3>Key Takeaways:</h3><ul> <li>Taking ownership of a dental practice can bring transformative changes and growth, both in the physical space and within the team.</li> <li>The transition from residency to associate position is enriched by a supportive environment that fosters collaboration and continuous learning.</li> <li>The importance of trusting the process and not rushing through career milestones cannot be overstressed.</li> <li>Building and relying on a strong support system, both inside and outside the office, is crucial for personal and professional development.</li> <li>The journey in dentistry is ongoing, with mentorship playing a key role in supporting one's career trajectory.</li></ul><h3>Resources:</h3><ul> <li><strong>Dr. Ronnetta Sartor's Instagram</strong>: <a href="https://instagram.com/DoctorSartor">@DoctorSartor</a></li> <li><strong>Dr. Savanah Craig's Instagram</strong>: <a href="https://instagram.com/SavannahCraigDDS">@SavannahCraigDDS</a></li> <li><strong>Ignite DDS Website</strong>: <a href="https://ignitedds.com/">IgniteDDS.com</a></li> <li><strong>Ignite DDS Instagram</strong>: <a href="https://instagram.com/IgniteDDS">@IgniteDDS</a></li> <li>Sponsored by <strong>Dental Residency Guide</strong> and <strong>Beyond Graduation eBooks</strong> found at:   https://ignitedds.com/ebooks/</li></ul>Experience the entire journey of both Drs. Sartor and Craig by tuning into the full episode as they share their valuable experiences and insights. Stay connected with Beyond Graduation for more compelling conversations that shine a light on the pathways of dental professionals beyond their educational milestones.</p>

00:11:11

Dental Myths

<h3>About the Hosts:</h3><strong>Dr. Savannah Craig</strong> and <strong>Dr. Ronnetta Sartor</strong> are notable figures in the field of dentistry, having successfully navigated the transition from academic learning to practical application post-graduation. Both doctors have acquired substantial experience and knowledge in treating medically complex dental patients. Their experiences during their residencies have armed them with insights critical to private practice dentistry. Their commitment to continuing education and collaboration with medical professionals underlines their dedication to patient care.</p>Episode Summary:</p>In this enlightening episode of Beyond Graduation, Dr. Savanah Craig and Dr. Ronnetta Sartor dive deep into the real-world application of dentistry post-academia. They debunk common myths taught in dental school regarding practices such as the use of septocaine and treatment of pregnant and cardiac patients. Their dialogue reveals a more nuanced approach to patient care, informed by their extensive experience and ongoing learning.</p>The conversation between the doctors opens with a discussion on the use of septocaine in anesthesia, a topic often met with caution among dental professionals. They explore the contrast between dental school cautionary teachings and practical realities discovered during their residencies. Additionally, the episode sensitively addresses the subtleties involved in treating pregnant patients, challenging the notion that they are to be excessively shielded from common dental procedures.</p><ul> <li>Dental professionals often navigate the dichotomy between theoretical knowledge and clinical practice, requiring a balance between caution and effective treatment.</li> <li>The episode highlights the importance of evidence-based dentistry in decision-making regarding patient care, especially for medically complex cases.</li> <li>The doctors advocate for clear communication with patients and other healthcare providers, ensuring informed consent and multi-disciplinary collaboration for optimal outcomes.</li></ul><h3>Key Takeaways:</h3><ul> <li>Myths from dental school regarding anesthetics like septocaine can be debunked with evidence-based practice and further education, leading to more effective patient care.</li> <li>Treating pregnant patients in dentistry requires a personalized approach, considering the patient's comfort and medical condition, with an adherence to safety.</li> <li>The oft-repeated limit of two carpules of lidocaine with epinephrine for cardiac patients is not a hard rule but requires careful monitoring and patient-specific considerations.</li> <li>Enhanced patient outcomes are driven by a more nuanced understanding of the intersection between dental procedures and systemic health.</li> <li>Continuous professional development is crucial for staying current with practices that optimize patient safety and care quality.</li></ul><strong>Connect with Ronnetta Sartor: @dr_sartor</strong></p><strong>Connect with FutureDentists: @futuredentists</strong></p><strong>Connect with Future Dentists Beyond Graduation: @futuredentistsbeyondgraduation</strong></p><h3><strong>Resources:</strong></h3>The Dental Residency Guide and the Beyond Graduation ebooks, which can be found at:  https://ignitedds.com/ebooks/</p>Discover a world of dental insights that bridge the gap between academia and practice by tuning in to this episode of Beyond Graduation. Listen to the full conversation for a more comprehensive understanding and stay connected for more episodes that promise to enhance your dental practice with practical, real-world knowledge.</p>

00:20:03

Continuing Education

<h3>About the Hosts:</h3>Dr. Savanah Craig and Dr. Ronnetta Sartor are esteemed professionals in the field of dentistry. Dr. Craig, with her passion for continuing education and professional development, has embraced a multifaceted approach towards her practice, exploring surgical and implant courses post-graduation. Dr. Ronnetta Sartor, sharing a similar enthusiasm for learning, is recognized for her proactive role in furthering her expertise through various CE courses, and is now delving deeper with a mini-residency program to enhance her skills as a comprehensive care dentist. Not only do they practice dentistry with a keen interest in clinical application and patient care, but they also contribute significantly to peer education through platforms like IgniteDDS.</p>Episode Summary:</p>In this insightful episode of Beyond Graduation, hosts Dr. Savannah Craig and Dr. Ronnetta Sartor engage in an in-depth discussion about the critical role of Continuing Education (CE) in the dental profession. Their conversation reveals the evolving nature of CE, its impact on clinical practice, and strategies for integration despite financial and environmental constraints.</p>As the dialogue unfolds, Dr. Craig and Dr. Sartor reflect on their respective journeys with CE. Initially focused on cost-effective opportunities during residency and requiring employer support as associates, the doctors underscore the shift towards more comprehensive learning experiences as they advance in their careers. They candidly address the challenges and excitement associated with implementing new knowledge and protocols in practice, emphasizing the transformative potential of CE not only for personal growth but also for enhancing patient care.</p><strong>Key Takeaways:</strong></p><ul> <li>The significance of Continuing Education evolves as dentists progress in their careers, shifting from cost-centric to comprehensive learning.</li> <li>Implementing new techniques and practices can be challenging, especially in the context of an associateship where philosophical alignment may not be guaranteed.</li> <li>Connecting CE to practice is crucial – learning is valuable, but application is what truly enhances patient care and practice profitability.</li> <li>Local study clubs and dental associations can provide accessible and sometimes free CE options, valuable for new dentists managing finances.</li> <li>Investing in oneself through CE is a strategy that pays dividends both in terms of professional expertise and tackling student loan debts.</li></ul><h3>Resources:</h3><ul> <li>IgniteDDS University :   https://www.igniteddsuniversity.com/</li> <li>Business Masterminds:  https://ignitedds.com/masterminds/</li> <li>Local Dental Associations for CE opportunities</li> <li>Dental Residency Guide and Beyond Graduation eBooks:  https://ignitedds.com/ebooks/</li></ul><strong>Connect with Ronnetta Sartor: @dr_sartor</strong></p><strong>Connect with FutureDentists: @futuredentists</strong></p><strong>Connect with Future Dentists Beyond Graduation: @futuredentistsbeyondgraduation</strong></p>Join us for the entire conversation on Beyond Graduation to delve further into the world of continuing education in dentistry. Explore the nuances of learning post-graduation and gather invaluable insights for your career growth from our expert guests. Don't miss out on future episodes for more thought-provoking discussions tailored for the dental community. Stay tuned!</p>

00:21:26

Post Graduation Transition

<h3>About the Hosts:</h3>Dr. Savanah Craig and Dr. Ronnetta Sartor are both emerging professionals in the field of dentistry. Dr. Sartor, having completed her residency, practice as an associate in a group practice and  purchase her own practice.  Dr. Craig is on the cusp of completing her dental residency and is preparing to start her first associateship. Both doctors are committed to mastering the art of dentistry and serve as beacons of support and information for other early-career dentists navigating postgraduation life.</p><h3>Episode Summary:</h3>In this insightful episode of Beyond Graduation, join Dr. Savanah Craig and Dr. Ronnetta Sartor as they delve into the transition from dental residency to professional practice. The conversation provides a rare glimpse into the personal experiences and challenges faced by young dentists as they step out into the real world of dental practice. Listen in as they discuss their expectations, concerns, and strategies for success beyond the academic setting.</p>The discussion begins with Dr. Craig sharing her mixed feelings about leaving her residency's support system behind and the anticipation of stepping into her new role in an associateship. Dr. Sartor offers wisdom from her journey, reminiscing about her own transition, the importance of setting realistic expectations, and finding the right professional fit. They both emphasize balancing assimilation into a new team with confidence in one’s training and core values. A central focus of the conversation revolves around the dynamics of interacting with long-standing staff and maintaining a blend of professionalism and friendliness. Anchored with personal anecdotes, this conversation offers a comprehensive overview of what early-career dentists often confront when venturing beyond their dental school and residency training.</p><h3>Key Takeaways:</h3><ul> <li>The transition from dental residency to practice is a complex mix of excitement and caution, with an emphasis on finding a balance between embracing new opportunities and missing a familiar support system.</li> <li>Graduates must navigate the nuances of assimilating into an existing office culture while staying true to their training and personal values.</li> <li>The first job post-residency can set the stage for future career success, making the interview and selection process critical.</li> <li>Relationships with support staff are key to a smooth transition and require a balance between professionalism and camaraderie.</li> <li>Reflecting on past experiences, both Dr. Sartor and Dr. Craig acknowledge the importance of pushing oneself while also appreciating the learning potential each patient encounter brings.</li></ul><strong>Connect with Ronnetta Sartor: @dr_sartor</strong></p><strong>Connect with FutureDentists: @futuredentists</strong></p><strong>Connect with Future Dentists Beyond Graduation: @futuredentistsbeyondgraduation</strong></p>We invite you to listen to the full episode of Beyond Graduation for a complete understanding and more enriching discussions. Stay tuned for further episodes as we continue to provide real and relatable content for early-career dentists navigating their professional journeys beyond the classroom.</p>

00:19:54

Patient Expectations

<h3>About the Hosts:</h3>Join <strong>Dr. Savanah Craig, DDS</strong>, and <strong>Dr. Ronnetta Sartor, DMD</strong>, as they delve into the aspects of managing patient expectations in dental practice. Dr. Craig, with her refreshing approach to patient interaction, brings insights from the field and emphasizes the importance of education and clear communication. Dr. Sartor, celebrated for her holistic approach to dentistry, adds depth with her focus on educating patients  about the broader health implications of oral health.</p><h3>Episode Summary:</h3>In this engaging episode of <em>Beyond Graduation</em>, our esteemed hosts, Dr. Craig and Dr. Sartor, hold a deeply insightful conversation about managing patient expectations in the field of dentistry. This dialogue is a vital resource for early career dentists looking to navigate the often tricky waters of patient interaction and education. The episode opens with the realities of 'practicing dentistry' and moves toward nuanced discussions of patient care.</p>The conversation threads its way through practical scenarios, touching upon the management of complex cases and the challenges posed by patients in desperate need for immediate results.  As they delve deeper, they address the psychological aspects of patient interaction, emphasizing compassion and responsible practice.</p><h3>Key Takeaways:</h3><ul> <li>Managing patient expectations begins at the initial patient interaction, emphasizing goal discussions and the importance of not rushing into treatment.</li> <li>Education is paramount for patients who present with complex health issues that impact dental care; holistic approaches lead to more meaningful patient conversations.</li> <li>Identifying when to refuse treatment is as critical as the treatment itself, aligning with professional comfort levels and clear patient communication.</li> <li>The significance of taking a gradual approach to dental restoration, mirroring the patient's journey to their current oral health condition.</li> <li>Encouraging patients to take responsibility for their oral health while providing contextual education about the implications of their conditions.</li></ul><strong>Connect with Ronnetta Sartor: @dr_sartor</strong></p><strong>Connect with FutureDentists: @futuredentists</strong></p><strong>Connect with Future Dentists Beyond Graduation: @futuredentistsbeyondgraduation</strong></p>For a deeper dive into the complexities and compassionate approaches to managing patient expectations in dentistry, listen to the full episode. Stay tuned for more episodes from <em>Beyond Graduation</em> for real conversations and guidance on building a successful dental practice beyond the academic world.</p>

00:19:13

Managing a Team

<h3>About the Hosts:</h3>In this insightful conversation, we are joined by <strong>Dr. Savanah Craig</strong> and <strong>Dr. Ronnetta Sartor</strong>. Both guests showcase a wealth of experience in dentistry, set to inspire and educate listeners on navigating the early years of a dental career. Dr. Craig's journey from dental assistant to practicing dentist brings a unique perspective, emphasizing the significance of teamwork within a dental practice. Dr. Sartor brings her recent experience of transitioning from residency to practice ownership, focusing on building a practice culture and team dynamics, and sharing her insights on patient care in a small town setting.</p>Episode Summary:</p>In a profession where technical skill is often spotlighted, this episode of "Beyond Graduation" with Dr. Savanah Craig and Dr. Ronnetta Sartor shines a light on the challenging aspect of managing dental teams. The conversation begins with a nod to the complexities inherent in handling the diversity of personalities within a practice.</p>Dr. Sartor takes us through her journey of transitioning from residency to owning a practice, along with the reshaping of her team. Emphasizing the value of establishing a desirable office culture, she narrates the impact of retaining and hiring team members who share her vision. Dr. Craig contributes her experience as an associate navigating team management, providing insights from her interactions as both a supervisor and an empathetic team member aware of each individual's unique arduous tasks.</p><h3>Key Takeaways:</h3><ul> <li>Managing a dental team involves more than just dentistry, requiring the ability to effectively handle diverse personalities and establish a positive practice culture.</li> <li>The patient experience is deeply influenced by the team's dynamic and how well team members are treated.</li> <li>Effective team management requires transparency, direct communication, and addressing issues promptly to prevent escalation.</li> <li>Both Dr. Craig and Dr. Sartor emphasize the importance of mutual respect, support, and assuming that everyone on the team is trying their best.</li> <li>Leaders in dental practices should seek input from their team on improvements and provide the necessary resources and support to foster a supportive environment.</li></ul><strong>Connect with Ronnetta Sartor: @dr_sartor</strong></p><strong>Connect with Savanah Craig @savanahcraigdds</strong></p><strong>Connect with FutureDentists: @futuredentists</strong></p><strong>Connect with Future Dentists Beyond Graduation: @futuredentistsbeyondgraduation</strong></p>Dive into the full depth of the conversation by listening to this episode of "Beyond Graduation". Dr. Craig and Dr. Sartor explore the nuances of team management within a dental practice with candidness and valuable takeaways. Stay tuned for more engaging and informative content from these seasoned dentists as they continue to tackle real conversations about life and career beyond graduation.</p>

00:19:56