Savanah Craig, DDS and Ronnetta Sartor, DMD are the dynamic duo behind the "Beyond Graduation" podcast. Both are practicing dentists with a passion for guiding new dentists through the turbulent early years of their careers. Dr. Craig, known for her insightful approach to dental practice and keen interest in new dental technologies, teams up with Dr. Sartor, who offers unique perspectives on dental education and practice challenges. Together, they engage in candid conversations about growth, setbacks, and the realities of working in the dental field.

Episode Summary:

In this engaging episode of "Beyond Graduation," co-hosts Dr. Craig and Dr. Sartor dive deep into the nuanced world of practicing dentistry beyond dental school. Kicking off with a humorous look at their podcasting routine and typical wardrobe choices, they transition into a more serious discussion on why dentists are hard on themselves, especially when facing complications in treatments. With engaging anecdotes and insights, the duo examines the disconnect between the idealistic dental school training and the reality of handling complex patient cases.

Dr. Craig and Dr. Sartor explore the impact of external factors like medications, patient habits, and evolving medical conditions on dental treatments. They shed light on the common misconception that A+B should always equal C in dentistry, arguing that the mouth's hostile environment creates unforeseen challenges. Their discussion extends to the importance of patient communication, especially in educating them about how lifestyle choices and medications can impact oral health and the longevity of dental work. They stress that while dentists strive to solve problems, understanding limitations and focusing on continuous learning is key.

Key Takeaways:

 * Typodont Training vs. Real-Life Practice: Dental school training using typodonts differs greatly from dealing with live patients, where multiple variables affect treatment      outcomes.
 * Complex Interplay of Factors: Diet, medication, and other systemic health issues can significantly impact dental work, requiring dentists to stay updated and flexible in treatment planning.
 * Communication & Education: Effective dentist-patient communication is crucial for managing expectations and discussing the impact of health and habits on dental care.
 * Continuous Learning: Emphasizing the importance of ongoing education to keep abreast with new research and treatment methods, ensuring the best patient outcomes.
 * Dentistry is Not In a Vacuum: Treatments do not exist in isolation, and acknowledging this helps manage the professional stress associated with long-term treatment failures.

Connect with Us:

 * Savanah Craig, DDS: @savanahcraigdds
 * Ronnetta Sartor, DMD: @dr_sartor
 * FutureDentists Beyond Graduation: @futuredentistsbeyondgraduation
 * FutureDentists: @futuredentists
 * IgniteDDS: @ignitedds and @ignitedds_coaching
 * A-dec: @adecdental and https://www.a-dec.com/find-a-dealer
 * Join Dr. Craig and Dr. Sartor for a heartfelt exploration into the evolving world of dentistry, armed with humor, experience, and invaluable insights. Don't miss out on this insightful episode and ensure you stay tuned for future installments packed with more guidance and support from the field of dentistry.

How Long Will It Last?

About the Hosts:

Savanah Craig, DDS is a dental professional deeply committed to advancing her career and the profession through continuous learning and innovation. She co-hosts the "Beyond Graduation" podcast alongside Dr. Ronnetta Sartor, providing insights for dental professionals navigating the early years of their practice.

Ronnetta Sartor, DMD brings a wealth of experience to her role as co-host of "Beyond Graduation," where she offers valuable perspectives on practicing dentistry. After completing a residency, Dr. Sartor has experienced both group and solo practice, contributing to her comprehensive understanding of diverse dental environments.

Episode Summary:

In this engaging episode of "Beyond Graduation," hosts Dr. Savanah Craig and Dr. Ronnetta Sartor explore the dynamic world of dental practice, discussing the contrasting paths of solo versus group practice. Both hosts, passionate about continuing education and skilled in various aspects of dentistry, share personal experiences and insights about finding their unique practice styles. From contemplating the intricacies of complete care dentistry to the nuances of insurance-driven environments, this episode is packed with invaluable insights for new and seasoned dental professionals.

Dr. Craig and Dr. Sartor delve into the often-debated topic of solo versus group dental practice, shedding light on the benefits and challenges associated with each. They share their personal journeys—Dr. Sartor's transition from a group practice to flying solo and Dr. Craig's reflections on group settings—and how these paths impact their practice style and patient care approach. They emphasize the importance of aligning one's career with personal and professional goals, highlighting how the type of practice can shape a dentist's experience and patient interactions.

Key Takeaways:

 * Dentists can thrive in both solo and group practice settings, provided their practice aligns with their personal preferences and career goals.
 * Comprehensive care and bread-and-butter dentistry both hold value, addressing different patient needs and expectations.
 * Navigating patient factors, such as insurance, time, and anxiety, is crucial for successful and fulfilling dental practice.
 * Continuous learning through courses such as Dawson, Pankey and Spear enhances a dentist’s skill set and adaptability to evolving patient needs.
 * Building a network for professional support and collaboration is vital, especially when      transitioning between different practice styles.

Connect with Us:

 * Savanah Craig, DDS: @savanahcraigdds
 * Ronnetta Sartor, DMD: @dr_sartor
 * FutureDentists Beyond Graduation: @futuredentistsbeyondgraduation
 * FutureDentists: @futuredentists
 * IgniteDDS: @ignitedds and @ignitedds_coaching
 * A-dec: @adecdental and https://www.a-dec.com/find-a-dealer

Join Dr. Savanah Craig and Dr. Ronnetta Sartor on this enlightening journey "Beyond Graduation" as they explore the evolving landscape of dentistry. Their conversation offers both practical skills and profound insights, making this episode a must-listen for anyone navigating the early stages of a dental career. Stay tuned for more wisdom and inspiration in future episodes.

Am I A Bad Dentist?

About the Hosts:

Dr. Savanah Craig and Dr. Ronnetta Sartor are innovative voices in the dental community, navigating the challenges of life beyond dental school. They share real conversations about their experiences as early-career professionals, offering insights into personal and professional development. Dr. Craig resides in Ohio where her passion for dentistry and community building intertwines. Dr. Sartor practices in South Carolina and is known for her involvement with Ignite DDS coaching. Both doctors are dedicated to mentoring and empowering fellow dentists to forge self-determined futures within the industry.

Episode Summary:

Join Dr. Savanah Craig and Dr. Ronnetta Sartor in this episode of "Beyond Graduation" as they share their personal and professional journeys through the "Rose, Bud, Thorn" framework. This engaging discussion brings listeners into the lives of two passionate dentists as they reflect on recent successes, anticipated future developments, and challenges faced along the way. Recorded in May 2025, the episode offers a snapshot of their lives at this point in time, with personal anecdotes highlighting key moments of growth and learning.

Throughout the episode, Dr. Sartor shares positive updates about her team's progress with IgniteDDS coaching and her excitement for the summer gardening prospects, despite some unpredictable weather challenges in South Carolina. Dr. Craig celebrates the arrival of a college friend moving to Columbus for a residency and her workplace's progress on establishing partnership documents. The conversation takes a personal turn as they touch on the topic of pet behavior, offering a glimpse into their non-professional lives. Listeners are invited to relate to the shared stories and consider their roses, buds, and thorns in their professional journeys.

Key Takeaways:

 * Dr. Ronnetta Sartor is optimistic about the positive changes happening within her team thanks to IgniteDDS coaching, which enhances both the team dynamic and individual growth.
 * Dr. Savanah Craig looks forward to welcoming a college friend to Columbus, reliving the experience of having her back as a roommate and exploring the city together.
 * Despite unpredictable weather patterns affecting South Carolina gardens, Dr. Sartor remains enthusiastic about a successful gardening year.
 * Dr. Craig navigates the unique challenges of pet ownership with humor, sharing personal anecdotes about her cat and his attachment to her husband.
 * Reflection on personal and professional growth is emphasized, encouraging listeners to consider their own "rose, bud, thorn" dynamics.

Connect with Us:

 * Savanah Craig, DDS: @savanahcraigdds
 * Ronnetta Sartor, DMD: @dr_sartor
 * FutureDentists Beyond Graduation: @futuredentistsbeyondgraduation
 * FutureDentists: @futuredentists
 * IgniteDDS: @ignitedds and @ignitedds_coaching
 * A-dec: @adecdental and https://www.a-dec.com/find-a-dealer

Tune into this episode to grasp the personal and professional growth journeys of Dr. Craig and Dr. Sartor. Their conversation provides relatable insights into handling change, embracing growth, and nurturing self-determined futures within the dental field. Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions and journey insights in upcoming episodes of "Beyond Graduation."

Navigating Life’s Challenges: Rose, Bud, Thorn Reflections (May 2025)

About the Hosts:


Dr. Savanah Craig is a passionate dentist navigating her early career. She is committed to sharing insights about life as a dentist post-graduation, emphasizing the importance of collaboration, understanding patient needs, and managing practice challenges. As a podcast host, she connects with peers to offer guidance and support to young professionals in dentistry.


Dr. Ronnetta Sartor is a dedicated dental practice owner and podcast co-host. With a focus on practical solutions and patient care, she brings valuable experience from running a dental office and overcomes everyday challenges in the field. Her knowledge and anecdotal advice are instrumental to the podcast's mission to support recent dental graduates.

Episode Summary:

As dentists, Drs. Savanah Craig and Ronnetta Sartor discuss the realities of balancing health and work responsibilities in their profession. In this episode of "Beyond Graduation," they delve into what happens when illness strikes, especially in a demanding profession like dentistry. They address concerns such as the guilt associated with taking sick days and the impact of snow days on their practice operations, providing personal anecdotes to illustrate their points. Dr. Sartor describes a bout of flu that spread through her office, demonstrating the interconnected nature of working environments.

Both hosts discuss strategies for managing unexpected absences, emphasizing the importance of having supportive colleagues and adaptable scheduling practices. Dr. Craig shares her experience working in a group practice, highlighting the advantages when illness strikes, while Dr. Sartor talks about the challenges she faces as the sole dentist in her practice. Through their candid conversation, they convey the importance of prioritizing health and candidly discuss the guilt that often accompanies taking time off. This engaging episode offers insights into navigating unplanned interruptions in a dental practice, using real-life examples to provide practical advice.

Key Takeaways:

 * The challenges of managing a dental practice when illness affects staff or the practitioner.
 * The benefits of working in a group practice with supportive colleagues available to help during unplanned absences.
 * Both doctors’ personal experiences highlight the importance of communication with patients during scheduling disruptions.
 * Insights into handling patient      expectations and rescheduling processes when unforeseen circumstances arise.
 * The practical considerations around severe weather impacts, particularly in regions less accustomed to snow, and its effects on dental practice operations.

Connect with Us:

 * Savanah Craig, DDS: @savanahcraigdds
 * Ronnetta Sartor, DMD: @dr_sartor
 * FutureDentists Beyond Graduation: @futuredentistsbeyondgraduation
 * FutureDentists: @futuredentists
 * IgniteDDS: @ignitedds and @ignitedds_coaching
 * A-dec: @adecdental and https://www.a-dec.com/find-a-dealer

Listen to the full episode for a deeper understanding of how Dr. Craig and Dr. Sartor navigate challenges in dental practice management and gain insightful advice from their real-life experiences. Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on "Beyond Graduation."

Navigating Sick Days and Weather Challenges in Dentistry

About the Hosts:

Dr. Craig is a vibrant, newly graduated dental professional who is making her mark in the world of dentistry. With a keen focus on continuous learning and adapting to challenges in her practice, she shares her journey of navigating the complexities in dental practice during the early years of her career.

A seasoned dentist, Dr. Sartor brings a wealth of experience and wisdom to the podcast. Known for her insightful perspective on patient communication and dental efficacy, she offers valuable strategies and methodologies for successful dental practice management. Her journey reflects growth and adaptation to various industry challenges.

Episode Summary:

Welcome to "Beyond Graduation," where Dr. Savanah Craig and Dr. Ronnetta Sartor explore the nuances of early career challenges in dentistry. In this episode, they delve into the critical and often controversial topic of handling treatment failures and rework in dentistry, comparing it to practices in medicine. This engaging dialogue brings forth the intricacies of patient communication, professional accountability, and building a successful practice.

Dr. Craig and Dr. Sartor exchange perspectives on how newly graduated dentists can navigate reworks, redo procedures, and treatment failures. They discuss the importance of transparency with patients and how to manage expectations amidst the unpredictable nature of dental treatments. Dr. Sartor reflects on her own maturation process in the dental field, sharing strategic insights into over-communicating with patients to align their expectations better.

In examining the broader aspects of dentistry that set it apart from medicine, the episode explores how dental insurance and the perceived value of oral health influence the coverage and expectations surrounding dental procedures. Dr. Craig candidly discusses her sentiments as a new practitioner, grappling with imposter syndrome, and emphasizes the role of ongoing education and honest communication. The episode highlights the shift towards viewing complications as educational opportunities, where the "dentistry failed, not the dentist," fostering a supportive environment for professional growth and patient trust.

Key Takeaways:

 * Differences in handling treatment failures and reworks are stark between dentistry and medicine, prompting reflections on accountability and patient communication.
 * Establishing a robust dialogue with patients about current and future dental risks plays a vital role in managing expectations and outcomes.
 * Newly graduated dentists like Dr. Craig explore balancing personal accountability with unpredictable complications in dental procedures.
 * Reflecting on a transition in mindset, from personal blame to recognizing systemic failures in dentistry, enhances learning and professional development.
 * Understanding how patients value dental health compared to general health systems can influence discussions and expectations regarding treatment outcomes.

Connect with Us:

 * Savanah Craig, DDS: @savanahcraigdds
 * Ronnetta Sartor, DMD: @dr_sartor
 * FutureDentists Beyond Graduation: @futuredentistsbeyondgraduation
 * FutureDentists: @futuredentists
 * IgniteDDS: @ignitedds and @ignitedds_coaching
 * A-dec: @adecdental and https://www.a-dec.com/find-a-dealer

Embark on this enlightening exploration of dental practice management beyond graduation by diving into the full episode. Stay tuned for more insightful discussions and valuable strategies that promise to enhance both your professional journey and personal growth in the field of dentistry.

Navigating Treatment Failures and Dentistry’s Unique Challenges

About the Guest:

Dr. Kristine Aadland is a seasoned dental professional with nearly 20 years of experience. Distinguished for her expertise in dental materials and innovative technology, Dr. Aadland is also expanding her knowledge into law, particularly focusing on contract law to better assist her peers in the dental field. She is an educator and an entrepreneur, having ventured into the wine industry with a winery located in Napa Valley. An advocate for women in dentistry, Dr. Aadland is passionate about mentoring and empowering others while exploring diverse interests beyond dentistry.

Episode Summary:

In this engaging episode of "Beyond Graduation," hosts Drs. Savanah Craig and Ronnetta Sartor continue their enlightening conversation with Dr. Aadland. As they delve into the nuances of practicing dentistry, Dr. Aadland shares her journey as a practice owner, emphasizing the importance of robust support systems and knowledgeable partners like A-dec. The discussion highlights the necessity of staying informed about new materials and technologies that are reshaping dental practices, underscoring the essence of adapting to the dynamic landscape of dental care.

The conversation not only covers professional insights but also explores the deeply personal paths that professionals like Dr. Aadland take in branching out beyond their primary disciplines. Dr. Aadland discusses her recent venture into law and the importance of combining passions to enrich her career and personal life. Drawing from her experiences, she shares valuable advice for new practitioners about tackling challenges, embracing change, and the significance of self-care and balance. The episode is a dynamic mix of professional wisdom and personal growth, providing listeners with a holistic view of life beyond traditional dental careers.

Key Takeaways:

 * Finding Balance: Dr. Aadland emphasizes the need to explore passions beyond dentistry to foster personal growth and career satisfaction.
 * Technological Advancements in Dentistry: The conversation highlights emerging dental technologies and materials, such as 3D printing, impacting modern dental practices.
 * Challenges and Adaptations: Addressing the dynamics of dental practice ownership, including managing finances, human resources, and navigating legal complexities.
 * Importance of Support Systems: Cherishing strong partnerships with dental equipment suppliers and mentors is crucial for practice success.
 * Women's Empowerment in Dentistry: Advocacy for women in the dentist community, stressing leadership and balancing professional and personal aspirations.

Connect with Us:

 * Savanah Craig, DDS: @savanahcraigdds
 * Ronnetta Sartor, DMD: @dr_sartor
 * Kristine Aadland, DDS: @drkrisaadland
 * Aadland-Moody Vineyards: @aadlandmoodywine
 * FutureDentists Beyond Graduation: @futuredentistsbeyondgraduation
 * FutureDentists: @futuredentists
 * IgniteDDS: @ignitedds and @ignitedds_coaching
 * A-dec: @adecdental and https://www.a-dec.com/find-a-dealer

This episode is a must-listen for dental professionals and anyone interested in personal and professional development beyond graduation. Tune in to explore these compelling discussions and stay inspired on your journey towards a balanced and enriched career. Be sure to subscribe for more insightful conversations like this on "Beyond Graduation."

Navigating Dentistry:  From Construction to Career Fulfillment with Dr. Kristine Aadland (Part Two)

About the Guest:

Dr. Kristine Aadland is a General Dentist based in Vancouver, Washington, just outside Portland, Oregon. Having graduated in 2006, Dr. Aadland has nearly two decades of experience in dentistry. Initially starting as an associate, she quickly transitioned into building and owning a practice, now expanded to a thriving establishment with multiple chairs and partners. Beyond clinical practice, Dr. Aadland is also a speaker and educator, particularly involved with implant training and digital dentistry, sharing an enriching journey that spans technical expertise and patient care advocacies.

Episode Summary:

In this special episode of "Beyond Graduation," co-hosts Drs. Savanah Craig and Ronnetta Sartor welcome Dr. Aadland, an accomplished General Dentist, to explore the dynamic world of post-graduation dentistry. With a vibrant discussion weaving through Dr. Aadland’s nearly 20-year career, the episode dives into pivotal themes of professional growth, industry expertise, and the art of balancing multiple roles within the dental field.

She shares the evolution from aspiring practitioner to innovative practice owner, highlighting a varied career embracing technology and patient-centered care. Listeners gain insight into Dr. Aadland’s unique journey from construction into dentistry—spurred by an unexpected conversation with a collegiate roommate—and how it shaped a career focused on empowerment, technology integration through CAD/CAM digital systems, and thoughtful patient interactions. This conversation ultimately underscores the power of adaptability and passion in crafting a personalized career path in the dental industry.

Key Takeaways:

 * Leveraging technology and digital systems can profoundly enhance both clinical practice and patient experience, as exemplified through Dr. Aadland’s use of CAD/CAM systems.
 * Transitioning among roles—from associate to practice owner, and educator—highlights the dynamic opportunities available within the field of dentistry.
 * The importance of mentorship and community support in overcoming professional challenges and encouraging continuous personal and career development.
 * A focus on patient care, particularly helping phobic patients overcome their anxieties, is central to a fulfilling dental practice.
 * Navigating unexpected career paths can lead to rewarding transformations and professional satisfaction in dentistry.

Connect with Us:

 * Savanah Craig, DDS: @savanahcraigdds
 * Ronnetta Sartor, DMD: @dr_sartor
 * Kristine Aadland, DDS: @drkrisaadland
 * Aadland-Moody Vineyards: @aadlandmoodywine
 * FutureDentists Beyond Graduation: @futuredentistsbeyondgraduation
 * FutureDentists: @futuredentists
 * IgniteDDS: @ignitedds and      @ignitedds_coaching
 * A-dec: @adecdental and https://www.a-dec.com/find-a-dealer

Gain deeper insights by tuning into the full episode to explore Dr. Aadland’s compelling journey in dentistry. Connect with us on social media for more inspiring content and join our community as we delve into life beyond graduation with real conversations and expert advice.

Navigating Dentistry:  From Construction to Career Fulfillment with Dr. Kristine Aadland (Part One)

About the Hosts:

Drs. Savanah Craig and Ronnetta Sartor are the hosts of "Beyond Graduation," a podcast that delves into the real-life experiences of dentists navigating the early years of their careers post-graduation. Dr. Craig is a practicing dentist who emphasizes the practical challenges and triumphs faced by dental practitioners. Dr. Sartor, also a dentist, shares her expertise and insights, particularly in areas concerning insurance and practice management. Both bring a wealth of knowledge, engaging in meaningful conversations that inspire and educate up-and-coming dental professionals.

Episode Summary:

In this engaging episode of "Beyond Graduation," hosts Drs. Savanah Craig and Ronnetta Sartor tackle the complexities of navigating dental insurance, a topic of paramount importance for new practitioners. This dialogue is both a refresher and an eye-opener, catering to those fresh out of dental school and adjusting to the nuances of practice management where insurance plays a pivotal role. As they unravel the intricacies of insurance narratives, coding, and patient communication, listeners gain insight into how these elements fit into the larger puzzle of running a successful dental practice.

They dissect the challenges dentists face when insurance coverage dictates treatment decisions. They offer practical advice on managing patient expectations and legal obligations while staying true to quality care principles. This episode underscores the distinction between in-network and out-of-network practices, shedding light on the operational and financial implications of each. Whether you're grappling with the daunting task of learning insurance coding or looking to shift your practice's insurance model, this episode provides valuable guidance to better equip yourself for the industry's demands.

Key Takeaways:

 * The transition from dental school to private practice often lacks proper training on handling insurance, making self-education crucial.
 * Mastering insurance codes and narratives is essential in defending treatment plans and optimizing billing.
 * Communication with patients about insurance limitations without compromising on care standards is vital.
 * Understanding the differences between in-network and out-of-network practices can significantly impact operational decisions.
 * Leveraging intraoral photography and detailed clinical notes strengthens claims against insurance denials.

Connect with Us:

 * Savanah Craig, DDS: @savanahcraigdds
 * Ronnetta Sartor, DMD: @dr_sartor
 * FutureDentists Beyond Graduation: @futuredentistsbeyondgraduation
 * FutureDentists: @futuredentists
 * IgniteDDS: @ignitedds and      @ignitedds_coaching
 * A-dec: @adecdental and https://www.a-dec.com/find-a-dealer

Dive into this insightful episode to navigate the convoluted world of dental insurance, fortified with shared experiences and expert advice from seasoned professionals. Tune in for more episodes that promise to illuminate, educate, and inspire budding dental practitioners.

Insurance Will Never Cover That: Navigating Dental Insurance Challenges Beyond Graduation

About the Guest:

Dr. Jackie Hassenplug is a distinguished dental practitioner and a key opinion leader for A-dec, known for her hands-on experience and expertise in dental practice ownership. With a history of working in multiple practices equipped with A-dec technology, Dr. Hassenplug is an advocate for ergonomic and efficient practice setups. Her professional journey is highlighted by her commitment to patient care and practice development, as demonstrated in her own dental practice, Smile Haven Dental Studio.

Episode Summary:

In this engaging episode of "Beyond Graduation," hosts Drs. Savanah Craig and Ronnetta Sartor continue their conversation with Dr. Jackie Hassenplug, an accomplished dental practitioner and A-dec key opinion leader. The episode focuses on Dr. Hassenplug's experiences with A-dec equipment in her practice and the significant role it plays in her dental office's ergonomic and efficient setup. As a left-handed dentist, Dr. Hassenplug shares her journey of choosing the right dental equipment to ensure comfort and productivity for herself and her team, emphasizing the need for ergonomic design and innovative solutions in modern dental practices.

The conversation delves into Dr. Hassenplug's insights on starting a dental practice, highlighting her commitment to A-dec's Smart Start program, which offers significant advantages to new practice owners. Dr. Hassenplug narrates her journey from using A-decs equipment in various associate roles to establishing her dental practice, underscoring the importance of strategic planning and community involvement. She also discusses the crucial role of networking and finding the right support system in successfully managing a dental practice.

Key Takeaways:

 * Dr. Jackie Hassenplug emphasizes the importance of ergonomic and efficient practice setups, especially for left-handed dentists.
 * A-dec's Smart Start program provides new practices with valuable discounts and support for sustainable growth.
 * Dr. Hassenplug highlights the significance of having a supportive team and network when starting a dental practice.
 * The episode underscores the value of hands-on experiences and community involvement in successful practice ownership.
 * Strategic planning and optimized ergonomics are key components in creating a conducive working environment for dental professionals.

Connect with Us:

 * Savanah Craig, DDS: @savanahcraigdds
 * Ronnetta Sartor, DMD: @dr_sartor
 * Jackie Hassenplug, DMD: @dr.jackie_dmd
 * FutureDentists Beyond Graduation: @futuredentistsbeyondgraduation
 * FutureDentists: @futuredentists
 * IgniteDDS: @ignitedds and      @ignitedds_coaching
 * A-dec: @adecdental and https://www.a-dec.com/find-a-dealer

Listeners are encouraged to explore these resources and tune into the full episode for an in-depth understanding of Dr. Jackie Hassenplug's experiences and insights on navigating life beyond graduation in the field of dentistry. Stay connected for more insightful episodes to aid your professional journey.

Navigating Dental Practice Ownership:  Insights from Dr. Jackie Hassenplug (Part Two)

About the Guest:

Dr. Jackie Hassenplug is a dynamic and passionate General Dentist based in St. Charles, Illinois. Originally hailing from Chicago, she graduated from Midwestern University in 2021. In December 2024, she took the bold step of opening her practice, designed to reflect her ethos and desired style of dentistry. With a wide-ranging skill set allowing her to perform many dental procedures, her journey in dentistry started with personal experiences as a child undergoing orthodontic work. A former educator at Midwestern University, Jackie brings a unique blend of clinical expertise and practical business acumen to her practice.

Episode Summary:

In this engaging episode of the "Beyond Graduation" podcast, hosts Drs. Savanah Craig and Ronnetta Sartor welcome their first-ever guest, Dr. Jackie Hassenplug, a determined dentist and new practice owner. The episode dives into Dr. Hassenplug's background, from her challenging personal experiences with orthodontics to her ultimate decision to open a dental practice. The conversation explores the nuances of practice ownership, balancing clinical desires with business responsibilities, and the harmony between patient care and operational efficiency.

Dr. Hassenplug elaborates on her turbulent yet enlightening journey through various dentistry specialties before settling as a general dentist. As a practice owner, she reflects on the realities of managing a dental office, highlighting the importance of systems and preparation, such as morning huddles and monthly meetings, to ensure practice success. This episode brims with informative insights on dental practice management, startup challenges, and the intricacies of life as a recent dental graduate.

Key Takeaways:

 * Dr. Jackie Hassenplug shares her journey from orthodontic struggles in childhood to pursuing and establishing a successful dental practice.
 * The episode discusses the benefits and challenges of opening a startup practice as opposed to acquiring an existing one.
 * Importance of effective practice management tools like morning huddles and structured workflow to ensure smooth daily operations.
 * Dr. Hassenplug's pragmatic approach to balancing clinical aspirations with the financial realities of dental practice ownership.
 * Insight into the decision-making processes that guide new dentists in choosing their career paths and specialization.

Connect with Us:

 * Savanah Craig, DDS: @savanahcraigdds
 * Ronnetta Sartor, DMD: @dr_sartor
 * Jackie Hassenplug, DMD: @dr.jackie_dmd
 * FutureDentists Beyond Graduation: @futuredentistsbeyondgraduation
 * FutureDentists: @futuredentists
 * IgniteDDS: @ignitedds and @ignitedds_coaching
 * A-dec: @adecdental and https://www.a-dec.com/find-a-dealer

Through this enlightening episode, listeners are encouraged to learn about the real-world experiences and insights from a newly graduated dentist navigating the early years in dentistry. Tune in to this episode for a candid discussion filled with valuable guidance for young dental professionals and those considering practice ownership. Stay tuned for more insightful content from the Beyond Graduation podcast.

Navigating Dental Practice Ownership:  Insights from Dr. Jackie Hassenplug (Part One)

"Dental Fuel," the podcast that shares the raw truth on the real journey of dentistry, straight from the mouths of those who've lived it. Here, we dive deep into the 'middle' - the rarely talked about challenges and mistakes that shape a dentist's path to success. From clinical slip-ups to financial missteps and teamwork trials, our seasoned guests lay it all bare, offering you the pearls of wisdom needed to navigate your own dental journey.

With "Dental Fuel," you're not just listening to stories; you're gathering the insights needed to avoid common pitfalls and embrace success. Subscribe and download now to fuel your dental career with firsthand knowledge, advice, and insights from seasoned professionals who have walked the path before you.

Dental Fuel

"Beyond Graduation" brings you real conversations about what is life outside of the four walls of dental school! Join Drs Savanah Craig and Ronnetta Sartor as they navigate the early years of their careers. This podcast invites you to pull up a chair as we share our journey and remind listeners that no one has it all figured out! There is a reason it's called practicing dentistry!

David Rice

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