Post Graduation Transition

About the Hosts:

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.

Episode Summary:

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.

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.

Key Takeaways:

• 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.
• Graduates must navigate the nuances of assimilating into an existing office culture while staying true to their training and personal values.
• The first job post-residency can set the stage for future career success, making the interview and selection process critical.
• Relationships with support staff are key to a smooth transition and require a balance between professionalism and camaraderie.
• 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.

Connect with Ronnetta Sartor: @dr_sartor

Connect with FutureDentists: @futuredentists

Connect with Future Dentists Beyond Graduation: @futuredentistsbeyondgraduation

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.