The Dental Head Start Podcast

Hosted by Ahmed Issa Real growth in dentistry is built in discomfort. In this feature episode of the Formation Series, Ahmed Issa sits down with Dr Waleed Arshad to explore confidence, mentorship, mindset and what it takes to grow into a well-rounded clinician. Not about shortcuts.About becoming who the profession demands of you. Connect with Ahmed and Dr Waleed on instagram @waleedarshadd @drahmedissa Key moments (00:00) Introduction and Path to Dentistry(02:49) Unlearning the Dental School Echo Chamber(07:07) Why Sales Experience Makes You a Better Dentist(10:55) Overcoming Early Clinical Failures(14:14) Challenging the 5-Year Implant Rule(18:14) The Crucial Role of Mentorship(19:51) Transitioning to Complex All-on-4 Procedures(25:52) The Reality of Social Media Before-and-Afters(30:40) Building Brand Equity as an Associate(34:36) Solving the Flossing Problem with Glissy(38:32) Final Advice: Become a Multifaceted Professional Dr Waleed Arshad Thank you to our sponsors for supporting this episode… The Orthoed Institute The OrthoED Institute is the leading orthodontic educator for general dentists Founded by Specialist Orthodontist Dr Geoff Hall — with over 35 years of clinical experience — OrthoED has trained more than 1,500 dentists in orthodontics across Australia, New Zealand and internationally. Dr. Hall is widely respected for his structured approach to treatment planning and his ability to teach sound orthodontic principles in an understandable fashion. OrthoED’s courses are comprehensive, evidence-based and focus on sound biomechanical principles — teaching the entire gamut of orthodontics whether it be  braces and /or clear aligner therapy with hands-on learning, case reviews, mentoring and long-term support. With a reputation built on clinical excellence and hundreds of 5-star reviews, OrthoED is trusted by general dentists who want to confidently integrate orthodontics, expand their scope, and deliver exceptional patient outcomes. Exclusive offer for Dental Head Start listeners … Dental Headstart listeners can receive 5% off any OrthoED signature course. T&Cs: Valid until 30 June 2026. Not valid in conjunction with any other offer. Exclusions apply. To redeem, use a coupon code at checkout. dentalheadstart-pif (for pay in full) dentalheadstart-pp (for payment plan) Go to orthotraining.com.au Dental Advice Network Dental Head Start is proud to collaborate with the Dental Advice Network to offer our community access to some of the most respected names in Australian dentistry. DAN functions as a comprehensive knowledge hub, offering a wealth of resources including live webinars, explainer videos, and up-to-the-minute news updates. Highlights of the platform include the highly regarded Journal Club with Professor Laurie Walsh and specialised legal insights from Dr Steven Parker, who brings the dual perspective of both a clinician and a lawyer to complex regulatory matters. We recognise that the first few years of practice are a steep learning curve. To support the next generation of clinicians, DAN offers free membership to dental students (query service only available to registered dental professionals) and a 50% discount for first-year graduates. For the broader Dental Headstart audience, we have secured an exclusive 15% discount on subscriptions. This is an invitation to move beyond isolated practice and join a community dedicated to clinical excellence and safety. Go to www.dentaladvicenetwork.com.au to find out more and contact Dental Head Start via direct message on Facebook or Instagram for your special discount code. The post The Unseen Curriculum: Formation Series #5 – The Multifaceted Clinician with Dr Waleed Arshad appeared first on Dental Head Start.

In this episode of the Formation series, Dr. Mike Shambira talks with Dr Matt Hedge, a cosmetic dentist on the Gold Coast, to unpack what it actually means to learn well in the early years of dentistry. They talk about staying teachable, building confidence without rushing it, and finding the balance between ambition and humility. Matt shares how surrounding yourself with the right people, seeking feedback, and taking a self-directed approach to growth can quietly compound over time. This isn’t about learning faster. It’s about learning properly — and becoming the kind of dentist who continues to improve long after the early years.If you’re a student or new graduate trying to navigate the pressure to perform while still developing your skills, this episode will help steady your approach. Connect with Matt: @dr.matthedge Follow along: @thatdentistmike @dentalheadstart If this episode resonated, share it with someone who’s early in their journey and trying to grow well.And if there are specific guests or conversations you’d like to see next, feel free to reach out — I’d love to hear what would be most valuable for you Key moments (0:00) Intro and Dr. Matt Hedge’s Background (02:15) The Reality of Being a New Grad (06:10) Finding Mentorship and Using Social Media (10:30) Dealing with Feedback and Perfectionism (14:45) The Bingo Complication Game (19:30) Knowing Your Limits and When to Refer (24:15) Focusing on Cosmetic Dentistry (28:50) Competition vs. Collaboration (32:10) The Compound Effect of Continuing Education Dr Matt Hedge Dr Matt Hedge is the principal dentist at Helix Dental on the Gold Coast, where he focuses on high-quality cosmetic and restorative dentistry. He is known for his disciplined approach to continuous learning, commitment to clinical excellence, and strong emphasis on mentorship and collaboration.Matt has built a reputation for balancing ambition with humility, taking a self-directed approach to growth while surrounding himself with experienced clinicians. His philosophy centres on developing confidence through competence and building skills that compound over the long term. Thank you to our sponsors… The OrthoED Institute is the leading orthodontic educator for general dentists. Founded by Specialist Orthodontist Dr Geoff Hall — with over 35 years of clinical experience — OrthoED has trained more than 1,500 dentists in orthodontics across Australia, New Zealand and internationally. Dr. Hall is widely respected for his structured approach to treatment planning and his ability to teach sound orthodontic principles in an understandable fashion OrthoED’s courses are comprehensive, evidence-based and focus on sound biomechanical principles — teaching the entire gamut of orthodontics whether it be  braces and /or clear aligner therapy with hands-on learning, case reviews, mentoring and long-term support. With a reputation built on clinical excellence and hundreds of 5-star reviews, OrthoED is trusted by general dentists who want to confidently integrate orthodontics, expand their scope, and deliver exceptional patient outcomes. Exclusive Offer for Dental Headstart Listeners Dental Headstart listeners can receive 5% off any OrthoED signature course. T&Cs: Valid until 30 June 2026. Not valid in conjunction with any other offer. Exclusions apply. To redeem, use a coupon code at checkout. dentalheadstart-pif (for pay in full) dentalheadstart-pp (for payment plan) Go to orthotraining.com.au Dental Head Start is proud to collaborate with the Dental Advice Network to offer our community access to some of the most respected names in Australian dentistry. DAN functions as a comprehensive knowledge hub, offering a wealth of resources including live webinars, explainer videos, and up-to-the-minute news updates. Highlights of the platform include the highly regarded Journal Club with Professor Laurie Walsh and specialised legal insights from Dr Steven Parker, who brings the dual perspective of both a clinician and a lawyer to complex regulatory matters. We recognise that the first few years of practice are a steep learning curve. To support the next generation of clinicians, DAN offers free membership to dental students (query service only available to registered dental professionals) and a 50% discount for first-year graduates. For the broader Dental Headstart audience, we have secured an exclusive 15% discount on subscriptions. This is an invitation to move beyond isolated practice and join a community dedicated to clinical excellence and safety. Go to www.dentaladvicenetwork.com.au to find out more and contact Dental Head Start via direct message on Facebook or Instagram for your special discount code. The post The Unseen Curriculum: Formation Series #4 – Learning without ego with Dr Matt Hedge appeared first on Dental Head Start.

Hosted by Dr Erica Hwin When I see dentists producing amazing work in various specialties, the first thing I want to know is how they were able to build their skills to that point. Knowing the skills Dr. Maria Avis holds, I had the opportunity to unravel her dental journey. In this episode, Maria walks us through her experiences in dental school, and more importantly, how her graduate job positions set her up to become the comprehensive dentist she is now. Maria is a business owner of her private clinic, Akoya Dental, mother of two boys and two dogs. Listen to this special chat with Maria as this episode is jam packed with info. Key moments 2:25 – Maria spoke about earlier years and when dental school started 10:00 – Maria’s early career as a new graduate 22:41 – What keeps Maria going as a dentist 33:50 – Maria tells us what he favourite procedures are in dentistry 42:25 – What mistakes Maria sees young dentists making 51:18 – Final words of advice Maria has for the audience The post Most played episode series #7 – Becoming confident and competent with Dr Maria Avis appeared first on Dental Head Start.

Hosted by Dr Michael Shambira In early dentistry, ambition and responsibility collide. You want to move quickly.You want to grow. You want to do meaningful work. But you’re also responsible for real people, and that changes everything. In this Formation episode of The Unseen Curriculum, I sit down with Johan Weemaes and Greg Fine to unpack one of the most important tensions in early career dentistry: How do you progress rapidly… without becoming reckless? We discuss: What young dentists misunderstand about their early years Why confidence follows structure, not the other way around The difference between exposure and readiness What makes someone truly coachable How to hold high standards without turning them into self-punishment Why restraint is part of excellence This conversation isn’t about implants or complexity.It’s about formation; the invisible shaping that happens before mastery becomes visible. If you’re a student or early-career dentist feeling the pressure to accelerate, this episode will give you clarity on how to move forward responsibly and sustainably. Because the dentists who progress the most are not the fastest. They’re the most formed. Key Moments (02:15) Early Career Strategies & Finding Avenue Dental (05:30) Developing a Passion for Surgery (08:45) The Tripod Effect for Rapid Growth (12:10) Ambitious vs. Reckless: Finding Balance (16:20) Emotional Resilience & Dealing with Failure (20:40) Qualities of a Coachable Dentist (24:15) Sponsor: Orthoed Aligner Essentials (26:30) Launching the PGIA Implantology Diploma (31:00) Advice for New Grads: Where to Start (35:45) Defining Success & Looking Forward Dr John Weemaes Dr Johan Weemaes is a managing partner within the Avenue Dental group, principal dentist at Avenue Dental Maroochydore, and co-founder of the Post Graduate Implant Academy (PGIA).With extensive experience in implantology and full-arch rehabilitation, Johan has invested deeply in postgraduate education and systems-driven practice growth. He is passionate about leadership, structured progression, and developing clinicians in a safe, responsible manner.Beyond clinical skill, Johan places strong emphasis on personal development, mentorship, and creating frameworks that allow dentists to grow without sacrificing integrity or stability. Find him on instagram @drjohanweemaes @postgraduateimplantacademy Dr Greg Fine Dr Greg Fine is a principal dentist and partner within the Avenue Dental network and co-founder of the Post Graduate Implant Academy (PGIA).Greg is known for his commitment to clinical progression, mentorship, and helping dentists responsibly expand their capabilities. With significant investment in advanced education and hands-on experience in implant and restorative dentistry, he advocates for structured learning under guidance rather than rushed independence.His approach blends ambition with calibration — encouraging growth while reinforcing the importance of responsibility, humility, and long-term thinking. Find him on Instagram @dr.gregfine Thank you to our sponsors… The OrthoED Institute is the leading orthodontic educator for general dentists. Founded by Specialist Orthodontist Dr Geoff Hall — with over 35 years of clinical experience — OrthoED has trained more than 1,500 dentists in orthodontics across Australia, New Zealand and internationally. Dr. Hall is widely respected for his structured approach to treatment planning and his ability to teach sound orthodontic principles in an understandable fashion OrthoED’s courses are comprehensive, evidence-based and focus on sound biomechanical principles — teaching the entire gamut of orthodontics whether it be  braces and /or clear aligner therapy with hands-on learning, case reviews, mentoring and long-term support. With a reputation built on clinical excellence and hundreds of 5-star reviews, OrthoED is trusted by general dentists who want to confidently integrate orthodontics, expand their scope, and deliver exceptional patient outcomes. Exclusive Offer for Dental Headstart Listeners Dental Headstart listeners can receive 5% off any OrthoED signature course. T&Cs: Valid until 30 June 2026. Not valid in conjunction with any other offer. Exclusions apply. To redeem, use a coupon code at checkout. dentalheadstart-pif (for pay in full) dentalheadstart-pp (for payment plan) Go to orthotraining.com.au The post The Unseen Curriculum: Formation Series #2 – Rapid progress without being reckless with Drs Johan Weemaes and Greg Fine appeared first on Dental Head Start.

One of the most common findings when charting is a crack in a tooth, but determining the severity and the right treatment path can be a dilemma. In this episode, host Erica Hwin sits down with specialist prosthodontist Dr. Michael Mandikos to decode the complexities of cracked teeth, from initial diagnosis to the final restoration. You will learn the critical differences between benign craze lines and structural fractures, and why the biomechanics of old amalgam fillings often lead to these issues. Dr. Mandikos tackles the age-old debate of “chasing the crack,” offering practical advice on when to intervene with bonded look composites versus when to move to full coverage. Plus, discover strategies for communicating these issues to patients without overwhelming them or over-treating. Key moments 00:54 Defining Cracks: Vertical vs. Partial 02:12 When to Intervene: Staining and Symptoms 03:31 Biomechanics: Why Amalgams Crack Teeth 04:22 Treatment Planning: Bond or Crown? 06:33 The Golden Rule: Don’t Chase the Crack 09:27 Common Mistakes and Patient Communication The post Most played episode series #6 – The Cracked Tooth with Dr Michael Mandikos appeared first on Dental Head Start.

If you are doing everything right on paper but still feel unsettled or unsure of yourself, this episode is for you. We dive deep into the “hidden curriculum” of dentistry—the gap between your clinical skills and the heavy emotional weight of new responsibility. We explore why most of your doubt isn’t a lack of skill but a system calibration issue, and break down the three essential phases of career growth: Formation, Integration, and Excellence. In this episode, we unpack the critical difference between a situation being “unsafe” versus simply “unfamiliar” and how confusing the two leads to unnecessary burnout. You will learn practical strategies to stop over analyzing your day, shift your focus from tracking outcomes to tracking learning, and how to reframe mistakes as data rather than character flaws. Whether you are a student or a new grad, this is your permission to be early in your journey. Some key takeaways… Stop grading yourself daily; it amplifies noise rather than providing insight. Distinguish between what is ‘unsafe’ and what is merely ‘unfamiliar’ to reduce anxiety. Track your learning progress rather than just your clinical outcomes. View mistakes as information and data, not as a verdict on your identity. Understand the three career phases: Formation, Integration, and Excellence Allow your internal systems time to catch up to your new responsibilities. Key moments 00:00 Welcome Back: Season 2026 Begins 01:03 The Hidden Curriculum of Dentistry 01:40 The 3 Phases: Formation, Integration, Excellence 03:09 Sponsor: Dental Advice Network 05:08 What Actually Makes Early Dentistry Hard? 06:33 Real Talk: My First Two Weeks of Practice 07:35 Unfamiliar vs. Unsafe 08:18 Embrace the Suck 09:16 3 Practical Tips for New Grads 10:50 Closing Thoughts & Call to Action Thank you to our sponsors… Dental Head Start is proud to collaborate with the Dental Advice Network to offer our community access to some of the most respected names in Australian dentistry. DAN functions as a comprehensive knowledge hub, offering a wealth of resources including live webinars, explainer videos, and up-to-the-minute news updates. Highlights of the platform include the highly regarded Journal Club with Professor Laurie Walsh and specialised legal insights from Dr Steven Parker, who brings the dual perspective of both a clinician and a lawyer to complex regulatory matters. We recognise that the first few years of practice are a steep learning curve. To support the next generation of clinicians, DAN offers free membership to dental students (query service only available to registered dental professionals) and a 50% discount for first-year graduates. For the broader Dental Headstart audience, we have secured an exclusive 15% discount on subscriptions. This is an invitation to move beyond isolated practice and join a community dedicated to clinical excellence and safety. Go to www.dentaladvicenetwork.com.au to find out more and contact Dental Head Start via direct message on Facebook or Instagram for your special discount code. The post The Unseen Curriculum #6 – the cost of becoming a dentist with Dr Michael Shambira appeared first on Dental Head Start.

Hosted by Dr David Keir Dr. Julian Dantes joins Dr. David to discuss the honest journey from a rural “sink or swim” graduateto a successful practice owner on the Sunshine Coast. Unlike the curated perfection often seen onsocial media, Julian shares the raw reality of general dentistry, including his pivot from medicineand the irony of failing a university “people skills” test despite being a people-focused clinician. In this candid conversation, you will learn about the dangers of early confidence in implant dentistryand the specific steps Julian took to recover from clinical mistakes, including the power ofphotography. Julian reveals how a rare finger tumor forced him to rethink his work-life balance,moving from six clinical days a week to three. He also breaks down his structured mentorshipmodel for new graduates and explains why mastering the basics, like isolation and simple fillings, isthe true foundation for complex aesthetic work. Some key takeaways from this episode: Clinical photography is one of the most effective tools for self-reflection and improving clinicaloutcomes. Don’t rush into complex dentistry; mastering the basics like isolation and non-sensitive fillings iscrucial for long-term success. Live surgery courses can provide false confidence—ensure you have the theoretical knowledgebefore attempting complex cases. Mentorship should be structured: consider a “watch me, I watch you” approach beforeunleashing a new grad. Sometimes a setback, like an injury, is a gift that forces necessary work-life balanceadjustments Key moments (02:05) Medicine vs. Dentistry and Failing “People Skills”(06:15) The Rural FIFO Experience: Sink or Swim(09:30) Early Implant Mistakes and Live Surgery Traps(13:50) Why Clinical Photography is Critical(17:15) Aesthetic Diploma and Comprehensive Planning(20:30) Owning Two Practices in Mooloolaba(25:30) Working with Your Spouse(27:00) A Mentorship Model for New Grads(31:30) The Finger Tumor That Changed Everything(36:00) Advice for Graduates: Master the Basics Dr Julian Dantes Dr Julian Dantes is a practice owner and general dentist based in Mooloolaba on the Sunshine Coast, with a clinical focus on comprehensive restorative dentistry, aesthetic rehabilitation, and implant therapy. Since graduating from Griffith University in 2012, he has worked exclusively in private practice, becoming a practice owner in 2017 and building practices centred on comprehensive, ethical, and outcome-driven care. Julian has a strong commitment to advanced education. In 2023, he completed a Graduate Diploma in Clinical Dentistry (Aesthetics) with the Australasian College of Dental Practitioners and is currently completing the ACDP Implant Diploma, further refining his expertise in implant-based rehabilitation and full-arch workflows. Beyond clinical practice, Julian contributes to the profession as an educator with AHC Dental Education, delivering continuing professional development programs in restorative dentistry, endodontics, and minor oral surgery. He previously served as a clinical supervisor at Griffith University (2015–2017) and has been President of the Synergy Study Club since 2021, where he leads peer-driven clinical advancement and interdisciplinary discussion. Julian is known for his structured, systems-based approach to aesthetic and implant dentistry, with a particular interest in integrating digital workflows, communication frameworks, and ethical treatment planning into everyday private practice. Thank you to our sponsors… The OrthoED Institute is the leading orthodontic educator for general dentists. Founded by Specialist Orthodontist Dr Geoff Hall — with over 35 years of clinical experience — OrthoED has trained more than 1,500 dentists in orthodontics across Australia, New Zealand and internationally. Dr. Hall is widely respected for his structured approach to treatment planning and his ability to teach sound orthodontic principles in an understandable fashion OrthoED’s courses are comprehensive, evidence-based and focus on sound biomechanical principles — teaching the entire gamut of orthodontics whether it be  braces and /or clear aligner therapy with hands-on learning, case reviews, mentoring and long-term support. With a reputation built on clinical excellence and hundreds of 5-star reviews, OrthoED is trusted by general dentists who want to confidently integrate orthodontics, expand their scope, and deliver exceptional patient outcomes. Exclusive Offer for Dental Headstart Listeners Dental Headstart listeners can receive 5% off any OrthoED signature course. T&Cs: Valid until 30 June 2026. Not valid in conjunction with any other offer. Exclusions apply. To redeem, use a coupon code at checkout. dentalheadstart-pif (for pay in full) dentalheadstart-pp (for payment plan) Go to orthotraining.com.au Dental Head Start is proud to collaborate with the Dental Advice Network to offer our community access to some of the most respected names in Australian dentistry. DAN functions as a comprehensive knowledge hub, offering a wealth of resources including live webinars, explainer videos, and up-to-the-minute news updates. Highlights of the platform include the highly regarded Journal Club with Professor Laurie Walsh and specialised legal insights from Dr Steven Parker, who brings the dual perspective of both a clinician and a lawyer to complex regulatory matters. We recognise that the first few years of practice are a steep learning curve. To support the next generation of clinicians, DAN offers free membership to dental students (query service only available to registered dental professionals) and a 50% discount for first-year graduates. For the broader Dental Headstart audience, we have secured an exclusive 15% discount on subscriptions. This is an invitation to move beyond isolated practice and join a community dedicated to clinical excellence and safety. Go to www.dentaladvicenetwork.com.au to find out more and contact Dental Head Start via direct message on Facebook or Instagram for your special discount code. The post Feature #99 – Mastering General Dentistry: From mistakes to mentorship with Dr Julian Dantes appeared first on Dental Head Start.

Hosted by Dr Michael Shambira What does it take to have two babies, work as a nurse, survive dental school, AND come out smiling? Dr. Rebecca Smith shows us that resilience isn’t about being tough – it’s about grace under pressure. In this powerful series finale, we dive deep into the real meaning of resilience with Dr. Rebecca Smith, who walked one of the most challenging journeys through dental school imaginable. From fertility struggles and miscarriage to clinical mishaps and balancing motherhood with study, Rebecca shares the raw truth about bouncing back when life gets overwhelming. What You’ll Learn: Practical strategies for building resilience in dentistry and life How to reset after difficult clinical days (like perforating during your first endo case!) The power of meditation and mindfulness for managing stress Why having something outside dentistry is non-negotiable How to prioritize when everything feels urgent Building a support network that actually works Whether you’re a student drowning in wire-bending practice or a new grad navigating your first major clinical mistake, this conversation will remind you that pressure isn’t the enemy – it’s the training ground. Ready to discover the unseen curriculum? Listen now and join the conversation by sharing your own dental school experiences in the comments below! Key Moments 00:00 – Introduction and Topic Overview 02:15 – Meet Dr. Beck Smith 05:30 – From Nursing to Dentistry Journey 09:45 – Navigating Miscarriage During Dental School 14:20 – Finding Strength Through Support Systems 17:40 – Becoming a Mom in Dental School 21:15 – Clinical Challenges and Root Canal Story 25:30 – Building Resilience Through Meditation 28:00 – Final Thoughts and Series Wrap-Up Dr Rebecca Smith Dr Rebecca Smith is a 2025 graduate of Charles Sturt University whose journey through dental school is one of the most powerful demonstrations of resilience you will ever hear. During her degree, Bec welcomed two beautiful babies, continued working as an Enrolled Nurse, and walked through the heartbreak of a miscarriage — all while staying committed to her studies and the people around her.Despite the weight she carried, Bec remained one of the most positive, grounded, and people-centred individuals in her cohort. She brings a warmth and joy that’s infectious, and her ability to navigate pressure with grace has shaped her into both a remarkable mother and a deeply capable clinician.Now stepping into practice as a new graduate, Bec is a living example that strength isn’t about having an easy journey — it’s about how you rise in the difficult ones. Her story offers powerful insight for any student or practitioner who has ever doubted themselves, struggled through setbacks, or needed reassurance that they are not alone Thank you to our sponsors… Dental Protection Limited Dental Protection have proudly been supporting the Dental Head Start podcast since day one! The Dental Protection team understands the ever-changing challenges faced by dental professionals and we take our responsibility to members seriously. Our professional protection package helps you practise with confidence, safe in the knowledge that we are always by your side if things go wrong. With over 40 years protecting Australian dental professionals, we have the global stability and financial resilience to be by you Dental Advice Network This episode of the Dental Head Start Podcast is proudly supported by Dental Advice Network. Whether you’re one year out or forty, we all have clinical questions—and it’s OK not to have all the answers. That’s exactly why the Dental Advice Network exists. With leading experts like Dr Omar Ikram (Endodontist), Dr Amanda Phoon Nguyen (Oral Medicine Specialist), Dr Steven Parker (Dental Sedationist), Dr Manu Ayer (Specialist Anaesthetist), Professor Ian Myers (Restorative expert), Dr Kar Mun Chan (Specialist Paediatric Dentist) and Associate Professor Geraldine Moses (Dental Therapeutics and Pharmacology expert), it’s your go-to place for clinical advice, case support, and evidence-based insights. From medication queries to red flags in oral pathology—or even just a second opinion—Dental Advice Network connects you to trusted voices in dentistry and medicine, including an in-house medical doctor. You’ll also get access to clinical webinars, CPD content, and curated updates to stay ahead in your practice. It’s peace of mind, peer support, and education—all in one place.  And for Dental Head Start listeners, we’ve teamed up with Dental Advice Network to bring you an exclusive 10% discount when you subscribe. Just use the code HEADSTART10 at checkout. Plus—if you’re a first-year graduate, you already get a massive 50% off. Check them out at dentaladvicenetwork.com.au The post The Unseen Curriculum #5 – How to build mental resilience as a dental student with Dr Rebecca Smith appeared first on Dental Head Start.

Ever felt paralysed by criticism? Dr. Andrew Cheng reveals how he transformed brutal feedback into rapid skill development and went from implants to high-level cosmetic dentistry in just a few years.In this first part of our three-part series, discover the mindset shifts and practical strategies that separate good dentists from great ones. What You’ll Learn: The Mindset Behind Rapid Growth: How to embrace constructive criticism without letting ego get in the way Why surrounding yourself with honest mentors is non-negotiable The power of vulnerability in learning Actionable Strategies for Improvement: Dr. Cheng’s documentation system (and why he takes 100+ photos per surgery) How to conduct brutally honest case reviews The “don’t do this” technique that prevents repeated mistakes Structuring Your Clinical Journey: A year-by-year roadmap for building foundational skillsHow to balance perfecting one skill while exploring new areas Why “good is not good enough”—but perfection isn’t the answer either This is an honest, inspiring conversation about what it actually takes to level up. Whether you’re a new grad or looking to expand your skillset, you’ll walk away energised and ready to tackle your next challenge. Key moments 00:00 – Introduction to Dr. Andrew Cheng 02:15 – Learning to Accept Constructive Criticism 06:45 – The Power of Documentation and Feedback 11:30 – Finding Mentors and Building Relationships 15:20 – Practical Steps for Correcting Mistakes 19:45 – Discovering Your Dental Niche 23:10 – Planning Your Professional Development Journey 27:30 – Perfection vs. Continuous Improvement Thank you to our sponsors… Dental Protection Limited Dental Protection have proudly been supporting the Dental Head Start podcast since day one! The Dental Protection team understands the ever-changing challenges faced by dental professionals and we take our responsibility to members seriously. Our professional protection package helps you practise with confidence, safe in the knowledge that we are always by your side if things go wrong. With over 40 years protecting Australian dental professionals, we have the global stability and financial resilience to be by you Dental Advice Network This episode of the Dental Head Start Podcast is proudly supported by Dental Advice Network. Whether you’re one year out or forty, we all have clinical questions—and it’s OK not to have all the answers. That’s exactly why the Dental Advice Network exists. With leading experts like Dr Omar Ikram (Endodontist), Dr Amanda Phoon Nguyen (Oral Medicine Specialist), Dr Steven Parker (Dental Sedationist), Dr Manu Ayer (Specialist Anaesthetist), Professor Ian Myers (Restorative expert), Dr Kar Mun Chan (Specialist Paediatric Dentist) and Associate Professor Geraldine Moses (Dental Therapeutics and Pharmacology expert), it’s your go-to place for clinical advice, case support, and evidence-based insights. From medication queries to red flags in oral pathology—or even just a second opinion—Dental Advice Network connects you to trusted voices in dentistry and medicine, including an in-house medical doctor. You’ll also get access to clinical webinars, CPD content, and curated updates to stay ahead in your practice. It’s peace of mind, peer support, and education—all in one place.  And for Dental Head Start listeners, we’ve teamed up with Dental Advice Network to bring you an exclusive 10% discount when you subscribe. Just use the code HEADSTART10 at checkout. Plus—if you’re a first-year graduate, you already get a massive 50% off. Check them out at dentaladvicenetwork.com.au, and thank you to Dental Advice Network for supporting the next generation of dental professionals and the Dental Head Start podcast. The post Most played episode series #5 – Upskilling & Critically Evaluating Yourself with Dr Andrew Cheng appeared first on Dental Head Start.

Hosted by Dr David Keir Ever wondered what legal pitfalls could cost you thousands when buying a dental practice? Dr. David Keir and Dr. Jesse Green reveal the critical legal considerations every dentist needs to know before taking the plunge into practice ownership. In this insightful episode, you’ll discover: Which key advisors to engage early in your practice acquisition journey How to structure your lease agreements to protect your investment Critical contract elements that prevent costly HR nightmares Partnership agreement essentials that prevent expensive breakups Why getting the right legal advice upfront saves you time and money later We compare proper legal preparation to setting patient expectations – when done right, everyone wins. When overlooked, conflicts arise that drain both your finances and relationships.Whether you’re planning to buy an existing practice or start from scratch, these insights will save you thousands in potential legal headaches.Don’t navigate the complex world of practice ownership alone! Like, subscribe, and share this video with a colleague who’s considering practice ownership. Key moments 00:00 – Introduction to Dental Business Series02:08 – Essential Advisors for Practice Acquisition 04:19 – Dental Advice Network Sponsor Segment06:01 – Legal Considerations for Practice Owners 07:23 – Understanding Lease and Premises Agreements 09:12 – Key Contract Elements When Buying 10:58 – HR and Employment Considerations 12:03 – Navigating Dental Partnerships 13:05 – Closing and Upcoming Lawyer Discussion Thank you to our sponsors… Dental Protection Limited Dental Protection have proudly been supporting the Dental Head Start podcast since day one! The Dental Protection team understands the ever-changing challenges faced by dental professionals and we take our responsibility to members seriously. Our professional protection package helps you practise with confidence, safe in the knowledge that we are always by your side if things go wrong. With over 40 years protecting Australian dental professionals, we have the global stability and financial resilience to be by you Dental Advice Network This episode of the Dental Head Start Podcast is proudly supported by Dental Advice Network. Whether you’re one year out or forty, we all have clinical questions—and it’s OK not to have all the answers. That’s exactly why the Dental Advice Network exists. With leading experts like Dr Omar Ikram (Endodontist), Dr Amanda Phoon Nguyen (Oral Medicine Specialist), Dr Steven Parker (Dental Sedationist), Dr Manu Ayer (Specialist Anaesthetist), Professor Ian Myers (Restorative expert), Dr Kar Mun Chan (Specialist Paediatric Dentist) and Associate Professor Geraldine Moses (Dental Therapeutics and Pharmacology expert), it’s your go-to place for clinical advice, case support, and evidence-based insights. From medication queries to red flags in oral pathology—or even just a second opinion—Dental Advice Network connects you to trusted voices in dentistry and medicine, including an in-house medical doctor. You’ll also get access to clinical webinars, CPD content, and curated updates to stay ahead in your practice. It’s peace of mind, peer support, and education—all in one place.  And for Dental Head Start listeners, we’ve teamed up with Dental Advice Network to bring you an exclusive 10% discount when you subscribe. Just use the code HEADSTART10 at checkout. Plus—if you’re a first-year graduate, you already get a massive 50% off. Check them out at dentaladvicenetwork.com.au, and thank you to Dental Advice Network for supporting the next generation of dental professionals and the Dental Head Start podcast. The post Dental Business Head Start #4 – Inside the Legal Side of Practice Ownership with Dr Jesse Green appeared first on Dental Head Start.