Embarking on a dental career is an exciting journey filled with opportunities, challenges, and the potential for profound personal and professional growth. As women entering this dynamic field, it's essential to recognize the power of presence—the simple yet impactful act of "just showing up." By actively participating in events, meetings, and gatherings, you open doors to connections and experiences that can shape your career in unimaginable ways.
The Power of Showing Up
In the early stages of your career, it is natural to feel apprehensive about attending professional events, especially if you're new to the field or the community. However, these gatherings are fertile grounds for networking, learning, and growth. By showing up, you demonstrate initiative, curiosity, and a willingness to engage—qualities that are highly valued in the dental profession.
A Personal Journey
Reflecting on my journey, I can attest to the transformative power of being present. After completing my residency and fellowship, along with two years in private practice, I began working as a dentist for the VA St. Louis Healthcare System. There, I became the first full-time female dentist in its dental service. This opportunity would not have been possible if I hadn’t been open to exploring new avenues and connecting with colleagues who informed me about the available position.
One particularly impactful experience happened after I attended a lecture by the Academy of General Dentistry on a Friday night. Instead of heading home, I decided to join a dinner with the speaker and other attendees. By chance, I found myself seated next to the Illinois Section Chair of the Pierre Fauchard Academy. This serendipitous meeting led to my induction into the academy, an honor that has significantly enriched my professional journey.
Embracing Opportunities
These experiences highlight a vital lesson: you never know who you will meet or what opportunities will come your way when you choose to be present. By attending conferences, workshops, and social events within the dental community, you can open the door to mentorships, collaborations, and advancements that may not have been possible otherwise.
That is also how I connected with Tokuyama! By showing up and engaging with industry professionals, I learned about an opportunity to share a case that could potentially be featured on their website. Not only was my case selected, but it was also included in one of their lookbooks—a milestone and a partnership I never anticipated. Today, I continue to use their products in my practice; OMNICHROMA Flow is my go-to choice for anterior cases, and I now rely on OMNICHROMA Flow BULK for my Class II restorations. Through this connection, I’ve also become a trusted source for product feedback, further expanding my professional reach in ways I couldn’t have imagined.
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Overcoming Hesitations
It's understandable to feel hesitant about stepping into new environments, especially in a field where women have historically been underrepresented. However, each event you attend and each connection you make contributes to breaking barriers and paving the way for future generations of female dentists. Your presence not only benefits your own career but also inspires others to take similar steps, something that became very apparent to me when I was honored to be chosen as one of the American Dental Association’s Top 10 Under 10 Award recipients in 2023.
Practical Tips for Showing Up
- Start Small: Begin by attending local dental society meetings or study clubs. These smaller settings can be less intimidating and offer excellent networking opportunities.
- Set Goals: Before attending an event, set specific objectives, such as meeting a certain number of new people or learning about a particular topic.
- Follow Up: After meeting new contacts, follow up with a thank-you email or connect on professional networking platforms. Building relationships requires ongoing effort.
- Be Open: Approach each event with an open mind. Even if the topic doesn't seem directly relevant to your current interests, you might discover new passions or opportunities.
Conclusion
As you embark on your dental career, remember that showing up is more than half the battle. By being present, you position yourself to seize opportunities, build meaningful connections, and contribute to the advancement of women in dentistry. Embrace the unknown, attend that extra event, and engage with your community—you never know where it might lead.
Your journey is just beginning, and the possibilities are endless when you choose to show up.
