Wellness In Dentistry

Dr. Martin Mendelson and Dr. Kyle Stanley explore the fading of passion in dentistry, linking it to burnout, cynicism, and compassion fatigue. They discuss the emotional toll of working with people, the root causes of stress in the profession, and the importance of identifying and addressing those stressors. The conversation highlights strategies for reigniting purpose, cultivating work-life balance, and finding identity beyond the operatory. At the heart of it all is a powerful reminder: mindset matters.

Burnout is no longer a buzzword in dentistry—it’s a reality for the majority of clinicians. In this episode, Dr. Kyle Stanley and Dr. Martin Mendelson have an honest conversation about the mental health crisis in dentistry and why so many dentists silently struggle under the pressure of perfectionism, financial demands, and the emotional weight of patient care.They explore how leadership, boundaries, and communication—or the lack of them—contribute to daily stress, and why simply “escaping” the practice isn’t a sustainable solution. Drawing from personal experience, research, and years of coaching dentists around the world, they outline clear steps for transforming how we work, lead, and live in this profession.You’ll also get a preview of their upcoming in-person course in Irvine, California, designed to help dental professionals build a career that doesn’t just survive—but truly thrives. Whether you’re early in your journey or years into practice, this episode offers perspective, practical tools, and a reminder that fulfillment in dentistry is possible.For more info or to join their live CE course, go to www.wellnessindentistry.com

In this episode, Dr. Martin Mendelson and Dr. Kyle Stanley explore how gratitude isn’t just a feel-good concept, it’s a clinical tool for transforming your dental practice. They unpack the science and strategy behind expressing timely, specific appreciation, and how this simple habit can reshape how you lead, how your team performs, and how you feel at the end of the day. You’ll also learn how to navigate difficult patient interactions, take ownership of your emotional responses, and train your brain to see more of what’s working. Gratitude is more than a mindset—it’s medicine for burnout. For more info or to join their live CE course, go to www.wellnessindentistry.com

In this episode, Dr. Kyle Stanley and Dr. Martin Mendelson dive into the power of looking beyond dentistry to grow within it. They explore how consultants, mental health professionals, and even industries outside of healthcare can help transform dental practices from the inside out.The conversation highlights the value of diverse perspectives, proper change management, and the mindset shifts needed to implement new materials, technologies, and systems successfully. Kyle and Martin also unpack the role of clear objectives, accountability, and aligned responsibilities when hiring consultants or coaches..

In this powerful episode, Dr. Martin Mendelson and Dr. Kyle Stanley explore the long-overdue shift toward prioritizing mental wellness in dentistry. With California now recognizing mental health education as part of core CE requirements, the profession is taking a bold step forward. The doctors discuss what this means for dental professionals, the significance of boundaries, physical wellness, and having someone to talk to when things get heavy. They also unpack the idea of “enough,” the value of self-reflection, and why this cultural shift is just the beginning. Whether you’re feeling great or running on empty, this episode is a reminder: your mental health matters.

The face of dentistry is changing, and in this episode, Dr. Kyle Stanley and Dr. Martin Mendelson dive into gender dynamics, leadership, and the evolving role of women in dentistry. Martin shares eye-opening insights from the Women in DSO event in Las Vegas, where over a thousand attendees highlighted women's powerful impact—from clinical roles to leadership positions.They also chat about emotional intelligence, communication skills, and why creating supportive spaces in dentistry is more important than ever. Plus, a sneak peek into Light Side Live in Irvine, California—an event designed to help dental professionals level up their careers.🔥 If this episode resonates with you, do us a favor—leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review and share it with a friend in dentistry! The more we talk about these topics, the more we can push the profession forward! 🚀

In this episode, Dr. Kyle Stanley and Dr. Martin Mendelson dive into the power of clear and consistent communication in dentistry. 🦷💬 They discuss common pitfalls of verbal communication, the importance of documentation, and practical strategies like checklists and patient education platforms to enhance clarity. From improving teamwork with specialists and labs to setting patient expectations, they share real-world examples to help you reduce stress and elevate your practice.👉 Loved this episode? Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review, and share with your fellow dental pros! Your support helps us keep bringing you valuable insights. Let’s spread the word and make dentistry better—together! 🎙️🦷✨

In this episode, Dr. Kyle Stanley and Dr. Martin Mendelson dive into the pressing challenges facing dental professionals today, from political polarity and financial uncertainty to the growing influence of DSOs. They explore how viewing these challenges through a historical lens can empower dentists to adapt, grow, and seize new opportunities. The conversation also touches on the impact of social media on mental health, the power of self-awareness, and the importance of emotional control in professional and personal success. Don’t miss this insightful discussion on turning adversity into advantage in modern dentistry!

In this milestone episode, Dr. Martin Mendelssohn and Dr. Kyle Stanley reflect on the biggest lessons learned from the past 49 episodes of the Wellness and Dentistry podcast. They share personal experiences, advice for their younger selves, and key takeaways that have helped thousands of dental professionals prioritize wellness in their careers.They discuss:✅ The power of boundaries in maintaining mental and emotional well-being.✅ Why detaching from patient expectations leads to better outcomes.✅ The dangers of tying identity too closely to dentistry—and how to prevent burnout.✅ Strategies for improving work-life balance and managing busy practices.✅ The mindset shift of being “unattached to the result” for long-term success.🎙️ Plus, they announce their upcoming two-day 12 CE course in Irvine, CA—a live event designed to help dental professionals take control of their mental wellness, leadership, and career satisfaction.Most importantly, they share their gratitude for the Wellness and Dentistry community and reflect on how this journey has allowed them to give back, support their colleagues, and shape the future of dentistry together.💬 What’s been your biggest takeaway from the podcast so far? DM us on Instagram or leave a review—we’d love to hear from you!🚀 Here’s to 50 episodes—and many more to come! 🎉

In this episode, Dr. Kyle Stanley and Dr. Martin Mendelson explore the rapid shifts in dentistry, from mindset changes to the evolution of continuing education, sales, and corporate influence.They discuss:✅ How dentistry is shifting beyond clinical training, with more focus on leadership, communication, and mental wellness.✅ Why dental conferences and corporate events are changing, including the rise of in-person learning post-pandemic and the decline of massive corporate booths.✅ The growing demand for non-clinical education, including sales, emotional intelligence, and self-improvement.✅ Why mental health training is becoming just as critical as clinical skills for long-term success.With first-hand experience speaking at global dental events, Kyle and Martin bring a unique perspective on the future of the industry and how dentists can stay ahead.🎙️ They also invite you to Light Side Live on May 9-10 in Irvine, CA—a game-changing event for dental professionals ready to take control of their mental wellness, leadership, and communication skills.If you’re curious about where dentistry is heading and how you can thrive in this new era, this episode is for you!💬 What are your thoughts on these changes in dentistry? Let’s continue the conversation—DM us on Instagram or leave a review!

In this episode, we dive into the power of administrative days and how effective task management can transform your dental practice. Dr. Kyle Stanley and Dr. Martin Mendelson break down strategies for staying organized, prioritizing tasks, and using digital tools to reduce stress and increase productivity. They explore the best ways to manage tasks, from to-do lists and calendars to project management software and asynchronous communication. You’ll also learn why maintaining a clear distinction between scheduled tasks and to-do items is crucial, how to delegate effectively, and the impact of setting boundaries for better work-life balance. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the business side of dentistry, this episode will give you actionable strategies to streamline your workflow and reclaim your time. 🎧 Tune in now and start optimizing your admin days!

In this episode, Dr. Kyle Stanley and Dr. Martin Mendelson dive into the critical role of support networks in dentistry and how they impact mental health, professional growth, and overall well-being. They share their personal experiences with study clubs and mastermind groups, highlighting the value of vulnerability, open discussions, and surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals.They also explore the concept of hedonic adaptation, the unique challenges faced by successful professionals, and why continuing education and peer support are essential for long-term fulfillment.Whether you’re looking to reduce stress, stay motivated, or connect with peers who truly understand your struggles, this episode will show you why dentistry is better when you’re not in it alone.🎧 Tune in now and start building your support system!

In this episode, Dr. Martin Mendelson and Dr. Kyle Stanley discuss bonus structures and employee compensation in dental practices, emphasizing the importance of transparency, clear expectations, and regular communication with staff. They explore various strategies for structuring bonuses, including a mix of objective and subjective criteria, and highlight the need for documentation and legal considerations in implementing these systems. The hosts also address the challenges of change management, staff motivation, and maintaining a positive work environment while ensuring fair compensation across different roles in a dental practice.

Dr. Kyle Stanley and Dr. Martin Mendelson discuss the importance of setting clear boundaries, maintaining consistency, and communicating effectively in leadership and professional settings. They explore various aspects of this topic, including personal experiences, team dynamics, patient interactions, and the impact on overall success in dental practices and other work environments. The conversation also highlights the significance of accountability, standard operating procedures, and the benefits of attending leadership workshops and courses to enhance these skills.

Dr. Martin Mendelson and Dr. Kyle Stanley discuss the importance of separating one's identity from one's profession, particularly in dentistry. They shared their personal experiences of struggling with this concept and how it has impacted their self-worth and mental health. They emphasized the need for a mindset shift to view their profession as a journey rather than a destination and to focus on the process rather than the outcome. They also highlighted the importance of practicing skills like boundary setting and changing one's mindset to achieve a better sense of identity and self-worth. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the concept of hedonic adaptation and the need to focus on the journey of practice life rather than just the end goal.

Dr. Kyle Stanley and Dr. Martin Mendelson discuss on the concept of 'success amnesia' in dentistry and its impact on personal and professional growth. The discussion explored strategies for maintaining a positive mindset, celebrating achievements, and overcoming challenges in the dental profession. The conversation also emphasized the importance of self-awareness, gratitude, and seeking support from others to navigate difficult times and maintain overall well-being.

Dr. Martin Mendelson and Dr. Kyle Stanley discuss the importance of wellness and sustainability in dentistry, emphasizing dental professionals' physical and mental challenges. They explore treating oneself like a high-level athlete, highlighting the need for regular exercise, proper recovery, and a healthy work-life balance. The conversation also touched on the interconnectedness of various aspects of life contributing to overall well-being, including the benefits of physical activity on mental health and the importance of identity-based habits in maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

In this episode of Wellness and Dentistry, hosts Dr. Kyle Stanley and Dr. Martin Mendelson discussed the importance of setting realistic expectations and managing complications in dentistry, emphasizing the need for clear communication with patients about potential risks and financial implications. They explored strategies for building trust, managing patient expectations, and handling complications, highlighting the role of vulnerability and honesty in creating strong patient relationships. The hosts also touched on the broader challenges facing the dental profession, including public perception and financial considerations, while encouraging dentists to adopt a mindset that acknowledges not every patient may be the right fit for their practice.

Kyle and Martin discussed the importance of incremental growth, self-awareness, and consistent effort in achieving personal and professional goals. They also emphasized the value of setting achievable goals, breaking tasks into smaller steps, and prioritizing values and time management. The conversation also touched on the benefits of learning a new language, the importance of taking the first step toward accomplishing tasks, and the upcoming workshop in Irvine, California.

Kyle and Martin discussed the importance of incremental growth, self-awareness, and consistent effort in achieving personal and professional goals. They also emphasized the value of setting achievable goals, breaking tasks into smaller steps, prioritizing values, and managing time effectively. The conversation also touched on the benefits of learning a new language, the importance of taking the first step toward accomplishing tasks, and the upcoming workshop in Irvine, California.

Dr. Martin Mendelson and Dr. Kyle Stanley discussed strategies for improving happiness in dentistry, emphasizing the importance of "start, stop, or get better" and the role of study clubs in personal and professional growth. They also touched on the importance of skill development, dental procedure efficiency, and a growth mindset. The conversation concluded with a discussion on the transformative power of learning to accept and manage challenging situations.

The co-hosts of Wellness and Dentistry, Dr. Kyle Stanley and Dr. Martin Mendelson, discuss the importance of goal setting and strategizing for success, emphasizing the need for small changes, setting boundaries, and social accountability. They also discussed the importance of setting personal and mental health goals, taking self-care breaks, and planning vacations. The conversation concluded with discussing the importance of clear expectations, boundaries, and compensation plans in a dental practice.

Dr. Martin Mendelson and Dr. Kyle Stanley discussed the importance of setting boundaries and being present in the moment to maintain mental health and achieve a healthy work-life balance. They emphasized the need for dental practices to adopt a business-oriented mindset, set boundaries with patients, and prioritize personal time to ensure efficient operations and high-quality clinical work. The conversation also touched on the challenges of changing policies in dental practices, the importance of effective communication and documentation in task delegation, and the benefits of setting boundaries in various aspects of life.

Dr. Kyle Stanley and Dr. Martin Mendelson discussed the emotional toll of patient anxiety on dentists and the importance of considering the dentist's feelings alongside the patient's. They also explored the prevalence of dental anxiety and fear among patients, the complexity of dental fear and anxiety, and the importance of verbal and listening skills in dental care. The conversation concluded with discussions on the importance of emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and self-care for dentists to manage patient anxiety and avoid vicarious trauma or compassion fatigue.

Dr. Martin Mendelson and Dr. Kyle Stanley discuss their recent travels educating the dental world about personal growth and explore the role of AI in reducing stress in dental workflows, the benefits of using AI technology in dentistry, and the potential of remote orthodontics. The conversation concluded with discussions on the importance of delegating tasks to technology, the potential of saliva testing, and the need for dentists to evaluate their time usage and integrate modern technologies to improve their practice.

Dr. Kyle Stanley and Dr. Martin Mendelson discussed the importance of mental health in the dental industry and the positive impact of their recent Light Side Live workshop. They emphasized the need for continuous learning and self-improvement, the importance of finding one's purpose outside of their profession, and the value of community and sharing experiences to alleviate feelings of isolation. The conversation also touched on personal experiences with depression, anxiety, and burnout and the importance of maintaining a curious mindset in difficult conversations.

Dr. Martin Mendelson and Dr. Kyle Stanley discussed the importance of gratitude and its impact on mental health and success, highlighting studies that showed its positive effects on happiness, life satisfaction, and depression. They also explored the impact of stress and adrenaline on dental professionals, the mind-body connection, and the benefits of incorporating gratitude into daily life. The conversation concluded with discussions on the rewards of practicing dentistry out of the goodness of one's heart, the importance of gratitude in the workplace, and the role of gratitude in enhancing positivity and overall well-being.

Dr. Kyle Stanley and Dr. Martin Mendelson discuss the importance of emotional resilience in the dental profession, emphasizing that it is not something one is born with but rather something that needs to be cultivated. They introduced a practical framework called NBCA (Notice, Breathe, Choose, Act) for self-awareness and emotional regulation and highlighted the significance of breathing exercises and reality testing in managing emotions. They also stressed the importance of setting expectations, managing emotions effectively, and maintaining a positive demeanor in the face of challenges in the dental profession.

Dr. Martin Mendelson and Dr. Kyle Stanley emphasized the importance of building a healthy practice culture by prioritizing mental health, creating a positive work environment, and leading by example. They discussed the concept of psychological safety, the importance of approaching situations with curiosity rather than blame, and the need for setting boundaries and expectations to promote mental health within a team. They also highlighted the significance of taking time off for team members, offering benefits like health insurance and 401K plans, and maintaining a healthy practice culture by openly discussing mental health.

Dr. Kyle Stanley and Dr. Martin discussed the challenges and importance of communication in dentistry, emphasizing the need for dentists to balance caring for their patients and maintaining their well-being. They also highlighted the importance of adopting a growth mindset and not defining one's worth solely by their profession.

Dr. Martin Mendelssohn and Dr. Kyle Stanley discussed the importance of equity in dental practices, emphasizing its potential impact on retention and office culture. The conversation concluded with a discussion on the importance of treating dental practices as businesses, the concept of equity and bonus compensation, and the potential benefits of alternative models in dental practices.

Dr. Kyle Stanley and Dr. Martin Mendelson discuss the importance of strong partnerships between dentists and laboratory technicians, emphasizing the need for clear communication and early technician involvement in dental procedures. They also highlight the challenges in dental procedures, the importance of setting expectations with patients, and the value of investing in diagnostic wax-ups and digital dentistry tools. The conversation concluded with discussing the importance of mental wellness, effective communication, and the potential for increased efficiency and profitability through better partnerships and tools.

Dr. Martin Mendelson and Dr. Kyle Stanley discussed the importance of reducing stress in dentistry through clarity and the need for focused ambition. They emphasized the importance of setting specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and timely goals, and breaking down big challenges into smaller, achievable parts. They also discussed the importance of self-care, setting timeframes for achieving specific ambitions, and creating checklists to reduce stress and ensure a smooth workflow.

Dr. Kyle Stanley and Dr. Martin Mendelson discussed the concept of superpowers and how they can become both a strength and a weakness, with a focus on the importance of balance and emotional intelligence in personal and professional growth. They also explored the challenges of measuring success in dentistry, balancing patient care with financial sustainability, and the need for effective communication with patients. Lastly, they highlighted the significance of understanding and leveraging one's strengths, and the importance of self-regard and stress tolerance in preventing burnout in the dental profession.

Dr. Martin Mendelson and Dr. Kyle Stanley discussed the importance of setting priorities, creating job descriptions, and maintaining legal compliance in dental practices. They also emphasized the significance of prioritizing tasks based on personal values, the Eisenhower matrix, and the concept of purpose in life. Lastly, they highlighted the need to identify and prioritize one's values in both personal and professional life, and the potential benefits of a HR partner.

Dr. Kyle Stanley and Dr. Martin Mendelson discuss the importance of prioritizing mental health in dentistry, sharing their personal experiences and offering advice on how to avoid burnout and maintain well-being. They also emphasized the need for defensive dentistry, work-life balance, and a mindset shift towards sustainability in one's career. Lastly, they discussed the decision-making process for comprehensive cases and the value of learning from difficult experiences.

Dr. Kyle Stanley and Dr. Martin Mendelson discuss the nuances of intercollegial relationships in the dental world. From how to inform a patient of a failing restoration to defending our colleagues, this discussion goes against the classic thought that “the previous dentist is always wrong.

Dr. Kyle Stanley and Dr. Martin Mendelson discuss the portrayal of dentistry on social media, emphasizing the need to showcase the human side of the profession and set realistic expectations for patients. They also discuss the concept of "podium dentistry" and its potential negative impact on young dentists. Lastly, they shared their struggles and experiences in marketing their businesses and announced their upcoming event, Light Side Live.

Dr. Martin Mendelson and Dr. Kyle Stanley discussed the importance of wellness in dental practice, focusing on improving communication, treatment planning, and documentation in patient referrals. They also emphasized the significance of building trust with patients, understanding the entire patient care process, and the value of collaboration between different healthcare teams. Lastly, they addressed the challenges of managing endodontic emergencies, the importance of setting boundaries with patients, and the need for clear expectations and communication in the referral process.

Dr. Kyle Stanley and Dr. Martin Mendelson discussed the importance of leadership by example, vulnerability, and effective communication in the dental profession. They also emphasized the significance of practice management, emotional control, and a positive mindset for success, as well as the need for time off for rest and recuperation. Lastly, they discouraged aligning one's purpose in life with their profession, and encouraged listeners to focus on personal character and the impact they have on others.

Dr. Martin Mendelson and Dr. Kyle Stanley emphasized the importance of relationships in both personal and professional contexts, sharing their own experiences and insights. They discussed the challenges and benefits of working in a saturated market, the significance of setting clear expectations and boundaries, and the impact of mindset on communication and success. The conversation also touched on the importance of cultivating a growth mindset, the interconnectedness of different aspects of life, and the need to focus on controllable factors for personal and professional growth.

Dr. Kyle Stanley and Dr. Martin Mendelson discussed strategies to address negativity in the dental office, emphasizing the importance of emotional intelligence, open communication, and active listening. They also explored the challenges of managing patient complaints about dental service costs, the increase in dental crown costs, and the need for dentists to communicate openly about their fees. Lastly, they highlighted the importance of cultivating a positive mindset in the workplace, developing soft skills in dentistry, and the benefits of their upcoming workshop, Light Side Live.

Dr. Martin Mendelson and Dr. Kyle Stanley discussed dental addiction and the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance. They shared their personal experiences with addiction and burnout, emphasizing the need to reevaluate one's priorities and redefine success in a more holistic manner. They also discussed the challenges of their dental practice, the impact of high failure rates on practitioners, and the importance of self-improvement while maintaining a balanced life.

Dr. Kyle Stanley and Dr. Martin Mendelson discussed the importance of achieving sustainable success in dentistry, emphasizing the need to maintain a career without burning out and the role of goal-setting and self-improvement. They also discussed the concept of "compound time" and the significance of taking action even when things aren't perfect, focusing on personal time management and the importance of understanding and managing the financial aspects of a dental practice. Lastly, they highlighted the need for effective communication between referring and referred offices, creating a clinical playbook, and the importance of setting long-term goals in dental practice.

Dr. Martin Mendelssohn and Dr. Kyle Stanley discussed the challenges of managing workload in dental practices and offered strategies for task prioritization, delegation, and time management. They emphasized the importance of setting clear expectations, communication, and establishing boundaries to balance clinical duties and practice management responsibilities. The discussion also covered the need for financial planning, inventory management, and the importance of being present and focused in dentistry.

Dr. Kyle Stanley and Dr. Martin Mendelson discussed the importance of setting clear expectations in various aspects of life, particularly in dental practices, and the benefits of having a written task list to ensure efficiency and accountability. They also emphasized the need for effective communication with patients, setting realistic expectations, and managing interruptions in the workplace. Lastly, they shared personal experiences and discussed strategies for managing time, expectations, and communication in various professional and personal relationships.

Dr. Martin Mendelson and Dr. Kyle Stanley, dentist coaches and speakers, discussed the concept of success in dentistry and beyond, emphasizing the importance of a balanced approach to professional success, prioritizing health, and practicing gratitude and resilience. They also shared strategies for managing emotions and achieving success, and highlighted the significance of self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and sustainable success. The pair announced their upcoming two-day workshop, Lightside Live, and encouraged their listeners to engage with their content and consider attending.

Dr. Kyle Stanley and Dr. Martin Mendelson discussed the negative portrayal of dentists in media and its impact on patients' perceptions, emphasizing the need for early exposure to dentistry for children and the importance of social media in combating these negative portrayals. They also explored the idea of changing the public perception of dentistry from a mechanical procedure to a holistic, therapeutic one, and the importance of acknowledging the human aspect of dentistry. Lastly, they discussed the potential benefits of incorporating mindfulness practices into the daily routines of dental professionals and the need for colleagues to increase awareness of negative media associations in their profession.

Drs. Martin Mendelson and Kyle Stanley discussed the importance of selflessness, setting boundaries, and prioritizing personal and professional well-being. They emphasized the need for physical activity, adequate sleep, and mindfulness to achieve a balanced and fulfilling life. They shared their personal experiences of how these practices improved their work-life balance. The discussion also touched on the significance of making data-driven decisions, establishing daily routines, and being intentional with time for optimal productivity and well-being.

Dr. Kyle Stanley and Dr. Martin Mendelson discussed the art and science of listening, emphasizing the importance of understanding different perspectives and approaches in communication. They also highlighted the need to develop critical thinking skills, connect with patients' emotions, and create a comfortable environment for open communication in a professional setting. Lastly, they discussed the power of asking questions rather than providing answers, the pitfalls of emotional involvement, and the importance of balancing subjective, objective, and intuitive listening in relationships.