Wellness In Dentistry

In this episode of Wellness in Dentistry, Dr. Kyle Stanley and Dr. Martin Mendelson dive into one of the most common but overlooked struggles in dental practice: overthinking. They explore how the absence of clear standards and structure can fuel decision paralysis in both clinical and non-clinical situations, creating unnecessary stress for dental professionals. The conversation unpacks how assumptions and judgmental thinking patterns interfere with progress, and why clear communication, thorough documentation, and consistently high standards are essential for reducing stress and avoiding analysis fatigue. Drawing inspiration from stoic principles, they share strategies for managing emotions, maintaining perspective, and building mental resilience, tools that apply not only to dentistry but to life as a whole.Get Kyle’s founder’s discount for Pearl AI by scheduling a demo here: https://discover.hellopearl.com/referral/kyle-stanley/ For more info or to join their live CE course, go to www.wellnessindentistry.com

In this episode of Wellness in Dentistry, Dr. Kyle Stanley and Dr. Martin mendelson unpack a new U.S. government bill proposing to cap GradPLUS loans for dental students at $250,000. They reflect on how the rising cost of dental education and mounting debt burdens compare to historical tuition levels, and what these financial pressures mean for today’s students and the profession at large. The conversation explores how debt caps could shape the future of dental school applications, practice ownership opportunities, and the composition of the dental workforce. They also examine possible solutions from corporate involvement in financial incentives to broader policy reforms and consider the downstream effects on healthcare access and delivery. Get Kyle’s founder’s discount for Pearl AI by scheduling a demo here: https://discover.hellopearl.com/referral/kyle-stanley/ 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 share career advice for dental professionals by exploring both clinical and non-clinical paths. Drawing on their diverse experiences in technology, speaking, coaching, and tech, they highlight strategies for clinical dentists to grow sustainably through efficiency, delegation, and self-awareness. The conversation also touches on career transitions, emphasizing the importance of diversifying skills beyond clinical practice and the role of self-reflection in shaping a fulfilling career in dentistry.Get Kyle’s founder’s discount for Pearl AI by scheduling a demo here: https://discover.hellopearl.com/referral/kyle-stanley/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 mix fun with serious conversation, starting with Halloween traditions in dentistry and updates on their upcoming book releases. The discussion moves into the challenges of practicing alone and why professional support networks are essential for career sustainability. They highlight the decline in association participation and study club engagement, offering strategies to strengthen these communities through better leadership, structure, and communication of value. The episode closes with a candid conversation about mental health in dentistry, drawing from clinical experiences to stress the importance of emotional support and having professional backup when navigating stress and complex cases.Get Kyle’s founder’s discount for Pearl AI by scheduling a demo here: https://discover.hellopearl.com/referral/kyle-stanley/For more info or to join their live CE course, go to www.wellnessindentistry.com

In this episode, we dive into the complex role of social media in dentistry, both its opportunities and its pitfalls. We explore how platforms can be powerful tools for practice growth and professional visibility, but also how they create pressure around authenticity, transparency, and comparison. Our conversation unpacks the importance of setting clear intentions for social media use, defining your audience, and aligning your online presence with your values. We also examine the dangers of unrealistic expectations fueled by curated feeds and how that stress impacts the mental health of dentists. The episode closes on a hopeful note, emphasizing the potential of social media to foster genuine connections, build supportive communities, and strengthen relationships across the profession, while underscoring the need for better systems to support dentists’ well-being in the digital age.Get Kyle’s founder’s discount for Pearl AI by scheduling a demo here: https://discover.hellopearl.com/referral/kyle-stanley/For more info or to join their live CE course, go to www.wellnessindentistry.com

Dr. Martin Mendelson and Dr. Kyle Stanley shared their experiences with culture through dental practice management, including leadership coaching and addressing team conflicts. They explored the importance of psychological safety, culture, and accountability in dental practices, emphasizing the need for open communication and effective conflict resolution. The conversation concluded with discussions about technology in dentistry and the role of soft skills in professional success. Get Kyle’s founder’s discount for Pearl AI by scheduling a demo here: https://discover.hellopearl.com/referral/kyle-stanley/ 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 challenges dental associates face when trying to take ownership of their careers inside someone else’s practice. The discussion highlights strategies for regaining control through clear communication and data-driven decision-making.Listeners will learn how associates can influence key aspects of their work, including material selection, scheduling, and production metrics, while maintaining a collaborative relationship with practice owners. Kyle and Martin also explore how structured treatment planning can enhance patient communication and improve clinical decisions. The episode wraps up with practical suggestions on technology tools that support efficiency, transparency, and professional growth for associates navigating today’s dental landscape.Get Kyle’s founder’s discount for Pearl AI by scheduling a demo here: https://discover.hellopearl.com/referral/kyle-stanley/ For more info or to join their live CE course, go to www.wellnessindentistry.com

Dr. Martin Mendelson and Dr. Kyle Stanley discuss the importance of recognizing exhaustion rather than laziness in dental professionals and emphasize the need for self-care to maintain high performance. They explored strategies for managing energy levels, setting realistic expectations, and optimizing scheduling to enhance efficiency in dental practices. The discussion also covered the importance of effective communication, delegation, and utilizing project management tools to reduce stress and improve overall practice performance. Get Kyle’s founder’s discount for Pearl AI by scheduling a demo here: https://discover.hellopearl.com/referral/kyle-stanley/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 one of the most overlooked stressors in dentistry: digital overwhelm. From constant notifications and the pressure of online reviews to the nonstop ping of messages, today’s digital tools can leave dental professionals distracted and drained.Kyle and Martin share personal stories of navigating this challenge, while offering practical strategies to reclaim focus and productivity. They highlight the power of asynchronous communication, setting boundaries with digital platforms, and reducing decision fatigue by creating healthier workflows.The episode concludes with a roadmap for dentists to improve mental well-being, efficiency, and peace of mind in the face of digital chaos.

In this episode, Dr. Kyle Stanley and Dr. Martin Mendelson reflect on the success of their recent Lightside Live course, where dentists from diverse backgrounds came together to share experiences and foster authentic connections. The conversation highlights the critical role of soft skills and communication in dentistry, emphasizing how live events create powerful opportunities for human connection and emotional engagement that online learning often cannot match.The doctors also dive into the importance of intentional planning and scheduling in both personal and professional life, offering insights that help dentists manage stress and achieve balance. With their vision of guiding the profession toward the “light side of dentistry,” they share their commitment to providing resources and future events designed to support dentists in building sustainable, fulfilling careers.For more info or to join their live CE course, go to www.wellnessindentistry.com

This episode dives into strengthening the relationship between dentists and dental hygienists by improving communication, empathy, and mutual understanding. We explore common workplace challenges, clarify the distinct roles each team member plays, and highlight the importance of aligning around a shared vision. The conversation also touches on the financial realities of running a dental practice, including overhead, profit margins, and the need for better business education within the team. We wrap up with a look at self-care, healthy team dynamics, and practical steps for creating a culture of open dialogue and continuous professional growth.For more info or to join their live CE course, go to www.wellnessindentistry.com

In this episode, we explore the critical role of setting and maintaining boundaries in dentistry with patients, team members, and even family. The conversation dives into how clear communication and consistent enforcement of expectations lead to stronger professional respect, reduced stress, and better patient care. We also cover practical strategies for creating written procedures, minimizing multitasking, and staying fully present at work and at home. If you’ve ever struggled with saying no, overextending yourself, or blurring the lines between personal and professional life, this one’s for you.For more info or to join their live CE course, go to www.wellnessindentistry.com

Kyle and Martin unpack the hidden toll of perfectionism in dentistry. They explore the difference between excellence and perfection, the value of authenticity, and why personal growth matters more than comparison. This episode is a must-listen for any dentist chasing unrealistic standards. For more info or to join their live CE course, go to www.wellnessindentistry.com

Dr. Martin Mendelson and Dr. Kyle Stanley explore how dentists can manage high-stress days through adequate preparation, clear expectation-setting, and self-care. They explore handling tough patients, staying calm under pressure, and the power of connection within the dental community. For more info or to join their live CE course, go to www.wellnessindentistry.com

The meeting focused on personal growth experiences and skill development, with Dr. Martin sharing his wilderness therapy journey and lessons learned about discomfort, teamwork, and seeking help. Dr. Kyle discussed his experiences with jiu-jitsu and how it helped him overcome fears and build confidence, particularly in dealing with claustrophobia. The conversation concluded with both participants reflecting on the importance of embracing challenges, developing both hard and soft skills, and the value of practice in personal and professional growth. For more info or to join their live CE course, go to www.wellnessindentistry.com

Dr. Martin Mendelson and Dr. Kyle Stanley discussed hidden stressors in dental practices, focusing on factors like team turnover and financial concerns. They explored strategies for managing staffing challenges through clear communication, documentation, and scheduling templates, while emphasizing the importance of proper team training and expectation setting. The discussion concluded with insights on physical and mental health for dental professionals, highlighting how maintaining optimal health conditions can improve performance, reduce stress, and enhance patient care.

In this episode, Kyle and Martin dive into the dangers of tying your entire identity to your profession, especially in dentistry. They explore how cultivating a diversified identity can protect mental well-being and improve resilience through life’s inevitable challenges. With practical tools like journaling, goal-setting, and the Wheel of Life exercise, they help listeners reflect on their priorities, legacy, and personal growth.For more info or to join their live CE course, go to www.wellnessindentistry.com

In this episode, Dr. Martin Mendelssohn and Dr. Kyle Stanley dive into the emotional realities of burnout in dentistry and how to navigate them with intention. They explore the power of self-awareness, strategies for managing negative emotions, and practical ways to improve satisfaction through better production systems, clearer clinical balance, and leadership development. With real-world success stories and actionable advice, this episode offers a roadmap to finding renewed fulfillment in your practice.For more info or to join their live CE course, go to www.wellnessindentistry.com

In this episode, Dr. Martin and Dr. Kyle unpack the mindset shifts that help combat burnout in dentistry. They explore how to break free from limiting beliefs and stress loops by using deliberate practice, resilience techniques, and continuous learning. Listeners are reminded that growth isn’t linear and are encouraged to keep evolving through intentional education, reflection, and stepping outside the mental patterns that hold them back.For more info or to join their live CE course, go to www.wellnessindentistry.com

In this episode, Dr. Martin and Dr. Kyle answer powerful listener questions. They break down how to improve communication through open-ended questions without sounding condescending, explore the psychology of happiness and hedonic adaptation, and dive into the difference between fulfillment and fleeting success. The episode wraps with a practical discussion on burnout in dentistry, offering strategies to stay balanced, maintain passion, and serve from a place of purpose.For more info or to join their live CE course, go to www.wellnessindentistry.com