Things they don't teach you at dental school; doing hard things.

Stepping out of dental school and into real-world practice comes with a sharp reality check: suddenly, you’re doing things for the first time—without a safety net. The first coprehensive examination, The first treatment plan, the first crown prep, the first extraction, the first set of dentures. It’s daunting, and it’s tempting to think: Am I even ready for this?

The truth is, doing hard things is good for you. Growth happens when you step outside your comfort zone. But success doesn’t come from just doing the hard thing—it comes from how you approach it.

The Key? Preparation & Reflection

1. Prepare with intention.
   

   • Read up on the procedure. Watch a video. 

   • Review  photographs and radiographs to identify potential challenges

   • Set yourself up for success with the right instruments, materials, and support.

   • Mentally walk through the process before you pick up the drill or scalpel.

2. Execute with focus.
   

   • Take your time. There’s a big difference between being slow and being careful.

   • Communicate with your DA and patient—confidence is built through clarity.

   • If something isn’t going to plan, pause, reassess, and adapt.

3. Reflect and refine.
   

   • At the end of the day, ask yourself: What went well? What could have been better?

   • Seek feedback—your mentors and DA see things you don’t.

   • Keep a log of new procedures and what you learned for next time.

The Best Dentists Never Stop Learning

Mistakes will happen. Things won’t always go to plan. But if you approach every challenge with preparation and a mindset of reflection, you will improve faster than you ever imagined.

Hard things become easier—not because they’ve changed, but because you have.

Keep going. Keep growing.

How do you prepare for new procedures? Hit reply and let me know—I’d love to hear your approach!

Stay confident, stay ethical, and keep learning.

Have a great week

Rosie