Wellness In Dentistry

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

In this episode, we delve into the practical strategies that enable dental professionals to achieve a healthier work-life balance while maintaining ethical, high-performing practices. From shorter work weeks to more intelligent systems, our discussion unpacks how sustainable productivity, clear goal-setting, and data-driven decisions can combat burnout and compassion fatigue. You’ll also gain insights into improving team dynamics, boosting revenue ethically, and building a thriving dental culture where wellness and profitability are in harmony.

For more info or to join their live CE course, go to www.wellnessindentistry.com

Feeling buried under an endless to-do list? You’re not alone. In this episode, Dr. Martin Mendelson and Dr. Kyle Stanley dive into the chaos of dental practice management and share proven strategies to get organized, stay focused, and regain control.

From breaking big projects into bite-sized actions to leveraging tools like Evernote and Asana, they explore how digital systems can streamline your workflow. You’ll also hear practical approaches for managing patient waitlists and optimizing scheduling, whether you’re using high-end software or good old-fashioned pen and paper.

The conversation concludes with powerful insights on set...

In this powerful episode, we tackle one of the most pressing issues in dental practices today: toxic team culture. From subtle tension to full-blown dysfunction, toxic behavior can quietly erode morale, productivity, and patient care. Join us as we explore the root causes of toxic dynamics and provide practical strategies to rebuild trust, enhance communication, and foster a culture of psychological safety.

We explore how clear expectations, courageous conversations, and proactive leadership can transform a struggling team into a thriving one. Whether you’re a practice owner, team leader, or aspiring manager, this conversation offers valuable insights, pr...

In this episode, Dr. Martin Mendelssohn and Dr. Kyle Stanley dive into the core of their transformative course, Light Side Live, designed to support dentists in mastering communication, leadership, and mental wellness. They share how peer-based learning, goal-setting, and accountability create meaningful change both in and out of the operatory. If you’re tired of feeling overwhelmed in your practice and want to lead with clarity, confidence, and balance, this episode is for you. Learn how to join their next live course this August in California, and start building a sustainable, fulfilling dental career.

For more info or...

In this episode, Dr. Kyle Stanley and Dr. Martin Mendelson break down why saying more, clearly, and often isn’t overkill; it’s essential. From managing patient expectations to strengthening your team dynamic, we explore how overcommunication leads to fewer surprises and smoother operations. We share real-world examples, strategies that work, and an invitation to dive deeper at our upcoming live course.

For more info or to join their live CE course, go to www.wellnessindentistry.com

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, the...

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...

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 remi...

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 t...

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.

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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...

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...

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...

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 wh...

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...

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...

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.