Starting any new job comes with its challenges, but stepping into a dental practice as a fresh graduate brings a unique blend of excitement and terror. The impostor syndrome, and that nagging voice asking, “Am I really qualified to be doing this?”

This is Fresh-Out Fridays, where we sit down with early-career dentists who share the unfiltered truth about navigating those early-career moments that dental school didn’t quite prepare you for. In this episode, we’re diving deep with Dr Samantha Tang as she opens up about overcoming that initial awkwardness, building confidence with patients, and finding her groove in a busy practice. We’ll explore practical strategies for managing those “am I doing this right?” moments, and discover how what feels like your biggest weakness might actually become your greatest strength.

So grab your coffee, settle in, and let’s brush up on what it takes to thrive as a new dentist.

If you want to stay up to date with the latest developments in dentistry, check out our upcoming CPD courses at adacpd.au.

In this third and final instalment of The Dental Diaries, we delve into the crucial years following those initial career steps with early career dentists Anthony, Yasmin, and Sarah as they share their experiences of finding their professional stride.

Learn about the transformative power of mentorship—both receiving and providing it—and how these dentists have moved from focusing solely on their own growth to actively contributing to their profession and communities through advocacy, leadership roles, and community outreach. The episode offers candid insights into building resilience, maintaining work-life balance, and evolving from surviving those challenging early years to thriving as confident practitioners.

Whether you're facing the pressures of early-career practice, seeking strategies for sustainable professional growth, or looking to give back to the dental community, this episode offers practical wisdom and inspiration for building a fulfilling dental career.

If you want to stay up to date with the latest developments in dentistry, check out our upcoming CPD courses at adacpd.au.

In this second instalment of The Dental Diaries, we explore the pivotal transition from dental student to practising dentist with early career dentists Anthony, Yasmin, and Sarah and learn more about their journey beyond graduation.

Discover how they secured their first positions, navigated those nerve-wracking initial days with patients, and developed the confidence essential for clinical practice. The episode also delves into the financial realities of starting a dental career and reveals how new graduates can contribute fresh perspectives to established practices.

Whether you're a dental student preparing for graduation, a recent graduate finding your footing, or an established dentist mentoring the next generation, this episode offers valuable insights into this transformative career stage.

If you want to stay up to date with the latest developments in dentistry, check out our upcoming CPD courses at adacpd.au.