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In this episode of the Stress-Free Dentist Podcast, host Dr. Eric Block sits down with Dr. Kyle Stanley to discuss an issue that many dentists silently struggle with—burnout.
Dr. Stanley shares his personal journey through burnout, the wake-up call that made him rethink his career, and how he ultimately found fulfillment in dentistry again. They dive into the pressures of high expectations, patient management, and the mental toll of perfectionism, along with actionable strategies to build a sustainable, stress-free career.
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, doubted your path in dentistry, or wondered how to make your career more fulfilling, this episode is a must-listen.
Key Takeaways:
- Burnout is More Common Than You Think
- Many dentists hit a breaking point after years of high stress, patient demands, and perfectionism.
- Recognizing early warning signs can help prevent a crisis.
- The Power of Open Conversations in Dentistry
- Addressing stress, challenges, and mental health openly and building a support system among colleagues is crucial for maintaining a healthy and fulfilling career..
- Alternative Paths in Dentistry
- Having other passions outside of clinical work can lead to a more fulfilling career.
Episode Timestamps
- 00:00:12 – Introduction
- Host Dr. Eric Block welcomes listeners and introduces guest Dr. Kyle Stanley.
- Overview of the episode’s theme: burnout, mental health, and redefining success in dentistry.
- 00:01:27 – Meet Dr. Kyle Stanley
- Dr. Stanley shares his unique journey into dentistry, from a background in art and performance to becoming a leading implant specialist.
- His decision to study in Brazil and train under world-renowned mentors.
- 00:05:07 – The Challenges of Private Practice & Partnerships
- The reality of starting a practice with a business partner—why it’s similar to a marriage.
- The importance of open communication in managing professional relationships.
- 00:10:06 – High Expectations & The Mental Toll of Perfectionism
- Why premium practices come with high-pressure demands.
- The emotional impact of difficult patients.
- 00:11:06– Dr. Stanley’s Burnout Experience
- After seven years in practice, burnout hit hard—leading him to question his career.
- The breaking point: Legal threats, patient disputes, and physical pain led to major self-reflection.
- 00:12:42 – The Turning Point: Researching Mental Health & Burnout
- How Dr. Stanley’s research on positivity, stress management, and communication helped reshape his mindset.
- Why speaking about burnout publicly resonated with so many other dentists.
- 00:17:47 – Lightside Academy: Addressing Burnout in Dentistry
- How Dr. Stanley created Lightside Academy to provide resources for dentists struggling with mental health and career fulfillment.
- The importance of CE courses, mastermind groups, and peer support.
- 00:19:22 – The Connection Between Physical & Mental Health
- Why workplace environment, exercise, and self-care should be a priority.
- 00:20:12 – Closing Thoughts
- Don’t tie your entire identity to dentistry.
- Pursue side projects, passions, and interests beyond clinical work.
Resources