I made the decision to become a dentist at the ripe age of 6. I was given a bottle to sleep as an infant and subsequently many of my primary teeth grew in rotted. Because of this I spent more time at the pediatric office than most kids. And, unlike most kids, I actually enjoyed my time at Dr. Limbert’s office. The sounds, the smells, the encouragement from his staff, all had me hooked. One day one of his long time assistants asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up I boldly proclaimed, “I want to be a dentist.” She smiled and replied, “Go right ahead an do it.”
At no point in my educational career did I consider my temperament in choosing my field. Honestly, I had no idea about the concept of introversion and extroversion until I was given the Meyers-Briggs test in dental school.
The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) is a personality assessment tool designed to measure psychological preferences in how people perceive the world and make decisions. It is based on the theories of Carl Jung, a Swiss psychiatrist who developed a model of psychological types in the early 20th century. It is intended to help individuals understand their own preferences and tendencies, and to appreciate the diversity of others’ perspectives and approaches to the world.
I was the only one in my small group to score as an introvert. I read multiple books about the subject and felt they were written with me in mind. My behavior had always been perplexing to people and I always felt chastised for one reason or another. Now I was learning that I was not a freak and I was not alone. I gave me a sense of peace after twenty some years of life.
But this enthusiasm for having discovered more about myself was halted in dental school. My advisor told me that introverted business owners don’t make as much as extroverted business owners. I also heard that we lack confidence, show too much timidity, are not assertive enough, can’t lead a dental team, etc. All this from professors who were supposed to be encouraging. I won’t lie, I did get discouraged at the time.
Being an introvert doesn’t mean that you can’t be a successful dentist. In fact, many introverts make excellent dental professionals due to their strong listening skills, attention to detail, and ability to work independently. Here are some tips for introverted dentists who want to thrive in their careers:
- Focus on building relationships
While introverts may prefer to work alone or in small groups, building strong relationships with patients and colleagues is key to success in dentistry. Focus on active listening and showing empathy towards your patients to build trust and establish a strong rapport.
2. Network
Networking can be challenging for introverts, who may prefer more low-key, one-on-one interactions to large-scale social events. However, building a strong professional network is essential for any dentist looking to grow their practice and expand their professional opportunities. Start by utilizing social media and engaging with doctors this way. When you are in a large group setting, set out to meet a handful of people and come up with thoughtful questions to ask beforehand. Going into a networking event with a gameplan is key.
3. Set boundaries
Setting boundaries is an intentional way to protect your energy and avoid unnecessary conflict and to help prevent burnout. As a dentist, you need to set boundaries with your patients, with family/friends, with team members, and with yourself (we are our own worst enemies so yes we need boundaries within ourselves). Setting boundaries is crucial to your mental and physical well being
4. Embrace your strengths
Introverts tend to be great listeners and observant, which are valuable skills in dentistry. Use these strengths to your advantage by taking a thorough and attentive approach to patient care. Patients definitely know the difference between a doc who cares versus one that blows smoke.
5. Use technology to streamline communication
Face-to-face interactions can be draining for you, consider using technology to streamline communication with patients and colleagues. This could mean using text or email to communicate with patients, or using software to manage appointments and records. If you can delegate phone calls, do so.
6. Practice self-care
Introverts may be more sensitive to external stimuli, so it’s important to prioritize self-care to avoid burnout. This could mean taking breaks throughout the day to recharge, prioritizing activities that help you relax and recharge, and seeking support from a therapist or mentor. We tend to put the needs of others before ourselves but it should never be to our own detriment. We cannot pour from an empty cup.
Remember, being an introvert is not a disadvantage in dentistry! By leveraging your super powers to connect and listen, pay attention to details, regulate your emotions, and thoughtful decision making you can thrive as a successful dentist.