Feeling overwhelmed, burned out, or just not like yourself lately? You're not alone. In this candid and deeply relatable episode of Audio Amalgam, four Arizona dentists open up about the real mental health challenges behind the smile—sharing personal stories of burnout, perfectionism, addiction, financial stress, and the silent struggles many dental professionals face. If you've ever questioned your self-worth after a tough patient encounter or felt isolated running your practice, this podcast offers not only empathy, but practical insights, humor, and hope. Tune in to hear how your peers are finding balance, building resilience, and rediscovering joy in dentistry.

If you're a dentist who needs help, consider reaching out to the speakers in this podcast, or you can call the AzDA office (480.344.5777) so a referral can be made to the Dentists Concerned for Dentists Committee (DCD). The DCD has been in existence for more than thirty years. It is comprised of a group of fellow dentists who, with their past experience, can come to the aid of any of our fellow practitioners who are in distress (with the use or abuse of alcohol, or prescription/non-prescription chemicals).

Dr. Pete Mellas (602) 741-3300 (C)
Dr. Allison House (602) 316-6215 (C)
Dr. Ann Blue (602) 677-5331 (C)
Dr. Elliot Martich (602) 920-4271 (C)
Dr. Jeffrey Garelick (480) 216-7131 (C) (not in this podcast)

AzDA member dentists Dr. Jennifer Fineberg, Dr. Lisa Bienstock, and Dr. Rob Roda emphasize that patient distress in dental offices often stems from fear of the unknown, lack of control, financial concerns, and personal stressors. To de-escalate tense situations, they recommend clear, jargon-free communication, visual aids, active listening, and empathy—acknowledging patient fears, sharing vulnerability, and offering sincere compliments to build trust.

Financial transparency is also critical; strategies include signed agreements, clear insurance expectations, and, when needed, offering refunds to preserve peace.

Recognizing non-verbal cues and setting professional boundaries, including dismissing patients when trust is lost, are essential, as is ensuring informed consent for all procedures.

Listening to this podcast is a must for any dentist practicing in Arizona. Current Arizona State Board of Dental Examiners President Dr. Anthony Herro sits down with attorney Jeff Tonner of The Dental Advocate in an engaging, eye-opening discussion about navigating Board complaints, identifying potentially problematic patients, and most important, steps you can take to protect yourself and your practice in this sue-happy culture we live in.

If you're an AzDA member dentist, your support allows us to bring programs like this to you. Thank you. If you're not an AzDA member dentist, we want you to have this information—it's valuable for all dentists. In return, would you consider supporting us through membership as well? Joining is easy, and we're asking you, visit AzDA.org or call 480.344.5777 to get started.