
New Dentists on the Block
Tanya Sue Maestas
Welcome to "New Dentists on the Block," the podcast dedicated to showcasing the inspiring journeys of newly-minted dental professionals as they navigate the highs and lows of the profession of dentistry. Join us as we delve into the personal stories of these fresh faces in dentistry, exploring the triumphs, struggles, and unique challenges they encounter both inside and outside the office.
From mastering the latest dental techniques to balancing patient care with the demands of everyday life, our guests share candid accounts of their experiences, offering valuable insights and practical advice for fellow new dentists embarking on similar paths. Whether it's overcoming obstacles in practice management, grappling with student debt, or finding ways to maintain work-life balance, our podcast explores it all.
Tune in each week as we sit down with a diverse array of dental professionals to uncover the raw and real stories behind their journey into dentistry. "New Dentists on the Block" is your go-to destination for inspiration, motivation, and a deeper understanding of the evolving landscape of dental practice. Join us as we celebrate the next generation of dental practitioners making their mark on the profession, one story at a time.
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Top 10 New Dentists on the Block Episodes
Goodpods has curated a list of the 10 best New Dentists on the Block episodes, ranked by the number of listens and likes each episode have garnered from our listeners. If you are listening to New Dentists on the Block for the first time, there's no better place to start than with one of these standout episodes. If you are a fan of the show, vote for your favorite New Dentists on the Block episode by adding your comments to the episode page.

New Beginnings in Dentistry w/ Dr. Sampada Deshpande
New Dentists on the Block
01/25/24 • 31 min
Welcome back to Season 2 of New Dentists on the Block!
In this episode, Dr. Sampada Deshpande shares her journey as a foreign-trained dentist and her decision to pursue a general practice residency (GPR) to specialize in treating patients with special healthcare needs. She discusses her unique model of portable dentistry, where she brings dental care to seniors and individuals with disabilities in their own homes or assisted living centers. Sampada also talks about her role as a product manager for Samsomile and her dedication to helping dental professionals streamline insurance verification processes. She emphasizes the importance of thinking outside the box and finding unique ways to serve patients in the dental profession.
About The Guest:
Sampada Deshpande is a foreign-trained dentist who completed her dental school in India before pursuing her DDS at the University of Washington. She has a passion for treating patients with special healthcare needs and has dedicated her career to providing dental care to seniors and individuals with disabilities. Sampada offers portable dentistry, where she brings her dental equipment to assisted living centers and patients' homes to provide comfortable and convenient dental care. She also works as a product manager for Samsung Smile, an automated insurance verification solution.
Key Takeaways
- Sampada Deshpande pursued a general practice residency (GPR) to specialize in treating patients with special healthcare needs.
- Portable dentistry allows Sampada to provide dental care to seniors and individuals with disabilities in their own homes or assisted living centers.
- Sampada's role as a product manager for Samsung Smile involves streamlining insurance verification processes for dental professionals.
- Thinking outside the box and finding unique ways to serve patients is crucial in the dental profession.
Connect with Sampada Deshpande on IG: @dr.desphande
Connect with New Dentist Business Club: @newdentistbusinessclub
Learn more about Samsosmile: @samsosmile
Connect with New Dentists on the Block: @newdentistsontheblock
Connect with Tanya Sue Maestas: @tsmaestas.dds
Full video on Youtube
Swing by Peyruis | https://soundcloud.com/peyruis Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com Creative Commons / Attribution 3.0 Unported License (CC BY 3.0) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/deed.en_US

Impressing the Perfect Smile W/ Dr. Rupert Monkhouse
New Dentists on the Block
02/15/24 • 32 min
In this episode, Tanya Sue interviews Rupert Monkhouse, a general dentist with a passion for removable prosthodontics. Rupert shares his journey in dentistry, from his education in London to his current practice in Reading. He discusses the unique aspects of dental education in the UK, including the mandatory foundation year in the National Health Service (NHS). Rupert also highlights the importance of mentorship and continuous learning in his field. He explains how he has honed his skills in removable prosthodontics through social media, online resources, and collaborations with other dental professionals. The conversation delves into the intricacies of denture impressions and the key factors that contribute to successful denture retention. Rupert also provides insights into his upcoming plans to specialize in prosthodontics and expand his expertise in implant dentistry.
About the Guest:
Rupert is a general dentist based in London, UK. He has a particular interest in removable prosthodontics and shares his cases on Instagram @dentistRupert on this platform he also hosts the ImpressionClub Live podcast and edits a monthly newsletter available through his website. Rupert has a passion for education and runs a primary impression course in the UK with more launching soon. He also sits on committees for both the International Team for Implantology and The British Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry
Key Takeaways:
- Dental education in the UK allows students to enter dental school straight from high school, with a five-year undergraduate program.
- The foundation year in the NHS provides structured training and mentorship for new dentists, allowing them to gain experience in different areas of dentistry.
- Rupert emphasizes the importance of mentorship and continuous learning in dentistry, particularly in niche areas like removable prosthodontics.
- Social media platforms, such as Instagram, have played a significant role in Rupert's professional development, allowing him to connect with other dental professionals and learn from their experiences.
- Successful denture retention relies on capturing accurate impressions, understanding the functional prosthetic envelope, and considering the muscle action on the flanges.
Connect with Rupert Monkhouse on IG: @dentistrupert
Check out his website: ImpressionClub
Connect with New Dentists on the Block: @newdentistsontheblock
Connect with Tanya Sue Maestas: @tsmaestas.dds
Full video on Youtube
Swing by Peyruis | https://soundcloud.com/peyruis Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com Creative Commons / Attribution 3.0 Unported License (CC BY 3.0) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/deed.en_US

House Call Dentistry w/ Dr. Ashleigh Robinson
New Dentists on the Block
03/07/24 • 32 min
Ashleigh Robinson, a dentist and the founder of Accommodental, a house call dental practice in Buffalo, New York shares her journey of transitioning from working in a traditional dental setting to becoming a full-time house call dentist. She discusses the need for house call dentistry, especially for patients who are homebound or have limited mobility. Ashleigh also talks about the challenges and rewards of running a house call dental practice and offers advice for new dentists.
About the Guest:
- Ashleigh Robinson is a dentist based in Buffalo, New York. She graduated in 2019 and is dedicated to serving medically complex and underserved patient populations.
- Ashleigh is the founder of Accommodental, a house call dental practice that provides dental care to patients who are unable to leave their homes due to limited mobility or other medical conditions.
- She is the creator of the ResiDENTAL Movement, a podcast turned community, that empowers and equips dentists to begin offering in-home dental services to patients who are best-served at home.
Key Takeaways:
- House call dentistry is a valuable service for patients who are unable to leave their homes due to limited mobility or other medical conditions.
- Ashleigh's decision to pursue house call dentistry was driven by the need she observed while working in hospitals and the desire to serve medically complex and underserved patient populations.
- Starting a house call dental practice requires careful planning, including consulting with professionals such as accountants and lawyers, setting up business accounts, and ensuring compliance with regulations.
- House call dentistry offers flexibility and the ability to provide personalized care to patients, but it also requires careful scheduling and managing overhead costs.
- Ashleigh emphasizes the importance of avoiding traps and not committing to a lifestyle or practice setting that doesn't align with one's values and goals as a dentist.
Connect with Dr. Ashleigh Robinson on IG: @ashleigh.m.robinson
Learn more about Accomodental and Residental Movement
Connect with New Dentists on the Block: @newdentistsontheblock
Connect with Tanya Sue Maestas: @tsmaestas.dds
Full video on Youtube
Swing by Peyruis | https://soundcloud.com/peyruis Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com Creative Commons / Attribution 3.0 Unreported License (CC BY 3.0) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/deed.en_US

Navigating Public Health Dentistry w/ Dr. Alayna Schoblaske
New Dentists on the Block
02/29/24 • 37 min
Alayna Shoblaske, a dedicated dentist based in Medford, Oregon, as she shares her journey from dental school to serving in a public health setting. Discover the rewards and challenges of practicing dentistry in underserved communities, and gain valuable insights into loan repayment programs like the National Health Service Corps scholarship. Learn about the crucial role of organized dentistry and how it empowers professionals like Elena to make a difference. If you're a new dentist considering a career in public health, this episode is a must-listen!
About the Guest:
Alayna Schoblaske is a dentist based in Medford, Oregon. She grew up in Oregon and attended dental school at Oregon Health and Science University. After completing her dental education, Alayna did a GPR at the VA hospital in Washington, DC. She then returned to Oregon and began working at a federally qualified health center (FQHC), where she still practices today. Elena is passionate about public health dentistry and providing high-quality care to underserved populations.
Key Takeaways:
- Alayna Schoblaske's journey from dental school to working in a public health setting in Oregon.
- The benefits of practicing dentistry in a federally qualified health center (FQHC) and the ability to provide comprehensive care to underserved populations.
- Loan repayment programs, such as the National Health Service Corps scholarship and the Students to Service loan repayment program, can help dentists alleviate their student loan debt while working in public health.
- The importance of organized dentistry and the opportunities for mentorship, networking, and advocacy it provides.
- Advice for new dentists interested in public health, including getting involved in local dental associations and attending meetings and events to connect with other professionals in the field.
Connect with Alaya Schobloske on IG: @alaynathedentist
Learn more about the ADA New Dentist Committee
Connect with New Dentists on the Block: @newdentistsontheblock
Connect with Tanya Sue Maestas: @tsmaestas.dds
Full video on Youtube
Swing by Peyruis | https://soundcloud.com/peyruis Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com Creative Commons / Attribution 3.0 Unreported License (CC BY 3.0) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/deed.en_US

Igniting Your Career in Dentistry
New Dentists on the Block
02/08/24 • 29 min
In this episode of "New Dentists on the Block," host Tanya Sue interviews Savanah Craig and Ronnetta Sartor, two dentists who completed the same GPR program a few years apart. They discuss their experiences in the program, the importance of continuing education and mentorship, and their journeys as new dentists. Savanah and Ronnetta also share their involvement with Ignite DDS, including their work on the Residency Guide and their E-book Beyond Graduation. The conversation highlights the different paths dentists can take after graduation and the importance of finding the right fit for each individual.
About the Guest(s):
- Savanah Craig: Savanah Craig is a passionate dentist who graduated from The Ohio State University in 2022. Originally from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, she completed a one-year GPR program in Columbia, South Carolina. Savannah has a keen interest in surgery and implant placement and is excited to start her career in private practice in Columbus, Ohio.
- Ronnetta Sartor: Ronnetta Sartor is a dedicated dentist who graduated from the Medical University of South Carolina in 2017. After completing the same GPR program as Savannah in Columbia, South Carolina, she practiced in a group practice in Sumter, South Carolina for four years. In August 2021, Ronnetta purchased her own practice and has been enjoying the challenges and rewards of practice ownership ever since.
Key Takeaways:
- GPR Programs: Savanah and Ronnetta both chose to pursue GPR programs to gain more experience and expand their skill sets. These programs allowed them to provide a wider range of services to their patients and gain mentorship from experienced dentists.
- Practice Ownership: Ronnetta's journey from associate to practice owner showcases the possibilities and challenges of practice ownership. She emphasizes the importance of taking time for self-care and finding a balance between being a clinician and a business owner.
- Ignite DDS: Savanah and Ronnetta discuss their involvement with Ignite DDS and the resources it provides to new dentists. They highlight the Residency Guide, which offers valuable information about dental residencies across the nation, and their ebook that focuses on the early years of dentistry and how to navigate the challenges.
Connect with Ronnetta Sartor on IG: @ dr_sartor
Connect with Savanah Craig on IG: @savanahcraigdds
Check out the Residency Guide
Check out their eBook Beyond Graduation
Connect with New Dentists on the Block: @newdentistsontheblock
Connect with Tanya Sue Maestas: @tsmaestas.dds
Full video on Youtube
Swing by Peyruis | https://soundcloud.com/peyruis Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com Creative Commons / Attribution 3.0 Unported License (CC BY 3.0) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/deed.en_US

Representation in Dentistry w/ Dr. Diego Rivas
New Dentists on the Block
10/30/23 • 20 min
Diego Rivas, a newly graduated dentist, shares his journey into dentistry and his passion for pediatric dentistry. Growing up in a Venezuelan family in Houston, Diego was surrounded by dentistry and developed a love for the profession. He decided to pursue a career in dentistry, following in his mother's footsteps. Diego discusses his experiences in dental school, his involvement with the Hispanic Dental Association, and his decision to specialize in pediatric dentistry. He also talks about the challenges faced by the Venezuelan community and his plans for the future.
Key Takeaways:
- Diego Rivas grew up in a Venezuelan family in Houston and was surrounded by dentistry from a young age.
- He decided to pursue a career in dentistry, following in his mother's footsteps.
- Diego was involved with the Hispanic Dental Association during dental school and found it to be a supportive community.
- He decided to specialize in pediatric dentistry after discovering his passion for working with children.
- Diego is currently pursuing a pediatric residency in New York and is enjoying the diverse patient population.
Connect with Diego Rivas on IG: @diegojrivas_
Connect with New Dentists on the Block: @newdentistsontheblock
Connect with Tanya Sue Maestas: @tsmaestas.dds
Full video on Youtube

First Generation: From DACA to Dentist w/ Dr. Eddie Ramirez
New Dentists on the Block
10/19/23 • 35 min
Dr. Eddie Ramirez, a DACA recipient and dentist, shares his journey from being undocumented to becoming the first practicing DACA dentist in Oregon. He discusses the challenges he faced in dental school, the uncertainty of his legal status, and the importance of advocating for undocumented students. Eddie emphasizes the need for awareness and support for DACA recipients and encourages others to educate themselves and share the truth about the immigration system. He also highlights the significance of celebrating Latino culture and embracing diversity in America. Connect with Eddie on social media at dental_eddie and reach out to him for support and guidance. Follow Pre Health Dreamers on Instagram for resources and community for undocumented students pursuing healthcare professions.
**Key Takeaways:**
Eddie Ramirez was the first undocumented DACA student to be accepted into the dental program at Oregon Health and Science University.
He faced numerous challenges in applying to dental school, including being discouraged by his pre-dental advisor.
Eddie worked multiple jobs throughout dental school to support himself financially.
He is now an advocate for undocumented students and works to support them in pursuing their dreams of becoming healthcare professionals.
Eddie emphasizes the need for comprehensive immigration reform and a pathway to citizenship for undocumented individuals.
Connect with Eddie Ramirez on IG: @dental_eddie
Connect with New Dentists on the Block: @newdentistsontheblock
Connect with Tanya Sue Maestas: @tsmaestas.dds
Full video on Youtube

Navegando la odontología en los Estados Unidos con la Dra. María Valentina Martínez
New Dentists on the Block
10/16/23 • 22 min
Dra. Valentina Martínez, dentista y ortodoncista de Venezuela, comparte su viaje para obtener su licencia dental en los Estados Unidos. Después de conocer a un mentor que buscaba jubilarse y vender su práctica en Nuevo México, Valentina decidió mudarse a los EE. UU. y seguir su carrera dental allí. Enfrentó muchos desafíos e incertidumbres a lo largo del camino, pero estaba decidida a hacer realidad su sueño. Valentina escribió un libro sobre su experiencia y comenzó el curso INBDE para ayudar a otros dentistas de habla hispana a navegar el proceso de obtener su licencia dental en los EE. UU. Ella enfatiza la importancia de nunca renunciar a tus sueños y creer en ti mismo.
Valentina y yo somos miembros del hermoso grupo Simpaticas en El Paso, Texas.
Acerca de la invitada: Dr. María Valentina Martínez tiene un historial comprobado de logros y años de experiencia como ortodoncista practicante. Recibió su educación dental en la Universidad de Carabobo (Venezuela en 2006), y su título de especialidad en 2010, luego realizó su programa avanzado avanzado en la Universidad de Boston en 2020; Además, tiene un Doctorado en Ciencias Odontológicas (Caribbean International University). Es miembro de la Asociación Americana de Ortodoncia (AAO), la Federación Mundial de Ortodoncia (WFO), la Asociación Venezolana de Ortodoncia y la Asociación Latinoamericana de Ortodoncia (ALADO). Fue docente de la Universidad de Carabobo (Venezuela) por más de 9 años, Speaker Internacional de las Técnicas Clear Aligner durante 8 años. Ha dedicado su vida a la investigación del Tratamiento de Ortodoncia, publicando los resultados de su investigación en varias revistas y en la reunión anual de la AAO (Asociación Americana de Ortodoncia). Escribió un libro en español para ayudar a dentistas internacionales a lograr sus sueños de obtener una licencia dental en los Estados Unidos. El Dr. Martínez también es el creador y director ejecutivo de la empresa Become Dentist USA que imparte conferencias de preparación para las juntas dentales y solicitudes para los diferentes programas dentales en los EE. UU. Con más de 600 alumnos matriculados en la actualidad. Obtenga más información sobre cómo convertirse en dentista en los Estados Unidos: https://becomedentistusa.com/ Consulta el libro de la Dra. Valentina Martínez AQUÍ
Learn more about becoming a dentist in the United States: https://becomedentistusa.com/
Check out Dr. Valentina Martinez Book HERE
Connect with Valentina Martinez on IG: @dra.maria_valentinamartinez
Connect with New Dentists on the Block: @newdentistsontheblock
Connect with Tanya Sue Maestas: @tsmaestas.dds
Full video on Youtube

Navigating Dentistry in the United States w/ Dr. Maria Valentina Martinez
New Dentists on the Block
09/21/23 • 26 min
Dra. Valentina Martinez, a dentist and orthodontist from Venezuela, shares her journey of obtaining her dental license in the United States. After meeting a mentor who was looking to retire and sell his practice in New Mexico, Valentina decided to move to the U.S. and pursue her dental career there. She faced many challenges and uncertainties along the way but was determined to make her dream a reality. Valentina wrote a book about her experience and started the INBDE course to help other Spanish-speaking dentists navigate the process of obtaining their dental license in the U.S. She emphasizes the importance of never giving up on your dreams and believing in yourself.
Valentina and I are both members of the beautiful Simpaticas group in El Paso, Texas
About The Guest:Dr. Maria Valentina Martinez Morales has a proven record of accomplishment and years of experience as a practicing orthodontist. She received her dental education at Carabobo University (Venezuela on 2006), and her specialty degree in 2010, after that she did her advanced standing program in Boston University on 2020 ; In addition, she has a PhD in Dental Sciences (Caribbean International University). She is a member of the American Association of Orthodontics (AAO), the World Federation of Orthodontics (WFO), Venezuelan Orthodontics Association and the Latin American Orthodontics Association (ALADO). She was a Faculty member in Carabobo University (Venezuela) for more than 9 years, International Speaker of the Clear Aligner Techniques for 8 years. She has been dedicating her life to the Orthodontics Treatment research, publishing her research results in several magazines and the annual meeting of the AAO (American Association of Orthodontics). She wrote a book in spanish for helping international dentists to achieve their dreams of getting a dental license in the United States. Dr. Martinez is also the creator and CEO of the company Become dentist USA that teaches lectures in preparation for the dental boards and applications for the different dental programs in the US. With more than 600 students enrolled nowadays.
Key Takeaways:
- Valentina Martinez moved from Venezuela to the United States to pursue her dental career.
- She faced many challenges and uncertainties during the process of obtaining her dental license in the U.S.
- Valentina wrote a book and started the INBDE course to help other Spanish-speaking dentists navigate the process.
- She emphasizes the importance of never giving up on your dreams and believing in yourself.
Learn more about becoming a dentist in the United States: https://becomedentistusa.com/
Check out Dr. Valentina Martinez Book HERE
Connect with Valentina Martinez on IG: @dra.maria_valentinamartinez
Connect with New Dentists on the Block: @newdentistsontheblock
Connect with Tanya Sue Maestas: @tsmaestas.dds
Full video on Youtube

Dental Roots in Bloom w/ Dr. Abby Halpern
New Dentists on the Block
05/12/23 • 38 min
Dr. Abby Halpern and I had the opportunity to reconnect and talk about practicing dentistry and whether a residency should be completed. We also reflect on our time in ASDA and our leadership growth since then.
Dr. Abby Halpern is a general dentist that practices in Old Town Alexandria, right outside of Washington, DC. Born and raised in Marietta, GA by a periodontist and a dental assistant, dentistry didn’t always seem like the obvious choice for her that it so clearly is now. It was through her exposure to organized dentistry and advocacy that Dr. Abby found her passion for the profession and patients.
After graduating from UNC—Chapel Hill and with her growing interest in oral healthcare, she moved to the nation’s capital and earned her MS in Microbiology and Immunology at Georgetown University. While there, she had the opportunity to intern at the American Dental Association’s DC office. She soon fell in love with the area and developed a passion for organized dentistry and advocacy. Dr. Abby returned to her home state of Georgia, where she earned her DMD at the Dental College of Georgia.
While in dental school, she balanced her studies with involvement in the American Student Dental Association. She served as Speaker of the House and Chair of the Council on Advocacy. After dental school, she completed a GPR at the Washington DC VA Medical Center. She now serves as the Speaker of the House of the Virginia Dental Association and as an Alternate Delegate to the ADA. When they aren’t enjoying “Football Sundays” on their couch with their cat Mookie, she and her husband, Andy, continue to occupy themselves exploring all that the city has to offer in food, fun, and adventure.
Connect with Abby Halpern: @drdrabby
Connect with New Dentists on the Block: @newdentistsontheblock
Connect with Tanya Sue Maestas: @tsmaestas.dds
Full video on Youtube
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FAQ
How many episodes does New Dentists on the Block have?
New Dentists on the Block currently has 25 episodes available.
What topics does New Dentists on the Block cover?
The podcast is about Dentistry, Entrepreneurship, Growth, Podcasts, Self-Improvement, Education, Dental and Business.
What is the most popular episode on New Dentists on the Block?
The episode title 'Navigating Public Health Dentistry w/ Dr. Alayna Schoblaske' is the most popular.
What is the average episode length on New Dentists on the Block?
The average episode length on New Dentists on the Block is 28 minutes.
How often are episodes of New Dentists on the Block released?
Episodes of New Dentists on the Block are typically released every 8 days, 21 hours.
When was the first episode of New Dentists on the Block?
The first episode of New Dentists on the Block was released on Jan 12, 2023.
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