Daily Inspiration: Meet Sharon Dickerson

Today we’d like to introduce you to Sharon Dickerson.

Hi Sharon, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I grew up in Battle Creek, Michigan, with a keen interest in dentistry inspired by my father, a skilled general dentist. Working in his office during high school and college, I was captivated by the artistic aspects of prosthetics and restorative dentistry and the close relationships my father built with his patients. Despite the challenges of few female role models in the field, I pursued dentistry, encouraged by my father’s belief in my abilities.

After dental school, I joined my father’s practice and gradually took over as the sole owner. However, the increasing costs and changing nature of dentistry created financial strains. To manage these challenges, I sought extensive continuing education and was fortunate to have great mentors and collaborators who guided me through these difficult times. Balancing the demands of the practice while navigating staff turnover and financial instability was overwhelming, underscoring the need for better management and strategic planning.

Determined to regain control of my practice in Michigan, I implemented strategic changes that stabilized the business. However, seeking to serve a wider population and fully realize my vision, I moved to Denver, Colorado, where I joined an integrative dental practice. Eventually, I opened my own space in 2019 to fully implement my holistic and biological dentistry approach. My supportive family played a crucial role in this transition, and I was blessed that likeminded patients continued seeking my care. This journey, marked by continuous learning, mentorship, and strong support systems, has been immensely rewarding, enabling me to align my professional work with my passion for enhancing patients’ health and quality of life.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The road hasn’t always been smooth, and I’ve faced my share of challenges along the way. Early on, I dealt with financial difficulties and staff turnover that made managing the practice stressful. Balancing the demands of a growing practice with family responsibilities added to the complexity, and there were times when it felt overwhelming. Rising costs and the absence of strategic planning often led to cash flow issues.

One notable challenge occurred about ten years into running the practice, when overhead costs started to consume doctor compensation and profit. This financial strain prompted me to seek help from mentors and eventually find guidance at a crucial seminar. Implementing new management systems required significant effort and adaptation, including regular staff meetings and the departure of a valued staff member who couldn’t align with the new vision.

Despite these hurdles, I continued to pursue advanced training and mentorship to enhance my skills and practice management. This journey also included a major personal transition when I moved to Denver, Colorado, to serve a wider population and further my vision of holistic and biological dentistry. Building a new practice in 2019 involved overcoming financing challenges and establishing myself in a competitive market. These experiences have been instrumental in my growth and the success of my practice.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
As a holistic and biological dentist, I prioritize comprehensive care that considers the overall health of my patients, extending beyond just their teeth and gums. Specializing in bite rejuvenation and TMJ treatment, I aim to address the interconnectedness of dental health with overall well-being. Additionally, I offer holistic cosmetic procedures like Bioclear, always striving to prioritize both aesthetics and patient health.

What truly distinguishes my approach is my commitment to treating the whole individual – body, mind, and spirit. I take the time to understand each patient’s unique needs and concerns, fostering a compassionate and supportive environment throughout their dental journey. Witnessing the transformative impact of my care on my patients’ lives fills me with immense gratitude, knowing that I contribute not only to their smiles but to their overall health and happiness.

Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
Certainly! Finding a mentor or expanding your professional network can be incredibly beneficial. My advice would be to start by identifying individuals whose work you admire or who are in positions you aspire to. Then, reach out to them with a personalized message expressing your admiration for their work and your interest in learning from their experience.

Networking events, industry conferences, and online platforms like LinkedIn can also be valuable resources for connecting with potential mentors or peers in your field. Attend relevant events and actively engage in conversations to build relationships organically.

For me, what has worked well is approaching networking with a genuine interest in learning from others and building meaningful connections. I’ve found that being open to sharing my own experiences and offering support where I can has helped me establish mutually beneficial relationships with mentors and peers alike. Remember, networking is not just about what you can gain, but also about how you can contribute and add value to others’ professional journeys.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://sharondickersondds.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.sharondickerson/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DickersonDDS/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/dr-sharon-dickerson
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVQz0jjYko4FmEwmmuqkdSQ
• Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@dr.sharondickerson?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc

Image Credits
Stena Chang Ryland Lovvorn