- "I Thought I Wanted to Be a Celebrity Dentist… Then Oral Surgery Happened!"

- This #1 Most Important Part Of Dental School Is Overlooked

- “It’s WHO You Know, Not WHAT You Know”

Questions:

(01:09) Looking back on your time at dental school, what are some things that have changed in the way you practice, and what are some things that have stayed the same?

(06:29) What advice would you give to current dental students, both inside the school environment and outside?

(08:27) What made you decide to specialize versus continue on the general route?

(13:01) Reflecting back on the course of your career, is there anything that you look back on and wish you did differently?

(16:50) Why do you think this event is important?

(18:17) How does it feel to be back at this event?

Quotes & Wisdom:

On Networking and Career Development

“The students, the fact that you actually care enough and realize that events like this are going to put you in a position to hear and know things that maybe others won’t is really kind of a special thing.” (01:29)

“The more people you meet, the more opportunities are presented to you—not in a way where you’re trying to get something out of them, but because you never know where life will take you.” (07:35)

“Networking isn’t just about making connections, it’s about lifting others up—reaching back to help those who are coming up the ladder.” (17:16)

On Overcoming Challenges in Dentistry

“Dentistry and residency are tough, but remembering why we started—taking care of patients—is what keeps us grounded.” (05:37)

“In the clinic, let’s try and slow it down. Give every patient their time, give them the attention they need.” (06:07)

“The stress and pressure are real, but keeping personal outlets—exercise, family, music—will keep you sane.” (08:14)

On Specializing in Oral Surgery

“Oral and maxillofacial surgery is the best specialty in all of healthcare. There is nothing like the ability to change a life in a single moment.” (10:57)

“Looking back, becoming an oral surgeon was the best professional decision I ever made. Every day, I get to help people overcome fear and pain.” (11:47)

“You’ll always have challenges, but finding a purpose and loving what you do makes it all worthwhile.” (12:53)

On Taking Risks and Learning from Regrets

“I don’t regret anything, but I do look back on missed opportunities—times when I should have taken a risk, had more faith in myself.” (13:47)

“If you believe in yourself, if you’ve prepared, then take the leap. In the long run, things tend to work out.” (14:14)

Now available on:

- Dr. Gallagher’s Podcast & YouTube Channel

- Dose of Dental Podcast #123

My watch in this episode = Tag Heuer Aquaracer Caliber 16 Chrono

Dr. Auerbach’s Watch = Patek Philippe Nautilus 5990

2.23.2025

#podcast #dentalpodcast #doctorgallagherpodcast #doctorgallagherspodcast #doctor #dentist #dentistry #oralsurgery #dental #dentalschool #dentalstudent #doctorlife #dentistlife #oralsurgeon #doctorgallagher