Sep
Ambitious Dentist Spotlight
Ambitious Dentist: Dr. Angela P. Abernathy
Where are you from?
Tuscumbia, AL
Where you currently practicing?
New York, NY (Midtown East)
What are your future goals?
To be a top cosmetic dentist in NYC and attain fellowship in the AACD. I’d also like to host a city-wide event (or series of events) to help address any access to dental care problems in NYC.
What makes you ambitious and sets you apart from being average?
What sets me apart is that I am willing to take risks and think outside the box. I also don’t always take no for an answer. To be average is to be at the top of the bottom. That’s not where I want to be. There are people that are surprised that I own a practice, that I started a practice so soon after finishing residency and that I own a practice in Midtown Manhattan. It takes a lot of faith and guts to do that and I went for it. I take pride in my practice of dentistry and I really enjoy taking CE and learning new things.
What is your favorite quote or motto?
Proverbs 4:5-6
Any advice or biggest thing you learn about being in real-world dentistry?
DENTISTRY IN GENERAL: Don’t EVER let anybody bully or force you into doing something unethical or that you don’t feel comfortable doing, especially for the sake of a dollar. Your (very expensive) education, license, and (most important) reputation are on the line. Do what is right-no question!!
PRACTICE OWNERSHIP: Your employees will be your biggest asset and your biggest headache! Make sure you take your time to find the right fit (hire slowly, fire quickly). Don’t be afraid to discipline/correct bad behavior.
What do you do to ensure a positive work-life balance?
I try my best to make time for myself. As a practice owner, it’s hard (if not impossible) to not think about the practice ALL the time. I try to get plenty of rest, hang out with friends and I currently volunteer with a youth mentoring program. I plan on traveling more when I have the time.