Leadership in Dentistry: 20 Key Thought Leaders in the Dental Industry
Companies need guidance to navigate the complexities of the dental industry.
Thought leaders in the dental industry offer invaluable insights into emerging trends, innovative technologies, and effective management strategies.
These key opinion leaders serve as beacons, illuminating the path to success in a competitive environment.
By learning from their experiences, dental companies can avoid common pitfalls and harness opportunities for growth.
You're on the right page to solve that problem because we'll help you identify these key thought leaders.
Who are Dental Thought Leaders?
Dental thought leaders are experts who stand at the forefront of dentistry, shaping its future with their innovative ideas and research.
Following them gives you access to cutting-edge techniques, breakthrough technologies, and advanced patient care strategies that can significantly enhance your practice.
These industry leaders not only predict trends but also create the future of dentistry, offering you a competitive edge in a rapidly evolving field.
Embracing their insights allows you to deliver superior dental care, optimize your practice management, and stay ahead in your profession.
Top 20 Dental Thought Leaders in 2024
1. Stanley Bergman
Business website: Henry Schein
Social media profiles: LinkedIn
Follow for: Leadership in healthcare product distribution, global dental industry insights, and corporate responsibility.
Stanley M. Bergman has led Henry Schein, Inc., the world’s largest distributor of healthcare products and services to office-based dental and medical practitioners, since 1989.
Under his stewardship as Chairman of the Board and CEO, the company has grown into a Fortune 500® entity, with a workforce of approximately 24,000 Team Schein Members globally and operations in 33 countries.
Henry Schein’s sales soared to $12.6 billion in 2022, cementing its place on the S&P 500® index. Bergman’s roles extend beyond corporate leadership, serving on boards and advisory roles for prestigious educational and healthcare institutions worldwide.
His accolades include numerous honorary degrees, the Ellis Island Medal of Honor, and recognition as the 2017 CEO of the Year by Chief Executive Magazine.
What you can learn from Stanley Bergman:
By following Stanley Bergman, you can gain insights into the effective leadership and management of dentistry today.
Bergman’s experience offers valuable lessons in navigating global markets, fostering corporate responsibility, and building a successful, ethically-driven business.
His commitment to dental and medical education, as well as his hands-on approach to corporate social responsibility, demonstrates the importance of contributing back to the community and industry you serve.
2. Howard Farran
Business website: Farran Media
Social media profiles: LinkedIn, Twitter
Follow for: Innovative dental community building, marketing insights, and dental industry trends.
Howard Farran is a renowned dentist and the visionary founder of Dentaltown, a pivotal online community that connects dental professionals worldwide.
With over two decades in the publishing and marketing sectors, Farran has leveraged his extensive experience to foster interactive platforms where dentists, manufacturers, and service providers can exchange knowledge and resources.
Since launching Dentaltown.com in 1999, he has expanded his influence by founding Hygienetown.com and Orthotown.com, alongside their respective partner publications, reaching over 250,000 and 120,000 dental professionals.
Farran's podcast, Dentistry Uncensored, has further cemented his status as a leading voice in dentistry, amassing more than 6 million downloads across 1,300 episodes.
What you can learn from Howard Farran:
Following Howard Farran offers a masterclass in building and nurturing professional communities within the dental field.
His insights into effective marketing strategies can help you grow your audience and attract new patients or customers.
Through his comprehensive approach to content creation, from Dentaltown to his widely acclaimed podcast, you’ll learn how to engage with the latest trends, technologies, and practices in dentistry, enhancing your professional growth and the success of your dental program.
3. Jon Fidler
Business website: Fidler and Associates
Social media profiles: LinkedIn
Follow for: Leadership and growth strategies in dental healthcare, talent development, and effective networking.
Jon Fidler boasts an impressive professional background as a dentist expert, spanning 18 years across diverse fields, including Dental Healthcare and Major League Baseball.
Notably contributing to the Arizona Diamondbacks' Scouting and Player Development department during their 2001 World Series win, Fidler has also made significant strides in the dental industry during his decade with Patterson Dental.
Here, he has been instrumental in identifying, hiring, training, and developing numerous high-performing employees. As a General Manager, he spearheaded business growth by over 64% in a five-year term, winning multiple "Branch of the Year" awards and consistently surpassing corporate goals.
His leadership extended to P&L management, team building, culture development, and executing successful branch turnarounds, all while enhancing local marketing, events, networking, and client relations.
What you can learn from Jon Fidler:
By following Jon Fidler, you gain insight into the intricacies of leadership and business growth within the dental industry.
His approach to talent development and achievement of outstanding team performance can serve as a blueprint for building and nurturing a successful dental practice or business.
Fidler’s strategies for local marketing, networking, and client engagement offer valuable lessons on creating and sustaining growth.
Additionally, his experience in executing branch turnarounds and driving significant business expansion provides a powerful model for overcoming challenges and achieving business objectives in the dental sector.
4. Linda Ryan
Business website: n/a
Social media profiles: LinkedIn
Follow for: Expertise in dental recruitment, community building, and oral health advocacy.
Linda Ryan is a distinguished professional in the dental industry, recognized for her decades-long track record of success in leading teams and recruiting top talent for various dental support organizations within the Denver Metropolitan Area.
Her passion for fostering a people-centric culture has consistently exceeded company goals for growth and retention.
Ryan excels in recruiting dentists, specialists, and support staff, demonstrating a unique ability to identify and nurture exceptional talent.
Her outstanding interpersonal and networking skills enable her to forge strong relationships with stakeholders, dental associations, educational institutions, ASDA leaders, and industry influencers, making her a central figure in the dental community.
What you can learn from Linda Ryan:
Following Linda Ryan, you'll gain invaluable insights into the art of building and nurturing a professional dental community. Her expertise in recruiting and retaining top talent in the dental field offers guidance on how to assemble a high-performing team.
Ryan’s approach to networking and relationship building provides strategies for engaging with key stakeholders and influencers, enhancing your practice’s reputation and reach.
Additionally, her commitment to oral health advocacy and community involvement serves as inspiration for how to contribute positively to the broader dental industry.
5. Roshan Parikh
Business website: DSO Strategy, LLC
Social media profiles: LinkedIn
Follow for: Insights on multi-site healthcare management, patient experience optimization, and bridging clinical practice with private equity.
Roshan Parikh's journey in healthcare showcases an impressive blend of clinical expertise and business acumen, developed over 16+ years of experience in multi-site healthcare operations.
Growing up in a middle-class, immigrant family, Parikh's foundational values include hard work and the drive to continuously learn and improve.
He founded a 100+ clinician, private-equity-backed multi-site dental support organization, where he dedicated a decade to fostering growth, enhancing operational efficiencies, and prioritizing patient care and clinical quality.
Parikh's ability to communicate private-equity key performance indicators (KPIs) effectively to clinicians sets him apart, making complex financial concepts accessible and highlighting their relevance to clinical and enterprise value.
What you can learn from Roshan Parikh:
By following Roshan Parikh, you'll gain a deep understanding of managing and scaling healthcare organizations while focusing on patient experience and clinical excellence.
His experience with Walmart Health illustrates the process of building healthcare platforms from scratch, offering insights into strategy, development, and implementation at an unparalleled scale.
Parikh's advisory role across healthcare and investment showcases his ability to impart valuable lessons, navigate challenges, and drive innovation.
His unique perspective can help healthcare professionals and organizations navigate the complexities of growth, efficiency, and value creation in today's information-saturated environment.
6. Jeromy R. Dixson
Business website: drdixson.com
Social media profiles: LinkedIn
Follow for: Expertise in DSO growth and strategy, entrepreneurial leadership in dentistry, and global dental industry insights.
Dr. Jeromy R. Dixson is a distinguished figure in the dental support organization (DSO) sector, celebrated for his entrepreneurial spirit and innovative leadership.
As a three-time INC Magazine 500/5000 awarded entrepreneur, he has founded and led several key initiatives and companies, including Dental Capital Partners, DSO Tech Solutions, SmartDiligence, and The DSO Project.
Dr. Dixson stands out as a visionary leader known for fostering unified teams and cultures and building world-class organizations in the dental industry.
Beyond his entrepreneurial ventures, he offers invaluable guidance and consulting to private equity firms and investors in the DSO space, contributing to the development of DSOs valued at over $150 million.
He enriches his global perspective through his journey of circumnavigating the earth, visiting six continents and thirty-five countries with his family on a sabbatical.
What you can learn from Jeromy R. Dixson:
Engaging with Dr. Jeromy R. Dixson's work offers a wealth of knowledge on scaling and innovating within the dental industry.
His experience in creating and advising successful DSOs provides actionable strategies for dental professionals looking to expand their practices or delve into the DSO model.
Dixson's approach to leadership and organizational development can inspire dental professionals to cultivate a culture of excellence and innovation in their practices.
Additionally, his unique global insights and experiences emphasize the importance of a broad perspective in understanding and addressing the diverse needs of the dental market.
Following Dr. Dixson, you can gain inspiration and practical advice for navigating the complexities of the dental industry, fostering growth, and achieving sustainable success.
7. Alex Giannini
Business website: Aligned Dental Partners, LLC
Social media profiles: LinkedIn
Follow for: Expertise in dental practice growth, management strategies, and real estate development within the dental industry.
Dr. Alex Giannini has a distinguished career spanning over 34 years, blending clinical dentistry with administrative and management excellence across multiple dental groups and Dental Support Organizations (DSOs).
Starting with the establishment of Comfortable Care Dental Group in 1989 and contributing to Heartland Dental's expansion, he later founded Dynamic Dental Partners Group (DDPG) in 2008, leading it to achieve remarkable growth and recognition on the Inc. 5000 list as one of America's fastest-growing private companies in 2014.
Dr. Giannini's success lies in his ability to rapidly enhance dental practice revenue and profitability, alongside achieving national prominence.
His comprehensive experience includes high-end fee-for-service dentistry, practice management in multiple states, and engagement with various investment sectors.
As a respected speaker at Practice Management conferences nationwide, Dr. Giannini shares his wealth of knowledge on turning around dental practices, including distressed groups, through strategic planning, quality care delivery, and effective business development.
What you can learn from Alex Giannini:
Following Dr. Alex Giannini, you can delve into the nuances of scaling dental practices and DSOs, from operational efficiency to financial management.
His strategies for doubling and quadrupling practice revenue within a year provide actionable insights for dental professionals seeking to expand their operations.
Dr. Giannini's approach to real estate management and development within the dental sector offers a unique perspective on leveraging physical assets for business growth.
Additionally, his experience in doctor recruitment, marketing, and strategic planning equips followers with the tools needed for comprehensive business development and achieving long-term profitability in the dental industry.
8. Heidi Arndt
Business website: Evolving Group Dentistry
Social media profiles: LinkedIn
Follow for: Strategies in clinical and operational excellence for dental groups, and insights into dental business and technology innovations.
Heidi Arndt, the founder and CEO of Evolve Dental Advisors, brings ove
r two decades of expertise in fostering high-performing teams and organizations within the dental industry.
Her focus on improving performance through clinical and operational excellence has assisted numerous emerging and mid-market dental groups in achieving organic growth and profitability.
Beyond her advisory role, Arndt has established Evolving Group Dentistry (EGD), an exclusive event that serves as a nexus for business and dentistry, offering attendees a wealth of knowledge on management practices and technological advancements.
This initiative underscores her commitment to empowering dental executives, fostering a community of collaboration, and enhancing patient care through financial success.
What you can learn from Heidi Arndt:
Following Heidi Arndt offers a treasure trove of knowledge on elevating dental practice management and operational effectiveness.
Her guidance can help dental professionals implement systems and processes that drive growth, efficiency, and superior patient service.
Through Evolving Group Dentistry, Arndt provides a platform for learning about the latest in dental technology and business strategies, facilitating a space for dental leaders to connect and share best practices.
Her mission to empower dental executives and create a collaborative community offers invaluable resources for anyone looking to excel in the dental industry.
9. Amir Aghdaei
Business website: Envista Holdings Corporation
Social media profiles: LinkedIn
Follow for: Global business leadership in the dental industry and continuous improvement methodologies.
Amir Aghdaei serves as the President & CEO of Envista Holdings Corporation, bringing a wealth of global executive experience from living and working in multiple countries across various industries.
His distinguished career is highlighted by his strong track record in both growing and transforming businesses, making him a pivotal figure in the dental sector.
Aghdaei is a genuine ambassador of the Danaher Business System, demonstrating the profound impact of continuous improvement methodologies on all business aspects.
Under his leadership, Envista champions dental professionals by offering innovative products and services designed to meet a vast majority of clinical needs, thereby supporting the creation of healthy, beautiful smiles and fostering patient confidence.
What you can learn from Amir Aghdaei:
By following Amir Aghdaei, you gain insights into the application of continuous improvement methodologies within the dental industry, enhancing operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.
Aghdaei's approach to leadership and his commitment to supporting dental professionals through a comprehensive product portfolio showcase how innovative solutions can address clinical needs and aesthetic desires.
His global perspective on business transformation and growth offers valuable lessons on navigating the complexities of the dental market, ensuring that dental professionals have a champion who understands their needs and aspirations.
Aghdaei's dedication to empowering dental practitioners underscores the importance of partnership in achieving excellence in patient care.
10. Kurt Harvey
Business website: Caber Hill Advisors
Social media profiles: LinkedIn
Follow for: Expertise in strategic growth, sell-side advisory, and board advisory for multi-site retail healthcare groups.
Kurt Harvey brings a profound depth of knowledge and experience to the table, with a strategic vision and top-tier relationships that make him a sought-after advisor in the retail healthcare sector, especially within multi-site groups.
As a Managing Director at Caber Hill Advisors since 2019, Harvey specializes in M&A activities in the dental industry, offering strategic growth and sell-side advisory.
Additionally, through H4V Enterprises, he provides independent board advisory and co-investments, aligning closely with founders, CEOs, and institutional capital for mutual success.
Harvey's remarkable track record includes leading over 500% revenue growth at Great Expressions Dental Centers by integrating over 220 practices.
His background is further enriched by over a decade of experience with Big 4 CPA firms, notably as a director of transaction services at KPMG, where he advised on M&A across diverse sectors and regions.
What you can learn from Kurt Harvey:
Following Kurt Harvey, you can absorb invaluable insights into achieving strategic growth, navigating the complexities of sell-side transactions, and understanding the nuances of board advisory within the healthcare industry.
His approach to pre-sale advisory positions founders to maximize equity value, while his guidance for first institutional capital events and subsequent recapitalizations offers a roadmap for sustained success.
Harvey's experience underscores the importance of strategic acquisitions and integrations in driving growth, demonstrating how meticulous planning and execution can transform multi-site healthcare groups.
His leadership roles and accolades, including speaking engagements and board memberships, reflect a commitment to advancing the industry and supporting peers through knowledge-sharing and strategic counsel.
11. Natalia Chalmers
Business website: Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services
Social media profiles: LinkedIn
Follow for: Leadership in oral health policy, innovation in dental care, and expertise in clinical research.
Natalia Chalmers serves as the Chief Dental Officer at the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), where she spearheads the development and implementation of oral health policies and innovations impacting over 160 million Americans.
With an extensive background in dentistry, public health, and clinical research, Chalmers brings a rich and diverse skill set to the CMS team. Her academic credentials include a DDS from the Medical University of Sofia, a PhD in Oral Microbiology and Immunology from the University of Maryland, and a Master of Health Sciences in Clinical Research from Duke University, complemented by a certificate in Drug Development and Regulatory Sciences from UCSF.
Her research, widely published in peer-reviewed journals, addresses critical issues like opioid prescribing, emergency department usage, and preventive dental services for Medicaid populations.
Driven by a passion for enhancing access, quality, and outcomes in oral health care, especially for underserved and vulnerable communities, Chalmers advocates strongly for evidence-based practice and data-driven policymaking in the dental sector.
What you can learn from Natalia Chalmers:
Following Natalia Chalmers provides a unique opportunity to understand the intersection of dental care policy, clinical research, and public health.
Her work at CMS is at the forefront of shaping national oral health policy, offering insights into the latest innovations and best practices in dental care.
Chalmers’ research and publications serve as a valuable resource for understanding critical issues within the dental community, such as opioid management, the role of dental care in preventing emergency department visits, and improving Medicaid dental services.
Her commitment to evidence-based practice and stakeholder engagement exemplifies how data-driven decisions can lead to meaningful improvements in oral health outcomes, particularly for vulnerable populations.
12. Brian A. Colao
Business website: Dykema
Social media profiles: LinkedIn
Follow for: Expertise in complex commercial litigation and advisory on regulatory issues in the dental and healthcare industries.
Brian A. Colao is a distinguished attorney with a nationwide practice encompassing all aspects of complex commercial litigation.
His expertise covers various legal disputes, including contractual and franchise disputes, corporate governance, intellectual property infringement, and more.
As the Director of Dykema’s Dental Service Organizations Industry Group, Colao provides invaluable advice to clients in the healthcare sector on a myriad of regulatory issues, from fraud and abuse to HIPAA and the corporate practice of medicine and dentistry.
His extensive experience as lead trial counsel across numerous federal districts and states, as well as his role in domestic and international arbitration proceedings, underscores his proficiency and versatility in navigating legal complexities.
What you can learn from Brian A. Colao:
By following Brian A. Colao, you will gain deep insights into the intricacies of navigating legal challenges within the healthcare and dental industries.
His guidance on regulatory compliance, including the corporate practice of medicine and dentistry, fraud and abuse, and HIPAA, is particularly invaluable for healthcare professionals and organizations aiming to mitigate legal risks.
Colao’s extensive litigation experience provides a wealth of knowledge on effectively handling disputes and protecting intellectual property, ensuring that practitioners and businesses can focus on delivering quality care while maintaining compliance with state and federal regulations.
13. Gary Pickard
Business website: Pacific Dental Services
Social media profiles: LinkedIn
Follow for: Leadership in dental support organization growth, insurance contract management, and strategic industry relationships.
Gary Pickard has significantly contributed to the growth and prestige of Pacific Dental Services (PDS), one of the leading Dental Support Organizations (DSOs) globally, over the past two decades.
With a robust background in organizational leadership and a versatile career spanning the United States Navy as a Corpsman, banking, insurance, and the dental field, Pickard has played a pivotal role in expanding PDS.
His expertise encompasses marketing, contracts, insurance, customer service, business development, legislative affairs, and industry relations.
Under his guidance, PDS has transformed from a small regional entity into a powerhouse supporting thousands of dentists across 26 states in over 900 locations.
Pickard is renowned for his ability to tackle challenging situations, foster cooperation across diverse spheres, and drive business growth while prioritizing the success of others.
What you can learn from Gary Pickard:
Following Gary Pickard, you'll discover strategic insights into scaling a dental support organization, from negotiating industry-leading insurance contracts to building influential relationships within the dental community.
His approach to navigating complex business and political challenges offers lessons in diplomacy and strategic partnership, essential for professionals looking to excel in the dental industry or any business sector.
Pickard's commitment to helping others succeed by leveraging his extensive experience and skills provides a model for leadership that is both inclusive and effective, emphasizing the importance of mentorship and collaboration in achieving collective and individual success.
14. Mary Pham
Business website: Lollipop Pediatric Dentistry
Social media profiles: LinkedIn
Follow for: Expertise in pediatric dentistry, patient education, and creating enjoyable dental experiences for children.
Dr. Mary Regina Pham is the visionary Founder and CEO of Lollipop Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, located in Costa Mesa, California.
Born and raised in Mobile, Alabama, and an alumna of Auburn University and the University of Southern California (USC) Dental School, Dr. Pham discovered her passion for pediatric dentistry early on.
During her time at USC, she not only led the Pediatric Dental Selective but also initiated the first pediatric dental volunteer trip to Vietnam, a tradition that continues today. Following her dental school, Dr. Pham pursued specialty training in pediatric dentistry in Chicago, Illinois.
Her distinction as a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry showcases her exceptional knowledge and skill in the field.
Recognized as one of the Top 40 Under 40 Dentists in America by Incisal Edge Magazine, Dr. Pham is committed to providing a warm, inviting, and educational environment for children and their families at her practice.
What you can learn from Mary Pham:
By following Dr. Mary Pham, you gain access to a wealth of knowledge on pediatric dental care and the importance of early oral health education.
Her approach to dentistry, focusing on creating fun and stress-free visits for young patients, offers invaluable insights into managing pediatric dental patients, including those with dental anxieties or special needs.
Dr. Pham's expertise extends to educating parents and expectant mothers on maintaining oral health from infancy to adulthood, emphasizing preventive care and the development of positive dental habits.
Her passion and innovative methods in pediatric dentistry can inspire dental professionals to enhance their practice and approach to pediatric dental care.
15. Abe Abdul
Business website: Massachusetts Dental Society
Social media profiles: LinkedIn
Follow for: Visionary leadership in making healthcare accessible, oral rehabilitation expertise, and innovative healthcare solutions.
Dr. Abe Abdulwaheed, the founder and CEO of Lux Dental Inc., embodies a profound vision of making healthcare and curative solutions universally accessible.
Since establishing Lux Dental in 2006, which now serves over fifteen thousand patients annually across Quincy, Cambridge, and Saugus, Massachusetts, he has been at the forefront of oral rehabilitation. Dr. Abdulwaheed’s commitment to care extends beyond the practice itself, actively engaging in initiatives to overcome healthcare barriers.
He founded the Cure All Foundation in 2012 and Vita League Inc. in 2011, both aimed at enhancing the connectivity between patients, researchers, and healthcare resources.
His credentials include being a Diplomate of the American Board of General Dentistry and holding esteemed positions in various dental societies.
Dr. Abdulwaheed’s educational background is equally impressive, with degrees in Chemical Engineering-Biology, Dental Medicine from Tufts, and an MBA focused on healthcare management from the University of Massachusetts Boston. He is also a respected educator, having lectured internationally, including at Harvard.
What you can learn from Abe Abdul:
Dr. Abe Abdulwaheed offers invaluable insights into addressing and overcoming the challenges within the healthcare system, particularly in dental care.
Following him provides inspiration and guidance on developing innovative platforms that bridge gaps in patient care and research collaboration.
His approach to leadership in dental practices emphasizes the importance of accessibility and quality care for marginalized communities, despite financial constraints.
For healthcare professionals and administrators, Dr. Abdulwaheed’s journey illustrates how advanced education and cross-sector involvement can enhance the impact of healthcare services.
His dedication to lifelong learning and community service serves as a model for making meaningful changes in the healthcare industry.
16. Andrew Smith
Business website: The Association of Dental Support Organizations (ADSO)
Social media profiles: LinkedIn
Follow for: Leadership in dental support organizations, insights into healthcare integration, and expertise in health, banking, and cannabis sectors.
Andrew Smith is the CEO of The Association of Dental Support Organizations (ADSO), a pivotal non-profit organization representing over 50 DSO member companies, along with several association partners and more than 180 industry partners.
Based in the New York City Metropolitan Area, Smith leads ADSO's efforts to advocate for Dental Support Organizations before the public, policymakers, and the media.
Under his leadership, ADSO champions the cause of enabling dentists to focus more on patient care and expand access to dental services across 44 states and internationally, including Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom.
Smith's role involves steering the conversation on the integration of health, banking, and cannabis into the healthcare sector, emphasizing the significance of DSOs in providing non-clinical support to over 10,000 dentists worldwide.
What you can learn from Andrew Smith:
Following Andrew Smith provides a comprehensive understanding of the evolution of dental support organizations and their critical role in enhancing dental care accessibility and efficiency.
His insights into the intersection of health, banking, and cannabis with the healthcare industry offer a unique perspective on navigating regulatory, ethical, and business challenges in these sectors.
By advocating for the benefits of DSO-supported dentistry, such as reduced startup costs and increased clinical care focus, Smith sheds light on future trends and opportunities for dental professionals and entrepreneurs.
His leadership exemplifies how strategic oversight and advocacy can elevate the standards of dental care while fostering professional growth and innovation within the industry.
17. Maryam Beyramian
Business website: Westwind Integrated Health
Social media profiles: LinkedIn
Follow for: Innovations in integrative dental and primary care, collaborative healthcare practices, and leadership in multi-specialty health services.
Dr. Maryam Beyramian, a University of Michigan alumna, embarked on her journey in the healthcare industry by founding Westwind Dental Group in 2002.
Under her visionary leadership, the group evolved into Westwind Integrated Health in 2017, marking a significant shift towards offering integrated oral and systemic health services.
Today, Westwind Integrated Health operates 14 practices with over 30 providers across the Phoenix metro area, embodying a service-oriented ethos that prioritizes comprehensive care for patients of all ages.
Dr. Beyramian's innovative approach fosters a collaborative environment among multi-specialty providers, ensuring seamless continuity of care between oral and systemic health. Her commitment to educating and developing her team emphasizes the importance of a unified vision in delivering exceptional healthcare.
What you can learn from Maryam Beyramian:
Dr. Maryam Beyramian, a University of Michigan alumna, embarked on her journey in the healthcare industry by founding Westwind Dental Group in 2002.
Under her visionary leadership, the group evolved into Westwind Integrated Health in 2017, marking a significant shift towards offering integrated oral and systemic health services.
Today, Westwind Integrated Health operates 14 practices with over 30 providers across the Phoenix metro area, embodying a service-oriented ethos that prioritizes comprehensive care for patients of all ages.
Dr. Beyramian's innovative approach fosters a collaborative environment among multi-specialty providers, ensuring seamless continuity of care between oral and systemic health.
Her commitment to educating and developing her team emphasizes the importance of a unified vision in delivering exceptional healthcare.
18. Victoria Yu
Business website: Walmart Health
Social media profiles: LinkedIn
Follow for: Leadership in corporate dental care, expertise in managing high-growth businesses, and clinician development.
Dr. Victoria Yu holds the influential position of Chief Dental Officer at Walmart Health, where she oversees the entirety of the company's dental operations.
Based in Annapolis, Maryland, Dr. Yu's role encompasses the integration of dental services into Walmart Health's broader healthcare offerings, demonstrating a commitment to accessible and comprehensive care.
With an extensive background in both clinical practice and healthcare management, she has been instrumental in guiding the dental business through periods of significant growth while also focusing on the development and mentoring of clinicians and healthcare leaders.
Her leadership is characterized by a strategic approach to healthcare delivery, emphasizing the importance of quality care and operational excellence.
What you can learn from Victoria Yu:
Following Dr. Victoria Yu offers insights into the complexities of managing dental services within a large retail healthcare framework, highlighting the challenges and opportunities of providing accessible care on a massive scale.
Her experience with high-growth businesses is invaluable for dental professionals looking to expand their practices or navigate the corporate healthcare environment.
Additionally, Dr. Yu's commitment to clinician and leader development provides a model for fostering professional growth and ensuring high standards of care.
Through her work, she exemplifies how dental health can be integrated into a holistic healthcare model, promoting the importance of oral health as a component of overall wellness.
19. Adam Barefoot
Business website: Health Resources and Services Administration
Social media profiles: LinkedIn
Follow for: Expertise in oral health leadership, collaborative initiatives, and innovative health outcome improvement.
Adam Barefoot stands out as an experienced leader in the field of oral health, with a rich background in non-profit organizations, as well as state and federal government roles.
Throughout his career, he has demonstrated the ability to forge strong partnerships across federal, state, and local levels, engaging both private and public sector stakeholders.
Barefoot's skill set is broad, encompassing dentistry, population-based oral health strategies, surveillance, grant writing, and healthcare management.
Notably, he excels in leading multidisciplinary teams toward the goal of enhancing health outcomes for targeted populations through innovative approaches. His work demonstrates a commitment to leveraging collaboration and advanced methodologies to tackle challenges in oral health.
What you can learn from Adam Barefoot:
Following Adam Barefoot offers valuable lessons in building effective collaborations across various sectors to address oral health challenges.
His proficiency in grant writing and healthcare management is particularly beneficial for professionals seeking to secure funding and efficiently manage oral health programs.
Barefoot's innovative strategies for improving health outcomes illustrate the importance of adopting a multidisciplinary approach, integrating dental care with broader healthcare initiatives to serve targeted populations more effectively.
His expertise can inspire healthcare professionals to explore new avenues for enhancing oral health services and policies, ensuring more inclusive and impactful health interventions.
20. Simon S. Oh
Business website: n/a
Social media profiles: LinkedIn
Follow for: Innovations in dental implantology, humanitarian dental work, and leadership in global dental health initiatives.
Simon S. Oh is a pioneer in the field of implant dentistry, best known as the co-founder of SmartArches™ Implant Centers and the Operation Re-Dentulate Central America Association, as well as the founder of the Smile Back Foundation.
With a special interest in All-on-X concepts, zygomatic, and pterygoid implants, Dr. Oh has significantly contributed to advancing dental implant techniques.
His work has earned him recognition in Marquis Who's Who in America, including the Humanitarian Award in 2021, and he has been named one of the 40 under 40 dentists in the United States by Incisal Edge magazine.
Additionally, Philadelphia Magazine has consistently voted him as the Top Doc for Dental Implantology from 2019 to 2024. SmartArches™ stands as the premiere center for dental implants and full mouth reconstruction, emphasizing community-centric values and the mission to improve lives globally through dental technology.
What you can learn from Simon S. Oh:
By following Simon S. Oh, you can gain deep insights into the cutting-edge practices of dental implantology, including innovative surgical techniques and the transformative All-on-X treatment concept.
His dedication to humanitarian efforts through dental work showcases the profound impact dental professionals can have on underserved communities, offering a model for integrating social responsibility into dental practice.
Dr. Oh's leadership in establishing centers of excellence for dental implants serves as an inspiration for dental professionals looking to elevate their practice through technology and a commitment to improving patient outcomes on a global scale.
His accolades and recognitions further underscore the excellence and innovation he brings to the dental field, making him a pivotal figure for those aspiring to make significant contributions to dental health and surgery.
Conclusion
In this article, we looked at the stories and achievements of leading people in the dental field. From Stanley M. Bergman's work at Henry Schein, Inc., to Dr. Mary Regina Pham's care approach at Lux Dental, and Simon S. Oh's advances in dental implants, these leaders show the wide range of work being done to improve dental care. Their efforts focus on making patient care better, using new technology, and working together across the dental industry.
For dentists and dental professionals looking to improve their work and make a difference, a good tip is to follow what these leaders do. This might mean using new dental technologies, looking at health care in a more connected way, or joining conversations about dental policy and innovation. Keeping up with and being part of these conversations helps you stay ahead in providing top care and practices.
By learning from these top people, you're moving in the right direction. Their success not only shows what's possible in dentistry but also offers ideas and plans you can use in your own work. By using what these leaders have shared, you're well on your way to contributing to the dental field and improving the health and smiles of the people you serve.
