Dr. Brandon Meckelberg, DDS, is the Dentist Owner of the Tallahassee, FL location. He graduated from Marquette University School of Dentistry and has been with Aspen since 2017.

While dental school does a fantastic job preparing students for success as a clinician, new dentists still often feel overwhelmed when they transition into the real world of practicing dentistry without the support of their peers and faculty.

My key advice for new dentists is to find a great mentor and don’t be afraid to push yourself. The only way to better yourself as a clinician is to step outside of your comfort zone.

I made a move across the country to better my career. I'm the lead dentist at the Aspen Dental practice in Tallahassee, FL, where there are more than 500 new patients waiting to be seen. It can be a little nerve-wracking, especially when you're a young dentist, and you wonder “How am I going to see all of these patients and give them the care they need?” You just have to jump in and take it one patient at a time.

Although you may feel like you're barely staying afloat the first few weeks, you know much more than you realize. Dive in and don't let new procedures intimidate you. With the right support and mentality, your possibilities are limitless.

Leadership and personality are critical for success. Have fun and focus on building strong relationships. When I joined the office in Tallahassee, it didn't have the right vibe. It was a matter of stepping in, asserting myself and creating positivity and excitement with the team so we can focus on providing quality care to our patients.