When Incisal Edge Magazine released its fifteenth annual 40 Under 40 list recognizing America’s brightest young dental professionals, one name stood out to everyone at Aspen Dental: Dr. Alex Mehler.

At just 36, Dr. Mehler serves as Vice President of Endodontic Support Services at Aspen Dental, a role he earned in 2021 — becoming the youngest clinician ever to hold a vice president title in the organization’s history. In that position, he has brought more than 80 endodontists under the Aspen umbrella while helping to significantly reduce turnover rates across the network. His leadership ensures consistent, high-quality endodontic care across more than +1,000 practices in 46 states.

A Lifelong Passion for Dentistry
For Dr. Mehler, dentistry is more than a career — it’s a calling rooted in family and patient care.

“Growing up in my father’s dental office,” he recalls, “being a good dentist and providing the best care always mattered more to him than the business and finances. A lifetime watching my dad instilled in me my core values.”

After earning his DMD from the University of Florida College of Dentistry and completing an endodontic fellowship and specialty certificate at Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine, Dr. Mehler went on to specialize in endodontics — the art and science of saving teeth. His combination of clinical skill and leadership continues to strengthen Aspen Dental’s endodontic support model nationwide.

Empathy in Action
Among the many patients who have shaped his career, one in particular stands out. “One patient came in for a root canal who was worked up by friends and family,” Dr. Mehler says. “She was nervous and shaking. The treatment was efficient and smooth. When we took the final radiograph, she was pissed off! She had no pain, no problems, but the buildup from friends and family was worse than anything.”

It’s moments like this that remind him how much empathy and reassurance matter — sometimes even more than the procedure itself.

A Broader Perspective
Outside of the practice, Dr. Mehler draws inspiration from exploring the world both above and below the water’s surface.

“Growing up, I spent a lot of time on the water boating and fishing, and under the water scuba diving,” he says. “During my second year of dental school, I took the first two weeks after the new year off to extend my winter vacation fishing, snorkeling and diving around Australia and the Great Barrier Reef.”

Travel has also shaped his worldview: “The first time I went to Europe in college and saw how much history other places have… seeing structures going back hundreds to thousands of years gives a whole different perspective on life.”

Looking Ahead
As Aspen Dental continues to expand access to care nationwide, leaders like Dr. Mehler are helping redefine what it means to support clinicians and patients at scale — building systems grounded in compassion, precision, and innovation.

Congratulations to Dr. Alex Mehler, Aspen Dental’s Vice President of Endodontic Support Services, on being named one of Incisal Edge’s 40 Under 40. Your leadership and dedication continue to elevate endodontic care across Aspen Dental and beyond.

Learn more about clinical leadership and career growth at Aspen Dental.

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