Conquering Shame: A Dentist’s Journey to Self-Discovery 

November 1, 2024 Paul Henny DDS

By Paul A. Henny, DDS 

As a dental professional, you’ve dedicated countless hours to honing your skills and knowledge. Yet, beneath the polished exterior, many dentists grapple with a hidden enemy: shame. This destructive emotion, often rooted in self-doubt and negative self-perception, can significantly impact your professional and personal life. 

I’ve personally experienced the debilitating effects of shame in my dental career. After graduating dental school, I felt a sense of inadequacy and confusion about my place in the profession. The transition from a structured academic environment to the demands of private practice was overwhelming. I struggled to connect with patients, build a successful practice, and find my footing in the dental world. 

Shame, as John Bradshaw describes it, is the “painful exposure of the believed failure of self to the self.” It’s a deep-seated belief that you’re not good enough or worthy of success. This toxic shame can manifest in various ways, including self-doubt, perfectionism, and difficulty forming healthy relationships. 

Overcoming shame is a challenging but rewarding journey. It requires self-awareness, self-compassion, and a willingness to confront your inner critic. Here are some strategies that have helped me and other dentists: 

  • Challenge Negative Thoughts: Recognize and challenge negative thoughts and beliefs about yourself. Replace them with positive affirmations and self-compassionate statements. 
  • Practice Mindfulness: Mindfulness techniques, such as meditation and deep breathing, can help you become more present and aware of your thoughts and emotions. 
  • Seek Support: Connect with other dentists or mental health professionals who can provide understanding, support, and guidance. 
  • Engage in Self-Care: Prioritize self-care activities that nourish your mind, body, and soul. This might include exercise, hobbies, spending time in nature, or seeking therapy. 
  • Set Realistic Goals: Break down your goals into smaller, achievable steps. Celebrate your successes, no matter how small. 

Remember, you are not alone in this journey. Embrace the strength of the Pankey community and its collective insights and stories. Many dentists have faced similar challenges and have emerged stronger and more resilient.  

About Author

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Paul Henny DDS

Dr. Paul Henny maintains an esthetically-focused restorative practice in Roanoke, Virginia. Additionally, he has been a national speaker in dentistry, a visiting faculty member of the Pankey Institute, and visiting lecturer at the Jefferson College or Health Sciences. Dr. Henny has been a member of the Roanoke Valley Dental Society, The Academy of General Dentistry, The American College of Oral Implantology, The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, and is a Fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantology. He is Past President and co-founder of the Robert F. Barkley Dental Study Club.

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