Dental School Stories: Dr. Blazek

February 15, 2018 DeAnne Blazek DDS

In fifth grade, I knew I wanted to be in dentistry. Unfortunately, I thought that meant either being a receptionist, assistant, or hygienist. The thought of being a dentist never entered my mind until I was finishing up my dental hygiene program.

Pivotal Dental School & Career Moments

After several more years of working and evening classes, I was accepted to dental school. I was extremely grateful to get in. I loved dental school and sought out the best instructors so I could learn as much as possible.  

One instructor in particular invited me to help her in the TMJ Clinic. Back in 1988, exposure to splint therapy and equilibration techniques was rare. She impressed upon me the importance of stable joints and occlusion. I was able to work with her on two patients my senior year. At the time, I did not realize what a gift this had been. She was also one of several instructors who recommended the Pankey Institute to me. Turns out that was a gift as well.

Following graduation and a GPR, I started practice as an associate with my uncle. In 1994, I began my journey at the Pankey Institute. I had no idea just how much coming to Key Biscayne would change my life.

Although we learn so much throughout the continuums, the emphasis on stable joints and occlusion has been critical to my success as a dentist. Most of the failures we encounter are a direct result of not doing a thorough enough evaluation of our patients before treatment begins. Learning how to do a comprehensive examination and achieving stability is absolutely essential for preventing mistakes and failures.

During the second continuum, I discovered my own TMJ dysfunction and was treated with splint therapy, orthodontics, and equilibration. Going through these procedures enabled me to witness why it is so important to have stability.

Had I not been introduced to TMJ concerns in dental school and later gone to the Pankey Institute, I would not have gained the knowledge to anticipate and prevent failures for my patients. The strong emphasis on a comprehensive evaluation enabled me to treat patients successfully and have an enjoyable and meaningful career.

What are your most memorable or formative moments from dental school? 

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DeAnne Blazek DDS

Dr. DeAnne Blazek's love for dentistry began in the fifth grade while under the excellent care of her uncle and orthodontist. She enrolled in a dental hygiene program and then continued on to become a dentist. During dental school, Dr. Blazek worked as a hygienist for her uncle Louis Dellios. Upon graduation, Dr. Blazek was asked to join his practice and eventually became the owner when he retired. Dr. Blazek's main goal has been continuing the deep level of caring for patients that her uncle provided. The trusting relationship she creates with her patients puts them at ease and assures them that she will provide gentle, loving care at every visit.

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Paving The Way: Part Two

September 1, 2017 Glenda Owen DDS

Click here for Paving The Way Part One

Not too long ago, it was far less common to see or be a woman in dentistry. Modernizing norms and improvements to social equity have changed the game for women in a variety of careers. Not only are women choosing male-dominated professions, they’re also staying in them over a lifetime.

In the 80s and 90s, it was a different story.

Dr. Glenda Owen graduated from dental school in the early 80s. In her last blog, she related the challenges she faced while receiving an education. Below, she details the drastic change in percentage of women dentists and how women have influenced the model of a dental career …

Being a Woman in Dentistry: Then and Now

The percentage of women dentists has also changed dramatically. When I graduated in 1981, 3% of practicing dentists were women. Today, that percentage has swelled to 30%. Nationwide, 50% of dental school classes are female.

My class, which was actually pretty progressive, had 20% women. Admittedly, not all of them are still practicing 36 years later, but neither are the men. Among those who are still in practice, many, like me, are practice owners.

There are a multitude of ways women have influenced the model of a dental practice and the definition of success. It is not enough to be technically excellent or to earn a comfortable income.

Many of us want to find satisfaction in our relationships with patients and our teams. We want to go home at the end of the day feeling that we have made a difference in someone’s life. We want to leave the office with enough energy to enjoy our families, friends, hobbies, and volunteer activities. Burnout is deadly and usually avoidable.

To be continued …

How do you create an ideal practice environment that supports your desired lifestyle? Please leave your thoughts in the comments!

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Glenda Owen DDS

Dr. Glenda Owen practices in Houston, Texas where she lives with her husband Kevin. She is a graduate of the University of Texas Dental Branch in Houston. Dr. Owen is a faculty member and member of the Board of Directors for The Pankey Institute.

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