Quick Reads

Key Skills for Building a Thriving Dental Career

Quick Reads

Key Skills for Building a Thriving Dental Career

If you're a dental student or new graduate eager to find a supportive environment to grow your skills, here are the key skills for building a thriving dental career with CDP.

At Community Dental Partners, we believe dentistry is more than just a profession—it’s an opportunity to transform lives. That’s why we look for energetic, compassionate dentists ready to lead their teams and provide exceptional care. If you’re a dental student or new graduate eager to find a supportive environment to grow your skills, here are the key skills for building a thriving dental career with CDP.

Technical Skills to Master

  • Manual Dexterity: Strengthen your fine motor skills with activities like stretching, finger exercises, or precision-based hobbies like knitting or gaming.
  • Problem-Solving: Be ready to pivot when challenges arise. Keep your mind sharp with brain games like puzzles and word challenges.
  • Clear Communication: Build trust by listening actively and sharing information clearly with patients and teammates.
  • Time Management: Track your time for standard procedures to improve efficiency and stay on schedule.

Soft Skills That Set You Apart

  • Confidence Without Arrogance: Show calm assurance without coming across as dismissive or overly self-assured.
  • Humility: Remember that your team and patients are equally vital to your success.
  • Compassion: Prioritize patient comfort and emotional well-being by understanding their concerns.
  • True, Authentic Leadership: Lead by example—jump in to help when needed and inspire your team to do their best work.
  • Focus and Energy: Maintain balance in your life to stay mentally and physically resilient for a long, rewarding career.
  • Love of Learning: Dentistry evolves rapidly. Embrace continuing education to remain at the forefront of your profession.

Chat with a Hiring Manager

Your Next Step

A career with CDP means joining a culture that prioritizes your growth, well-being, and professional success. Our commitment to mentorship, teamwork, and patient-centered care ensures you’ll never feel like just another dentist—you’ll be a leader and a difference-maker. Schedule a call with a Hiring Manager today to take the first step toward building a thriving dental career with CDP.

Dr. Craig Copeland
Dr. Craig Copeland Chief Dental Officer Community Dental Partners

A graduate of Brigham Young University’s Business Finance department and the University of Florida’s College of Dentistry, Dr. Craig Copeland, DMD first joined Community Dental Partners in 2010 after Co-Founder, Dr. Chad Evans invited him to an interview.

He instantly fell in love with CDP’s mission to elevate dentistry, make excellent dental care accessible, and provide unique and unforgettable experiences for underserved communities. The organization’s culture aligned with his beliefs, and he knew that CDP would offer him the ideal environment to grow.

Today, Dr. Copeland is the Chief Dental Officer of CDP and focuses on helping CDP’s doctors exceed in their careers through mentorship, training, and strengthening CDP’s support systems.

Dr. Copeland lives in Texas with his family, his wife and four children. He’s an avid sports fan; supporting his children in activities such as basketball, gymnastics, and soccer keeps him busy. He also likes to travel to new places with his family whenever possible.

Suggested Posts

Careers with CDP

Doctor Led.
Team Supported.

You take care of the smiles. We take care of you.

Learn More

Careers with CDP

Doctor Led.
Team Supported.

You take care of the smiles. We take care of you.

Learn More

The 2025 Doctor Location Opportunities have been released. We have a practice fit for you!

X