Rediscovering My “Why” Through the AADOM Community
I never expected a professional community to change the way I felt about my career, but that’s exactly what happened when I found AADOM. At a time when I needed encouragement, connection, and a reminder of why I chose dentistry in the first place, this community gave me all three.
For a long time, I felt stuck in a role that had become repetitive and draining. I had been in the same position for nearly seven years, and while I truly valued the relationships I built with patients, that was the one thing keeping me going. The atmosphere around me was difficult, and working under someone who micromanaged made each day feel heavier than the last.
A Fresh Start Led to an Unexpected Opportunity
Eventually, I convinced myself that a change would be the answer. I accepted what I believed was a better opportunity, hoping it would give me a fresh start and renew my love for dentistry.
Instead, it turned out to be an even worse experience. I decided to try one more time and made one more job transition. If this move didn’t work out, I planned on giving up altogether. But that final move became a turning point.
For several months, my new office manager encouraged me to attend a local DPLN meeting. She often returned from her experiences full of excitement, sharing how much she had learned and how motivated she felt afterward. I listened but wasn’t sure I was ready to invest myself in something new just yet.
Then, after she returned from the annual AADOM Conference, she mentioned it again—this time with gentle insistence that maybe it was exactly what I needed. Something about the timing felt right, so I finally said yes.
Finding Inspiration Through AADOM
My very first meeting was “10 Top Management Tools for a Successful Practice” with Lois Banta in November 2023. I went in uncertain of what to expect but left feeling inspired in a way I hadn’t in a very long time.
The energy in the room was contagious—everyone was engaged, supportive, and genuinely invested in helping one another grow. The people were open and friendly, the atmosphere full of warmth and purpose. It wasn’t just a meeting—it was a moment of rediscovery. For the first time in a while, I felt a renewed spark and was reminded that there was still joy, connection, and meaning to be found in this profession I had once struggled to love.
Since that first meeting, I’ve jumped in with both feet and have missed maybe one DPLN event. I’ve attended the last two AADOM Conferences, earned my Fellowship, and am now on my way toward achieving my Mastership.
The relationships and encouragement I discovered through my local chapter have truly shaped my journey within AADOM. This experience has transformed not only how I view my career but also how I view myself.
Building a Career with Purpose
I think differently about dentistry now—I see it as a profession fueled by connection, encouragement, and growth. I feel like a completely different person, both professionally and personally. I’m more positive, inspired, and eager to make a difference, and I truly believe that discovering DPLN and becoming part of AADOM was the turning point that helped me find my purpose again.
If you’re not already connected with a local DPLN chapter, I encourage you to get involved—or find one that offers virtual meetings, as many do. And if there isn’t a chapter near you, consider starting your own. You never know how much your career—and your outlook—can change once you surround yourself with people who truly understand, support, and inspire you.
About the Author
Phyllis Oakes, FAADOM
Phyllis is the Treatment Plan Coordinator at Amelia Dental Group in Fernandina Beach, Florida. With more than 20 years in the dental field, she’s done just about everything—from assisting chairside to managing insurance and coordinating treatment.
Phyllis earned her Fellowship with the American Association of Dental Office Management (FAADOM) in 2025 and loves sharing her passion for teamwork, learning, and creating the best possible experience for every patient who walks through the door.
