Running a dental practice while being a present and loving mum isn’t just possible, it’s powerful. Yet let’s be honest: it’s not always easy. Balancing leadership, ownership, motherhood, and a never-ending to-do list can feel like juggling handpieces in one hand and nappies in the other. But here’s the truth many of us forget: you don’t have to choose between being a great mum and a great leader. You can be both. And you can thrive in both.
Welcome to practice & power, where we redefine what leadership looks like for women in dentistry.
Too often, mums are made to feel that ambition is a dirty word, like dreaming big somehow takes away from our devotion at home. It doesn’t. Owning your ambition is not only okay, it’s essential. Whether you’re starting your first squat practice or scaling your third, your goals deserve the same respect as your family responsibilities.
Tip: Write your mission statement for both home and business. Let it be your compass. Let your children see what vision looks like in action.
Your brand is more than a logo or a colour palette; it’s a reflection of your values, your leadership style, and your patient experience. As a mum, you already know how to nurture and anticipate needs. That same emotional intelligence is a superpower in business. Use it.
Ask yourself: What does your practice stand for? How do you want patients (and your team) to feel the moment they walk in?
Pro tip: Your personal story, especially as a mother and leader, can be your brand’s strongest differentiator. Don’t hide it; highlight it. I started by writing my mission statements and core values and sharing them with practice members and staff
Chaos kills creativity and drains your time and energy. The antidote? Smart, scalable systems. From patient flow to HR, digital tools are no longer a luxury; they’re your lifeline. Automate where possible, delegate where necessary, and keep your systems agile.
Digital tools to explore:
Your team isn’t just your staff, they’re your work family. And just like parenting, leadership is about setting clear expectations, offering support, and knowing when to step back and let others shine.
Golden rule: Clear is kind. Vagueness breeds resentment. Be direct, be respectful, and don’t be afraid to say no.
Try: Weekly 10-minute check-ins. Create a culture of feedback, not fear.
Work-life balance isn’t a 50/50 split; it’s a fluid dance. Some weeks your practice needs more of you, other times your kids do. Boundaries are your rhythm section. Set working hours. Honour school pickups. Protect weekends. Your business should support your life, not swallow it.
Quick win: Use shared calendars (Google Calendar is gold!) for both clinic and home. Visibility brings peace.
Success doesn’t always mean expansion. Sometimes it means stability. Sometimes it’s leaving early for sports day. Sometimes it’s signing a new lease, and sometimes it’s a quiet coffee with a bit of peace. As dental mums, we need to own our definitions of success and support others in doing the same.
Behind every successful dental mum is a network of women cheering her on. Find your tribe. Ask for help. Share your wins and your wobbles. Because leadership isn’t about having all the answers — it’s about having the courage to grow while still being true to yourself.
You’ve got the clinical skills. You’ve got the heart. Now step fully into your power in practice, and at home.
For more tips and templates for journals, head to article below.
