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Hosted by Dr Michael Shambira
In this episode, Dr. Christian Coachman, founder of Digital Smile Design, opens up about the long road from dental technician to influential educator.
Discover how humble confidence helped him navigate doubt, poor communication pitfalls in dentistry and the mindset shifts that turn uncertainty into lasting success. Learn practical lessons on mentorship, self-accountability, and building resilience for early career dentists.
Get connected
Dr Christian Coachman @christiancoachman
Dr Michael Shambira @thatdentistmike
Key moments
[05:30] Dr. Christian Kochman Early Background
[10:15] Struggles in Dental School and Self-Discovery
[17:45] The Power of Humble Confidence
[25:00] Mastering Communication as a Core Skill
[32:20] Dealing with Uncertainty and Paralysis
[40:10] Advice for New Graduates and Career Paths
[48:30] Handling Change in a Fast-Moving Industry
[55:00] Final Wisdom and Key Takeaways
Dr Christian Coachman
Dr Christian Coachman is the founder of Digital Smile Design (DSD) and one of the most influential voices in modern digital and aesthetic dentistry. With a unique background as both a dental technician and dentist, he has helped shape how clinicians around the world approach interdisciplinary treatment planning, communication, technology and the patient experience.
A globally recognised educator, innovator and entrepreneur, Christian’s journey from an idea to international impact makes him uniquely positioned to speak about vision, reinvention and what it takes to remain at the forefront of a rapidly changing profession.
Thank you to our sponsors…
Dental Protection
Dental Protection have proudly been supporting the Dental Head Start podcast since day one! The Dental Protection team understands the ever-changing challenges faced by dental professionals and we take our responsibility to members seriously. Our professional protection package helps you practise with confidence, safe in the knowledge that
A special mention…
The Esesson Foundation
The Esesson Foundation are running two events: their annual gala, and a clinical education weekend — and what makes this different is that every single presenter is donating their time. No egos, no fluff, just really good clinicians giving back.
The goal is simple: raise money for healthcare access for vulnerable children. Last year alone, with around $300,000 raised, they delivered over $2.5 million worth of medical and dental care, treating more than 4,000 children who otherwise would’ve gone without. The CPD event alone raised $50,000 last year with 60 attendees — and this year, with more notice and more support, the aim is to double that.
It’s one of those rare events where you get excellent clinical education and know every dollar of profit is going directly back into care. Nothing pretentious. Just good people, good dentistry, and a really meaningful cause. Check out the line up below…
Enrol in the Clinical Education Weekend here
