Beyond Burnout: Building a Sustainable Dental Career
In this episode of The Dental Check-Up Podcast, host Kelly Hoey speaks with Dr Christina Radics and Dr Eraldo Pesaressi ahead of the FDI Young Dentists Forum 2026 in Prague.
Together, they discuss the realities facing young dentists today, including burnout, financial pressure, professional uncertainty, and the challenge of achieving work-life harmony in a demanding profession. Christina shares insights on mental resilience, self-care, and the early warning signs of burnout, while Eraldo reflects on the importance of mentorship, creativity, community, and learning through professional setbacks.
The conversation also explores leadership in dental practices, the pressures created by today’s competitive dental landscape, and why support networks are essential for long-term success. Through honest personal stories and practical advice, this episode highlights how dentistry is not only about technical excellence, but also about building a sustainable and fulfilling career.
A thoughtful and inspiring conversation for young dentists and experienced professionals alike.
This episode of the Dental check-up podcast is supported by Henry Schein
Learning Objectives
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Understand the importance of mental resilience, self-care, and work–life harmony as foundational elements for sustainable careers in dentistry.
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Understand the evolving opportunities and professional demands for young dentists today, including the importance of developing clinical, business, and entrepreneurial skills alongside early career growth.
- Recognize strategies for maintaining wellbeing and performance, including building supportive networks, seeking mentorship, and developing healthy workplace cultures.
About this episode's guests
About the host
Dr Eraldo Pesaressi
Dr. Eraldo Pesaressi is a renowned expert in Minimal Intervention Dentistry, with a Ph.D. in Public Health and Global Health from Radboud University and faculty appointments at Universidad de San Martin de Porres and Indiana University School of Dentistry.
He is an educator and researcher recognized for advancing micro-invasive, adhesive, and patient-centered dental approaches that preserve natural tooth structure and improve oral health outcomes. He is also an active member of the FDI Young Dentists Community Task Team.
Dr. Christina Radics
Christina Radics is a dentist, former practice owner, international speaker, and leadership coach specializing in mental resilience, sustainable performance, and work–life harmony in dentistry.
Drawing on more than 20 years of clinical and leadership experience in Sweden and Spain, she helps dental professionals and teams build healthier, high-performing workplaces.
She is the creator of the 3+5 Work-Life Harmony framework, which promotes long-term wellbeing, engagement, and professional fulfillment.
Ms Kelly Hoey
Kelly Hoey is the author of Build Your Dream Network: Forging Powerful Relationships In A Hyper-Connected World. She’s currently working on her second book which focuses on the unique networks women need for career success.
Kelly has been lauded by Forbes (“1 of 5 Women Changing the World of VC/Entrepreneurship”) and Business Insider (“1 of the 100 Most Influential Tech Women On Twitter”), has contributed to a variety of publications including The New York Times - these and other unexpected career opportunities she notes, are a direct result of building a network.