Aspen Dental's new director of orthodontic support is well-equipped for the job, not only when it comes to her career in dentistry, but also thanks to her background as a performer.
Mindy Streem, DMD, who was recently named to the position, has more than 15 years of experience in private practice as a partner and owner.
But what sets her apart when it comes to educating the next generation of dentists and orthodontists is her background in music and performing.
"When I was offered the opportunity to interview, I thought this is going to be a perfect fit for me," Dr. Streem told Becker's. "I have a performing background. I was a singer back in the day, I got a degree in music — and being on stage and lecturing, those things are very natural for me. It really merged my ability to not only have that comfort on stage, but also be able to educate."
Being a student for so many years, dental education was not something on Dr. Streem's radar for a number of years, but the role of director of orthodontic support gives her the platform to positively impact both dentists and patients that isn't available in private practice.
"I was a student for so long, I never really thought about teaching, but through this new role, I have the opportunity to inspire and educate this next generation of dentists in a way that I never could before," Dr. Streem said. "Because it's such a large amount of people that I'll be encountering, I knew I would also have the opportunity to help a much larger group of patients than I would in private practice.
Continuing to expand access to dental care is high on Dr. Streem's priority list. Aspen Dental, one of the largest DSOs in the U.S., makes it a point to invest in specialty dental services, like orthodontics, which was another draw for Dr. Streem.
"Aspen Dental's mission is expanding access to care, which is another huge reason why I am here, another reason why I just truly believe in what we do every day, and expanding into other areas like clear aligners is just a continuation of that," Dr. Streem said.
Supporting Aspen Dental providers and the company's clear aligner program are a few of Dr. Streem's day-to-day responsibilities, which support the overarching goal of providing a high standard of care.
"What I've noticed, even just being with Aspen for a few months, is that it is so important to the whole TAG and Aspen community that there is a high quality of care," Dr. Streem said. "To me that is of utmost importance, that I am providing that education to maintain that reputation."