Lauren C. Yap, D.M.D., is a clinical associate and assistant program director for the Postdoctoral Pediatric Dental Residency Program at the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine. Dr. Yap has served as a delegate to the ADA House of Delegates and is currently a public policy advocate for the Pennsylvania Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and a representative for the American Dental Political Action Committee. She received both her dental degree and a master’s degree in public health from Temple University and completed her pediatric residency at Geisinger Medical Center.
Graduating from dental school feels like a big finish, but as new dentists, we soon realize it’s really just the starting line for everything we still have to learn. Transitioning from student dentist to doctor is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. Suddenly, every decision is yours, every case matters and the learning curve feels steeper than ever. Especially in pediatric dentistry, where tiny teeth bring big challenges (and even bigger personalities), continuing to learn isn’t just helpful — it’s essential.
Every continuing education course, workshop and article we dive into helps sharpen our skills, expand our knowledge and ultimately make us better for the people who trust us with their care. It’s not just about staying current — it’s about staying committed to excellence. CE challenges us to think critically, adapt to new advancements and deliver the highest-quality care. Each new lesson we learn doesn’t just benefit us; it directly impacts the lives of our patients, helping them feel safer, healthier and more confident in their smiles. It’s amazing to see how what we learn outside of dental school directly impacts the way we educate, treat and connect with our patients.
I’ve been lucky not only to attend CE courses but also to present on topics I’m passionate about, like pediatric dentistry, understanding children’s temperament and how our approach to care has shifted post-COVID. The pandemic reshaped the way kids experience the world, and dental visits are no exception. These days, being a great pediatric dentist isn’t just about clinical skills. It’s about managing fear, reading behavior cues and creating an environment where kids (and their parents) feel safe and supported.
CE doesn’t just make us better clinicians. It makes us more confident, more compassionate and more prepared to adapt to whatever walks — or toddles — through our doors. Dentistry doesn’t stand still, and neither should we.
The good news? We’re not in it alone. Organizations like the American Dental Association offer a wide range of CE opportunities built specifically to support new dentists. Whether you want to level up your clinical skills, dive into practice management or stay on top of the latest trends and technologies, there’s a course out there to help you grow.
Because when we commit to learning, we’re not just investing in our careers — we’re investing in the future of every smile that walks through our door.
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