Podcast: Play in new window | Download
In this deeply moving episode of The Stress-Free Dentist, Dr. Block interviews Dr. Parul Dua Makkar, General Dentist. Speaker. Author. Educator. ADA Wellness Ambassador. Dr. Makkar shares her personal and professional journey, including the tragic loss of her younger brother, Manu, to oral cancer at the age of 34. This life-altering experience became the foundation for her advocacy for oral cancer awareness and prevention. Dr. Makkar discusses the critical role of dental professionals in early detection, emphasizing the importance of learning biopsy techniques and fostering empathetic communication with patients.
She also introduces the Do a Good Job Symposium, an online platform uniting dental and healthcare professionals to bridge gaps in oral cancer care, from diagnosis to survivor support. Beyond her advocacy, Dr. Makkar offers grief coaching, helping healthcare professionals navigate the unique challenges of loss while maintaining their caregiving roles. She shares powerful advice for young dentists on the importance of resilience, time management, and creating a meaningful impact both in and beyond their practices.
This episode is an inspiring testament to finding purpose in tragedy and a reminder of the profound difference dental professionals can make through education, empathy, and action.
Episode Timestamps
- 00:00:12 – Introduction to the Stress-Free Dentist podcast
- 00:00:31 – Overview of resources available for dentists
- 00:00:57 – Details on scheduling a complimentary marketing strategy session
- 00:01:24 – Introduction to Dr. Parul Dua Makkar
- 00:03:45 – Dr. Makkar’s opinion as a practicing dentist going back to school
- 00:06:39 – Why Dr. Makkar started educating dental professionals
- 00:09:41 – Dentists learning to do biopsy
- 00:11:49 – Dua Good Job Symposium
- 00:14:05 – Life Interrupted: Dr. Dua’s Survival Guide book
- 00:17:16 – Words to her late brother Manu
- 00:18:17 – Dealing with grief after the loss of her brother
- 00:16:27 – Dr. Makkar’s grief coaching program
- 00:24:24 – Finding out more about Dr. Makkar
- 00:24:51 – Advice for her younger self
- 00:25:46 – Outro
Resources