From Competition to Connection: Empowering Women in Dentistry with Dr. Maggie Augustyn

After experiencing a mental breakdown during her college years, Maggie Augustyn made a promise to herself. She vowed to create a world where no one would feel alone and trapped, where actions like whispering and pointing at those who suffer and stumble would no longer be tolerated. Now, 25 years later, she has fulfilled that promise. Through her extensive research, writing, and speaking engagements, Augustyn focuses on the human experience-the moments that make us hurt and the moments that make us come alive.
Dr. Maggie Augustyn, FAAIP, FICOI, is a Dawson trained practicing general dentist and the owner of Happy Tooth. After earning her Doctorate from the University of Illinois at Chicago. With a commitment to excellence recognized by the fellowships she holds and ones she works towards, she embodies the principles of lifelong learning, exceeding annual continuing education requirements multiple times over. She is the current spokesperson for the Academy of General Dentistry. As both a prolific writer and an inspirational speaker, Dr. Augustyn channels her passion into her writing and lectures, primarily focusing on the human experience-the pains and joys that unite us all. Through her column "Mindful Moments" in Dentistry Today and numerous contributions to dental magazines, she provides insights that encourage self-discovery and authenticity, aiming to create a bridge between personal struggles and professional roles within dentistry. Her work as a faculty member at Productive Dentist Academy further underscores her dedication to fostering a compassionate approach in the field. Dr. Augustyn’s mission is to ignite a movement towards a more integrated and holistic practice of dentistry, where the emotional and humane aspects of patient care are prioritized. With her profound understanding of the human experience, she inspires audiences to embrace their unique journeys towards self-actualization, fostering a sense of connection and belonging in a world that often feels isolating.