SERVING SMILES

AMANDA DYER, DDS, FAGD, is a force in the dental world. From her start at the University of Iowa College of Dentistry to seven years of service in the United States Navy, including a stint on the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower, she’s been redefining limits. After earning her fellowship in the Academy of General Dentistry, Dyer founded Studio Smiles, where she merges advanced dental techniques with a personal touch, transforming the patient experience with care.

How do you inspire others? Giving back to the community is a top priority for me. Our office organizes fundraising and charity drives for toys during the holidays and school supplies for struggling families for back-to-school. Additionally, we provide free dental care for children through service projects and participate in Illinois’ Mission of Mercy. I’m proud to mentor aspiring dental professionals, and our office partners with a local community college to offer an externship program for dental assistant students.

Best piece of advice for anyone starting out? The best advice I could give to anyone starting would be to learn as much as you can. It’s also important to find a mentor, shadow other professionals, ask all the questions, try new things, and take risks.

Traits you think great leaders possess? Great leaders lead by example and integrity, demonstrating compassion, patience, and understanding. They don’t just direct others on what to do, they teach, inspire, and show humility along the way.

Habit you’ve adopted that has had a significant positive change on your daily routine? The habit I’ve adopted that has made a significant impact on me is practicing gratitude. Protecting your inner peace is crucial. When life presents challenges, I find that reminding myself of what I’ve overcome and accomplished helps keep me grounded.

For more information, visit studio-smiles.com and follow @studiosmiles.kildeer and @amandandyer on Instagram.