Sara Steinbaum, DMD

Meet Sara Steinbaum, a second year orthodontic resident with a passion for transformative smiles and a heart full of anecdotes from her residency. Join us as we dive into her captivating narrative, filled with laughter, challenges, and the promise of a brighter, more aligned tomorrow.

quip: 

Can you share a bit about your journey into orthodontics?

Sara: 

My journey into orthodontics began with my own orthodontic treatment as a child, which involved two phases, including headgear and extractions. Ever since my own smile transformation, I have been interested in dentistry. In college, I became involved with dental assisting and managing a dental clinic. Next step was dental school and all my experiences led me back to orthodontics! You have the ability to help both kiddos and adults in boosting their smile confidence and in establishing a functional bite that can last a lifetime — with good retainer wear! In my opinion, orthodontics is the most fun dental specialty, but I am a little biased.

quip: 

What has your experience as an orthodontic resident been like so far?

Sara: 

My residency experience overall has been amazing. I feel lucky to have shared the past two years with 8 co-residents who are my close friends. We have all grown so much together, from learning how to create a treatment plan to now finishing up our cases. Note to the dental students: I promise it gets better! 

quip: 

In your opinion, what are the most promising advancements in orthodontic technology?

Sara:

The technological advances in orthodontics are booming! From artificial intelligence integrated into monitoring patients between visits to custom braces and new advances with aligners, there are so many recent developments to help improve treatments and the overall patient experience. 

quip: 

What excites you most about orthodontics?

Sara:

The continual new advancements! 3D technologies have transformed how we diagnose and treat cases. Now it is even possible to make custom aligners in your practice! I can’t wait to see where the field will be in 10 years.

quip: 

Could you provide an overview of your educational journey?

Sara:

I am from Florida and attended University of Florida for undergrad (Go Gators!). Then I attended the University of Pennsylvania for dental school and my orthodontics residency. I am 3 short months from officially being an orthodontist! 

quip: 

What do you find most challenging about orthodontics?

Sara: 

Each case is so unique. But this is also what makes orthodontics so interesting.

quip: 

What's the most memorable or amusing experience you've had during your time as an orthodontic resident?

Sara: 

My co-residents have a tradition of doing an escape room on every conference trip we go on! My first escape room was in-residency and we have probably completed about 15 together.

quip: 

If you weren't in the field of dentistry, what alternative career path do you think you would have pursued?

Sara:

Most likely something in the medical field. I have always been drawn to science and in college I was deciding between pre-med and pre-dental.

quip: 

What advice would you give to dental students interested in pursuing a career in orthodontics?

Sara:

You can do it! Dental school can be overwhelming, so focus on finding involvement that you care about — quality over quantity. Do not let the few extra years scare you because I blinked and they are almost over. When applying to residency, try to cast a wide net and apply to as many schools as you can! 

quip: 

Share a favorite quote or piece of advice that has stuck with you throughout your career journey.

Sara:

“If you are not uncomfortable, you are not learning.” Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. 

quip: 

When did you first learn about quip, and what were your initial thoughts?

Sara: 

I was first introduced to quip through Instagram a few years ago, and later was able to see their products first-hand at a conference. I was immediately impressed by how sleek and compact the designs were. What I appreciated most was how well they actually worked! 

quip: 

What is your favorite quip product and why?

Sara: 

My quip Sonic Toothbrush! I love how easy it is to travel with, plus it sticks to the mirror and is a cute accessory.