Meet Swapnil Mahendrakar

We were lucky to catch up with Swapnil Mahendrakar recently and have shared our conversation below.

Swapnil , we’re so excited for our community to get to know you and learn from your journey and the wisdom you’ve acquired over time. Let’s kick things off with a discussion on self-confidence and self-esteem. How did you develop yours?

I developed my confidence and self-esteem in pediatric dentistry through a combination of hands-on experience, continuous learning, and building strong relationships with my patients and their families.

Early in my training, I realized that working with children requires not just clinical skill but also a calm, compassionate presence. I took every opportunity during my rotations and residencies to work with a wide range of pediatric patients. Over time, I became more confident in both my technical abilities and my approach to behavior management.

What helped me the most was preparation and practice—whether it was explaining treatment plans in a parent-friendly way, handling anxious children with empathy, or managing unexpected clinical situations. Each successful interaction boosted my confidence and reinforced my ability to make a positive impact.

I also actively seek feedback from mentors, colleagues, and parents, and use it constructively to grow. My confidence today comes from knowing that I can create a safe, welcoming environment where children feel comfortable, and that I can provide high-quality care, even in challenging situations.”

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

At our pediatric dental clinic, we specialize in providing compassionate, high-quality dental care tailored specifically for children—from infants to teens. Our mission goes beyond simply fixing teeth; we aim to create positive dental experiences that help children build healthy habits and confident smiles for life.

What makes our clinic special is the atmosphere we’ve created—welcoming, fun, and truly kid-friendly. From our colorful, calming office space to our gentle approach and use of child-sized equipment, everything is designed to make your child feel safe, relaxed, and even excited about visiting the dentist!

One of the most exciting parts of what we do is watching anxious little ones transform into confident dental pros. We believe in educating both kids and parents, empowering families with the knowledge they need to maintain lifelong oral health.
Whether it’s a routine cleaning, a first visit, or more complex care, we take pride in treating every child as if they were our own—with patience, kindness, and a whole lot of smiles.

We’re honored to be part of your child’s healthcare journey and look forward to growing healthy smiles together!

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?

Looking Back: 3 Key Ingredients to a Fulfilling Journey in Pediatric Dentistry

Reflecting on my journey, there are three qualities that stand out as especially impactful:

Empathy and Patience
Working with children—especially those who may be nervous or have special healthcare needs—requires a deep well of empathy and patience. Understanding where a child is coming from, taking the time to earn their trust, and meeting them at their emotional level has been critical to my success and fulfillment.

Advice: Spend time observing or shadowing professionals who excel in this. Practice slowing down and really listening—not just to what a child says, but how they say it. Patience is a muscle; the more you use it, the stronger it gets.

Strong Communication Skills
In pediatric dentistry, you’re constantly communicating—not just with kids, but with parents, caregivers, and your team. Being able to explain complex concepts in simple, reassuring ways is essential.

Advice: Practice explaining dental topics to non-dentists, especially to kids. Role-play scenarios with mentors or peers. Don’t underestimate the value of storytelling or analogies—they can turn fear into understanding and empowerment.

Continual Learning and Adaptability
Pediatric dentistry—and healthcare in general—is always evolving. Whether it’s new research, technology, or techniques, staying curious and open-minded has allowed me to grow and offer the best care possible.

Advice: Attend continuing education events, stay current with literature, and surround yourself with colleagues who inspire you to learn. Embrace change—it often leads to better outcomes for your patients and greater fulfillment in your work.

Your early years in this field are full of learning curves, but also incredible potential. Be kind to yourself, seek good mentors, and always remember why you chose this path—to make a difference in the lives of children. That purpose will guide you through every challenge and triumph.

Okay, so before we go, is there anyone you’d like to shoutout for the role they’ve played in helping you develop the essential skills or overcome challenges along the way?

Looking back, I’ve been incredibly fortunate to have a few key people who played a major role in shaping who I am today—both personally and professionally.
My Mom has been my rock from the very beginning. Her strength, resilience, and unwavering belief in me have guided me through every step. She’s always been a source of wisdom and comfort, reminding me of the importance of staying grounded and kind, no matter how busy or stressful life gets.

My Mother-in-Law has also played a huge role. Her quiet encouragement and steady support have meant more than she knows. She’s shown me what it means to care deeply for your family and to give selflessly—qualities that have shaped how I care for my patients as well.

My Husband has been my biggest cheerleader and most honest sounding board. He’s seen me at my best and my most exhausted, and he always helps me refocus on what matters. His support makes it possible for me to pursue my passion with confidence and balance.

My Kids are both my inspiration and my greatest teachers. Being a mom has completely transformed how I approach pediatric care. They remind me every day of the importance of patience, empathy, and laughter. They’ve taught me to slow down and see the world through a child’s eyes—something that helps me connect better with every child I treat.
The team I work with every day have taught me the importance of collaboration, patience, and trust. In pediatric care, the energy and mindset of the entire team directly impact the child’s experience. I’ve learned so much by listening to their perspectives and relying on their strengths.
Honestly, some of my most valuable learning has come from the children and families I’ve cared for. They’ve taught me humility, adaptability, and how to communicate better. Every child is different, and every interaction is an opportunity to grow. I’m grateful for the trust they place in me—and for the lessons they’ve taught me, often without even realizing it.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.tiny2teens.com

Image Credits

Lokesh Mahendrakar