IDA New Dentist Mentoring Program

Your first year in practice can feel like a steep learning curve, especially 6–12 months after graduation, when you’re suddenly navigating real-world pressures like staffing, patient expectations, production, finances and how to balance dentistry with the rest of life. You shouldn’t have to figure that out alone.

The IDA New Dentist Mentor Program pairs participating IUSD graduates with an experienced IDA leader (10+ years in practice) who serves as a trusted, confidential sounding board. Mentors are trained to listen, support, and help connect you with practical resources, inside and outside the dental office.

How it Works

• Mentors initiate contact, so you don’t have to.
• Designed to be low pressure!
• Outreach begins around June, when support is most useful and you’re more settled into practice.
• The program includes scheduled check-ins during your first two years, providing consistent support without overwhelming you early on.
• You’re always welcome to reach out more often once paired, but never required to do so.

Want Your Mentor Contact Info Earlier?

If you’d like your mentor contact information shared early or at any time prior to the June launch, we encourage that. We just don’t want to obligate or overwhelm you during graduation season. After you sign up, simply email Andrea New and request your contact mentor’s information and she will provide you with those details. You can request this information anytime from your sign-up date through program start—whenever you feel ready.

Privacy + Contact Info

To participate, we request a cell phone number and personal email (not your dental school email, since those phase out). Your information is used only for this program and is never shared or sold. You may discontinue participation at any time by contacting Andrea New.