Today we’d like to introduce you to Joseph Brier.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I was born to be a dentist, combining my passion for people with my love of medicine, problem solving, and working with my hands to take top-notch care of my patients. I’ve worked to create an environment where people can feel comfortable, heard, and well cared for. I especially love general dentistry because it allows me to develop lasting relationships with my patients over the years, really getting to know them so I can provide the best care possible.
I grew up in central Missouri and earned my Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology with a minor in Spanish in 2006. For seven years, I worked with people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in various capacities, with the goal of treating each person with dignity and helping them lead as independent a life as possible. I taught daily living skills and vocational skills to my clients with IDD, was subsequently a case manager for people with IDD, then I was in charge of a program that brought funding into an agency that serves people with IDD in northern California.
I later returned to school to pursue dentistry, first completing the Post-Baccalaureate program at San Francisco State University. From there, I was fortunate to attend the prestigious University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine. I graduated cum laude from Penn in 2017 with Honors in Dentistry for the Medically Complex and received faculty awards in periodontics and oral medicine.
In 2023, I achieved Fellowship in the Academy of General Dentistry (FAGD), a distinction earned by only about six percent of dentists in the US and Canada. To earn this, I completed more than 500 continuing education hours, passed a rigorous comprehensive exam, and maintained AGD membership. I’ve taken advanced courses in endodontics, clear aligner therapy, restorative dentistry, removable prosthodontics, and more. I’m a proud member of both the Academy of General Dentistry and the American Dental Association.
I’ve had unwavering support from the love of my life, Kate, and my two sons Sam and Luke.
After practicing as an associate dentist for several years I felt called to open my own startup dental practice. I designed my practice with patient comfort in mind from the ground up. I’m so proud of the practice we’ve created and the team I’m blessed to be surrounded by.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Changing careers after becoming established in social work was definitely a challenge, but I wouldn’t trade those experiences for anything.
We’ve been impressed with Dental Care of Lucas, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
I like to say that I have the heart of a social worker and the mind of a dentist. I designed my office and practice dentistry from that perspective. We have developed a bright, welcoming environment and provide many comforts as well. We offer every patient a comfort menu for them to select items that will enhance their experience or reduce their stress. And we even have treasure chests for kids AND adults.
We also are excited to have a partnership with My Possibilities (MP), an amazing nonprofit in Plano that serves people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). We make a donation for every new patient seen in our office, feature a HIPster of the Month (HIPsters are what they call attendees of MP), volunteer at MP periodically, and find ways to raise awareness about IDD and MP.
Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
I read and listen to many dental and leadership related things. I read a handful of dental journals every month. listen to several dental podcasts to keep up with the latest in the field, and enjoy Simon Sinek, Patrick Lencioni, and John C. Maxwell books. I’m always looking to grow as a Christian, husband, father, and dentist.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://dentalcareoflucas.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dentalcareoflucas/?next=%2F#
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Dental-Care-of-Lucas-61572397513659/
