ADAPT: The Science & Practice of Emotional Intelligence in Dentistry

by Dr. Jason Luchtefeld

https://www.dentaltown.com/onlinece/details/1241/adapt-the-science-practice-of-emotional-intelligence-in-dentistry

Emotional intelligence starts with awareness - the ability to notice what’s happening inside before it drives what happens outside. In this opening session, you’ll learn the neuroscience behind emotion and perception, exploring the predictive brain, the body-budget model, and the clinical realities of burnout in dentistry. Participants will uncover personal triggers, practice emotional labeling, and see how everyday stress accumulates through micro-events in the operatory and at home. By the end, you’ll understand how self-awareness forms the foundation for resilience, communication, and leadership excellence in every dental interaction.

Upon completion of this course, you should be able to:

        
• Define Emotional Intelligence and its four domains.
            
• Explain how the brain constructs emotion.
            
• Identify personal triggers and emotional biases in dental practice.
            
• Recognize emotional exhaustion as early burnout.

Dr. Jason Luchtefeld, DMD is a dentist, educator, and strategist who helps clinicians lead with clarity, composure, and connection. As founder of Inspero and co-founder of The CCO Solution, he combines neuroscience, emotional intelligence, and adaptive strategy to improve leadership and team performance in dentistry. Known for his practical, engaging teaching style, Dr. Luchtefeld challenges dentists to think critically, communicate intentionally, and build practices grounded in purpose and trust.