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Contributors by Sam Mittelsteadt

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by Sam Mittelsteadt


Dominique Chagniot “I was voted ‘biggest gunner’ in my dental school yearbook, probably because I had been laser-focused on becoming an oral surgeon since I was 19 and had the privilege of shadowing an oral surgeon,” says Dr. Dominique Chagniot (“When a Toothache Turns Deadly”), who will complete her chief residency in oral and maxillofacial surgery at UCSF Fresno in June. “I realize the gore of OMFS isn’t for everyone,” she says with a laugh. “My husband, for instance, is afraid to look through the camera reel in my iPhone! He’s been burned before.”

When it comes to most memorable cases, Chagniot recalls a 60-yearold attorney who required a total maxillectomy because of mucormycosis. “It was amazing seeing his treatment all the way through and the improvement in his quality of life once we placed four zygomatic implants and restored his speech, smile and ability to return to work,” she says.
Hibret Hailu Benjamin“As dentists, we pride ourselves on being transparent educators and we try to pass on our own idealism when it comes to dental aesthetics,” says Dr. Hibret Hailu Benjamin, whose article is about the importance of communication in cosmetic dentistry.
“But this can backfire if you suggest cosmetic dentistry to patients who are already perfectly happy with their smiles. I ask new patients whether they like the appearance of their teeth—if they do and there are no functional, structural or biological issues, I update their chart so we don’t broach the topic again unless the patient brings it up.” Because most cosmetic dentistry is elective, Benjamin says it’s important that patients know their dentist is being honest, authentic and transparent during consultations. “I make sure I look patients in the eye when speaking, I offer to send them a PowerPoint presentation so they can share it with their loved ones or get a second opinion. Putting this together takes time, but it’s one thing that helps me serve my patients and, in turn, earn their respect.”

Lana Eklund While photographer Lana Eklund visited Dr. Nick McHargue’s practice in Columbia, Missouri, for this month’s Office Visit, most of her assignments involve training her lenses on brides and grooms. “I get to be with people on some of the best days of their lives in absolutely stunning locations,” Eklund says. “A few years ago, I photographed a wedding in Pontresina, Switzerland. The ceremony was in a chapel that was built in 1478 and their reception was atop the Muottas Muragl summit.” (Her portrait at left was taken during that visit.)

If you’re wondering what to expect or suggest when it’s time to update your practice’s photographic branding assets, Eklund recommends starting with a two-hour session that includes headshots in and around the office. “There’s a wide range of pricing and package options in the industry, but most photographers will include a certain number of digital files in sessions like this,” she says. Information: artandsoulfoto.com
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October 2025
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