In this insightful interview with Dr. Teagan Willes, owner of Laguna Beach Dental Arts, we explore the intersection of creativity, personal growth, and professional success. From his early days surfing in Carlsbad to running a patient-centered dental practice, Teagan shares how his experiences have shaped his unique approach to life and business. Below, we delve deeper into the key takeaways from his interview on the Prism Podcast.
The Ocean as a Metaphor for Life
Growing up near the ocean, Teagan developed a deep connection with surfing, which taught him invaluable life lessons. For him, riding the waves symbolizes the balance between success and challenges. He views wipeouts not as failures, but as necessary parts of the journey. This metaphor extends to his professional life as well, where he embraces both the triumphs and the setbacks of running a business.
"Getting rolled by a wave is half the fun, and it helps me appreciate the smooth rides even more."
Artistry and Dentistry: A Perfect Blend
Teagan’s passion for art has significantly influenced his approach to dentistry. From painting seascapes to sculpting and woodworking, his artistic eye helps him bring an extra level of precision and beauty to his dental work. Whether it’s cosmetic dentistry or routine care, Teagan’s fine motor skills and creative vision ensure that his patients get both aesthetically pleasing and functional results.
"There’s so much light and color involved in making teeth look natural. My background in art has been instrumental in crafting beautiful smiles."
Patient-Centered Care at Laguna Beach Dental Arts
Teagan is committed to providing an exceptional experience for every patient who walks through his doors. Following the legacy of Dr. Kurtis, who founded Laguna Beach Dental Arts, Teagan continues to focus on creating a welcoming and comfortable environment. From offering complimentary comfort menus to using advanced technology like intraoral scanners, Teagan ensures that patients receive transparent, anxiety-free care.
"We focus on making every patient feel at home. Whether it’s offering a cozy blanket or ensuring they don’t feel a thing during anesthesia, we’re here to make their dental experience as comfortable as possible."
Leadership and Teamwork: Lessons from Lacrosse
As a former collegiate lacrosse player, Teagan understands the power of teamwork. He applies this lesson to his practice, where each team member contributes their unique skills to achieve a common goal—excellent patient care. His leadership style is collaborative, and he views each success as a shared victory with his team.
"No one is better than another on the team. We all bring something special to the table, and that’s how we ensure our patients get the best care."
Balancing Family, Work, and Personal Growth
As a new father, Teagan is navigating the challenge of balancing his roles as a business owner, dentist, and dad. He credits his wife, Rebecca, for helping him stay grounded and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. His approach involves setting boundaries, prioritizing time with his family, and finding ways to recharge, like hitting the waves when he can.
"It’s all about keeping everything in its proper place and making sure I don’t lose sight of what’s most important."
Facing Challenges Head-On: The Obstacle Is the Way
One of Teagan’s guiding philosophies comes from the book The Obstacle Is the Way by Ryan Holiday. He believes that obstacles are not barriers to success but rather the path to it. Every challenge offers an opportunity for growth, and by facing difficulties directly, Teagan is able to push through and continue building a successful practice.
"Whatever is blocking your way is often the path you need to take. Overcoming obstacles leads to growth, both personally and professionally."
The Future of Laguna Beach Dental Arts
Looking ahead, Teagan has big plans for Laguna Beach Dental Arts. His goal is to continue growing while maintaining the personalized, hands-on care that has become the practice’s hallmark. By integrating new technology, such as digital scanners and high-quality equipment, Teagan ensures that his patients receive top-tier, modern dental care in a welcoming environment.
"We’re always looking to improve and grow, but we’ll always stay true to our core—putting the patient first."
Conclusion
Teagan Willes’ journey is a testament to the power of passion, creativity, and resilience. Whether he’s catching waves or crafting smiles, Teagan’s approach to life and work is rooted in a deep love for both. His commitment to patient care, leadership, and personal growth makes him a standout in the dental world.
Catch the full interview on the Prism Podcast to learn more about Teagan’s inspiring journey, and stay tuned for more episodes featuring entrepreneurs, innovators, and leaders who are shaping their industries.