Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Akeadra Bell. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Akeadra, appreciate you joining us today. What was your school or training experience like? Share an anecdote or two that you feel illustrate important aspects or the overall nature of your schooling/training experience.

Dental school was tough—four years of all-nighters, weekly exams, simulation lab practicals, and balancing leadership roles.
It was truly a marathon full of obstacles that pushed us—not just to become great clinicians, but to manage pressure, time, and expectations all at once.

We used to describe first year as “drinking from a fire hydrant.”
We sat in class from 8 AM to 5 PM, reviewing what felt like 500 slides a day—only to wake up and do it all over again. It wasn’t just about learning the material. It was about learning how to filter, prioritize, and stay grounded when everything felt like it was coming at us full speed.

Over time, we didn’t get better because the workload got lighter—we got stronger because we built the tools to stay afloat.

Secondly, The Setback That Tried to Take Me Out

I remember finally feeling like I had found my rhythm in dental school—clinic was starting, I had my systems down, and I was mentally gearing up for boards. It felt like I was coming up for air after years of grind.

Then out of nowhere—I ruptured my Achilles. One second I was walking, the next I was facing surgery, a scooter, pain meds, and trying to figure out how to balance patient care with physical therapy and board prep.

I’ll be real—there were days I questioned everything. My timeline, my body, even my faith. But dental school has a way of throwing curveballs just to show you how resilient you really are.

It wasn’t perfect. It wasn’t pretty. But I kept going. And now, every time I walk into a room as Dr., I carry that story with pride. Because I earned this—even through the detours.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I’m a dentist, speaker, educator, and content creator who’s passionate about blending oral health with lifestyle, wellness, and empowerment. I got into dentistry because I wanted to help people feel confident in their smiles and take control of their health—but over time, I realized my purpose expanded far beyond the operatory. My own smile transformation ignited a fuel that propelled me to pursue dentistry.

After years of dedicating my 20s to becoming a doctor, I stepped into a new season: one where I could honor both my clinical skills and my creative passions. Now, I use my platform to educate, inspire, and advocate—whether that’s mentoring pre-dental students, working with brands that align with health and wellness, speaking on work-life balance and professional growth, or showing up authentically to remind people that you don’t have to choose just one lane.

My content and work live at the intersection of purpose and presence. I create resources for aspiring dental professionals, collaborate with lifestyle and wellness brands, and speak at events to help others build the confidence, clarity, and connections they need to reach their next level. What sets me apart is my ability to connect—whether it’s with students, patients, or audiences—through real, relatable stories that reflect both the challenges and the joy of the journey.

I’m most proud of the fact that I’m building a life that reflects all of who I am—doctor, mentor, wellness enthusiast, faith-driven woman, and creative. My brand is about more than dentistry—it’s about possibility. And I want people to know that whatever stage they’re in, they have the power to grow, pivot, and thrive in ways that feel true to them.

Other than training/knowledge, what do you think is most helpful for succeeding in your field?

The power of self-belief and self-motivation.
Dentistry is demanding—mentally, emotionally, and physically. There won’t always be someone cheering you on, so you have to develop the ability to push yourself, trust your instincts, and keep going even when things get hard.

Resilience and the ability to bounce back.
Whether it’s facing a tough case, dealing with complications, or just managing the pressures of balancing life and work, resilience is key. You’re constantly being stretched—and the ability to adapt and keep showing up is what carries you through.

Compassion and strong chairside manner.
Technical skill is important, but how you treat people matters just as much. Many patients come in with anxiety, past trauma, or fear. Being able to break down those emotional barriers and create a space where they feel safe and seen—that’s where trust begins.

The ability to connect and communicate clearly.
A big part of being successful in this field is how well you can explain complex things in a way patients understand. That’s how you empower people to take control of their oral health and feel like partners in their care.

Thick skin and emotional intelligence.
Dentistry isn’t always glamorous, and you’re not always going to be liked. Some patients won’t appreciate the effort you put in, and that’s okay. You have to know how to separate your worth from external validation and stay grounded in your purpose.

At the core of all of this is people. Dentistry is about people—how you care for them, how you make them feel, and how you show up every single day with both skill and heart.

If you could go back, would you choose the same profession, specialty, etc.?

Yes, I would choose dentistry again.
Despite how tough and demanding it can be at times, the impact is undeniable. Being able to relieve pain, restore confidence, and sometimes even help patients heal from years of dental trauma—that makes it all worth it. The wins may not always be loud, but they’re meaningful. And knowing I get to combine science, artistry, and compassion to change lives? That’s something I wouldn’t trade.

And now, my purpose has expanded beyond the chair. Mentoring future dental professionals and helping them navigate their own journeys has become just as fulfilling. Dentistry gave me the foundation—but pouring into the next generation is what keeps me inspired.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @savedbydr.bell
• Linkedin: Akeadra Bell
• Other: TikTok: @savedbydr.bell

Image Credits

Aaron Mullen