We recently connected with Sana Yusuf and have shared our conversation below.
Sana, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. We’d love to hear the story behind how you got your first job in field that you currently practice in.
My journey into the field of dentistry began when I was 17 years old, working as a receptionist at a dental office. It all started because the owner of the practice was a family friend who offered me the opportunity to help out after school and during holiday breaks. I made $8.25 an hour, answering phones, checking in patients, verifying insurances, and even calling on outstanding claims. At the time, I didn’t know a thing about dentistry—words like “crown” or “porcelain fused to metal” sounded like a foreign language.
As a high school senior, I knew I wanted a career in the medical field, but I hadn’t yet pinpointed exactly what that would look like. Over time, I started observing the clinical side of the practice, watching the dentists help patients get out of pain and regain confidence in their smiles. That’s when something clicked. I began to realize the incredible impact dentistry could have on someone’s life, and I found myself drawn to the idea of pursuing it as a career.
Looking back, that first job was foundational. It not only introduced me to the field of dentistry but also taught me the value of hard work and attention to detail. It gave me a deep appreciation for what goes into running a dental practice—not just the clinical side, but the administrative and patient-focused aspects too.
Fun fact: I ended up returning to that same office six years later as a dental assistant while I was in dental school. It was a full-circle moment that reminded me how much that early experience had shaped my journey. I’m incredibly grateful for where it led me—it set the stage for everything I’ve built since then.
Sana, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
I’m Dr. Sana Yusuf, founder of Sana Dental Studio + Med Spa, Tampa’s first boutique dental office and full-service med spa. Our practice is unique because it bridges the gap between dentistry and non-surgical cosmetic treatments, specializing in facial aesthetics and wellness. From comprehensive dental care to cutting-edge med spa treatments, we’re dedicated to helping our clients look and feel their best.
Sana Dental Studio + Med Spa was born out of a desire to offer a holistic approach to facial beauty and oral health, with treatments ranging from restorative dentistry and TMJD therapy to non-invasive skin tightening, injectables, and laser treatments.
What sets us apart is our emphasis on natural, long-term results and a deeply personalized experience. Whether it’s a patient seeking relief from TMJ pain, someone wanting a brighter smile, or a client looking to rejuvenate their skin, we approach every treatment with the goal of enhancing their unique beauty and confidence.
One of the things I’m most proud of is the trust our clients place in us. It’s incredibly rewarding to see the transformation not just in their appearance but in how they carry themselves. I’m also honored to lead a practice that continuously evolves, staying on the forefront of technology and techniques, such as 3D printing, digital dentistry, laser therapies, and advanced injectables.
For anyone considering working with us, I’d want them to know that we genuinely care about their well-being. We’re not just here to provide treatments; we’re here to build relationships, deliver exceptional care, and empower them to feel confident in their skin and smile.
Other than training/knowledge, what do you think is most helpful for succeeding in your field?
Other than training and knowledge, I believe having a mentor and a strong support system is crucial for succeeding in my field. A mentor provides guidance, shares their experiences, and offers invaluable advice that can help you navigate challenges and grow both personally and professionally.
Equally important is having a support system—whether it’s family, friends, colleagues, or a team that believes in your vision. The encouragement and reassurance from people who are rooting for you can make all the difference, especially during the inevitable ups and downs of building a career or running a business.
In my own journey, I’ve been fortunate to have both. They’ve helped me stay grounded, focused, and motivated, and I credit much of my success to the people who’ve supported and inspired me along the way.
Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?
I believe my reputation within the market has been built on three key pillars: delivering exceptional results, prioritizing patient relationships, and staying innovative.
First and foremost, I’m committed to providing the highest quality of care, whether it’s through dentistry, facial aesthetics, or non-surgical treatments. Every patient is unique, and I take the time to understand their needs and goals to deliver personalized, long-term results.
Second, I’ve always prioritized building genuine relationships with my patients. People trust you when they feel heard, valued, and cared for, and I make it a point to create a warm, welcoming environment where patients feel comfortable (after all, everyone hates the dentist haha)
Lastly, staying ahead of industry trends and continuously expanding my expertise has helped me stand out. Whether it’s mastering advanced technologies like the 3D printing and laser dentistry or incorporating cutting-edge techniques like PRF injectables, I strive to offer the best and most effective solutions.
I’m also intentional about consistency—consistently delivering excellent outcomes, providing a seamless experience, and being transparent and trustworthy. I think that reliability resonates with people and has been a significant factor in building my reputation.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://sanadentalstudio.com
- Instagram: @sanayusufdmd @sanadentalstudioandspa
- Facebook: @sanadentalstudioandspa
