The price of saying no

This week on Dentistry Unmasked, Pam wraps up her candid conversation with Irene Iancu by exploring one of the most difficult realities of building a public career in dentistry: knowing when to walk away.

Every "yes" comes with a cost. But sometimes, so does "no." From declining lucrative contracts and speaking engagements to ending partnerships and losing income, Irene shares why protecting your reputation sometimes means making decisions that don't make financial sense in the short term. Together, they discuss the challenges of setting boundaries, handling criticism, being labeled "difficult," and staying true to your values in an industry where relationships and visibility often influence opportunity.  Whether you're building a personal brand, speaking on the lecture circuit, creating content, or simply navigating your professional career, this episode is a reminder that credibility is earned over years, but can be lost in a single decision.  Success isn't measured by every opportunity you accept; it's often defined by the ones you're willing to decline.

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About the Author

Pamela Maragliano, DMD

Pamela Maragliano, DMD

Chief Editor of Dental Economics

Pamela Maragliano, DMD, is the chief editor of Dental Economics. Based in Salem, Massachusetts, Dr. Maragliano began her clinical career as a dental hygienist. She went on to attend Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, where she earned her doctorate in dental medicine. She then attended the University of California, Los Angeles, School of Dental Medicine, where she became board-certified in prosthodontics. Dr. Maragliano owns a private practice, Salem Dental Arts, and lectures on a variety of clinical topics. You may contact her at [email protected]. 

Brian B. Nový, DDS

Brian B. Nový, DDS

Brian B. Nový, DDS, is the chief dental officer of the Alliance Dental Center, Massachusetts Public Employees Fund. He served as president of the National CAMBRA Coalition and is currently the consumer representative to the United States Food & Drug Administration Dental Products Panel. His awards include the American Dental Association (ADA) Adult Preventive Care Practice of the Year, the Academy of General Dentistry Weclew Award, the Dugoni Award, and the ADA Evidence-Based Dentistry Practice Award. 

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