S2.E22. Dentistry And Its Hidden Impact On Your Mental Health

Amerikan Therapy team sits down with two amazing black dentists to talk about all things teeth.  Surprisingly there is a very real connection between our oral and mental health, that reaches beyond just our smile confidence.  The Dentist way in on how we can tackle our dental anxieties to ensure that we get the dental care we need.  This show will have you making that dental appointment you've been thinking about for months. 

Dr. Kristen Millender is a general dentist and collaborative entrepreneur in the cannabis industry. She earned her BA in Chemistry from Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, Va; her Masters in Biomedical Sciences from Barry University in Miami, Fl; and her Doctorate of Dental Surgery from the University of Maryland, in Baltimore.  Her passion is multifold as she works to treat patients holistically and with a focus on integrative and preventative treatment. Dr. Millender’s goal is to incorporate cannabis therapy into the dental profession and provide alternative and natural ways to help people, especially African Americans, with cognitive conditions such as anxiety and depression, have positive experiences in and beyond the dental chair. Dr. Millender enjoys connecting with people and believes that the solution to self-fulfillment is through compassion and using our divine gifts to improve the lives of others. She collaborates with numerous entrepreneurs that have impact organizations focused on building generational wealth and improving health in native black communities. 

Green Dentistry, LLC- Co-founder and Senior Clinician
The Cannabinoid Specialists of Maryland, LLC- Partner and Co-founder 
Beyond Extracts, LLC- CEO
CIFE- partner 

Dr. Dawn Clarke has a professional portfolio that includes general dentistry and treating patients who suffer from debilitating mental illnesses. She earned her BS in Biology from Towson University, and her Doctorate of Dental Surgery from the University of Maryland, in Baltimore. Dr. Clarke completed her advanced education at St. Elizabeths Hospital, the only general practice residency program based at an in-patient psychiatric hospital. While at St. Elizabeths Hospital, she became the principal investigator for a case study evaluating dental anxiety on the individuals in care.  Dr. Clarke is also a naturally creative and leads brand development and strategy for many joint ventures, in addition to managing several emerging dental practices in DC and MD. In her spare time, Dr. Clarke loves dancing, spending time with family, friends, and pet birds.