Dr. Hartman was recently featured in Arlington Magazine's Women in Business. It recognizes the leading women in the Arlington area that are working to build a better community.
Read the article below and learn how Dr. Hartman has gotten to where she is today, and how she's working to change the community through excellent dentistry.
What was a major turning point in your life and/or career?
Moving to the Washington, D.C. area after living in Minneapolis my entire life was a major turning point. I wouldn't trade my Minnesota upbringing for anything, but I'm extremely motivated to be the best dentist I can be, and I feel I'm able to push myself more in this area than I would have there. I'm in study clubs with exceptional dentists and some of the best specialists in the world. It's an incredible opportunity.
If you could go back in time and give advice to yourself as a young professional, what would you say?
Have patience and be realistic with your expectations of yourself; there are certain things that come with time. Don't ever shy away from asking questions, it shows that you care and are smart enough to know you don't know everything!
For me, it's all about the relationships I have with those around me. I consider myself successful in dentistry if I'm a good leader for my team and if I'm building true relationships and trust with my patients. Dental work is so personal. I want my patients to feel that I'm in their corner and I care about them. If they leave feeling good about their experience at the dentist, that's a huge win for me.
Why do you do what you do? What motivates and inspires you?
What motivates me is treating the patients who have waited years to come in because they were so worried about dental work. Being able to earn their trust and then complete procedures that save their teeth is an incredible feeling.
I want my patients to feel that I'm in their corner and I care about them. If they leave feeling good about their experience at the dentist, that's a huge win for me.