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Dentist alum teaches professional practice by Cindy A. Abole Public Relations More than 26 years ago, Donald Ahern strode off the commencement platform and formally entered the professional world of dentistry. Like most of the 25 or so dental graduates that day, he had everything to look forward to. It was the early 1970s and dentistry was thriving in the Lowcountry. The South Carolina Dental Association (SCDA) had reported a manpower shortage in dentistry that prompted the addition of a dental school at MUSC. Ahern was a member of the College of Dental Medicine’s third graduating class. He was excited and fearful at the thought of opening his own practice. Most of the early days were spent learning to run a business.  “It was a lot of trial and error,” said Ahern, a DMD. “More often, I found myself asking questions like ‘how do I do this?’” Today and thousands of patients later, Ahern uses his knowledge and experience to teach graduating dental students about practicing professionally. Ahern’s interest combines his roles as a dental medicine preceptor and mentor chairman for the South Carolina Dental Association (SCDA). “Dr. Ahern does an excellent job teaching business and dentistry,” said Hal Zorn, executive director of the SCDA. “He brings a tremendous benefit for young professionals with lots of questions.” Ahern admits that academic institutions recognize the need to develop good mentorship programs. At Washington State, dental students are paired with practicing mentors as early as their freshman year, he said. “I like working with young people,” said Ahern, who has conducted this mentorship informally with MUSC dental students for the past three years. “Somehow, I’ve always considered myself as a teacher.” The purpose of the program is to offer students guidance and support as they prepare to enter private practice. MUSC’s program extends statewide through the SCDA. “Dr. Ahern has been extremely helpful in his leadership with this program,” said Tariq Javed, DMD, associate dean for academics and student affairs, College of Dental Medicine. “He’s a well-respected practitioner who can provide a wealth of information to our young graduates and be a leader of this mentoring program.” Within MUSC’s curriculum, dental students are coached in general practice dentistry, as well as eight or nine other specialties. Juniors and seniors are formally introduced to general practice dentistry in their respective curriculums through a practice management course that covers topics relating to recruitment, staff hiring, taxes and finances. Ahern also counsels students about supply and equipment purchases and offers other  professional advice. “I have an open door policy,” Ahern said, regarding the students. “Good communications is key to this program’s success.” Senior dental student Lauren Bullwinkel was grateful to be paired with Ahern’s practice. The teaming was natural since Bullwinkel’s family shared a mutual friendship with the Mount  Pleasant dentist for many years. In August, Ahern invited Bullwinkel and fellow student Mark Bowers to his house for a casual gathering with other mentor participants and students, a gesture that he and his wife, Lorrie, began this year. “The experience gives everyone a chance to meet each other and interact on neutral turf,” Ahern said.  “This was a great opportunity to discuss business concerns and questions,” said  Bullwinkel, whose specialty will be general dentistry. “It was nice to be able to check out the office.” “This program fulfills an important need for students,” she said. “It’s been a good change for the program. It’s nice to know that the support doesn’t end after graduating.” Editor’s note: This story is part of a continuing series which will feature MUSC preceptors and their roles and contributions to the university and the South Carolina community.