dr. Stefanie Schönmuth

Where did you study?

Universitätsmedizin Charité in Berlin

Why did you choose to study dentistry? What did you think of the education you received?

I wanted to find out how dental procedures could be made more pleasant for the patient. I have always enjoyed working with my hands and delving into little details.

Why did you want to work as a dentist here at Tandarts Jordaan?

Because, even before I moved to the Netherlands, I knew that Tandarts Jordaan was one of the most beautiful and modern practices in Amsterdam. 

Do you have an affinity for a particular area within dentistry, and if so, what makes that area so appealing?

Endodontics (root canal) is my favourite area within dentistry, you need to work very exactly and need finger dexterity.

I also like to work on restorations of the front teeth. It’s so nice to see how people suddenly bloom when they are finally satisfied with their smile. 

Do you remember your childhood dentist? What were they like?

The dentist who I went to as a child was a big, scary man. He looked like Mr. Bean but he never smiled and did all his treatments without anaesthetic!

Did you mind going to the dentist?

 I was stressed and scared for days in advance. I thought the dental treatments were awful.

How do you maintain your own teeth, do you really brush twice a day, and do you ever snack throughout the day?

I do snack sometimes but fortunately I’m addicted to flossing, that makes a difference!

When you were little, what did you want to grow up to be?

A dog psychologist. I’m not even sure that is a job but when I was small I had no doubts about it!

What gives you the most satisfaction in your work?

I love the moment when I can let my patients look in the mirror after treatment. The smile of happy people, who feel more beautiful because of my work, that’s priceless.

What do you do to make sure each patient leaves the practice satisfied?

Good communication is very important. The patient always knows – in advance of the treatment – exactly what is going to happen, and there’s a chance to ask questions.

Can you recall the nicest moment of your career so far? One that you know you will always look back on fondly?

I worked in a practice in Berlin, which specialises in two things: root canal procedures and treating patients who have a phobia of the dentist’s. The first big treatment for patients with an extreme phobia often took place under general anaesthetic, and the first check-up appointment – the next day – was always a very special moment for the patients and for me. It was beautiful to see how happy and proud they were that the first big step towards a healthy mouth was behind them and they had gained trust in the dentist. 

What biases against dentists would you like to do away with? 

Often people think that root canal procedures are terribly painful but fortunately in 95% of cases that’s not true. 

What future plans do you have within dentistry?

I’d like to take a course to improve my knowledge around reconstructive dentistry.

Why do you think people should opt for Tandarts Jordaan?

The atmosphere at Tandarts Jordaan is incredibly nice. All the staff are super motivated and enjoy their work. The patients notice that immediately. Tandarts Jordaan also stands for top-quality.

What’s your top tip for helping people maintain their teeth?

Toothpicks work wonders. 😉