Today we’d like to introduce you to Elona Gaball.
Elona, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Owener of a Dental Practice, called Inspire Smiles. Raised in St. Petersburg Russia, came to the US at 16, finished 2 yrs of high school in the USA, went to Michigan State University, met my husband, Curtis at MSU, went to professional schools in MI, he is in the US Navy, captain at this point, facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon, double board certified ENT and Facial Plastics. Moved to SD 11 yr ago due to Navy orders, he is still active duty. Have 3 daughters: 21, 17, 14. Live in Del Mar Highlands. I have been a dentist for over 21 yrs, took over the ownership of the dental practice 6 yrs ago: it was pretty much a start up and our eldest daughter was almost dying from an eating disorder at the time. Have gone through a LOT , currently working on completing advanced post doctorate training for dentist at Spear Education : going to be the first to finish all of the curriculum, Specialize in advanced reconstructive and aesthetic dentistry. Have been working w 2 local organizations that support survivors of trafficking by resorting their smiles. Have gone through extensive personal development training w Tony Robbins and Landmark, recently completed a UCLA MBA course “Being a Leader and exercising Leadership effectively as one natural self expression”. Committed to making a difference for survivors of trafficking in SD county and empowering women. Have a degree in Nutrition and Food Science, lifelong health and wellness, run, do yoga, eat clean. Working on setting up an NPO to support restoration efforts for trafficking survivors.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It definitely has not. Not knowing how lead well, not having people, communication and sales and management skills when first started. Not hacking qualified and committed people to work with. Not having business, marketing knowledge nor expertise. Not having clinical training necessary to be advanced aesthetic dentist. Being the only provider to keep up operations. It’s a LOT: one needs to be a CEO, practice manager, compliance officer, HR director, marketing expert, leadership and people’s skills expert and a strong clinician. I was a good clinician but definitely did not have other skills.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Dental practice focused on aesthetic and reconstructive dentistry. Do all aspects of dentistry work with a periodontal surgeon placing implants and doing gum surgery and my husband, facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon, doing injectables and filler. Team of 6, including myself. We are focused on building strong relationships, empathy and compassion. We are highly trained in advanced density and are committed to transforming the experience of dentistry from fear/ avoidance to an amazing and relaxing experience, We work with women survivors of human trafficking by restoring their smiles. By being a part of our practice people allow more service and contribution to the community and they enjoy a great experience and a high quality amazing product and outstanding service.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
Yes, mentors and coaches are essential. I almost sold my practice and was not doing well 3 yrs ago. It is only due to the professional development coach and clinical mentor that I was able to transcend my challenges. I work with a coaching / practice management company and their are essential to our success. Being a part of like minded individuals groups has helped me stay on track. I am all about community and contribution and working together. One must have a mentor, coach and invest in personal development. I received a great value from participation in Landmark curriculum.
Contact Info:
- Email: inof@inspiresmilessd.com
- Website: www.inspiresmilessd.com
- Instagram: @inspiresmiles
- Facebook: Inspire Smiles
- Twitter: Inspire Smiles
- Youtube: Inspire Smiles
- Yelp: Inspire Smiles
