Mentorship in Practice: A Day with Dr. Michael Bicknell
In the ever-evolving field of orthodontics, mentorship holds an irreplaceable place, offering fresh perspectives, invaluable insights, and a renewed sense of purpose. Recently, I had the privilege of spending a day with Dr. Michael Bicknell, a highly skilled orthodontist, at his practice in Forest Park, Illinois. From observing patient interactions to engaging in conversations with his dedicated team, this experience allowed me to witness firsthand the seamless systems and workflows Dr. Bicknell has developed and refined.
As a solo practitioner with over 15 years of experience, I often reflect on the unique nature of running a practice on my own. There’s a sense of autonomy and freedom, yet it can also feel isolating—being both the driver and the sole navigator. But spending the day with Dr. Bicknell reminded me of the power of collaboration, the value of connection, and how mentorship can infuse fresh energy into the journey. Moments like these, where we get a glimpse into another expert’s practice, are rare and incredibly meaningful for personal and professional growth.
Mentorship, as James Clear describes in Atomic Habits, is an essential component of skill development. He writes, “You do not rise to the level of your goals. You fall to the level of your systems.” Watching Dr. Bicknell work with his team, I observed precisely this: a meticulously designed system that was the foundation for consistent, excellent patient care. The harmony between Dr. Bicknell and his staff reminded me of the importance of cultivating structured, intentional systems that support high-level care in my own practice.
What struck me most was how Dr. Bicknell’s approach reinforced some of the ideas I’ve been working to evolve within my own practice, and yet he offered new perspectives that I had not considered. Observing his interactions with patients and team members was inspiring, fueling my own commitment to patient-centered care and motivating me to adapt some of his methods to enhance my practice. This mentorship opportunity with Dr. Bicknell wasn’t simply about learning new techniques; it was about expanding my vision, and refining the ways I can serve my patients more effectively.
I returned to my practice not just with new ideas but with a sense of connection—a reminder that, though I may operate as a solo practitioner, I am not truly alone in this profession. Mentorship offers the support, wisdom, and camaraderie that are essential to avoid becoming siloed. The experience was invaluable, and I am deeply grateful to Dr. Bicknell for his openness, his willingness to share his knowledge, and his dedication to the profession.
Leaving Dr. Bicknell’s practice, I felt both refreshed and inspired, carrying new ideas and perspectives that I am eager to implement. More than just a day of observation, this mentorship experience was a reminder of the value of shared knowledge and the importance of community in our profession. Having a colleague with whom I can continue these conversations is a gift, one that underscores the depth and richness that mentorship brings to our lives. As Simon Sinek wisely put it, “A mentor is not someone who walks ahead of us to show us how they did it. A mentor walks alongside us to show us what we can do.” I look forward to integrating this experience into my practice, confident that the lessons I’ve learned will resonate long into the future.
