Today we’d like to introduce you to Dr. Meagan Steward.
Hi Dr. Steward, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I grew up in a small town in southwest Louisiana. At the time, I was only exposed to just a few and the same professions: doctors, dentists, teachers, police officers, engineers, business owners, etc. There were only a couple of pediatric dentists in the area, but my parents made sure my brother and I went on a regular basis. Most kids are scared of going to the dental office and some adults still have fear of seeing their dentist. For me, it had always been the exact opposite. I would enjoy my visits to the dentist. My first visit, I remember having no fear and being intrigued by all the tools and instruments used. I loved the fresh feeling after the appointment. Afterward, my dentist would always allow me to choose a toy from the treasure chest or select a rose as a treat. These moments sparked my passion for pediatric dentistry and my journey toward becoming a pediatric dentist.
I went on to obtain a biology degree from my hometown university, McNeese State. I participated in numerous summer dental education programs that provided me with knowledge of the field as well as hands-on experience. I received a scholarship to attend Texas A&M (formerly Baylor) College of Dentistry. It was during this time I fully began to understand all aspects of dentistry. Although I enjoyed the other specialties of dentistry, my love for dentistry still remained within pediatrics.
After graduating from dental school, I was unexpectedly pointed into the direction of anesthesia. So, I packed up my belongings and moved to Indiana to attend Indiana School of Medicine as a resident in the anesthesia program. This one-year, eye-opening experience taught me so much about airway management especially in emergency situations to be able to save my patients’ lives, along with a variety of sedation methods, and outstanding knowledge of pharmokinentics. Completing this residency allowed me to receive a certificate in anesthesia as well as a permit to perform the highest level of sedation.
But pediatrics continued to call my name. I continued my journey to specialize in pediatric dentistry at Saint Louis University. Here is where I knew I had finally stepped into my life’s purpose. It was such an honor to be able to care for children in such a unique way, alleviating them from dental pain and educating the parents and children on the importance of their oral health. I also received exceptional training working with children with special health care needs. Working at Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital allowed me to me to see a new world of pediatric dentistry and how our roles are integral to the field of health. I finished my residency gaining my specialty certificate in pediatric dentistry and my Masters in dental sciences.
I moved back to Dallas, my second home from my years of dental school, in the middle of the pandemic in 2020. I am now serving my community in the Sachse area at Texas Tiny Teeth-Sachse where I work alongside my amazing staff and team of five outstanding women. Showing up to clinic every day has been such a blessing to have a team just as devoted as me to ensure every child’s experience is a fun one, from the minute he/she walks through the door to the time they are exiting the building!
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I remember like it was yesterday. Walking down the halls and clinic of the dental school holding my head down, trying to avoid as many people as possible because Match Day was the day before. I had even taken that day off from clinic knowing I’d be spending the whole day celebrating. I had interviewed at seven residency locations and I was the founder and president of the dental school’s pediatric society organization, so it was no doubt in anybody’s mind that I wouldn’t match. But I remember opening that email with the lines, “We regret to inform you.” glaring across my screen. I didn’t match. And I had no other plans after graduation aside from planning to attend residency for pediatrics. I was heartbroken and ashamed, everyone at the school who had applied for pediatric dental residency had gotten in somewhere except for me.
But God had a plan for me. I was advised of the Indiana Anesthesia program by mentor. I applied and was accepted. Thus, beginning my year of anesthesia residency which gave me invaluable knowledge regarding the field and also instantly putting me in a unique situation to either work in the field of dental anesthesia or as a highly qualified candidate for reapplying to pediatric dental residency. My second time around applying for pediatric residency was very nerve-wracking but I knew I had a rare skillset and a newfound passion for pediatrics. God not only blessed me with getting accepted into residency for pediatrics but made sure I was matched the with the perfect program that a year prior I had been so shaken up about not getting an interview for. It was in that moment when I finally matched with SLU Pediatrics that I felt my dreams were actually becoming true!
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
Texas Tiny Teeth has many sites across the DFW metroplex in an effort to serve families everywhere! The concept originated and was created by Dr. James Slaughter. He and a colleague of mine thought I’d be a great fit to their Texas Tiny Teeth team where I now lead the Sachse location.
At Texas Tiny Teeth-Sachse we specialize in pediatrics and children with special health care needs. Our office is uniquely designed with a game room to keep the kids busy until their appointment begins. Once it’s time for their appointment, the child and parent are escorted by one of our friendly assistants who knowledgeably talk the child and parent through every step of their appointment so they are not guessing or uncertainty of what happens next. Each operatory is designed with tv screens on the ceiling for the kids to relax and watch their favorite movie as their teeth get cleaned or treatment is done. On their way out, the child gets to select a sticker and a prize from the gumball machine. We also have monthly raffles for the parents and children to participate in!
For any parents with very anxious little ones, we offer various forms of sedation for dental treatment to ensure your child has a comfortable and enjoyable dental experience with little anxiety as possible!
Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
I grew up within a humble family full of educators. No one in my family had ever journeyed down the road of becoming a doctor. Thankfully my family was super supportive in every kind of way: financially, emotionally, physically, you name it they were there for it all! Knowing I wanted to become a pediatric dentist and understanding the hard work it would take to make it into the field, especially being a black woman, I spent most of my time focused on my studies. I pledged Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc which allowed me to increase my network around successful black women and add countless community service hours to my name that would help with chances of being accepted into dental school.
Though I love being a dentist and helping countless families day after day, I have not allowed my identity to be tied to dentistry. I enjoy spending time with my family regularly and trying out new restaurants or festivals with my friends. I enjoy traveling and seeking new experiences. I am currently a member of the Dallas-Fort Worth Urban League Young Professionals where I served as a board member for 2020-2021 focusing on the health and quality of life initiatives. I enjoy serving at my church within the children’s ministry and helping the youth with college prep programs.
I am currently co-authoring a book with a friend, titled “Lose My Number” debuting in 2023, that seeks to help young, college-aged women identify red flags in relationships and effectively maneuver through breakups without internalizing the relationship as failure. I am also building a platform to help any person or student looking to enter the field of dentistry or pediatric dentistry gain knowledge and perspective that will allow them to feel confident and secure during the interview and application process.
My hope is that anyone who reads my story becomes inspired to persevere. Life will throw hurdles and roadblocks in your way during your journey, but stay encouraged and never lose sight of the vision you have!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.Texastinyteeth.com
- Instagram: dr.meagan_steward
