#296 The Connector — Andrew El-Khanagry

Andrew El-Khanagry's journey from anxious young associate to confident practitioner reveals the transformative power of purpose-driven dentistry. 

Five years out from dental school, this Egyptian-born dentist has navigated the challenges of perfecting his craft while building Mobile Smiles, a charity bringing dental care to underserved communities worldwide. 

Through candid conversations about clinical mistakes, the value of communication over technique, and finding balance between profit and purpose, Andrew shares insights that resonate with dentists at every stage of their careers. 

His story demonstrates how early setbacks can become catalysts for growth and why the best education sometimes comes from unexpected sources.

In This Episode

00:01:45 - Podcast listening habits

00:03:10 - Early life in Egypt and England

00:04:25 - Language barriers and adaptation

00:06:25 - Career influences and family guidance

00:08:00 - Dental school at Birmingham

00:09:45 - Academic challenges and friendships

00:11:30 - First job and PhD experience

00:13:50 - Staying versus moving practices

00:15:15 - Clinical anxiety and perfectionism

00:18:25 - Transition to private practice

00:20:25 - Communication skills training

00:25:00 - Patient relationships and continuity

00:33:20 - Mobile Smiles charity foundation

00:36:20 - International dental missions

00:43:10 - Cost-effectiveness of charity work

00:48:45 - UK-based charity initiatives

00:53:15 - Purpose versus profit in dentistry

00:54:30 - Instagram as dental education

00:56:40 - Career direction and specialisation

01:04:30 - Blackbox thinking

01:11:05 - Best educational experiences

01:21:00 - Trust-building in private practice

01:33:30 - Fantasy dinner party

01:43:50 - Last days and legacy

About Andrew El-Khanagry

Andrew El-Khanagry is a general restorative dentist with a focus on prosthodontics, five years qualified from Birmingham Dental School. Born in Egypt and raised in Burton-on-Trent, he's the founder of Mobile Smiles, a UK-based charity providing dental care in underserved communities across Egypt, Namibia, Nigeria, and South America.