A journey in progress: my path to oral and maxillofacial surgery

Dr. Lindsay Scoggins finds the intersection of science, art, and people

My life journey to become an oral surgeon is constantly evolving and has been shaped by unique life experiences, motivation, and determination. At an early age, my parents recognized my independent nature and promoted diverse activities for education and travel that have grown my capabilities for empathy and understanding — qualities that now influence how I care for patients.

Pursuing dentistry was a natural progression. I excelled at the sciences at school and took elective and summer courses in woodshop, photography, and art. I studied abroad while at University of Maryland and traveled to various areas of the world, including Australia, Vietnam, Laos, and Europe. I discovered that dentistry allowed me to treat people from unique backgrounds that shape their expectations of care. Understanding this has helped me to develop a sense of trust with my patients and allowed me to offer the ideal blend of technical skill and human connection.

Discovering oral and maxillofacial surgery

Initially intending to become a general dentist, I found my true calling in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery during my first 2 years at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey. Courses in anatomy and pathology captured my interest, and clinical exposure confirmed the path forward.

Matching into the Jacobi/Beth Israel residency program was a turning point — it provided extensive training in trauma and orthognathic surgery and allowed me to stay close to my husband, whom I met in dental school. I am the daughter of a former school teacher and Department of Defense employee, with no relatives in medicine or dentistry.

Balancing career and family

I was born in Maryland and have spent nearly 25 years in northern New Jersey, embracing its diversity and richness. I began my career splitting time between private practice and a hospital setting. Soon, life at home also got a bit busier. I had two boys within 2 years, the second being born 1 month after I took my oral board exam. After several years in practice, I longed to be fully engaged with like-minded people, in a thriving and progressive oral surgery practice where I could be fully immersed and aligned with a unified culture.

Finding a home at Clifton Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

Over 11 years ago, I stepped into Clifton Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and immediately knew it was the right fit. Dr. Glenn Gorab, the founder, impressed me with his thoughtful approach and the practice philosophy: “Your Care, Our Commitment.” The environment was intentional, professional, and compassionate — exactly what I was seeking.

During that transition, I also was navigating early motherhood. To retain a sense of identity, I began marathon training. Running has become both a physical outlet and a mental space to reflect, plan surgeries, and build lasting friendships. To date, I’ve run 15 marathons and continue to meet with running partners several mornings a week.

Compassion at the core of care

Regardless of a procedure’s complexity, my approach to care remains consistent — empathy, clear communication, and setting expectations. I recognize that even a routine surgery may carry deep emotional weight for a patient. I treat patients as I
would family members or friends, taking my time to explain procedures and answer questions, and realizing that much of a patient’s fear of dentistry stems from the unknown.

The impact of dental implants and building a team-centered practice

Implants have become one of the most fulfilling aspects of my practice. In under an hour, I can restore oral function and confidence. Whether it is replacement of a congenitally missing lateral incisor, a 30-minute single implant procedure that a patient has been anticipating for 10 years, or a full-arch transformation, it is truly amazing what implants can do for a patient’s life.

What makes our practice unique isn’t just the cutting-edge technology — scanners, guided surgery, PRF, lasers — but the warmth and attentiveness patients receive from our entire team. We aim to ensure each patient feels genuinely cared for from start to finish.

Partnering with Specialty1 Partners

Specialty1 entered the picture at the perfect time in my professional and private life. In our geographic area, at a time when several specialty practices were joining larger management groups, Specialty1 has served as a branch of support to our already spectacular team. To both patients and staff, the transition was seamless.  We have continued to practice in the same manner as before the transition with regards to patient care, but Specialty1 has improved the business management component and has alleviated the stressors associated with practice management, all while allowing us to maintain the same clinical standards.

Continuous growth and collaboration

Work-life balance allows me to be present with my children while remaining fully engaged in my professional journey. Growth, however, requires ongoing learning. As co-chair of the Metro NJ ITI Study Club, I work alongside colleagues to explore every dimension of implantology. These meetings deepen our collective knowledge and raise the bar for patient outcomes. Within the office, collaboration between me and the other doctors helps to devise sound treatment plans for patients and obtain other perspectives for care. Dr. Gorab has 45 years of experience in treating patients, working with referrals, and managing the practice. Dr. El Hassan is a recent graduate and has a fresh perspective.

A practice built on passion and purpose

Clifton Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery is more than a workplace — it’s a community built on shared values. This is truly a team effort from a unique group of individuals that values patients and the practice as a whole. Our reputation is rooted in trust, skill, and heartfelt care. The compassion that patients experience at our office is what sets us apart from other practices. I feel fortunate to have found an office that is well supported, in a profession that I love. I look forward to what the future holds — for my practice, my patients, and my family.