Few dentists can say they’ve helped build a dental school from scratch, but Sarah Hardin, DDS, FAGD, can. 

As the founding chair of clinical sciences at Lyon College School of Dental Medicine, Arkansas’s first dental school, Hardin is helping design a program that will leave a lasting mark on dental education and access to care in the state.

“Building a dental program from the ground up means that every decision, from curriculum design to clinic structure and student culture, shapes the legacy we’re creating,” she said. “It’s a rare opportunity to influence the kind of dentists we graduate and, ultimately, the communities they’ll serve.”

Although still young in her career, Hardin earned her FAGD and brings experience in clinical practice and hospital-based dental education to her role. Her teaching philosophy centers on empathy, critical thinking and mentorship. 

“No one learns best when they don’t feel safe to make mistakes or ask questions,” she said. “Real growth happens when you have to think critically, troubleshoot and find your way through a challenge.”

For Hardin, education is not about memorizing procedures; it’s about cultivating adaptable, lifelong learners. 

“I want students to understand the reasoning behind every clinical decision they make,” she said. 

One of those students, Nour El Ammar, nominated Hardin to this year’s 10 Dentists to Watch list. 

“[Hardin] represents the very best of what the next generation of dentists can be,” El Ammar said. “She is knowledgeable, approachable and deeply invested in her students’ success, often staying late to guide us and creating a culture where learning feels meaningful.”

Looking ahead, Hardin hopes her work continues to bridge academic excellence with real-world care.

“My goal is to graduate dentists who understand that being a general dentist means being both a clinician and an advocate for their community,” she said. “General dentists are often the first point of contact for patients. Strengthening that foundation through education, mentorship and community partnerships is where lasting impact happens.”