Forward by Paula Parker, Wellness Editor – The Profitable Dentist
At The Profitable Dentist, we believe it’s not just what happens in the operatory that defines success—it’s what happens outside of it. In this issue’s “Outside the Op,” we’re honored to spotlight a true dental icon, Dr. Timothy Kosinski. While many know him for his leadership in implant dentistry, few know the story behind the accolades—the journey, the challenges, and the intentional choices he’s made to maintain balance and stay grounded.
In his own words, Dr. Kosinski opens up about his path into dentistry, how he carves out space for health and personal joy, and the wisdom he’s gained through a career spent both in the operatory and far beyond it.
Who I Am—As a Dentist and a Person
Becoming a dentist wasn’t part of my original plan. I was pursuing a career in biochemistry with a PhD fellowship at Wayne State when my mentor—someone I deeply respected—took me to lunch and gave me a dose of real talk. He told me he saw talent in me but also warned me that the academic route was grueling. His advice got me thinking, and maybe because my dad and brother were both carpenters, I applied to dental school. I was accepted, and the rest, as they say, is history.
Dental school was a joy after the rigors of my PhD program, and I spent my off time working as a respiratory technician. That job—caring for patients in a hospital setting—instilled in me just how precious health really is. That lesson has stayed with me.
My Education and Path into Dentistry
I got lucky early in my career. I landed a residency at Miami Valley Hospital in Dayton, Ohio, where I learned so much—not just about clinical dentistry, but about patient communication. Then I came home to Detroit and worked under Dr. Paul Mentag, an implant pioneer who gave me a 10-year head start in clinical excellence. He took me to conferences, exposed me to innovation, and pushed me to be great. Eventually, I started my own practice from scratch, designing the workflow myself, and it still serves us well today.
Biggest Challenges as a Practice Owner Right Now
Today, I’m proud to say I’ve placed over 19,000 dental implants. I’ve never participated with dental insurance, which gives me the freedom to treat patients based on what’s best—not what’s billable. My daughter Jessica runs the business side of the practice, which allows me to focus on patient care and my lecture schedule. I lectured 26 weekends in 2024 and may surpass that in 2025!
But let me tell you, finding balance between that pace and personal well-being? That’s the real challenge.
How I Make Time for Life Outside the Practice
I’ve learned to be fiercely protective of my time. I don’t work Fridays, Saturdays, or Sundays. Those weekends I’m not traveling; I escape to my home in Harbor Springs—our version of heaven “Up North.” That’s where I recharge. One of my closest friends, Dr. Mike Pierce, has been a mentor and buddy for years. We meet for dinner, talk, take boat rides—he’s a reminder of the joy in simply living.
Inspired by Mike, I saw how dentistry could be a career and a lifestyle. He worked four short days a week, three weeks a month, and traveled the fourth. That’s a kind of balance I aspire to.
What Brings Me Balance and Helps Me Decompress
A few years ago, I lost 62 pounds in preparation for a knee replacement. That commitment led me to Pilates. Twice a week—no excuses. My team knows that if a patient is late on Mondays or Wednesdays, they’re rescheduled. That time is sacred. It’s my investment in staying strong, staying centered. I went from having “a keg” to “a two-pack.” Not bad, right?
Outside of dentistry, I don’t read fiction—only history. I’m a car guy, too. My father once bought me a Mazda RX7 during dental school. Coolest car ever. I sold it when I became a dad, but years later, I got it back by doing six veneers for a friend. We did a full restoration. Now when I’m racing down the road in Northern Michigan, I feel 25 again. Love my Porsche and Mustang, too!
What Most People Don’t Know About Me
People often ask what I do for fun, and I have to think about it. I love writing. I love speaking. That is my fun. That’s how I give back.
Of course, nothing compares to being a grandpa. Baby Brooklyn has changed everything. She’s the center of our universe. My dedication to her has brought a new kind of joy—one that’s quiet, unconditional, and full of meaning.
Staying Grounded Through Relationships
I’ve made it a point to stay connected with people who matter. My lifelong friends like Tom, Denny, Lorna, Mike, Marni, Eric, Rob—they keep me real. They remind me that who you are outside the op is what makes you whole.
Favorite Quote and What It Means to Me
One of my favorite quotes comes from Neil Young: “It’s better to burn out than fade away.” I push myself, yes—but I also recognize the value in pressing pause. That’s what keeps the fire going.
Editor’s Note:
Dr. Timothy Kosinski is an Affiliated Adjunct Clinical Professor at the University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry and currently serves as the Editor of the AGD journals General Dentistry and AGD Impact. He has placed over 19,000 implants, authored more than 250 articles, and received numerous honors including the Academy of Dentistry International’s Humanitarian Award. He lives and practices in Bingham Farms, Michigan. You can reach him at drkosin@aol.com.
