A candid interview about finding passion, purpose, and artistry in dentistry
The journey from aspiring doctor to dedicated dentist isn’t always straightforward. For this young prosthodontist, it was a path of discovery that revealed how art, science, and compassion can merge into a fulfilling career. We sat down to discuss her transformation from a hesitant dental student to a passionate professional who sees every patient as an opportunity to restore not just smiles, but confidence.
Finding Your Path: When Plans Change
Q: You’ve mentioned that you always wanted to be a doctor. How did you end up choosing dentistry, and what was that transition like?
I always wanted to be a doctor since childhood. After clearing NEET, I got into MCODS, Mangalore. I’ll be honest—at first, I wasn’t very happy about choosing dentistry. But over time, I realized its benefits. It offers a good work-life balance and the perfect mix of art and science, which suited me because I’ve always been into art. Now, I see dentistry as more than a career—it’s my way to combine creativity with helping people.
Defining Moments: The Making of a Prosthodontist
Q: What were the key experiences during your education that shaped your decision to specialize in prosthodontics?
Several moments really shaped my journey. Becoming the Fine Arts Secretary of my college boosted my creativity and leadership skills in ways I hadn’t expected. My internship year was transformative—gaining real patient experience changed everything for me. Publishing research articles and attending workshops expanded my horizons, but most importantly, it was the constant motivation from my professors to push myself that led me to choose prosthodontics.
The Heart of Practice: What Drives You
Q: Dentistry can be demanding. What keeps you passionate, especially during challenging times?
What keeps me passionate, even during challenging times, is seeing the change I can bring to a patient’s life. Sometimes it’s not just about relieving pain—it’s about restoring their confidence. That moment when a patient looks in the mirror, smiles, and you can see their whole expression change—that’s priceless. The satisfaction of knowing I played a part in that transformation keeps me motivated to give my best, no matter how difficult the day gets.
Lessons from a Mentor: The True Measure of Success
Q: Who has been your biggest inspiration in the field?
My role model is my professor, Dr. Shobha. She may not be a big name online, but to me, she represents everything a true dentist should be. She’s an outstanding prosthodontist, but what really inspires me is her kindness, her patience with students, and her uncompromising work ethics. No matter how busy she is, she treats every patient with the same level of care and attention. Seeing her passion for dentistry and the respect she earns from patients and colleagues has taught me that success in this field isn’t just about skill—it’s about heart. That’s the kind of dentist I aspire to be.
Balancing Act: Life Beyond the Clinic
Q: How do you manage to balance the demands of your profession with personal interests and wellbeing?
Time management is the key for me. I start by prioritizing tasks based on deadlines and importance, so my academic work is completed without last-minute stress. During busy periods, I break larger tasks into smaller, achievable goals, which helps me stay consistent. I also make sure to set aside time for my hobbies like painting and cooking because they give me a creative break and keep me mentally fresh. Balancing the two not only helps me stay productive but also keeps me motivated and happy in the long run.
Words of Wisdom: Advice for Aspiring Dentists
Q: What advice would you give to students who are just beginning their journey in dentistry?
Don’t overthink or compare your journey with others. Give yourself time to grow, prioritize your health, and keep learning every day. Dentistry is constantly evolving, so staying curious and open to new skills will always keep you ahead. And remember, dentistry is the future—there are endless opportunities if you’re willing to work for them.
As our conversation draws to a close, it’s clear that this young professional embodies the future of dentistry: technically skilled, artistically minded, and deeply compassionate. Her journey reminds us that the path to finding one’s calling isn’t always linear, but with the right mindset and mentors, it can lead to a career that transforms lives—both the patients’ and one’s own.
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