From wax carvings to real-life artistry — Dr Janhavi Bangar’s journey through dentistry is a story of growth, grit, and genuine passion. In this candid interview, she opens up about the milestones that shaped her, the mentors who molded her mindset, and the balance between precision and play in her life as a young dentist.

Beginnings: Finding Meaning in Every Milestone

1️⃣ Can you share how your path in the dental profession began and the key milestones that shaped it?

Honestly, my path started a bit like a wax carving — rough at the edges but shaping into something meaningful. One of my earliest “wow” moments was assisting in an implant surgery. I remember thinking, “We literally put screws into bone and call it art — this is wild and fascinating!” Another turning point was getting 73% in my first year. It wasn’t just a grade; it was proof that I could actually be good at this. Then came the decision to pursue masters and later my internship at GDC Mumbai as an extern — that’s where it clicked: Yes, MDS is my road. Each of these milestones felt like building blocks, shaping not just my career, but also my confidence in it.

Passion That Persists: Finding Joy in Every Smile

2️⃣ What inspires you to stay passionate and committed to dentistry, even during challenging times?

For me, it’s simple — dentistry gives me the rare privilege of seeing the impact of my work almost instantly. A patient walks in hiding their smile, and after treatment, they walk out grinning ear to ear. That transformation, that joy — it’s addictive. It reminds me every day why I chose this. Sure, there are tough times — long hours, endless reading, sometimes frustrating cases — but then I remember what Dr. G.V. Black, the father of modern dentistry, once said: “The professional man has no right to be other than a continuous student.” So even when I’m tired, the idea that I’m constantly learning while helping someone regain their smile keeps me moving.

Mentorship and Inspiration: The People Behind the Progress

3️⃣ Who is your role model in the dental field and how has this person influenced your approach to patient care, academics, or professional growth?

It’s impossible to pick just one — every mentor I’ve had has shaped me in some way, like different teeth in the same arch, each serving its unique function.

• Dr. Swati Pustake has been my guiding light. Her calmness in difficult situations taught me lessons that no textbook ever could.
• Dr. Bikash Pattnaik inspires me daily with his combination of brilliance and humility — he’s living proof that academics, health, and fun can coexist beautifully.
• Dr. Komal Majumdar and Dr. Moez are orators who can hold a room’s attention like no one else — they’ve shown me that communication is just as vital as clinical skill.

Together, they’ve shaped my philosophy: dentistry isn’t just about perfecting your hand skills — it’s about shaping your mindset, resilience, and ability to connect with people.

Balance Beyond the Clinic: Living Life Fully

4️⃣ Could you discuss the strategies you use to manage academic responsibilities alongside your personal interests or hobbies?

My strategy is simple: dentistry is a part of my life, not my entire life. On most days, I’m the dedicated student, clinician, and resident — working 12–13 hours if needed. But I’ve also promised myself that I won’t lose out on living. That one free day or Sunday, I make sure I really live — whether it’s brunch with friends, a trek, volleyball, painting, creating content, or even participating in college fests and fashion shows. After all, what’s the point of being a prosthodontist if you don’t know how to fix the “missing tooth” of fun in your own life? As the saying goes, “Don’t get so busy making a living that you forget to make a life.”

Words of Wisdom: Lessons for Aspiring Dentists

5️⃣ What advice would you give to current dental students and aspiring dentists?

My biggest advice is have clear intent, stronger than your luting cement. Dentistry is demanding, yes, but if your values are strong ,whether it’s honesty in studies, compassion in patient care, or integrity in friendships , you’ll stand strong no matter what. Patients can always sense genuine energy; if you’re invested in them, half the treatment is already successful.

And don’t forget to have fun along the way , pursue the things you’re passionate about outside dentistry too, because that joy will reflect in the kind of dentist you become. Like Dr. William Osler said: “The good physician treats the disease; the great physician treats the patient who has the disease.” I’d like to believe the same applies to us: “The good dentist restores the tooth; the great dentist restores the smile — and the person behind it.”