If dentistry had a superhero league, Dr. Sunil Kumar would be in it—cape optional, but books and drills mandatory. With a journey fueled by grit, self-belief, and a pinch of philosophy from the Bhagavad Gita, Dr. Sunil is not just a dentist; he’s a mentor, author, and creator shaping the next generation of dental professionals. From humble beginnings in a Hindi-medium school to running his own clinic and sharing knowledge with thousands online, his story is one of determination, creativity, and heart.

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

Like most dentists, my journey began with a lot of confusion. I decided to pursue dentistry on my own—without influence, guidance, or knowing exactly what lay ahead. But I was ready, because I firmly believe that our decisions are our responsibility. No one else is accountable for our success or failure.

Coming from a Hindi-medium school, I initially struggled to study from English textbooks. I accepted early on that if I wanted to succeed, I had to work harder than my peers. I developed a method: learn a topic, understand it deeply, and then write it out repeatedly until it became second nature. When results were announced that year, I performed far better than I had ever imagined. That moment planted a seed of self-belief in me—the understanding that wholehearted effort can exceed expectations.

The first milestone of my journey was publishing my book Dentistry Unlocked, which gave me recognition as an author just after my internship. Later, I established my own practice, Dental Care World in Ajmer, where I experienced firsthand the challenges and rewards of running a clinic. Another defining moment came when I stepped into education and content creation—sharing knowledge with fellow dentists through YouTube [DENTAL JI] and online courses. This allowed me to reach a much wider community beyond the walls of my clinic.

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

My biggest inspiration has always been my parents. It was very hard for them to bear the financial burden of my education, yet they somehow managed it. I was never an extraordinary student—just a mediocre one who used to pass with average marks—but my parents trusted me. Whenever I face a challenge, I remember their sacrifices, and suddenly the challenge feels small compared to their hard work.

In India, students often blame colleges or professors for not teaching adequately—especially in dentistry. But I realized early that I could not wait for the system to change. I had to find my own way of learning. Complaining doesn’t solve problems. As the saying goes, “When there is a will, there is a way.” My advice to students is simple: don’t complain about what you cannot control. Instead, focus on finding your own way forward.

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

If you ask me about a role model, I would say it is not a person but a philosophy—from the Bhagavad Gita. The shloka “Karmanye vadhikaraste ma phaleshu kadachana” teaches us to do our work with full sincerity and leave the results to destiny.

In short: Do your best, and leave the rest.

This philosophy has helped me grow in every aspect of my career and life. I constantly strive to improve myself—physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. At the same time, I remind myself not to take things too seriously. Success is important, but so is enjoying life. Too often in the race for success, we forget to live.

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

Balancing academics with personal interests is less about doing everything at once and more about setting the right priorities. I make sure my academic responsibilities are clearly structured—I plan my week in advance, break down large tasks into smaller goals, and set realistic timelines. This keeps me on track and reduces last-minute stress.

I also see personal interests not as distractions, but as vital sources of balance and creativity. Whether it’s reading, fitness, or creative activities, hobbies recharge me, improve my focus, and help me return to academics with a fresh mind.

One strategy I follow is time-blocking: assigning dedicated slots for study and equally protected slots for personal interests. This way, I never feel like I’m sacrificing one for the other. Instead, I treat both as complementary parts of my growth.

Ultimately, it’s about balance and consistency: fulfilling academic duties with dedication while also nurturing personal interests to stay motivated, energetic, and well-rounded.

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

To my fellow young dentists and students:

You will face confusions and challenges. There may be moments when everything feels lost. At that time, put your phone aside, take a piece of paper, and write down the life you want exactly one year from now. Don’t copy anyone—just write what you truly desire.

Then ask yourself: If I give my 100%, is it really impossible to achieve this? And if it is possible, why am I so confused?

When you reflect this way, everything becomes clear.

Closing Note: Smile Like You Mean It

Dr. Sunil Kumar’s journey teaches us that dentistry is not just about drills and braces—it’s about persistence, self-belief, and the courage to carve your own path. So, to all the budding dentists out there: work hard, believe in yourself, and never forget to enjoy life along the way. After all, life’s too short to floss grudges. Keep smiling, keep learning, and maybe—just maybe—write your own book while you’re at it.

Meet Dr. Namrata Awariya—a woman who didn’t just choose dentistry, she committed to it like a long-term relationship: through deadlines, late nights, and the occasional “why did I do this to myself?” moment. She set out with one clear dream—to become the first doctor in her family—and then actually went ahead and did the work. Brave, right?

Her journey isn’t all glossy smiles and perfect impressions. It’s built on consistency, self-belief, and showing up even on days when motivation took a sick leave. She believes every tooth has a story, every patient deserves the best, and that learning never stops—especially when things don’t go exactly as planned.

In a profession that demands both precision and patience, Dr. Namrata brings compassion, discipline, and just the right amount of grit. This interview is her story—honest, inspiring, and proof that when you believe in yourself long enough, the dream eventually believes back.

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

With a dream of becoming the only doctor in my entire family, I began this long journey with just one thing in mind: you have to do this—you are made for this journey. Both my mind and heart wanted dentistry as my career path.

It was not easy leaving my family and staying away from them, as my college was far from home. However, with the constant support of my family and friends, this journey became easier. From first year to final year, I learned one crucial lesson—consistency and self-belief. Even on days when you don’t feel like working, you must keep going.

Dream big, because dreams do come true. Submissions, deadlines, and late nights eventually feel worth it. The strongest pillar of your success is you. If you believe it, it will happen.

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

Every case is different, and every tooth is unique. The motivation comes from trying to give the best possible treatmentto each patient. In the end, the appreciation and blessings you receive from patients are priceless.

Relieving someone’s pain is the best part of our profession. I truly love dentistry. Either you love what you do, or you do what you love—because every profession demands consistency and hard work. Even though it isn’t easy all the time, doing this makes me happy. Discovering something new every day keeps my passion alive.

3) Who is your role model in the dental field, and how has this person influenced you?

Dr. Janu Shah and Dr. Komal Majmudar are my role models. Watching them work so effortlessly and passionately motivates me to keep pushing myself. I once attended their conference, and it deeply influenced me.

They emphasized giving patients what they truly need and providing the highest quality treatment. One thing that stayed with me was this advice: you learn every day, and even failures are part of treatment because they teach you something. That thought encourages me to keep learning every single day.

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

I am very fond of watching movies and shows, and I feel the urge to watch every new release. However, with constant submissions and deadlines, that becomes difficult. So, I made sure to study consistently on weekdays, which allowed me to enjoy my weekends guilt-free.

During final year, I was more focused on academics, and this routine became hard to maintain. Instead of spending two hours watching movies, I started going for walks around the campus for refreshment. This helped me relax while saving time—reducing a two-hour break to just thirty minutes.

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

Dentistry may feel hard and saturated at times, but don’t quit. Escaping is not an option—keep working hard, and you will get through it. No matter how much time or effort it takes, in the end, it is worth it.

Some people believe dentistry is a saturated profession, but it is not. You deal with smiles, emotions, and lives every day. Rise each morning and treat every case as a new challenge. Because in the end, it is all worth it.

And just like that, the interview ends—but her story doesn’t. , but honestly, Dr. Namrata Awariya’s story? It’s still doing cartwheels in your brain.

Here’s the thing—dentistry isn’t all shiny tools and perfect smiles. Nope. It’s deadlines that feel like doom, teeth that refuse to cooperate, and those why-am-I-doing-this 3 a.m. moments. And yet, somehow, Dr. Namrata shows up. Every. Single. Day. With grit, grace, and a little bit of stubborn sparkle.

She doesn’t promise shortcuts or magic formulas. What she does promise is real: passion, persistence, and a heck of a lot of heart. And honestly? That’s way more valuable than any highlighter-marked textbook.

So, to all the dental students, aspiring dentists, and dreamers scrolling through this post: take a page from her book. Work hard, laugh at the chaos, keep learning, and never—ever—forget to believe in yourself.

Because if Dr. Namrata’s journey teaches us anything, it’s this: show up, keep shining, and the world will notice—even if it takes a few late nights and countless coffee cups.

Meet Dr. Sanigdha—the kind of dentist who didn’t just choose dentistry; dentistry slowly, stubbornly, and very convincingly chose her. She walks into the profession with curiosity in one hand, creativity in the other, and an unshakable belief that teeth deserve both science and style. Currently pursuing MDS in Prosthodontics, she treats dentistry less like a job and more like a lifelong love affair—complete with hard work, reflection, and the occasional existential crisis (handled gracefully, of course).

Passionate, resilient, and endlessly creative, Dr. Sanigdha believes smiles are built not just with precision, but with compassion, artistry, and a little bit of heart. She’s proof that when you mix discipline with dreams, and science with soul, you don’t just restore teeth—you make dentistry sparkle. 💫

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

My journey in the dental profession began rather unexpectedly. I always wanted to make people happy and bring smiles to their faces, but pursuing dentistry was not initially part of my plan. However, once I began my Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS), I was truly fascinated by the vast diversity, depth, and creativity that the field encompassed.

From the very beginning, I have been an all-rounder with strong leadership qualities and a creative mindset, and dentistry provided the perfect blend of science, precision, and artistry. I was particularly drawn to how dental practice intertwines clinical expertise with artistic skills, which not only restores function but also provides aesthetics and precision.

Over the years, this field has continued to inspire me—the more I learned, the stronger dentistry pulled me toward itself. Each stage of my journey has reinforced my belief that dentistry is not just a profession, but a dynamic, multifaceted art that evolves with compassion, innovation, and creativity. I am now currently pursuing MDS Prosthodontics, the field which is and will be my first and last love!

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

What continually inspires me to remain passionate and committed to dentistry, even during the most challenging times, is the profound sense of fulfillment I derive from my patients’ satisfaction. The genuine smile and gratitude reflected on their faces after treatment serve as a constant reminder of the purpose and impact of this profession. Their trust and appreciation motivate me to continually refine my skills and strive for excellence.

My love for dentistry is unwavering—it only deepens with time. This field’s remarkable diversity and boundless creativity set it apart; I truly believe no other profession harmonizes art, science, and innovation in such a beautiful way. Since childhood, I have been deeply inclined toward both artistic expression and scientific exploration, and dentistry embodies the perfect confluence of these two fields altogether.

I often feel that dentistry was destined for me—it aligns seamlessly with who I am and what I value. The profession has not only shaped my identity but continues to inspire me every single day to pursue mastery, compassion, and creativity in all that I do.

3) 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 is truly difficult for me to name just one role model in the dental field, as I have been fortunate to learn under the guidance of several remarkable mentors who have collectively shaped my professional journey. Each of them has contributed immensely to my growth in knowledge, skill, and confidence, and I owe a great part of my development to their mentorship and support.

I would especially like to acknowledge Dr. Moez Kakhiani, Dr. Manmeet Gulati, Dr. Manmohit Singh, Dr. Pratik Gupta, and Dr. Harsimran Singh Sethi—individuals whose depth of knowledge, clinical excellence, and unwavering passion for dentistry continue to inspire me every day. Their dedication to patient care, academic brilliance, and constant pursuit of innovation have not only refined my understanding of dentistry but have also instilled in me a profound sense of purpose and curiosity.

I deeply admire their humility, their commitment to continuous learning, and their ability to blend science with compassion in patient care. Observing their approach has taught me that dentistry extends far beyond technical skill—it is about empathy, precision, and a lifelong quest for excellence. These mentors have truly been the pillars of inspiration in my journey, shaping my vision of what it means to be a dedicated and compassionate dental professional.

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

From the very beginning of my dental journey, I have been deeply inclined toward learning and understanding every aspect of the field. My curiosity about how each dental procedure is performed has always fueled my academic enthusiasm. I realized early on, right from my first year, that dentistry is not just a profession for me—it is something I wish to dedicate my entire life to.

I have always been passionate about academics and continuously strive to push myself toward excellence. However, I also believe that true growth comes from balance. I always take time to breathe and pursue my personal interests such as dancing, painting, and, most importantly, content creation—activities that allow me to express my creativity and refresh my mind.

Time management plays a crucial role in maintaining this balance. I follow a flexible yet structured approach by creating a daily to-do list—not rigid schedules, but realistic goals that help me stay productive without burnout. One of my most effective approaches, which always helps me, is that I keep a “mistake diary.” Each day, I jot down key lessons, areas for improvement, and all my mistakes. This simple practice has significantly contributed to my personal and academic growth, shaping me into a more organized, reflective, and confident individual.

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

My heartfelt advice to all current dental students and aspiring dentists is—don’t let the challenges of this journey overpower you. I understand that dentistry can often feel demanding, exhausting, and at times even make you question your own choices.

But in those moments, remember to pause, breathe, and remind yourself that you are capable of achieving incredible things. No matter how intense this phase of your life is, never forget that this is only a part of your journey—not your entire life. Take short breaks when needed, allow yourself to reset, and return with a clearer mind and stronger determination. Stay positive, stay consistent, and most importantly, never ever give up.

If you give your hundred percent to dentistry, this field will reward you a thousandfold in return. The growth, satisfaction, and pride it brings along are truly limitless.

And as this conversation comes to a close, one thing is clear—Dr. Sanigdha’s journey is still very much in motion. Her words remind us that dentistry isn’t about having everything figured out from day one; it’s about showing up, learning relentlessly, embracing mistakes, and choosing passion even on the hardest days. With her blend of artistry, discipline, and heart, she represents a generation of dentists who don’t just treat patients but truly connect with them.

If there’s one takeaway from her story, it’s this: trust the process, stay curious, and never underestimate the power of loving what you do. Because when dentistry is driven by purpose and creativity, it doesn’t just shape careers—it shapes lives, one smile at a time.

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.

“Dentistry is saturated,” they said.
“Pick MBBS,” they said.
But Dr. Khushal Makhija? He looked at that mountain called Dentistry and thought—why not climb Everest instead? 🏔️✨

Armed with a NEET rank most would trade for, he still chose the drill over the stethoscope. And thank God he did—because his idea of success isn’t just fillings and crowns, it’s making sure no patient ever leaves the chair unsatisfied.

And here’s the kicker: in a world where most see limits, he sees opportunity. While others sigh at saturation, he smirks—because that’s just fewer people to compete with on his way to the top two percent.

Trust me, this is one interview you don’t want to skip. If you’ve ever wondered “Is dentistry really worth it?”—here’s your answer, served with grit, wit, and a little sparkle.

👉 Read the full interview in Dentowesome Monsoon 2025 | Issue No. 3 —