Finding My Purpose in Dentistry
Finding My Purpose in Dentistry
During my second year of dental school, I had the opportunity to go on a mission trip to Haiti. At that time, I was struggling with depression during my first and second years of dental school. I felt lost and wasn’t sure what my purpose was.
In Haiti, our team traveled to churches and schools to provide dental care, including extracting teeth that could no longer be saved. Dental treatment was not affordable or easily accessible for many people there.
We didn’t have the luxury of a dental chair, X-rays, or the technology I was used to. Patients would sit in a regular chair and lift their heads so we could provide treatment. I had the privilege of learning extraction techniques from very experienced oral surgeons.
But the most important lessons I learned weren’t just about dentistry.
I remember seeing teeth being extracted and realizing that once a tooth is gone, it doesn’t grow back. It made me truly appreciate how fortunate we are in the United States to have advanced technology, preventive treatments, and access to modern dental care.
That experience changed the way I see dentistry.
It made me passionate about preventive dentistry—teaching children and families how to prevent cavities and gum disease rather than waiting until treatment is needed.
It also taught me to slow down, listen, and be compassionate toward every patient and family. Everyone has a different story, and sometimes what a patient needs most is understanding and kindness.
Looking back, my trip to Haiti came during a time when I felt lost. Somehow, that experience helped me find my direction.
Haiti didn’t just teach me how to provide dental care. It helped me discover my purpose in dentistry. ❤️🦷
