I’m a General Dentist at Charles River and have been working here for more than 32 years! In addition to seeing patients, I am also the Manager of Dental Education and oversee dental externs from Harvard and Tufts who rotate through our clinic every few months. On designated days, I supervise students and provide evaluations at the end of their rotation. I really enjoy the teaching side of my role. Mentoring students gives me the chance to share what it’s like to work in a community health center and exposes them to the importance of accessible, compassionate care. It’s rewarding to help shape their perspectives and professional growth.
Every job I’ve ever had has been in the dental field. I started as a dental assistant in high school and continued through undergrad, and that’s when I fell in love with dentistry. During my final year at Boston University, while earning my dental degree, I also worked as a hygienist. Having experience as both a dental assistant and a hygienist has given me a well-rounded perspective and a deeper appreciation for every role within the dental team.
It can be challenging when we encounter delays in our treatment plans, especially when appointments are spaced far apart or when patients miss scheduled visits. Sometimes, a patient may just need a simple filling, but due to scheduling delays or no-shows, that minor issue can progress into something more serious, like a root canal or even an extraction. It’s frustrating because timely care could prevent more invasive treatment, but access and scheduling barriers sometimes get in the way.
What I love most about my work is caring for my patients. Many of them are incredibly sincere and genuinely grateful for the treatment they receive. Over the past 30 years, I have had the privilege of building lasting relationships and watching entire families grow. I do not just see them as patients, but as friends. They share not only their dental concerns, but also stories about their families and personal lives. I also feel honored to be one of the few employees who has seen Charles River’s growth over the years. We have expanded from just three dental operatories to ten, and I am proud that we can now reach and care for even more people in the community.