Embarking on a post-doc dental residency was an amazing eye opening experience. I had no idea how profoundly it would shape the clinician and person I would become. Training at Erie County Medical Center (ECMC), a county hospital in Buffalo, New York, was a whirlwind of clinical intensity, emotional growth, and discovery. More than just a place to refine my technical skills, ECMC became the setting where my treatment philosophy began to take shape—anchored in collaboration, compassion, and comprehensive care.
Looking back, ECMC was more than a residency. It was a proving ground, a place where I grew into a provider who could navigate complex systems, communicate across disciplines, and meet patients wherever they were. It taught me that great dentistry is not defined by a procedure; it’s defined by patience, perspective, and respect for the people around you.
From the moment I arrived on the hospital grounds, it became immediately apparent that I would be immersed in a world of interdisciplinary collaboration, engaging closely with professionals from otolaryngology, behavioral health, nephrology, anesthesiology, family medicine, and the emergency department. Reviewing complex medical histories, analyzing lab values, and pathology reports became daily routine, enriching my understanding of holistic patient care and the importance of a multidisciplinary approach. It was in this environment that I truly learned what it means to treat a patient, not just a condition.
The clinical rotations were as diverse as they were demanding. Some days, I found myself assisting in the operating room, managing dental trauma amidst the chaos of the emergency department. Other days, I was in long-term care facilities, treating elderly patients with dignity and gentleness. I often worked with the oral oncology and maxillofacial prosthodontics team, witnessing firsthand the resilience of patients facing an unimaginable diagnosis. Each rotation added a new layer to my understanding of dentistry’s role in whole-body health and gave me a deeper sense of purpose in my work.
I also had the opportunity to participate in research exploring transplant clearance protocols; a project that pushed me to think critically about how we assess risk and plan care for medically compromised patients. Weekly seminars, literature reviews, treatment planning sessions, and implant study clubs challenged me intellectually and kept me connected to practice evidence-based dentistry.
But what I remember most vividly is not just the clinical grind was the people.
One of the most enriching aspects of my dental residency was the opportunity to learn alongside my co-residents. The value of this collaborative environment cannot be overstated. Each of us brought unique perspectives, experiences, and expertise to the table, creating a vibrant tapestry of knowledge and insight. Whether it was discussing complex cases, sharing treatment approaches, or simply offering support during challenging times, our interactions were a constant source of learning and growth. This camaraderie fostered an atmosphere of mutual respect and continuous clinical improvement, where we not only honed our skills but also developed a deeper understanding of diverse patient care strategies.
That camaraderie, that sense of being in it together, transformed even the most exhausting days into something meaningful. The collective wisdom and diverse viewpoints of my co-residents were instrumental in helping form my well-rounded, empathetic approach to dentistry.
I also had the privilege of serving as a chief resident; which was both exhilarating and daunting. It meant shouldering the responsibility of managing medically complex patients, particularly in the realm of patients with special health care needs (SHCN). Every week we conducted multiple operating room cases for patients under general anesthesia due to the severity of their medical conditions. This challenging role was made significantly more manageable and fulfilling thanks to the support of my kindhearted co-chief resident. His compassion, unwavering dedication, and collaborative spirit were a constant source of inspiration. His willingness to share knowledge, provide constructive feedback, and offer a listening ear during stressful times created a supportive environment that fostered professional growth. The collaboration and synergy not only enhanced our ability to manage the demanding workload but also enriched our learning experiences. I am profoundly grateful for his kindness and camaraderie, which made the daunting responsibilities of being a co-chief resident a truly rewarding endeavor. His demeanor reminded me daily of the power of humility, kindness, and teamwork in medicine.
Of course, none of this would have been possible without the guidance of our attending doctors. Their expertise was undeniable but what I appreciated most was their patience, their willingness to teach, and the way they saw potential in each of us, even on the days we felt overwhelmed. Their mentorship taught me to pause, to reflect, to lead with empathy, and to always stay curious. Their wisdom, expertise, and unwavering dedication was essential to my growth as a dental professional. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to each attending doctor for their mentorship, and invaluable insights shared during my training. Their encouragement and belief in my potential were instrumental in shaping me into a comprehensive and compassionate provider. To the attendings, co-residents, assistants, administrators, IT staff, and every patient who trusted me during that part of my journey; I sincerely thank you.
ECMC didn’t just sharpen my skills; it deepened my purpose. It showed me that when we lead with humility, learn in community, and treat the whole patient, we don’t just become better dentists, we become better human beings.