We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Sonali Patel to the Gillespie Dental Associates team! Dr. Patel brings fresh energy, a skilled perspective, and a passion for patient care to our practice. Today, we’ll be diving deeper into her background, dental philosophy, and what excites her most about joining our team!
Congratulations on completing your residency! What drew you to pursue dentistry as a career?
First off, thank you for the warm welcome and congratulations! I’m really excited to be part of the team!
As a first-generation college student, I had no idea what to expect as I embarked on my journey toward dentistry. I became involved, shadowed, and immersed myself in experiences to further expand my knowledge of what a career in dentistry could look like. I realized that I was fortunate to have the opportunity to not only work hard and become successful, but also help others along the way. This realization began to sculpt the direction of my future in dentistry.
Before entering dental school, I was able to travel to Trujillo, Peru, to learn and assist in health care across the area. We partnered up with a local clinic and began to shadow physicians and dentists daily. I had the opportunity to work alongside a general dentist and an oral surgeon in the local hospital and assist them as they put numerous smiles upon children’s faces. Through this experience, I was able to get a first-hand look into the daily life of practicing dentists and oral surgeons. During my time in Peru, I saw many procedures such as dental prophylaxis, restorations, root canal treatments, and extractions. One of the most memorable procedures I witnessed was a cleft palate surgery on a young boy that had been paid for by a local organization. I was extremely fortunate to have been given the opportunity to observe alongside the oral surgeons, and the gratitude that the young boy and his family showed was the most rewarding experience of it all – their emotions reaffirmed why I am pursuing my career in dentistry.
It sounds like your hands on experiences solidified your passion for dentistry. After your conversations with Dr. Gillespie, what most attracted you about joining the team at Gillespie Dental Associates?
What most attracted me to joining the team at Gillespie Dental Associates is the strong sense of community and commitment to patient care that Dr. Gillespie emphasizes. The team’s collaborative environment and dedication to continuous learning and improvement aligns well with my professional values and aspirations. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to and grow with such a dynamic and patient-focused practice.
We are excited to learn more about your training at Mountain Area Health Education Center. What were some of the most valuable lessons you experienced during your residency at MAHEC?
My residency experience at MAHEC was incredibly enriching. Some of the most valuable lessons I learned include the importance of patient-centered care and the ability to adapt to a diverse range of patient needs. I also gained significant experience in handling complex cases and improving my diagnostic skills. Furthermore, the mentorship and collaborative environment at MAHEC taught me the value of continuous learning and the importance of teamwork in providing comprehensive care.
We have a long history of building strong patient relationships. What qualities do you think are essential in contributing to this legacy?
I believe that some essential qualities that contribute to this legacy include empathy, active listening, and clear communication. It’s important to make patients feel heard and understood, addressing their concerns with compassion and respect. Building strong patient relationships is fundamental to providing exceptional dental care. Additionally, maintaining a high standard of professionalism, reliability, and integrity helps build trust. Continuously updating one’s skills and knowledge to offer the best possible care also demonstrates a commitment to patient well-being, further strengthening these relationships.
Those qualities are going to be very well-received by our team and patient base. How do you approach putting patients at ease, especially those with dental anxiety?
I start by creating a welcoming and calm environment in the operatory. I make sure to listen to their concerns and fears without judgment, providing reassurance and understanding. Explaining procedures clearly and answering any questions they might have on the front end helps demystify the process and reduce anxiety. Building a relationship based on trust and empathy is key to helping patients feel more relaxed and confident about their dental care.
Do you have a specific treatment philosophy you aim to integrate into your practice?
My treatment philosophy centers around providing patient-centered care with a focus on preventive dentistry. I believe in educating patients about the importance of oral health and empowering them to take an active role in their care. This includes thorough explanations of treatment options and collaborative decision-making to ensure that each patient feels informed and involved. Additionally, I emphasize minimally invasive procedures and evidence-based practices to achieve the best outcomes. My goal is to build long-term relationships with patients, promoting a comprehensive approach to their overall health and well-being.
Providing a comprehensive approach to patients means staying in the know. How do you envision staying up-to-date on the latest advancements in dentistry?
I plan to regularly attend professional conferences, workshops, and continuing education courses to keep up to date of new techniques, technologies, and research findings. I will subscribe to leading dental journals and participate in online forums and professional networks to exchange knowledge with peers. Additionally, being an active member of professional organizations and engaging in peer discussions and study groups will help me stay connected with new trends and innovations.
If you could have any superpower related to dentistry, what would it be?
If I could have any superpower related to dentistry, it would be radiographic vision. This ability would allow me to instantly and accurately see the internal structures of teeth and gums without the need for X-rays or other imaging equipment. With radiographic vision, I could diagnose issues more quickly and precisely, leading to more efficient and effective treatment plans. It would also enhance patient comfort and convenience, as they wouldn’t need to undergo additional procedures for imaging. Overall, this superpower would greatly improve the quality of care I can provide to my patients.
Between your residency program, preparing for your start at Gillespie Dental Associates, and even getting engaged, you’ve been busy! When you are not at the practice, what are some of your hobbies and interests?
When I am not practicing dentistry, I love staying active and enjoying a variety of hobbies. I’m a big fan of pickleball and also enjoy swimming. Reading is another passion of mine, and I’m always on the lookout for a good book. Spending quality time with friends and family is very important to me, whether we’re catching up over a meal, going for a hike, or just hanging out. I also love cooking and experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen.
It is clear you’re invested in building relationships and that your hobbies align with all that Asheville has to offer. What plans do you have, or how are you already involved in the Asheville area community?
During my residency, I had the privilege of volunteering with Buncombe County Schools to provide dental care to children (K-5th grade), which was an incredibly rewarding experience. Looking ahead, I am excited to continue my community involvement in Asheville. I plan to volunteer at the upcoming Mission of Mercy (MOM) clinic in September, where I will have the opportunity to provide free dental care to those in need. Additionally, I aim to participate in local health fairs and educational events to promote oral health awareness. Building strong relationships within the community and giving back through these initiatives is something I am genuinely passionate about as I establish myself in Asheville.
Dr. Patel, we are thrilled to see all you will accomplish at Gillespie Dental Associates. Your exceptional training and commitment to patient care make you an invaluable addition to our team!