I was eight years old when I learned what dentistry should never feel like.
Growing up in Cuba, access to dental care was limited, and compassion was not always part of the experience. During my first dental visit, I needed a filling. There was no anesthesia. I was held down in the chair, overwhelmed with fear and pain, while my cries were dismissed. In that moment, I was not treated as a child, but as a procedure to be completed. I left that appointment frightenedbut also certain of one thing: I wanted to become the kind of provider who would never allow a patient to feel that way.
That experience shaped my understanding of dentistry at its core. Dentistry is not only about clinical skill; it is about empathy, trust, and human connection. It means treating each patient as if they were a member of your own familyensuring they feel heard, respected, and safe.
In 2013, I immigrated to the United States without knowing the language. Adjusting to a new country was one of the greatest challenges of my life. While waiting nearly two years for my residency papers, I was unable to attend school, so I took it upon myself to learn English independently. I remember moments of frustration and even being laughed at when I struggled to communicate, but instead of discouraging me, those experiences strengthened my determination. I decided that language would not be a barrierit would become my bridge to opportunity.
Once I was able to enroll in college, I had already learned English on my own, and I committed myself fully to my education. I progressed step by step, overcoming obstacles and building confidence. I was introduced to dental hygiene during my early college years, and I immediately felt connected to the profession. The opportunity to educate patients, promote preventive care, and build lasting relationships resonated deeply with me. In 2020, I graduated as valedictorian from FSW Dental Hygiene programan achievement that once felt impossible when I first arrived in this country. I later continued my education and earned my bachelors degree in dental hygiene, further strengthening my knowledge and skills.
Since graduating, I have been practicing as a dental hygienist, gaining invaluable clinical experience and developing meaningful relationships with my patients. I have learned how to ease anxiety, build trust, and create a positive environmentespecially for those who arrive fearful, as I once was.
During this journey, I also became a mother. My children are my world, my motivation, and my greatest source of strength. Balancing my roles as a parent, student, and healthcare professional has not been easy, but it has strengthened my resilience, discipline, and perseverance. With the unwavering support of my husband and family, I have continued to pursue my goals while volunteering at free yearly community events, such as Smiles for the Community, which provide care to those in need. At these events, I have served not only as a hygienist but also as a dental assistant.
Last year, I asked myself a question that changed everything: Why stop here? Why not pursue the dream that began when I was eight years old? That question reignited my ambition to become a dentist. While the path forward is demanding, my experiences have prepared me for this next step, and my purpose has never been clearer.
I am committed to becoming a dentist who provides not only high-quality clinical care but also compassion and understanding. I want every patientespecially childrento feel safe, valued, and respected in my care. My journeyfrom a frightened child in a dental chair, to an immigrant learning a new language, to a valedictorian and practicing dental hygienisthas given me both the perspective and the determination to make a meaningful difference.
I am ready to continue growing, learning, and serving others through dentistry.
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