I was looking through some of our early advertising and came across the first spot we ran in the Locals Guide (next to this column!). I came to the somewhat awkward realization that I’ve spent the last 3 years introducing our practice and staff but very little time introducing my background. In my junior year of high school, one of my mentors suggested dentistry as a profession. Dr. Tessing noticed my attention to detail and drive towards higher education at an early age, and he was a little partial to the profession as a long standing dentist in our town. Before college I learned how dentistry provides those in the field an enjoyable opportunity to combine science and medicine with technology, engineering and craftsmanship while helping people in the process! In 2001 I was fortunate to be selected into an accelerated program and graduated Cum Laude simultaneously from both the School of Biology and the School of Dentistry at the University of Missouri – Kansas City in 2007.
So often I’m asked how my family and I chose Southern Oregon and I really enjoy the conversations that evolve with new friends, colleagues, and our clientele. During my fourth year of dental school, my wife and I sought out an adventure and we both enjoyed the prospect of moving to the Pacific Northwest. Having been born in Washington and Lauren having family in Portland, our decision was relatively simple once we discovered Southern Oregon! Having lived here for nearly 10 years, we are frequently amazed by new experiences and enjoy sharing the culture, beauty, and uniqueness of Southern Oregon with our children. I am proud of our community and how welcoming it is to those who relocate to our Valley.
Now you know a little more about me and how I got into the practice of dentistry. We all have a story, for most of us it is enjoyable to share, and I look forward to hearing yours someday. Lastly, I’d like to extend an invitation to the community high schoolers and college students: If you have an interest in dentistry, please feel free to talk with us! If not us, then with your dentist or hygienist. If you haven’t been to a dentist or hygienist in too long, reach out to any of us – our community has fantastic dental resources, and we are here at White Dental Studio to provide exceptional dentistry in an environmentally friendly setting.
