How is your company/business pivoting to changes from the COVID-19 pandemic?
A positive attitude of embracing change. We have been listening, learning, and implementing rapidly. The rule of thumb has been adaptability since oftentimes new protocols quickly need to be fine-tuned as information evolves. A few of the safety measures we have put in place are a thorough screening questionnaire, thermal scans of all staff and patients, the requirement of masks upon entry, social distancing for seating, hypochlorous acid disinfectant and foggers, air filtration systems in every operatory and reception room, enhanced personal protective equipment (PPE) with UV disinfection of masks, disinfectant mouthwash, and additional high-speed suction options to minimize aerosols. Ultimately, we rely on an entire suite of safety precautions that, when all used in conjunction, afford us the highest level of safety for our patients and our staff.
How do you maintain your own health/well-being?
I enjoy exercising on a pilates reformer, hiking, and swimming with my kids. I focus on a low-carb and nutrient-dense diet; however, I still make room for the occasional dessert. Quiet time to appreciate my family and friends, or simply the outdoors gives me the most reliable sense of peace. In regards to the pandemic, I do my part by adhering to all safety recommendations at work and at home.
How has the COVID-19 pandemic positively affected your career/business?
Our team has seen this as an opportunity to practice gratitude and appreciation for our patients, our health, our profession, and each other as a support system for each other. It has strengthened our teamwork mentality and we’ve really aligned to a unified vision to stay safe during the pandemic.
What are your daily habits?
Daily habits include games with my kids (eg., Uno, swimming, and cooking), listening to podcasts on health or technology, practicing a new skill like piano, or learning something new like Hiragana. Music is ever-present in my life and much of my recreational time is complemented by music. Finally and most importantly, my favorite pastime is any time with my wife. Currently, we daydream about different staycations we could arrange.
What have been the most exciting things about this job/business/industry?
At the height of the shutdown, we were limiting our office services to emergencies only. Helping these patients really highlighted why we do what we do. It not only gives great satisfaction to help those in pain, but it also emphasizes the importance of preventive care to maintain our oral health.
Did you always know you wanted to be in health and wellness, or is this something that happened over time?
My mother is a retired pediatric RN, so I grew up viewing the medical community and science with the utmost respect. Good relationships with my dentist and my orthodontist inspired me to consider a specific path in dentistry. Enjoying working with people and my appreciation for artwork in school convinced me that I would find professional satisfaction.
Who is someone you look up to or model after? A mentor?
Both of my grandfathers. One for his charisma, storytelling, laughter, and ability to lead a successful business school and family. The other for his craftsmanship as a carpenter, building his own home and teaching his craft to my father. Finally, my parents who taught me to always be fair and use common sense.
