Five Years of Dedication: My Husband's Journey to Dental Surgery Excellence

My husband's journey to becoming a skilled dental surgeon was years in the making. He graduated from the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) in 1961, but his path to mastery was about to take an unexpected turn. In 1961, the draft meant that he was sent to Letterman General Hospital in San Francisco for oral surgery training. During his brief but intense two years in practice before being drafted, he had handled a variety of emergencies and routine dental procedures, often in challenging conditions.

Living with Routine Accidents

Our life was split between a town where the oil fields were the heart of the community. In this setting, accidents were a daily occurrence. The combination of daily traumas and emergencies necessitated that my husband and I were constantly on our toes, working on shattered jaws, performing normal oral surgeries, and managing trauma cases. His skills were honed through the practical and often challenging hands-on experience.

Advancing to Dental Surgery

Upon completing his time at Letterman General Hospital, my husband continued to advance his skills in the field of dental surgery. One of the significant milestones in his career was the dental implant procedure in 1966. At that time, dental implants were considered experimental. Despite the experimental nature, he pressed on, driven by his desire to improve treatment options for his patients. This period was instrumental in establishing him as a skilled and dedicated dentist.

Mastering Peri- and Oral Surgical Procedures

During his career, my husband excelled in various areas of dental surgery. He performed a wide range of surgical procedures independently, including periodontal (peri-) and oral surgeries. His expertise in these areas was complemented by his lack of orthodontic practice, which he believed required too much time and attention. This decision allowed him to specialize in areas he found more fulfilling.

Trailblazing a New Approach

One of the most significant achievements in my husband's early career was his ability to outline the Patient Data Record (PDR). This innovative approach not only improved the way dental data was handled but also set a new standard for record-keeping in dentistry. It was a sign of his keen intellect and forward-thinking approach to his profession.

A Humble and Intelligent Man

My husband's dedication and skill in dentistry were unparalleled, but his character stood out as well. He was never one to seek admiration for his accomplishments. Instead, he remained brilliantly humble. His respect for his patients and colleagues was evident in his every action, and his commitment to improving their lives was unwavering. His ability to balance intelligence with humility remains a true testament to his character.

Conclusion

The journey of my husband to becoming a respected dental surgeon was a testament to his dedication and skill. Born out of a series of unexpected events, his path to excellence was paved with practical experience, experimental procedures, and innovative approaches. His story is a reminder of the importance of perseverance, intelligence, and humility in the profession of dentistry. If you are interested in learning more about dental surgery or dental implants, this journey offers valuable insights into the dedication and skill required in this field.