Dentist - Long Island City, NY

Background

Hi, I'm Dr. David Chen and it is a pleasure to meet all of you! I'm a native New Yorker and grew up in Flushing, Queens. I also have one younger sister but can you guess what she does? You may be surprised.

How I got started in Dentistry:

For the longest time ever since 5th grade I've been having periodic recurring dental nightmares. That had to do with the fact that we would occasionally play hockey during gym class with no protection and what do you know? Of course some guy twice my size knocks my front tooth out. Ever since then, I've avoided dentistry and hockey like a vampire avoids garlic. It wasn't until after college that I decided to give dentistry another look. You know, maybe all of those dreams meant something? So I gave it a try by working at a dental office for a few years. After experiencing what it was like to be a dental assistant and having a few years of experience under my belt, I went off to dental school. To me, the most valuable lesson that I learned during my time at Columbia University College of Dental Medicine was that anything was possible as long as you pursue it with pure intentions. While we're here, I also want to give a shout out to all my classmates, class of 2016!!!

Anyway back to how I got into dentistry... Interestingly enough, I no longer have dental nightmares so if I can face my fears, maybe you can too. Even more interestingly, I also picked up ice skating recently and have learned to appreciate the winter sports a lot more. That hockey footwork is amazing.

Everything comes full circle doesn't it?

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My favorite aspect of being a Dentist:

It's not so much about practicing as a dentist but rather the interaction that occurs between my patients and I. Its hard to describe in words because each and every encounter is unique in itself. Even if I'm not having the greatest day, that can all change when I meet someone that I just click with. Its good to take care of people but its just a whole other level when you get to take care of someone that you like!

Also for those who are very anxious and nervous, it becomes sort of a game for me to try to break every preconceived notion that you have about us and dentistry. Getting those bleeding gums and tooth cavity under control becomes secondary to making you comfortable. I want everyone to not fear going to the dentist. I want everyone to be so healthy that they only need to come for check ups and cleanings. The only way to achieve that is if you're not afraid.

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This does not mean that I'm not interested in the dentistry itself. I do my fair share of cosmetic dentistry such as veneers, whitening, and Invisalign!

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Over time, I have become a lot more receptive to alternative solutions such as hydroxyapatite toothpastes, xylitol toothpastes, and coconut oil pulling techniques. You can also read more about our office to know why we do what we do.