Why Dentistry Must Move Beyond Reactive Care with Anabella Oquendo, Associate Professor at NYU College of Dentistry

What if dentistry could transcend the traditional “reactive” model of treating symptoms to become a cornerstone of holistic healthcare? 

In this eye-opening episode of Think Oral Health, Professor Anabella Oquendo of NYU College of Dentistry shares her inspiring journey from international student to educational leader and discusses how dental education is being transformed to meet tomorrow’s healthcare challenges.

Dr. Oquendo advocates for a more integrated approach to dentistry, emphasizing that oral health is deeply connected to overall well-being and encouraging future dentists to engage in discussions on nutrition, sleep, and airway health while collaborating with other healthcare professionals. Her NYU curriculum blends clinical excellence with business, communication, and leadership skills to prepare well-rounded practitioners. In a compelling discussion with Dr. Levine, she highlights their humanitarian work in Eleuthera, Bahamas, where innovations like 3D printing have transformed prosthetic care for underserved communities, reflecting their vision of dentistry’s future—technologically advanced, preventive, and deeply collaborative within broader healthcare teams.

The Think Oral Health podcast dives deep into the profound connection between oral and systemic health. Join hosts Mariya Filipova and Dr. Jonathan Levine as they explore groundbreaking perspectives with pioneering healthcare innovators, researchers, and clinicians.