4 minute read
Viewpoint
The Welcome Mat is Out
The author relates his own positive experience in encouraging new dentists to become engaged in organized dentistry.
Robert Margolin, D.D.S.
Growing up in the Bronx, I always knew I would pursue a career in the health field, because I was fascinated by TV shows like Medical Center from a very young age. When I was in high school, I decided on dentistry. While in high school and college, I spent time at my dentist’s office and shadowing at my local hospital, Jacobi Medical Center. Little did I know that Jacobi would be such a big part of my future.
After graduating from SUNY Binghamton, I went to the University of Maryland Dental School. At Maryland, I was very involved with the local chapter of the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) and the American Dental Association (ADA). These early activities sparked an interest in being involved in professional dental associations that would last well into the future.
I came back to New York State to complete a general practice residency at Jacobi Medical Center. Following my graduation from the program, I pursued two distinct career paths—one as an associate at a private practice in the Bronx, alongside one of my mentors, and the other involving service at the prison complex on Rikers Island under the guidance of my other mentor. Eventually, I transitioned to a full-time role at St. Barnabas Hospital, contributing to the hospital GPR program.
Dental education was a new experience for me. I turned to my mother, who was an elementary school teacher, for guidance on how to teach. She gave me advice I will never forget: “Be firm but fair.” Working in a hospital was the perfect fit for me; I loved interacting with the new residents every year and learned tremendously from my association with other faculty. Eventually, I became the program director. After 18 years, I left St. Barnabas Hospital to become the GPR Program Director at Jacobi Medical Center. Everything had come full circle.
When I returned to New York, I also became involved in the New York State AGD and the Bronx County Dental Society. It helped that my mentor in private practice was very active in both groups. I was welcomed warmly and encouraged to take on more responsibilities. I served on many committees at the state AGD, eventually becoming editor and president. I also served as president of the Bronx County Dental Society. I was a delegate to the AGD House and the ADA House. I also sat on several councils for AGD and ADA. My greatest honor was representing Bronx County on the NYSDA Board of Trustees for four years. The key to my success has been the continued support and encouragement from my home district in the Bronx.
Another group I joined when I returned to New York State was the Manhattan Dental Guild, a group of gay dentists who gathered to support each other and discuss topics related to the healthcare of persons with AIDS. In the late 1980s, the AIDS epidemic was still relatively new, and treatment options were limited. From a personal and professional perspective, this group afforded me an opportunity to network with other dentists who were facing similar challenges during a very difficult time for our community.
In 2021, I was honored to be invited to join the NYSDA Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Task Force as a voice for the LGBTQ+ community. The aim of the task force is to inspire under-represented groups to join organized dentistry and become leaders. The world is a very different place than it was in the 1980s, and NYSDA has made substantial progress in embracing diverse communities. I am grateful that the Association is welcoming the members of these communities, not just with words but through actions as well. My husband, Donnie, and I have attended many NYSDA events and have always felt included and welcomed.
I encourage new dentists from all backgrounds and walks of life to become involved with organized dentistry. It is an exciting and engaging way to make a difference in the profession, meet diverse people, and it provides a change from the routine of practice. NYSDA is here for you. I encourage you to take advantage of the amazing opportunity your state dental society offers.
Dr. Margolin is director general practice residency, Jacobi Medical Center, Bronx, NY.
