Paul A. Varda, DMD, practices at Valley Dental Care in Chandler, AZ. A graduate from the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, Dr. Varda is a DOCS Education Fellow and Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry. The doctor has been a member of DOCS Education since 2004. How did you choose dentistry? I had great experiences as young person with my dentist, and I have always enjoyed working with my hands. What do you like most/least about dentistry? Interacting with patients is definitely the best part of my job—they’re great. Dealing with the administration and business side of the industry has to be my least favorite part. What are the biggest challenges facing dentistry today? Due to the economy, there have obviously been a lot of lost jobs. Patients think twice about going to the dentist. I find another challenge in making patients aware that sedation is available and will work wonders for them. Enough people don’t know about it. Who is/was your mentor in the dental world? Dr. Walter Kent was my first dentist; I remember him very well. He was extremely personable and took great care of me as a kid. I’ve always looked up to him.
