Class Year: 2024
Program Major: Doctor of Dental Medicine
Case Western Reserve University School of Dental Medicine’s ability to shape holistically minded dentists was central to Alyssa Cornejo’s decision when she began her dentistry journey.
“I worked with an oral surgeon who was a Case Western Reserve alum,” said Cornejo. “With his expansive knowledge, he was able to serve not only the dental needs of patients but also their general health concerns.”
This kind of multifaceted care—and developing meaningful relationships with the patients—is why the Class of 2024 DMD student chose dentistry as a career. And through her experiences at the dental school, Cornejo sees that she chose the right path and the right school.
“Case Western Reserve educators and staff focus so much on comprehensive care,” Cornejo said, “which has created generations of well-rounded dentists.”
Dentists are often the only medical provider a patient sees on a regular basis, and many people visit the same dentist for decades.
“These relationships give dentists a unique opportunity to really understand who their patient is—allowing us to meet their health goals or be the first to flag an unusual health change,” said Cornejo.
After graduation, Cornejo intends to practice general dentistry in a manner that focuses on patient education—not just treatment of present issues.
“My belief is that by focusing on both teaching and treating, patients will have more autonomy and control over their dental health,” Cornejo said. “This empowers them to actually achieve their dental health goals.”