Blueprints for a Future in Education
“If I weren’t a dentist, I would choose to be a structural engineer,” said Dr. Abdulwahab Aljughaiman. “I’ve always been interested in how things are designed and built, and the idea of creating strong, functional structures that have a lasting impact really appeals to me.”
Instead, he plans to build a legacy in a less physical medium – as an educator – following the example of his mentors, including Dr. Hans Malmstrom, chair of EIOH's Advanced Education in General Dentistry program.
“Dr. Malmstrom’s humility, leadership, and genuine dedication to resident growth have been truly inspiring,” he said.
After graduation, Aljughaiman will return to his home country of Saudi Arabia to join Imam Abdulrahman bin Faisal University as a faculty member. There, he will apply the clinical knowledge and experience he gained at Eastman to both teaching and patient care, while continuing his own lifelong learning.
During his AEGD residency, Aljughaiman also completed a fellowship, earned his Master’s degree, and successfully passed the written examination for the American Board of General Dentistry.
“I was challenged to step outside my comfort zone, adapt to new situations and perspectives, and manage a demanding workload,” he said. “I gained confidence in managing complex cases independently while also learning when to seek guidance and collaborate with specialists. Overall, it helped me grow into a more confident clinician and a more well-rounded individual.”
Alongside his clinical training, Aljughaiman pursued research focused on oral microbiology and preventive dentistry, completing his master’s thesis on bacterial biofilm formation under the supervision of Dr. Jin Xiao.
Successfully defending the thesis became one of his proudest moments.
“Seeing all the hard work come together in that moment was truly unforgettable,” he said.
Throughout the entire journey, he was never alone.
“The sense of teamwork and support among residents and faculty really stood out, especially during complex cases,” he said. “Discussing treatment options together and ultimately delivering high-quality care to patients was incredibly rewarding.”
Outside the clinic, some of his favorite memories came from building friendships with his co-residents and exploring Rochester together. He especially enjoyed visiting the Finger Lakes, hiking, and spending time outdoors, as well as local favorites like Vern’s and Pittsford Dairy.
His residency years also included a major personal milestone: getting married.
“It was one of the most special moments of my life,” he said, “Which made this journey even more meaningful and unforgettable.”
Aljughaiman also enjoys staying active through water sports, skiing, and adventure. “My hope is to stay energized, keep learning, and enjoy every stage of life as long as possible.”
Best advice you ever received?
Stay consistent. Small efforts every day lead to big results.
Any advice for a new EIOH resident?
Take full advantage of every learning opportunity. Be proactive, ask questions, and build strong relationships with your co-residents and mentors.
Most importantly, remember to enjoy the journey. Trust the process and be patient with yourself. Confidence comes with experience.
Would you rather live the rest of your life in total darkness or total sunlight?
Total sunlight, I’ll take the energy, positivity, and ability to stay active… even if I miss the calm of the dark a little.
Would you rather spend a day without your phone or without speaking?
Without speaking. I think I’d actually enjoy the quiet for a day.
What’s your guilty pleasure?
Playing chess. I can lose track of time completely once I start.
If you could eat only one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Shawarma.
Describe yourself in three words.
Disciplined, adaptable, driven.
One thing you’ve always wanted to do but haven’t yet?
Skydiving. Still on my bucket list!
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