Finding His Voice at Eastman Institute for Oral Health
After three years in EIOH’s Prosthodontics residency program, Dr. Victor Munoz is preparing to return to Connecticut – where he has lived since childhood – to join the Center for Dental Excellence. Originally from Peru, Munoz says his residency helped shape not only his clinical skills, but also his confidence as a leader, presenter, and clinician.
“I look forward to being an active member of the community and sharing the knowledge and experience I’ve gained during my time at Eastman,” he said. “I’ll always be grateful for the guidance from my dental school faculty who recommended this program.”
What drew Munoz most to Eastman was the opportunity to learn from faculty who were highly respected leaders in the field – mentors whose guidance would help him grow as a leader himself.
“The heavy clinical workload exposed me to a wide variety of cases, each serving as a valuable learning opportunity,” he said. “The unwavering support and guidance from faculty strengthened my skills even further, helping me feel confident and prepared for any clinical circumstance.”
During residency, Munoz presented at four scientific conferences and served as chief resident – roles that required him to face something he once dreaded: public speaking.
“This program pushed me out of my comfort zone,” he said. “At first, presenting to an audience was nerve-racking, but with frequent opportunities, encouragement from faculty, and constructive feedback, I gradually became more comfortable. I’m glad to have developed this skill through persistence and growth.”
While the academic and clinical experiences were transformative, it was the people around him who made it all possible.
“I couldn’t have done this without my incredible co-residents, Dr. Patrick Gardullo and Dr. Hayley Cheah,” he said. “We’ve tackled everything together as a team, always ready to lift each other up and lend a shoulder when needed.
"I feel truly fortunate to have shared this journey with such a caring and fun prostho and perio group," he added. "From late nights in the lab, laughing and working hard to Man Child playing on repeat, to exploring new cities together during conferences, there was never a dull moment. I'm deeply grateful for the wonderful people I met and proud to call them family."
Munoz also credits his fiancée, Francine Zeng, for helping him through this journey despite being miles apart and going through her own residency in orthopedics. “She’s somehow managed to be the most patient, supportive, and understanding partner ever,” he said. “It definitely hasn’t been easy, but when you’ve got someone as amazing as her in your corner, everything suddenly feels possible.”
Looking back, Munoz says some of the most important lessons came from stepping outside his comfort zone.
"It may sound cliché, but my biggest advice is to enjoy the journey – residency goes by in the blink of an eye," he said. "Make the most of every moment. Embrace the challenges ahead and don't be afraid to make mistakes – each one is a learning opportunity that must not be missed! My time at Eastman has flown by, but the people I met along the way have become a second family that will last a lifetime."
What do you enjoy in your spare time?
I love spending weekends watching the best team in England, Manchester United, play. I also enjoy getting out with friends for some pick up soccer; it’s competitive, fun, and great exercise.
Favorite place in Rochester?
Hyderabad Biryani House has definitely become one of my go-to spots! The food is incredible, and grabbing a couple of Haywards there after a long day is always a great way to unwind.
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