Making the Most of Every Opportunity

Dr. Gururaghavendran (l) with his mentor Dr. Sangeeta Gajendra

Originally from Bangalore, India, Dr. Rajesh Gururaghavendran embraced his one-year Dental Public Health residency as a chance to learn, connect, and grow.

Over the past year, Gururaghavendran shared his work on humanitarian initiatives and population-specific dental risks at five different conferences, through research posters and oral presentations. His research on tooth loss in patients with prediabetes earned him an honorable mention from the American Association of Public Health Dentistry, and he was also inducted as a fellow of the American Institute of Dental Public Health Academy.

But seeing public health in action was one of the most meaningful parts of the experience.

One highlight was participating in a week-long federal immersion program that explored how advocacy, policy, public programs, and infrastructure shape population health outcomes.

“With the right mix of didactics, clinical exposure, and field experience, Eastman was a great choice,” he said. “I was able to witness first-hand the way dental public health is practiced in the U.S., and these interactions helped me grow both professionally and as a person.”

These experiences reinforced his interest in creating a broader impact. Through clinical and community engagement opportunities, he gained a deeper understanding of how public health initiatives can improve access to care and influence oral health outcomes at a population level.

“I wish I had started doing what I’m doing now a lot earlier,” he said. “Consistency always beats talent.”

As he looks ahead, Gururaghavendran plans to spend some quality time with his wife and children after graduation. His next steps include preparing for board examinations that will help qualify him for dental licensure, while continuing work in both clinical and academic settings.

“I have many great memories at Eastman, interacting with faculty inside and outside of the clinic and having a wonderful time with friends,” he said.

Any advice for a new EIOH resident?

Come with an open mind, don't say no to anything, and enjoy the roller coaster ride.

Last time you were in awe?

Witnessing snowstorms and a harsh winter in Rochester and multiple tornadoes in Florida. It made me realize how small and helpless we are as humans in front of nature.

Dr. Gururaghavendran with his family.

Your biggest fear?

Giving up, or not being able to make an impact on the community.

Would you rather spend a day without your phone or without speaking?

Without my phone. I’m trying hard to get away from doomscrolling.

Favorite place in Rochester?

Tokyo Japanese restaurant – wonderful sushi.

Other than dentist, what career would you choose?

If I had the time, money and practical feasibility, I would choose a career in English literature.

What’s your guilty pleasure?

I have a sweet tooth and I love dark chocolates. Also, spicy biryani and Pepsi!

A person who has inspired you?

Sachin Tendulkar, the cricketing hero from India

Hobbies or talents?

I'm a hobby Blogger. But I don't write as frequently as I would love to.

One thing you’ve always wanted to do but haven’t yet?

I've always wanted to go biking, but I’m not sure when I will be able to do it.

One thing few people know about you?

I'm an ambivert. Introverts think I'm an extrovert, while extroverts think I'm an introvert.