EIOH Resident Feature: Dr. Diaa Allahham
At graduation, Dr. Diaa Allahham becomes the fourth orthodontist in his family. Check out why he chose EIOH and what's next for him.
Where are you from?
I was born and raised in Damascus, Syria. I moved to Egypt due to the war crisis in Syria. I attained my dental degree from Misr University for Science and Technology in Egypt. Upon graduation in 2018, I pursued my lifelong dream to continue my father’s legacy of orthodontics and to become the fourth orthodontist in my family.
Why did you choose EIOH?
Many reasons: 1) The orthodontics department is very strong clinically and didactically; 2) It is a well known academic institution; 3) The family environment is very unique; 4) American Board of Orthodontics preparation is extremely solid
Best memory?
My best memory is when I received a phone call from Linda [Orthodontics Administrator], and she informed me that I got accepted into an Orthodontics residency.
Favorite/Least Favorite thing about Rochester?
My absolute favorite thing about Rochester is that I moved here to Rochester to study and I made friends that were not just transient friends. I made lifelong friends.
Did the EIOH experience make a better you?
- Definitely, the EIOH experience made me a better version of myself with all the didactic and clinical experience I received from the various faculty members.
- Eastman has become my second home. I've had the honor of spending four years of my life at Eastman and I have enjoyed every moment. I have successfully completed a Master’s of Science in Dental Sciences and now my dream of becoming an orthodontist has finally come true.
- I have successfully achieved second place in NESO and in the prestigious Dr. William Proffit resident scholar award program regarding my Master's project which is The association between non-extraction clear aligner therapy and alveolar bone dehiscences and fenestrations in adults with mild to moderate crowding.
- I have published my thesis in the top ortho journal AJO-DO (American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics).
What are your plans after graduation?
My long-term goals include opening my own office(s) and continuing my father's orthodontic legacy. For now, I look forward to practicing in a private practice setting in Texas this summer.
What will you miss the most?
I will miss the faculty that I have spent the past four years with. I have become so close to my classmates over the past two years as well as other students from other years and departments. I enjoyed the diversity of people here at Eastman and the welcoming environment. Eastman has given me a reason to smile everyday.
Anything else you’d like to add?
I would to thank all my family, faculty, classmates, assistants, and staff for all the support during this wonderful journey. I am very thrilled to begin the next chapter of my life. I feel blessed to have been part of the Eastman family. I have absolutely enjoyed learning from all the faculty and their unique perspectives on orthodontics.
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