Finding Growth Close to Home
Born and raised in Rochester, NY, Dr. Shane Endres has always felt connected to the city he calls home – and after completing his residency in Periodontology at the Eastman Institute for Oral Health, he has no plans to leave anytime soon.
Following graduation, Endres will remain in the Rochester area and enter private practice, staying close to the family and community that shaped him.
“Almost all of my immediate and extended family members are here, and it is nice to be able to see them often,” he said.
But Endres says that the close proximity was not what drew him most to the program.
“Although it was a huge benefit that EIOH was in Rochester, I have always said if EIOH was transplanted elsewhere in the US, I would still have pursued it,” he said.
Instead, it was the people and the collaborative atmosphere that spoke to Endres.
“The faculty, staff, and residents created a welcoming environment where I knew I would enjoy my time and further my experience,” he said. “I felt comfortable not only asking questions and inquiring about things I was confused about, but also pursuing topics, theories and surgical techniques I enjoyed.”
Throughout his residency, the support of faculty and fellow residents helped shape him as a clinician, researcher, and human being.
“From the beginning, I knew that this was a place where I would not only grow in my skills, but also build long-lasting relationships with co-residents and faculty,” he shared.
In fact, some of his favorite memories came from everyday camaraderie within the department, especially when they gathered in the seminar room.
The balance of scholarly discussion, mentorship, and clinical training allowed Endres to grow more confident applying his knowledge in the clinic.
“Engaging with current literature and academic discourse deepened my understanding of the field,” he said, “while hands-on experience allowed me to translate that knowledge effectively in practice. This integrated approach strengthened both my critical thinking and clinical skills, enabling me to provide more comprehensive and informed care.”
Outside the clinic, Endres has also enjoyed spending time in the city he knows so well.
“Rochester is a unique city that is small in a geographic sense but there is always something to do,” he said. “Whether it's staying active outdoors, exploring nearby state parks and the Finger Lakes or exploring local food and drinks spots, it usually has something interesting to do.
His favorite local spots include Pane Vino on the River and Cobbs Hill.
Any advice for a new EIOH resident?
Enjoy the time here no matter how short or long it is.
Would you rather live the rest of your life in total darkness or total sunlight?
Total sunlight - we don’t get enough here in Rochester
What’s a purchase you made that you regretted?
My MacBook / switching from Windows
Other than dentist, what career would you choose?
Financial Advisor
If you could have a superpower, what would it be?
To fly - one of my dreams is to obtain a pilot’s license
If you could eat only one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Homemade spaghetti with chicken parm and crab legs
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