We can’t wait for you to meet Dr. Parth Patel – joining the Gillespie Dental Associates team in August of 2025! Dr. Patel brings an impressive set of skills to our office, and we are so excited for you to get to know him. Dr. Patel is now accepting new patients – get to know him ahead of your appointment by reading through our Q&A!
Welcome to the team! Fill us in – what inspired you to pursue a career in dentistry?
To be honest I wanted to be a dentist since, I want to say, about 14 or 15 years old. I had the opportunity to shadow a general dentist, and from that moment, I was hooked. I instantly knew it was the right path for me. I was fascinated by how dentistry combines science, art, and patient care. I loved the idea of being able to work with my hands, solve problems, and help people feel better, all at the same time. There was never really a Plan B for me from that point on. Once I discovered dentistry, it became my passion, and I never looked back.
Tell us a little bit about your education and training.
I completed my undergraduate degree at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and then went on to earn my Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from New York University College of Dentistry where I was inducted into the prestigious Omicron Kappa Upsilon honor society. At NYU I also received an award from the New York Academy of Oral Rehabilitation for excellence in fixed prosthodontics and the Dr. Bernard E. Ridner Memorial Award for demonstrating superior performance in providing oral comprehensive care and practice management. After dental school, I completed a rigorous general practice residency at St. Barnabas Hospital in the Bronx. The residency was intense but extremely rewarding. I was able to gain extensive training in restorative and cosmetic procedures, oral surgery, emergency dental care, and patient management. The experience really helped me round out my clinical skills and prepared me for a wide range of cases in everyday practice.
It’s clear you are passionate about what you do – what area of dentistry do you find the most fulfilling or exciting?
One of the most fulfilling aspects of dentistry for me is being able to make an immediate, positive difference in someone’s life. Whether it’s restoring a tooth with a filling or crown, relieving pain through a root canal or extraction, or helping someone regain confidence with cosmetic treatment, I enjoy being part of that transformation. It’s amazing to see the impact that quality dental care can have, not just on someone’s oral health, but on their overall well-being and self-esteem. I find that incredibly motivating.
Our office is passionate about about establishing long term, trusting relationships with our patients. How do you approach patient care? What is most important to you during appointments?
I believe in treating every patient the way I’d want my own family to be treated: with honesty, compassion, and a focus on comfort. I take the time to explain what I’m doing, why I’m doing it, and what the patient can expect during and after the appointment. I like to explain each step of the procedure before I begin, and check in regularly to make sure the patient feels at ease throughout. I’ve found that clear communication goes a long way in helping patients feel relaxed and confident in the chair. Creating a calm, respectful environment where patients feel heard and cared for is extremely important to me. I know that “everyone hates the dentist”, but I want to change that one patient at a time.
Tell us – what drew you to Gillespie Dental Associates?
What immediately stood out to me was the high standard of care and the genuine team culture here. Every staff member is committed to providing not just excellent clinical dentistry, but also an outstanding patient experience. There’s a real sense of pride in the work being done here, and I knew it was the kind of environment I wanted to be part of. It’s exciting to join a team that shares the same values and dedication to patient care that I do.
What is something that patients may be surprised to learn about you?
Most people are surprised to learn that I’m an only child! Growing up without siblings definitely helped shape my personality. It pushed me to develop strong social skills and form meaningful connections from a young age. I’ve always valued genuine relationships and clear communication, which I think carries over into how I interact with patients and team members.
Gillespie Dental Associates is eager to stay at the forefront of dental technology, policy and practice. How do you stay current in the dental field, and continue growing your skills?
Dentistry is constantly evolving, and I think it’s incredibly important to keep learning. I regularly take continuing education courses and attend dental conferences across the country to stay up to date on the latest techniques, technology, and best practices. Whether it’s sharpening existing skills or learning new techniques, I’m always looking for ways to grow and better serve my patients.
Do you have any fun personal and professional goals for the upcoming year?
On the personal side, I’m working on getting into better shape for my upcoming wedding, which is something I’m really excited about! Professionally, my goal is to continue building meaningful relationships with patients and becoming an integral part of the community. I’m looking forward to a year of growth, learning, and making a positive impact here at the practice.