Dr. Dhathri Kantem
Foreign-trained dentist · Public health professional · Advanced standing DMD applicant
I am a dentist and public health professional with a unique journey that spans continents and disciplines. After earning my BDS in India and practicing clinical dentistry, I developed a deep interest in the systems that shape population health. This curiosity led me to Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, where I completed my BHSc in Public Health — and ultimately to my decision to pursue advanced standing dental education in the United States.
A bridge between worlds
From clinical dentistry in India to public health in Nova Scotia — my journey has been guided by one question: who gets left out of the system, and why? I am applying to advanced standing DMD and DDS programs in the United States to bring together the clinical training and the population health perspective that have shaped my career.
Training
- 2013 – 2018
- Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS)MNR Dental College and Hospital, Dr. NTR University of Health Sciences
- 2019 – 2023
- Bachelor of Health Sciences (BHSc)Cape Breton University
Clinical & public health
Postgraduate Dental Resident — Periodontics
2018 – 2019MNR Dental College and Hospital
- Managed periodontal therapy for 15+ patients daily, including scaling and root planing, gingival flap surgery, and maintenance programs.
- Collaborated with oral surgery team on implant site preparation and pre-prosthetic periodontal plastic surgery.
Public Health Analyst
2021 – 2023Cape Breton County Health Department
- Conducted community health assessments for rural communities across Cape Breton, identifying gaps in dental and primary care access.
- Designed and delivered health education workshops on oral health prevention for senior populations.