Born and raised in the Philippines, Dr. Patricia Zoleta began her first dental experience at an early age. Growing up, she lived near a dental clinic and her dentist was one of her parent’s childhood friends. At first, she was scared and nervous during her appointments, even though her dentist was kind and nice to her. Now, she believes that her dental anxiety at times was due to her lack of understanding of what the treatment was and what was involved.
After graduating from high school in 2010, Dr. Zoleta learned about dental assisting from a friend and decided to take a course so she could work while pursuing a degree. It was through dental assisting that Dr. Zoleta became passionate about dentistry. While she was studying at Red River College in 2012, she was assigned to do her practicum at our Garden City location.
“Everyone in the clinic has been amazing since day one. They're always eager to mentor and always encourage learning,” said Dr. Zoleta when asked about her experience at Dental Image Therapy Centres. “I've witnessed how passionate and genuine the Dental Image Therapy Centres team is in providing excellent care to patients. They're a big part of why I decided I wanted to become a dentist.”
To Dr. Zoleta, the clinic is more than just a workplace:
“This clinic feels like home. It’s a place where I'll be able to practice my skills and knowledge to help patients, but also be able to work alongside a team that’s more than just coworkers, they’re also my friends.”
Another reason why Dr. Zoleta became a dentist is because the profession allows her to be in the healthcare field while practicing her artistic skills.
“You get to do both science and art. On top of that, being able to help patients with their dental needs and witnessing how happy and grateful patients are after treatments makes the profession all the more fulfilling.”
Since Dr. Zoleta is from the Philippines, she can speak Filipino (Tagalog) fluently. Because of this experience in different cultures and understanding that people are all different, with different experiences, she understands why some people are reluctant to go to the dentist.
“Sometimes, patients experience a lack of dental education, but having been in their shoes before, I believe I can communicate well and educate patients further about dental health. I think every encounter with a patient should be professional and personal, in the sense that the dentist can build a rapport with the patient so the patient can trust the dentist.”
Dr. Zoleta can also administer nitrous oxide sedation to anxious patients who prefer to receive sedation by breathing in instead of IV sedation which requires an IV to be inserted into the arm.
“I'd like to think I have a warm personality, and I like to make my patients feel comfortable as this is how I would also like to be treated as a patient."
Looking for a new dentist near you? Book an appointment with Dr. Zoleta today in the Garden City Shopping Centre to help with your dental needs. Our ultimate objective is to help patients achieve optimal oral health and feel comfortable while they do that.
Maybe it's time for your and your family's regular checkup and cleaning, you have a toothache or you need to get your treatment plan going - whatever the reason, we're here to help you get your confident smile. Whether you're a new patient or a returning friend, we can't wait to see you at your next appointment at either of our Winnipeg clinics!
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