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WDeJ Cover Highlight — Lauren Argentina, DDS

August 9, 2008

What decade were you born in?

I was born in the 70s.

In which state were you born?

I was born in New York.

Where did you grow up?

I grew up in Old Bethpage on Long Island, New York.

Tell me about your family.

I am one of two daughters. My older sister, Sondra (who is very special to me), and her husband, Scott, have three adorable children, Alexandra, Jessie, and Ryan. My husband Mario and I recently moved to Plainview and we are so lucky to be very close to my amazing parents, Edna and Morty. We have a Yorkie named Lola who is two years old and a tortoise named Wurtle. My husband and I dated since high school, and I consider his family mine as well. I think of his parents, Mario Sr. and Michelle, as my second dad and mom. His sister Dawn and her husband, Mike, have two beautiful children, Sophia and Michael, and his sister Michelle has a precious son named Dante. I come from a family of educators, and was the first one to pursue a career outside that field.

Where do you live?

We live in Plainview, New York.

Did you work during high school, and what did you do?

My parents discouraged me from working during high school because they felt that my education was most important.

Where did you go for undergrad, and what was your major?

I went to Stony Brook University for undergrad and my major was psychology.

Where did you attend dental school?

I attended SUNY Stony Brook School of Dental Medicine.

When did you graduate?

I graduated with a D.D.S. in 2005.

Do you specialize?

I am a general dentist who specializes in cosmetic dentistry.

Why did you become a dentist?

I became a dentist because I always enjoyed working with my hands in a creative fashion. I also knew I wanted to help people, and the impact that a new smile can have on a person's life is priceless.

How did you begin your dental career?

After dental school, I completed a residency program at Stony Brook University Hospital.

Describe your office setting.

I am currently an associate in two practices, one in Deer Park, N.Y., and one in Manhattan. I will be opening my own practice on Long Island in the near future.

How are you involved in dental leadership?

During my four years at dental school, I served as the vice president of my class.

Are you involved in your community?

Yes, I try to stay in touch with my community, and one of the best ways is teaching young children the importance of dental health.

What is your most prized accomplishment?

I do not have one most prized accomplishment, but every time I complete a large cosmetic case for a patient and he or she is thoroughly satisfied, I feel very accomplished.

What are your goals?

My professional goal is to open a multi-specialty office where all the dental specialists can collaborate in one office and determine the best treatment for our patients. My personal goal is to learn something new every day.

What are you known for (in general or dental-related)?

As far as dentistry, I am known for my work on comprehensive cosmetic cases including veneers and Invisalign. In general, I am known for my sense of humor and my love of my family.

Do you have any advice for new graduates?

Work hard but never forget about ethics! It is tough in the beginning but worth it in the end!

Are you especially fond of certain dental equipment?

I am fond of the CEREC machine (same-visit crowns and restorations) and the Waterlase laser (no shots) — which both make the patient experience more pleasant.

If you were a dental instrument, what kind would you be and why?

I would be the polishing burs, because I would be able to make everything shiny and pretty in the end.

What do you do for fun?

I like to play racquetball and tennis with my husband Mario. We are both competitive, which makes every game exciting.

What are your hobbies?

My hobbies are racquetball, tennis, knitting, yoga, and shopping.

Tell me three things about yourself that might surprise people.

I once shot a 12-gauge shotgun. When I go fishing, I like to bait my own hooks. I could change my oil or my tires if I had to. (Thanks, Dad.)

What is your favorite Web site?

I don't have a favorite Web site, but I enjoy reading the posts and seeing the cases on Dentaltown.com. I find it amazing how many different ways practitioners can treat the same case. I am slightly addicted to dentistry!

Where do you go to get your information?

Google, and for literature, PubMed.

What is your favorite comfort food?

My favorite comfort food is cake batter ice cream.

Where is your favorite restaurant in your town, and what is your meal of choice?

My husband and I enjoy Sushi Dake in Old Bethpage, N.Y. They have the most amazing sushi and also Korean kimchi and bibimbop. YUMMY!

Where is your favorite vacation spot?

Italy is my favorite vacation spot. My husband and I went to Italy on our honeymoon, and we are really looking forward to going back as soon as possible.

Where do you go to escape?

I go shopping to escape — so typical!

Are you a fan of online blogging?

I think blogging is a great forum for people to express their opinions and ideas; however, since it is not policed, it can be harmful to some.

Is there anything we didn't cover that you'd like to mention in the article?

I wanted to mention that the reason I was selected for this article was because of a letter that my husband wrote to the editor titled "A proud husband." When I read the letter, it was perhaps the nicest thing I had ever read. We have been together for over 12 years, through my nine years of education in college, dental school, and residency, and even tougher than that — his triumphant battle over cancer. Although I have accomplished a lot over those years, I never could have done it without him by my side. Thank you, Mario, for being such a "proud husband" — without you, I would not be the person or doctor I am today. You are my strength; you are my drive. I love you!