Charu Bhatia, Senior News Editor, Business Remedies, in conversation with Dr. Deepak Sharma, Founder of Sharda Dental Clinic
What began as an unexpected career choice gradually transformed into a lifelong mission for Dr. Deepak Sharma. Today, as the founder of Sharda Dental Clinic in Mansarover, Jaipur, he stands as a testament to how determination and integrity can shape success. With roots in a small-town upbringing and a government school education, Dr. Sharma carved his path through perseverance and precision. Known for his “all-or-none” approach to work, he has steadily expanded his practice while maintaining uncompromised quality standards. In this interview, he reflects on his journey, early struggles, evolving dental technologies, and the philosophy that defines his patient-first approach.
Question: You have established your own dental clinic in Mansarover, Jaipur. Please tell us about your journey, how you started and what inspired you to become a dentist?
Answer: If I speak honestly, becoming a dentist is often not the first childhood dream for many students who choose science with biology. Most aspire to pursue MBBS. My journey was slightly different. I was exceptionally good at mathematics during my school years. I have always had a sharp, analytical, and calculative mind, and for the longest time, I wanted to become an engineer.
However, life sometimes takes you on a path different from the one you initially envision. At my father’s insistence, I opted for the medical stream. I believe there are two kinds of people in this world, those who find happiness by following their aspirations, and those who choose to find happiness in whatever path life offers them. I belong to the second category. Once I commit to something, I give it my hundred percent. I consider myself an “all-or-none” personality. Whatever I do, I do with complete dedication and sincerity.
I pursued dentistry at Jaipur Dental College. After completing my education, I started with a very small setup called Sharda Dental Clinic. Financial resources were limited at that time. I come from Sawai Madhopur and completed my schooling in a government school. My background was modest, and setting up a clinic was not easy. But my philosophy of consistency and commitment helped me move forward. Slowly and steadily, through hard work and patient trust, I expanded the setup into a bigger, fully equipped clinic in Mansarover.
Question: How is Sharda Dental Clinic different from other dental clinics?
Answer: In today’s competitive healthcare landscape, many clinics operate with a strong commercial focus. While financial sustainability is important, for me and for Sharda Dental Clinic, money has never been the sole driving force. Quality has always taken precedence over quantity.
Instead of expanding rapidly or focusing on volume, I have concentrated on maintaining high standards of treatment. Every patient who walks into our clinic is valuable. I make it a point to personally attend to patients with patience and attentiveness. I believe that listening to a patient carefully is as important as diagnosing their condition.
Hygiene is another area where we maintain strict standards. Cleanliness and sterilization protocols are non-negotiable for us.
Most importantly, the bond I share with my patients is based on trust. Many of them return not just because of treatment outcomes but because of the relationship we have built over time. They know that they will receive honest advice and appropriate care. That trust is the biggest achievement for any healthcare professional.
Question: What were the kind of struggles you faced initially while setting up the clinic?
Answer: The initial phase was filled with challenges. Financial constraints were the most significant hurdle. Establishing a clinic requires investment in infrastructure, equipment, and staff. Another challenge was balancing personal and professional responsibilities. When you are starting out, you have to handle everything yourself, from patient consultations to management and administration. However, one thing I never did was chase patients or compromise on ethics. I have always believed in evaluating patients thoroughly. My analytical nature helps me assess cases comprehensively, almost like a 360-degree evaluation. Consistency in quality and patience in growth were my guiding principles.
Question: How do you see the role of AI and robotics in dentistry and the medical field?
Answer: Artificial Intelligence and robotics are gradually transforming the medical field, though I would say they are still at a relatively early stage in dentistry. Technology has already introduced advanced diagnostic tools such as digital scanning devices, which allow us to detect dental issues with greater accuracy.
AI-based treatment planning is making procedures more predictable and efficient. It reduces human error and enhances precision. This ultimately benefits patients by reducing discomfort and improving outcomes.
As for robotics, its integration into dentistry may take another three to five years to become mainstream. However, in branches like urology and gynecology, robotic surgeries are already proving beneficial. Dentistry will also adopt these technologies gradually as they become more accessible and cost-effective.
Question: How do you see the government’s support towards the field of Dentistry?
Answer: In my opinion, dentistry has not received the same level of governmental attention as other medical branches. Teeth are often not considered primary organs, and therefore oral health awareness remains comparatively low.
Many government schemes offer dental treatments at extremely subsidized rates. While affordability is important, extremely low costs often compromise quality.
There is still a need for stronger public awareness campaigns emphasizing that oral health is directly linked to overall health. Better policy support and acceptance of advancements in dental sciences would help elevate the field.
Question: What are some myths prevalent amongst patients regarding teeth care and treatments? What are some points to keep in mind regarding dental care and hygiene?
Answer: One of the biggest myths is that dental treatments are extremely painful. This perception persists despite significant advancements in technology. Modern dentistry is far more comfortable than it was decades ago. Pain management techniques and improved tools have reduced discomfort considerably.
Another common misconception is that certain dental procedures can weaken eyesight. This is completely untrue and scientifically baseless.
In terms of dental care, simple habits can make a big difference. Brushing twice a day is essential. Gargling with warm water helps maintain oral hygiene. An annual dental check-up is highly recommended. Many dental issues, if detected early, can be treated easily and economically. Neglect often leads to complex procedures like root canals or implants.
Question: How many dentists at Sharda Dental Clinic serve the patients?
Answer: Apart from me, there are eight more dentists associated with the clinic. In total, around 10 to 12 people, including assistants and support staff, work at Sharda Dental Clinic.
Dentistry has around nine major super-specialties, and we follow a structured division of work. Each dentist practices within their area of specialization.
Question: What is the significance of braces beyond beauty?
Answer: Braces are often associated only with cosmetic enhancement, but their importance goes far beyond aesthetics. Proper alignment of teeth is crucial for oral health. Misaligned teeth can lead to food lodgement, which increases the risk of cavities and gum disease. Over time, black calculus deposits may form, leading to further complications. Proper alignment improves oral hygiene and reduces long-term dental risks.
Question: What message would you like to give to young aspirants of dental sciences?
Answer: Pursuing a career in dentistry requires dedication and resilience. Medical education is demanding, and excelling requires consistent effort. In dentistry, practical skills matter as much as theoretical knowledge.
Today, the number of dental clinics has increased, and competition is intense. Therefore, specialization and expertise are crucial. Build your skills, uphold ethics, and prioritize quality.
