Why Did You Decide to Become a Dentist?

You could say that this kind of work, helping people, is in her blood. Her aunt has been practicing dentistry for well over 25 years, and her brother and uncle work in the medical field as doctors. Dr. Niraja decided to follow her aunt’s example and become a dentist, and she has never regretted that choice!

Where Did You Study Dentistry?

After Dr. Niraja completed her initial dental education at GDCHJ in India, she practiced there for about a year before she decided to come to the United States. From there, she graduated with her Doctor of Dental Medicine from the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey (now called the Rutgers School of Dentistry) with high honors. She received the Edit Richard Endowed Scholarship, the Dr. Frank E. Frates Endowed Scholarship, and the Dr. Richard Mahewich Memorial Scholarship, all demonstrating her endless dedication to excellence in dentistry. Because of her academic achievements, she was selected as one of only ten dentists for additional training in advanced oral surgery. This has allowed her to perform surgical procedures proficiently. In fact, many patients have commented on how comfortable their extractions have been with her.

“I believe dentistry is a beautiful profession, as it offers a unique opportunity as a healthcare provider to have a lifelong relationship with patients and provide the local community with great oral health,” Dr. Patel says. “As a dentist, I would love to know your concerns, discuss your treatment options, and try my best to provide satisfactory results. Whether you need oral surgery, complex restorations, dentures, cosmetic dentistry, or treatment for your child, rest assured that I will go above and beyond to treat everyone as my own family members.”

Since starting her career, Dr. Niraja has also participated in many dental camps that provide care for underserved populations in rural India. In addition, since 2014 she has been a member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and the U.S. Army Reserve.

Outside of the Dental Office, What Do You Like to Do?

Dr. Niraja and her husband, Dr. Jimish Patel, met during her senior year of college, and together they relocated to Boston after graduation. As the proud parents of a beautiful young girl named Nyra, they love spending lots of time with her. Dr. Niraja is also close with her family—her father, mother, and brother. As a notorious foodie, she loves cooking and trying new kinds of cuisine. She also likes to travel, do yoga, practice oil painting, and learn new languages. Currently, she knows English, Hindi, and Gujarati, and she’s working on learning Spanish. If you’d like to share any food or travel recommendations or parenting advice, she will be happy to chitchat with you!