Meet Sukhanchal Saini | Dentist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Sukhanchal Saini and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Sukhanchal, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
As a child, I dreamed of being many things—teacher, flight attendant, architect and, of course, a doctor. But one event in 1990, shaped my career aspirations. After fracturing my front tooth in a fall, I spent countless hours in the care of dentists. Despite occasional discomfort, I eagerly anticipated my visits. to the dentist and his team not only restored my smile but also became friends who listened and celebrated my interests. Their care and the dental tools, procedures, and small tokens like toothbrushes and circus coupons sparked my fascination with dentistry.

As I grew, I questioned whether my passion came from admiration for my dentist or genuine interest. Today, I know it was both. Dentistry combines intellectual challenges, technical precision, and the opportunity to positively impact lives. To explore this, I volunteered as a dental assistant, gaining insights into procedures, patient care, and office management. Observing the compassion and integrity in treating patients confirmed my excitement for the field and my ability to thrive in its demands.

In 1997, I enrolled in dental college in Punjab, where the rigorous curriculum and hands-on training deepened my passion. During summer breaks, I shadowed dentists and volunteered at a nonprofit offering free dental care to underserved communities, which taught me empathy and respect while honing my clinical skills. I explained to friends that while they teased me about “looking into mouths all day,” I understood that oral health is the gateway to overall well-being.

To further my education, I earned my Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree from NYU College of Dentistry in 2011. The experience exposed me to cutting-edge techniques and a diverse patient population, refining my clinical expertise and reinforcing my commitment to providing compassionate care. The supportive faculty and vibrant academic environment inspired me to strive for excellence and innovation.

Now, as a dentist and owner of two successful practices, I reflect on my journey. Opening my own practices allowed me the freedom to create a work environment that reflected my values. It gave me the chance to have a direct, meaningful impact on patients’ lives and offer personalized care, building lasting relationships. Owning my practices also meant I could make decisions that aligned with my goals—choosing services, setting my schedule, and shaping the business direction. This control, coupled with the potential for increased income and professional satisfaction, motivated me.

Balancing my practices with being a wife and mother has been challenging at times, but I love it. It requires planning and flexibility, but the balance allows me to enjoy both my passion for dentistry and being present for my family. Managing it all brings immense fulfillment.

Dentistry offers a rare opportunity to combine artistry, science, and service to improve lives. It gives me the intellectual stimulation, creative expression, and personal gratification I seek. Restoring smiles and relieving pain is deeply rewarding, and becoming a dentist was not just my goal—it was my calling.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
What truly sets Smiles Avenue Advanced Cosmetic Dentistry apart is the deep camaraderie within our team. We genuinely love working with each other, and that positive energy reflects in the care we provide. Our collaborative environment fosters creativity and trust, ensuring that every patient receives exceptional treatment along with warmth and attention.

Running a business and creating a dream team is challenging, and it’s not always perfect. But our commitment to making it work is what sets us apart. Every team member brings their best to the table, and we support one another to ensure everything runs smoothly. It’s this collective effort that leads to our success.

At Smiles Avenue, my vision is to create a place where anxiety is replaced with comfort, and smiles become the norm. We aim to make every visit as stress-free as possible, providing a welcoming, judgment-free environment. By listening to our patients’ concerns and prioritizing their comfort, we strive to shift the way people view dental visits, making them something to look forward to. It’s not just about dental care—it’s about creating lasting, positive experiences where smiles are celebrated.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Solvang, Big Bear, and the beaches around Ventura county are all amazing choices! Solvang’s charming Danish village vibe, Big Bear’s beautiful mountain scenery, and Ventura’s peaceful coastal spots each offer a unique escape.

Solvang: Danish treats, guided tour of Old Mission Santa Inés, wine-tasting, The Book Loft or Elverhøj Museum of History & Art and quirky spots like OstrichLand.
Favorite places to eat – Paula’s Pancake House, Mad & Vin, First & Oak

Big Bear: Lake adventures, scenic hikes, and cozy mountain vibes – Big Bear Alpine Zoo or Snow Summit Scenic Sky Chair, Snow sports in winter or kayak or paddleboard at Captain John’s Marina in Summer.
Favorite places to eat – The Pines Lakefront, Peppercorn Grille

Ventura: Stunning beaches, great seafood, and a mix of relaxation and adventure.
Favorite places to eat – Rumfish y Vino, The Boathouse, Selvins, Sadaf, Karma, Carrara’s Pasteries

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
A huge shout out to the incredible staff at NYU College of Dentistry! Their hard work, dedication, and unwavering commitment to excellence are truly inspiring. They don’t just teach; they shape and guide future dentists to become highly skilled professionals, ready to make a meaningful impact on the world. The knowledge and support they’ve provided have played a significant role in helping me and countless others develop the skills and confidence we needed to succeed in this field. Thank you for all the passion you all have poured into our work and for creating a learning environment where we can thrive! Your impact is felt every day. Thank you!

Website: https://www.smilesavenue.com

Instagram: @smilesavemoorpark @smilesaveto

Facebook: @smilesavemoorpark @smilesaveto

Yelp: Smiles Avenue Advanced Cosmetic Dentistry