Dennis Nguyen, DDS, FAGD
“Dentistry is a great profession as it allows me to bring positive changes to people by either creating new smiles or getting them out of pain.”
Cape Girardeau Dentistry, Cape Girardeau, Missouri
Shortly after the world shut down due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Dennis Nguyen, DDS, FAGD, made a bold move: He purchased a dental practice.
Keeping staff employed and patients safe while the world grappled with the pandemic were huge tests for Nguyen.
“I went through this tough challenge with so much uncertainty,” he said. “But my practice survived that adversity and has thrived. It’s rewarding to see how the practice, staff and myself have grown over the last several years.”
Inspired by relatives who were also dentists, Nguyen recognized early on dentistry’s potential to make a meaningful impact in patients’ lives.
“Dentistry is a great profession as it allows me to bring positive changes to people by either creating new smiles or getting them out of pain,” he said.
One of Nguyen’s proudest achievements is earning his FAGD.
“I always wanted to achieve this award and be the first of my family of dentists to do so,” he said.
Another point of pride is his active involvement in organized dentistry, including serving as past president of the Missouri AGD. Nguyen credits organized dentistry with providing him an outlet to share his knowledge and gain new perspectives on the dental field.
Nguyen was nominated as one of the 10 Dentists to Watch by his friend and colleague Brett T. Durbin, DDS.
“Dennis practiced in public health for several years before moving to a rural, underserved area and purchasing a practice that he has revitalized and is now flourishing,” Durbin said. “He embodies what AGD stands for and is an excellent representative of our profession.”
Nguyen is eager to continue advancing his practice in the year ahead by adding new techniques and technologies, including digital dentures and laser therapy. His dedication to professional development — having already earned over 1,100 CE credits — ensures that he remains at the forefront of dental innovation.