EIOH Resident Spotlight - Dr. Krisha Shah
During her Dental Public Health residency, Dr. Krisha Nilesh Shah demonstrated her commitment to community engagement and research. She presented a poster at the 2025 National Oral Health Conference, and is currently working on two scientific papers exploring the connection between mental health and oral health. Dr. Shah has been active in public health outreach, including a presentation with the Healthy Baby Network. She also earned a scholarship from Roswell Park to complete a tobacco treatment specialist training, further strengthening her role as a well-rounded advocate for oral health.
Q: Where are you from?
A: I’m originally from Ahmedabad, a city of foodie people located in Gujarat in India.
Q: Why did you choose Eastman?
A: I was drawn to EIOH’s strong emphasis on research, community service and clinical excellence and its legacy in advancing oral health equity. The chance to learn from leaders in dental public health sealed my decision.
Q: Best memory of your EIOH residency?
A: The lives I changed by giving people their smiles and confidence back. I will go on to apply what I learned from the research, And, the connections I made which will stay with me for my whole life.
Q: How did EIOH help you grow?
A: I gained lots of hands-on experience in data analysis, grant writing, community partnerships and clinical dentistry. I also learned how to advocate for underserved populations with confidence.
Q: Favorite thing about EIOH?
A: The collaborative culture. Whether researching or treating patients, I learned that interdisciplinary teamwork is key to solving systemic health challenges.
Q: Next steps after graduation?
A: I want to work in a community clinic and make a real difference.
Q: Advice for new residents?
A: Say yes to every opportunity—whether it’s a research project, health fair, or grand rounds. EIOH’s network and resources are unmatched, but you’ll only benefit if you engage fully.
Q: Favorite part of Rochester?
A: I love to visit the beach, and I love hiking and adventure sports. Rochester is the perfect combination of both.
Q: Alternative career?
A: A musician or actor – I love the spotlight – and a philanthropist.
Q: Last time you were in awe?
A: Watching the total solar eclipse with my team – a reminder of how small yet connected we all are. And when I visited Niagara Falls for the first time.
Q: Biggest fear?
A: Not making a measurable difference in the communities I serve.
Q: One thing you can’t live without?
A: Coffee! And my planner – balancing residency demands required serious organization.
Q: Role model?
A: My parents – my mom is very ambitious and a people person, and my dad is super hardworking. They never told me make myself small in order to fit in or give up when things get hard. They are super supportive of my decision. I am very grateful for them.
Author
