EIOH Resident Spotlight - Dr. Virda Baig

Dr. Baig received an award from the American Equilibration Society, recognizing the clinical, didactic and research excellence she demonstrated during her residency.

Dr. Virda Baig (OFP ’25) discovered more than just an academic program at EIOH – she found a welcoming community that feels like family. A highlight of her residency was International Day, an annual event hosted by Dr. Linda Rasubala where residents, faculty, and staff share their favorite cultural foods. Originally from Lahore, Pakistan, Dr. Baig represented her home country with pride by preparing Chicken Handi, a popular Pakistani dish. Seeing flags and cuisines from all over the world made her feel truly included and celebrated.

Q: Favorite thing about EIOH?
A: The friendships that turned into family, and made Eastman feel like a home away from home. Being surrounded by friends from different backgrounds, experiences, and struggles taught me so much, both in dentistry and in life. This journey helped me grow, not just as a clinician, but as a person.

Q: Why did you choose Eastman?
A: I chose Eastman because of its renowned orofacial pain program, which aligns perfectly with my interests. The institution fosters a welcoming and enriching learning environment. Additionally, the exceptional faculty provides invaluable mentorship and guidance for professional growth.

Q: In what way did your Eastman experience allow you to grow?
A: My experience at Eastman refined my academic skills through research and enhanced my clinical expertise across various clinics. The structured and interactive learning environment equipped me with the expertise and confidence to accurately diagnose and manage complex orofacial pain conditions while working alongside specialists in neurology and physical therapy. Additionally, working in the urgent care and specialty care clinics exposed me to a wide range of general dental procedures and medically complex cases, while learning from faculty members from diverse backgrounds enriched my perspective and clinical approach.

One of Dr. Baig's favorite memories was preparing Chicken Handi for International Day, and seeing all the dishes from cultures around the world.

Q: What do you love about the Rochester area?
A: I love exploring Rochester, especially the scenic trails along the river, which are perfect for long walks in the summer. The city has a great mix of nature and urban life, making it an amazing place to enjoy the outdoors, discover new spots, and unwind.

Q: What are your next steps after graduation?
A: After graduation, I’m excited to practice in Illinois at a clinic that offers both general dentistry and orofacial pain. I plan to learn from the experienced dentist who’s been running the clinic for over 30 years and gain valuable insights into both specialties. I'll focus on staying updated with new developments, building strong patient relationships, and adjusting to the unique aspects of the practice.

Q: What would you tell a resident considering coming to Eastman?
A: I would say that it’s a great experience at Eastman with plenty of opportunities for learning and exposure. You'll gain valuable hands-on experience and get to work with knowledgeable mentors who will guide you through various aspects of dentistry. It's a fantastic place to grow professionally.

Q: Other than dentist, what career would you choose?
A: If I weren’t a dentist, I would love to be a chef. Cooking brings me joy, and I enjoy experimenting with different flavors and creating delicious meals for others.

Q: What is the one thing you can’t live without?
A: My family. They have always been my biggest support system, guiding and encouraging me through every stage of life. Their love and motivation keep me grounded and push me to be the best version of myself, both personally and professionally.

Q: Who is your biggest role model?
A: My mom. I’m a lot like her, I think—hardworking, compassionate, and determined. She has always led by example, showing me the importance of resilience and kindness, and I strive to follow in her footsteps every day. She is an amazing cook who made me love to cook as well. She has always put her family first and has been selfless. I hope I can always live up to her footsteps.

Q: Any papers published while you were at EIOH?
A: I have published four research papers, with two more in progress.

Publications:

1. Altuhafy M, Baig V, Jabr L, Khan J. The efficacy of photobiomodulation on dental injection pain: a systematic review of randomized clinical trials. J Dent Anesth Pain Med. 2024 Jun;24(3):145-159. PMID: 38840646
2. Baig V, Hashmi SF, Altuhafy M, Khan J. Efficacy of prophylactic gabapentin in managing oral mucositis pain in patients undergoing non-surgical management of head and neck tumors. Support Care Cancer. 2025 Feb 28;33(3):236. PMID: 40019561.
3. Kommuri K, Mehta N, Baig V, Santhosh Kumar S, Buddha V, Kondaveeti R, Pasumarthy S, Hoonjan G, Kakkar M, Khan J. Efficacy of Statins in Tissue Healing Following Tooth Extraction: A Systematic Review of Clinical Studies. MAR Dental Sciences & Oral Rehabilitation. 2025 Mar. 5(10).
4. Hashmi S, Baig V, Iqbal K, Altuhafy M, Khan J. Effectiveness of photobiomodulation in managing temporomandibular joint disc displacement with reduction: a systematic review of randomized clinical controlled trials. Lasers Dent Sci. 2025 Apr. 9:11.

Q: Any presentations?

Presentations:

American Association for Dental, Oral and Craniofacial Research, Rochester Chapter, June 2024. The efficacy of photobiomodulation on dental injection pain: a systematic review of RCT.

URMC Headache Lecture Series, April 2024 - Myofascial Trigger Point and Headache. Presented to neurologists, headache fellows and fellow residents.

EIOH Grand Rounds. March 2024 Ethical use of Botox in managing myofascial pain.

OMFS Grand Rounds, October 2023 - Management of Myofascial Pain.