Dara Kessler

I have spent my career focused on educating and empowering patients to achieve optimal oral health. I leverage my background as a Tufts University School of Dental Medicine trained dentist to counsel, encourage and invite patients to understand and take charge of their oral health, and I've created a web based Oral Health Pocket Guide to support them toward that aim.

After completing Columbia University's 2 year AEGD residency in 2001 I worked at a private office in Manhattan for 12 years. I currently work part time at a dental practice in Bethesda, MD my home for the past 8 years, where I review medical history, perform thorough extra-oral and intra-oral examinations, take radiographs, carry out prophylaxis, scaling & root planing and periodontal maintenance procedures. I ensure patient comfort throughout.

I invite patients into a conversation around obtaining and or maintaining optimal oral health using a variety of motivational techniques. I apply fluoride or irrigate with an antimicrobial as indicated. I help to chart and treatment plan, as well as pre-frame patients in terms of recommended treatment.

When Dr. Hunsinger is away I perform routine examinations. I set up and break down the room adhering to strict infection control guidelines. I wear an N-95 mask under a surgical mask under a face shield, and I use loupes with a light.

I participate in maintaining proper inventory. I love using Eaglesoft to help make everyone's experience as streamlined as possible, and I am a quick learn with software. I prompted the office to migrate to digital charts, as well as to adopt air polishing instruments.

AEGD, Columbia Presbyterian Hospital - New York, NY July 1999 to June 2001

DMD, Tufts University School of Dental Medicine - Boston, MA September 1995 to May 1999 BA, Brandeis University- Waltham, MA September 1993 to Dec 1994