The VNACJ Community Health Center is very excited to be welcoming Dr. Dustin Hawley, DDS to the team! He will be starting with us this month and will be working in out Keyport Health Center. Dr. Hawley is a dedicated dental provider with over seven years of clinical experience. He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree from the School of Dentistry at the University of Maryland, Baltimore, and completed a General Practice Residency at the Veterans Affairs Medical Center in East Orange, New Jersey. Prior to pursuing a career in dentistry, Dr. Hawley honorably served as an enlisted infantryman in the United States Army and is a proud veteran. Outside the office, he treasures time spent with his wife and children, having a blast with every new adventure.
What inspired you to become a dentist?
Following my service in the Army, I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do. By chance I reconnected with a childhood friend who was at that time about to graduate from dental school. I had never even considered being a dentist as an option but after a few talks and countless hours shadowing dentists, as well as volunteering at multiple dental clinics, I loved it. My wife was the ultimate motivation who really helped me get into dental school and has always been my biggest supporter.
What do you enjoy most about being a dentist?
I really enjoy the relationships we form, with patients, peers, and with those I’ve worked with. Also, it’s a new challenge every day. No two patients have the exact same concern, so I’m regularly having to put the puzzle pieces together to figure out what’s best for each individual.
How do you help patients who are nervous about visiting the dentist?
I take my time and talk them through it, answering all their questions and establishing that relationship. Some patients just breeze through, but there are many who really have that dental anxiety. It can be a challenge but I want the patient to be comfortable, and if it takes time to build trust then that’s what we’ll do together.
What’s one thing you wish more patients knew about their dental health?
Cavities (caries) come from a whole cycle of events, break that chain and you can keep your teeth healthy. The foods you eat, and especially how often you’re eating matters. If you are regularly mindlessly snacking or just casually sipping on drinks, it will lead to cavities. Letting your at-home dental hygiene routinely slip will lead to cavities. I want to help everyone with their smiles, but it has to be an effort by both the dental provider and the patient to maintain a healthy mouth.
What are your thoughts on manual vs. electric toothbrushes? Which do you recommend?
I almost always recommend an electric toothbrush. Research has shown that manual and electric can both prevent tooth decay, when used correctly. It’s simply easier to use an electric toothbrush properly, and if you use the right electric toothbrush it does much of the work for you. If you prefer manual, that’s fine, just make sure you are getting each surface clean, and use a soft bristle brush.
What are your thoughts on the Waterpik?
It doesn’t replace regular flossing. That being said, using a Waterpik is great. It can be messy at first but it can really help in keeping some hard to reach areas clean. In particular if you have braces, a splint, or a bridge, a Waterpik can help you clean between or underneath that hardware. Again, as much as I do think it can be a great addition to anyone’s hygiene routine, I like to remind my patients that it doesn’t replace any of those steps.
What are your hobbies outside of work?
We have a pretty good-sized family, so my hobbies tend to be the kids’ hobbies. When I have a bit of free time I’ll read a book, watch a movie with my wife, or play some video games. When the opportunity arises I love to go watch a live NFL game or MMA event.
