Say hello to Dr. @Najia Usman
Position:
- I️ am a self-employed endodontist at Visage Endodontics and I️ practice with my husband (OMFS) at our own surgery center, the Visage Surgical Institute.
Career Highlights:
- Going to residency across the country in Oregon (OHSU) by myself with my two small children (ages 3/5) 2002
- Starting my practice from scratch grounded in values of compassion, technology and innovative thinking (“Soothing, Modern, Experience”) 2006
- Becoming a Diplomate of the American Board of Endodontics in 2009
- Lecturing/teaching to dental students, pediatric and endodontic residents, general dentists and endodontic colleagues, nationally, internationally and virtually
- Becoming a dentist volunteer leader at the Ohio Dental Association, American Dental Association, Ohio Association of Endodontists, and the American Association of Endodontists
Why Endodontics:
Endodontics has been an opportunity to foster all aspects of my personality. My Bachelor of Science in Psychology positioned me to understand sensory perception and the emotional issues surrounding pain and anxiety. I️ have enjoyed this field of dentistry which merges art, technology and science. The ability to work with my hands and problem-solve while maintaining the trust of another human being has been a gratifying experience that has facilitated my personal growth as a human being.
Best Piece of Career Advice:
During residency one of my faculty mentors said, “You will never regret the patient you did not treat.” What this has come to mean to me is the relationship between a patient and their doctor is a dance of sorts. If you are not developing a feeling of mutual respect from the beginning in this interaction, you need to go with your instincts and not treat. Similarly if a patient leaves or does not want your care, rather that feeling deflated, appreciate the lesson and move forward .
Endo Challenge:
As a mother of 4 children, the decision to be a practice owner was going to be complicated and was not widely supported. When I️ left my associateship to pursue this endeavor, I️ was green and insecure. I️ have always made bold, unpopular decisions in my life (getting married at 20, doing residency alone with kids across the country) that have proven to be the best decisions I️ have ever made. These choices made me resilient and allowed me to seek opportunities that allow me to lead my best life and be a good role model for my children and younger colleagues.
Reason for Becoming an AAE member:
Firstly, I️ am so proud to be an endodontist. When I️ am in the company of colleagues, I️ become a listener and I️ am in awe of others in this community. Over time I️ have witnessed that tactical moves my the AAE to strengthen me as a professional through education, research and branding. I️ feel the work of the AAE has made Endodontics the best dental specialty by far. It is such an honor now to participate on the PPRC.
Fun Fact:
Two things that are critical to my psyche 1) Fitness boxing 2) Book Club
Community Question:
What’s the one thing in your office, that if it was broken, you would not be able to treat your patient and you would shut your office for the day?
If you have a member you would like to recommend, please email your submission to communityadmin@aae.org
#Residents