Dr. Angelina Faynleyb

Most people either loved going to the dentist as a kid—or absolutely hated it. Where did you fall? How come?

I had a bad experience going to the dentist when I was a kid. He either spoke to his DA’s during the entire treatment or was looking up at the TV screen. I felt like he wasn’t even looking inside my mouth while he’s drilling. Moreover, the visits were uncomfortable because he couldn’t get me sufficiently numb and bite felt off at the end. Occlusion wasn’t something he checked and I remember grinding my teeth to get the bite back to normal. As a kid, I didn’t realize at the time, that what I experienced was not ok.

What (or who) inspired you to get into dentistry? How so?

While I was an undecided undergraduate student, I met some dental faculty, who have later became my mentors. They allowed me to shadow students and residents at dental school. Seeing their work and passion for dentistry helped me decide that I want to do the same.

What’s the most rewarding part of your job?

It’s rewarding when you get your patient to smile at the end of a visit, because of their positive experience and the appreciation of the work I have done. It’s especially satisfying when there’s a significant difference from the before and after.

What’s something your patients might be surprised to learn about you?

I did amigurumi for six months when the pandemic started. I learned to crochet when I was five and it recently became a hobby. I love making little toys and keychains for my friends and family.

How do you recharge after a long week? What’s your go-to activity for hitting the restart button?

I enjoy spending time with my family. After a long week, it’s refreshing to be around your loved ones and talk about anything but work.

What’s something that really, really, really makes you smile? Like, really?

My kitten! His name is Diesel and he’s adorable. He was a tiny little stray that my neighbor caught, and we decided to keep him. Now he’s our fluffy ball of joy.