By: Travis Hutton
Dr. Xieng K. Lee is a dedicated dentist and the owner of Quality Dental Care in Brooklyn Park, MN. Born into an immigrant family and raised in a refugee camp, he moved to the USA in the late 1980s, embodying resilience and determination. After earning his DDS from Creighton University in 2010, Lee opened his dental practice in 2012 with a commitment to providing exceptional care, particularly to underprivileged communities. Known for integrating sustainable practices into his dental office, he is a leader in promoting eco-friendly dentistry. Outside his professional life, Lee is an outdoor enthusiast who values community service and environmental sustainability. His work extends beyond dentistry, involving volunteer efforts with local environmental groups and serving as an advocate for sustainable living. Lee’s personal and professional journeys are testaments to his deep commitment to health, community, and the environment.
Dr. Lee, could you share a bit about your background and what motivated you to pursue dentistry?
Dr. Lee: Growing up in a refugee camp and later moving to the USA instilled in me a strong desire to give back to the community that welcomed me. Dentistry seemed like the perfect blend of science and service, allowing me to make a direct impact on people’s health and wellbeing. My journey through dental school at Creighton University reinforced my passion for providing care, especially to those who might not have easy access to it.
What inspired you to open Quality Dental Care in Brooklyn Park, MN?
Dr. Lee: After graduating from Creighton University in 2010, I knew I wanted to establish a practice that not only delivered excellent dental services but also reached out to the underprivileged. Brooklyn Park, with its diverse community, seemed like the ideal place to provide compassionate and inclusive care. Opening Quality Dental Care in July 2012 was a dream come true, allowing me to implement the values of quality care and community service.
You are known for integrating sustainable practices in your dental office. Can you explain why sustainability is important in dentistry?
Dr. Lee: Sustainability in dentistry is crucial because dental practices can significantly impact the environment, from generating waste to consuming energy. By adopting more sustainable practices, we can decrease our ecological footprint while maintaining high standards of patient care. It’s about protecting our planet for future generations while caring for our patients today.
Can you describe some specific sustainable practices you have implemented in your office?
Dr. Lee: Certainly! We’ve switched to digital records to reduce paper use, installed energy-efficient lighting and equipment, and adopted a robust recycling program. We also use biocompatible materials wherever possible and educate our patients about sustainable oral health practices. These steps help us minimize waste and reduce energy consumption.
What challenges have you faced in your career, and how have you overcome them?
Dr. Lee: One major challenge was underestimating the complexity of managing a dental office right after opening. I quickly learned that beyond dental expertise, I needed strong business and management skills. I sought mentorship, enrolled in management courses, and gradually built a competent team that shares my vision of compassionate and sustainable dentistry.
You’ve mentioned the importance of community service. What types of community engagement are you involved in?
Dr. Lee: I am deeply committed to community service. Besides providing affordable dental care, I have volunteered with environmental groups focusing on sustainable farming in Minnesota. We also organize dental health camps in underserved areas to educate and provide dental services. These initiatives are close to my heart as they align with my personal and professional values.
What advice would you give to dental professionals looking to make their practice more eco-friendly?
Dr. Lee: Start with small, manageable changes. Assess the areas where you can reduce waste and energy use. Engage your team in sustainability goals, and educate your patients about the benefits of eco-friendly practices. Remember, sustainability is a journey, not a destination.
What is one piece of technology or innovation in dentistry that excites you the most?
Dr. Lee: I’m particularly excited about the advancements in 3D printing technology. It’s revolutionizing dental procedures by enabling us to create precise dental restorations on-site, reducing wait times and improving patient outcomes. This technology not only enhances efficiency but also reduces waste associated with traditional dental molds and materials.
How do you balance your personal life with your demanding professional life?
Dr. Lee: It’s all about prioritizing and making time for what matters. I ensure that I spend quality time with my family and engage in outdoor activities that rejuvenate me. Gardening is a particular passion that helps me relax and stay grounded. Maintaining this balance is crucial for my well-being and effectiveness as a dentist.
Looking forward, what are your hopes for the future of your practice?
Dr. Lee: I hope to continue growing and evolving our practice to serve more people and further reduce our environmental impact. I’m also passionate about mentoring young dentists in sustainable and compassionate dental care. Ultimately, my goal is to leave a lasting, positive impact on both my community and the dental profession.
Published By: Aize Perez
