Why She Was Nominated

Only four years out of dental school, Dr. Emrick is on the verge of opening her own practice. Her consideration for her patients’ comfort, colleagues say, is revolutionizing how they feel about seeing the dentist.

Tools She Can't Live Without

Her loupes and headlight. “Once you get used to the magnification and excellent lighting, you can’t go back,” she says.

Biggest Challenge

Managing extra classes, joining study clubs and staying up to date on the latest dental techniques — all while planning to have more children and, one day, live on a farm.

Exciting New Trend

“Going from a loose, ill-fitting denture to a stable implant makes all the difference in a patient’s life,” Dr. Emrick says.