Why He Was Nominated

A Pittsburgh native who practices near Atlanta alongside Dr. Amit Patel, Dr. Vakharia regularly goes beyond the call of duty: He spent part of his dental education in Puerto Rico to learn Spanish, and frequently provides expert analysis in malpractice cases. He and Dr. Patel have started a consulting firm to assist other practices; they also do periodic pro bono work for the Atlanta Children’s Shelter.

Inspiration

Dr. Vakharia grew up watching his cousins study dentistry, and by the time he was considering it, he was able to shadow his family dentist. “He did reconstructive cases, and seeing patients who had rarely smiled before smile from ear to ear was really rewarding.”

Favorite Aspect of Dentistry

“Alleviating patients’ fears.”

Something People Don't Know

“I was on Wheel of Fortune while in school, and won some vacation money.”