As the first member of his family to graduate from a four-year college, Dr. Owens felt called to establish a practice right out of dental school to treat people in his rural Pennsylvania hometown. That choice has posed challenges, but he strives to provide patients the best possible care that won’t hurt their pocketbooks.

“I feel it’s my job in the professional and spiritual [sense] to serve my ‘neighbor.’ I do many outreach activities in the area—a community garden at the office, free clinics twice a year, sponsoring local activities.”

“My 330 bur. It’s a silly answer. Maybe computers, my intraoral camera or my cordless endo handpiece would be better. But I always use a 330. I joked once that I’m shocked I don’t try to prep for a crown with a 330.”

“I was the lead in my senior musical and always had a secret fantasy of being on Broadway.”

“Don’t get sucked into corporate dentistry. There are lots of practices throughout the country looking for associates or to sell, and they might not be in a big city, but there is nothing like being your own boss.”