Beyond the Drill: People, Passion, and the Unwritten Art of Family Dentistry in Indiana
Angelo Rombley • June 22, 2025
Filming an interview often means capturing more than just words — it's about revealing the story behind them. That was certainly true when I sat down with Dr. Miranda Cornejo, a young dentist practicing in Valparaiso, Indiana. What started as a straightforward conversation about dentistry quickly unfolded into a deeper narrative about people, passion, and the profound impact of compassionate care.
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Listening Beyond the Surface
As I filmed Dr. Cornejo sharing her experiences, it became clear that this story wasn't just about teeth or treatments; it was about something much deeper. It was about the people behind every appointment—their fears, their hopes, and the trust they placed in their dentist. She spoke with a sincerity that made me realize how often dentistry is misunderstood as simply a clinical, transactional service.
Dr. Cornejo described how she once worked in a corporate dental environment where the focus was heavily on meeting quotas and pushing treatments. The pressure to prioritize sales over patient care left her feeling disconnected from the very reason she became a dentist in the first place.
"I felt like I was treating teeth, not people," she told me. "It wasn't sustainable for me."
This honest reflection set the tone for our entire conversation. It highlighted a challenge many dentists face—balancing business pressures with the desire to provide genuine care.
Finding a New Path at Accent Dental
Her decision to leave corporate dentistry was a bold one. She joined Accent Dental in Valparaiso, a practice that resonated with her values. Here, the focus is squarely on the patient, not the profit margin.
Dr. Cornejo explained how Accent Dental's philosophy centers on compassionate, patient-focused care. Patients aren't rushed through appointments; instead, time is taken to listen, educate, and build trust. This approach not only reduces anxiety but also fosters long-term relationships.
"It's about earning trust," she said. "When patients feel heard, they're more relaxed and engaged in their care."
This patient-first mindset was one of the most striking insights I gained from filming her story. It's a reminder that dentistry, at its best, is deeply personal.
The Female Dentist Perspective
Dr. Cornejo also spoke openly about her experience as a female dentist in a field that can sometimes be dominated by men. She noted that some patients initially hesitate to see a woman dentist. Still, many women—and men—appreciate the empathetic, tender approach she brings to her work.
"Sometimes it's that tender, caring touch that makes all the difference," she reflected. "It's part of what family dentistry is really about."
This perspective added another layer to the story—how diversity in dentistry can enhance patient comfort and care.
Behind the Scenes: The Art and Science of Restorations
While the patient experience was central to our conversation, Dr. Cornejo also highlighted the role of technology and artistry in modern dentistry. Visual Dental Arts, a local dental lab, plays a critical role in this story.
I learned about Aleksandra and Jack Polczynski, skilled technicians who use digital scanning and advanced techniques to craft dental restorations that look and feel natural. Their work bridges technology with artistic craftsmanship, ensuring that patients receive restorations that seamlessly blend with their natural teeth.
"A good lab can make a good dentist look great," Dr. Cornejo said. "We're fortunate to have both."
This collaboration between dentist and lab technician is a reminder that modern dentistry is a team effort, combining science and creativity.
Mentorship and Teamwork: The Heart of Family Dentistry
Another theme that emerged was the importance of mentorship and teamwork within the practice. Dr. Cornejo spoke highly of Dr. Dean Bolden, a mentor whose approach to dentistry emphasizes patience, memory, and genuine care.
"He remembers every patient's story, sometimes from a single photo," she shared. "That kind of care sets the tone for the whole team."
This culture of support and mentorship helps new dentists like Dr. Cornejo grow in confidence and skill, ultimately benefiting patients with higher-quality, compassionate care.
What I Learned Through the Lens
Filming Dr. Cornejo's interview was more than capturing a professional story—it was witnessing the unwritten art of family dentistry in action. It's a practice grounded in human connection, where technology serves the patient's comfort and well-being rather than just clinical efficiency.
This story showed me that dentistry can be much more than cleanings and fillings. It's about building trust, easing fears, and making every patient feel seen and valued. It's about mentorship, artistry, and teamwork—all coming together to create a healing experience.
Final Thoughts
This glimpse into family dentistry in Indiana revealed a side of the profession that is often overlooked in typical portrayals of the field. It's a reminder that behind every smile is a story, and behind every dentist is a passion for people.
For anyone in the dental field or anyone considering video storytelling in healthcare, Dr. Cornejo's story is a powerful example of how authentic voices and compassionate care can shine through the lens—and inspire others.
Suppose you want to explore stories like this or discuss how to capture the human side of dentistry through video. In that case, I'm always open to conversation and ideas.
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