The News-Examiner recently had the opportunity to sit down with Dr. Jerry Walker, the dentist at Mountain View Dental Clinic in Soda Springs. In this exclusive interview, Dr. Walker shared insights about his journey into dentistry, his favorite aspects of his work, and the unique services he offers to his patients.
News-Examiner: Was being a dentist always your dream profession?
Dr. Walker:
No, not at all. Like many people, I was exploring different career options during my college years. Initially, I was drawn to outdoor careers like forestry or game management. However, I quickly realized, with some advice from my wife, Heidi, that these hobbies wouldn’t provide the financial stability needed to support a family. I explored various fields, including medicine and physical therapy, but nothing felt quite right. It wasn’t until I was attending Idaho State University that I had a chance meeting with a friend who was considering dental school. That conversation sparked an interest, and the more I thought about it, the more it felt like the right fit for me.
NE: Where did you go to school, and what brought you to Soda Springs?
Dr. Walker:
I attended Ricks College, Idaho State University, and then the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine. After completing my advanced education in general dentistry with the U.S. Air Force, I was stationed in Azores, Portugal. Upon completing my active-duty assignment, I looked for dental opportunities closer to home in the Intermountain West. I learned about a dentist in Soda Springs seeking an associate, came to visit, and was offered the position. We moved here in 2007, and four months later, we acquired the practice. We’ve been here ever since.
NE: What is your favorite aspect of being a dentist?
Dr. Walker:
I truly enjoy waking up and going to work every day. It’s a profession that excites me. I love that no two days are the same, and the work allows me to make a real impact on people’s lives. Whether it’s providing relief to someone in severe pain or helping patients improve their health, it’s incredibly rewarding. I’m also lucky to work with a dedicated team who shares my passion for dentistry and makes the workplace enjoyable.
NE: Are there any misconceptions about dental hygiene?
Dr. Walker:
A common misconception is that if your teeth don’t hurt, you don’t need to see a dentist. That’s not true. While brushing and flossing are essential, preventing cavities today requires more than just good home care. Factors like the composition of our saliva, pH levels, diet, genetics, medications, and even our immune system all influence oral health. Regular dental visits are critical, as they allow us to catch potential issues early and personalize care based on individual needs.
NE: At what age should individuals start good dental hygiene habits?
Dr. Walker:
It’s never too late to start improving your dental hygiene, but developing good habits early is key. The American Dental Association recommends a child’s first dental visit by the age of one. Early visits not only help establish lifelong hygiene habits, but they also allow children to become familiar with a dental office environment, which reduces future anxiety. It’s also an opportunity for parents to learn how to care for their child’s teeth properly.
NE: What is the connection between oral health and overall health?
Dr. Walker:
Oral health is closely linked to overall health. Conditions like heart disease, diabetes, infections, and even gut health can be affected by poor oral hygiene. Additionally, many medications taken to treat various health conditions can negatively impact oral health, creating a delicate balance that needs to be managed carefully. Advances in medicine are continuously showing how integral oral health is to overall well-being.
NE: Do you offer any unique services at your practice?
Dr. Walker:
One of the most unique aspects of our practice is that we give patients the ability to choose the level of dental care they want. If they’re satisfied with what their insurance covers, that’s fine, but we also offer the option to choose more advanced materials and procedures not covered by insurance. This approach empowers our patients to take control of their dental health. Additionally, with the advanced training I received in the Air Force and through continuing education, we offer a wide range of services that allow patients to receive comprehensive care without needing to travel for specialized treatments. From dental implants and orthodontics to sedation for wisdom teeth removal and gum surgeries, we strive to meet all of our community’s dental needs right here in Soda Springs.
Dr. Walker’s approach to dentistry is rooted in both passion and innovation, and his commitment to providing high-quality care makes Mountain View Dental Clinic a valuable asset to the Soda Springs community.
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