Introducing Dr Yana Gerhardt from Higley Park Dental Care
Sharing Insight into Her Path from Eastern Europe to Arizona
Where did you grow up? How long have you lived in the area? Tell us about your family
I was born and raised in Moldova and moved to the US at the age of 15 with my parents and siblings. I am blessed to have spent more than half of my life in this country. I have lived in several different states and ended up in Arizona for dental school. I am married with two children, a boy and a girl.
Tell us about the events that led up to where you are now.
While in high school, I knew that I wanted to be in healthcare, so I became interested in dentistry. I started dental assisting school while in high school. I graduated high school and dental assisting at the same time. During my internship as a dental assistant, I was offered a position, which was my very first job. I really enjoyed being in the dental field, thus I decided to pursue dentistry further. I graduated from University of California, Sacramento (CSUS) with a B.S. in biology and moved to Mesa, AZ to attend the Arizona School of Dentistry and Oral Health (ATSU), where I received my DMD and a certificate in public health.
What is unique about your business?
I have been with Higley Park Dental since May 2023. Prior to that I worked with special needs patients in North Phoenix where I provided all general dentistry services and also IV sedation and oral sedation.
Given your business expertise and the nature of what you do, what advice can you offer to the residents?
We are often asked for tips to prevent caries (cavities). In addition to good oral hygiene and regular dental visits, I like to stress the importance of limiting the consumption of energy drinks and sports drinks, which are rising in popularity. Traditionally, we have been told that cavities are caused by sugar and bacteria, but it is acid that directly causes cavities. Energy drinks, sports drinks and vitamin water just to name a few are very acidic, and bathing our teeth in these liquids can lead to cavities. Moderation is key!
What else we should know about you, your family, or your business?
In my spare time, I love spending time with my family, traveling in the states and abroad, trying new foods and cooking. I am fluent in Russian and Romanian, but also understand some Ukrainian. During family gatherings, all three languages are spoken.
To schedule your next dental visit at Higley Park Dental Care:
480.559.8098