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. My family, parents/siblings, and I moved to the United States when I was 15 years old. I am now blessed to have spent more than half of my life in this country. Several different states were home for me, until finally I settled in Arizona for dental school. I am currently married with two young children. The best of both, a son who is very artistically creative while enjoying his love for sports, and a daughter who loves making new friends and enjoys her own sense of fashion.

Tell us about the events that led up to where you are now.
Throughout my time in high school, I always had an interest in preparing for a career in the healthcare field. Dentistry became my focus. I attended trade school to become a Dental Assistant while still in high school, graduating from both simultaneously. During my internship, I was offered my first part-time job as a Dental Assistant, which I eagerly accepted. I really enjoyed being an integral part of the dental office. It didn’t take me long to decide to pursue my new dream, becoming a dentist. I graduated from University of California, Sacramento (CSUS) with a bachelor’s in biology. With that degree in hand, I then moved to Mesa, AZ to attend the Arizona School of Dentistry and Oral Health (ATSU). I received my DMD and certificate in public health. 

What is your business, why did you start your business?
I am proud to be the associate Dentist caring for patients at Higley Park Dental Care. Since May 2023, improving and maintaining smiles for the many patients I have had the pleasure to meet continues to give me so much joy. I also have years of experience working with special needs patients in North Phoenix. I provided all general dentistry services, most often with IV sedation and/or oral sedation options for the ease and comfort of the patients. Here at Higley Park Dental Care I have had many of those same patients continue treatment with me. I am proud to know that the connection between myself and my patients is strong enough to have patients who want to follow me for their dental needs.

What is unique about your business?
At Higley Park Dental Care we offer services for both adults and children of all ages. It is our goal to have all our patients feel comfortable with our professional knowledge and trust that we have the best interest of each patient in mind always. We try to make coming for a dental appointment as stress-free and enjoyable as possible. Each individual patient is treated as an extension of our own family. Our office team is trained and educated in all areas of dentistry, inclusive of general dentistry procedures, root canals, wisdom teeth extractions, implants, and sleep apnea treatment to mention a few. Sedation options such as Nitrous Oxide, oral sedation, and IV sedation are also available. Many patients experience dental anxiety; we take time to be sure each patient has what they need to feel calm and comfortable. In addition, we offer Botox treatments not only for esthetics, but for treatment of headaches, TMJ pain, and grinding. 

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 (tooth decay). 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. Although popular, maybe not so good for our teeth. Traditionally, we have been told that caries is caused by sugar and bacteria, but it is acid that is the direct cause. Energy drinks, sports drinks and vitamin water, just to name a few, are very acidic. Bathing our teeth in these liquids can lead to cavities. Moderation is key!

What else should we know about you, your family, or your business?
When I have spare time, I love spending time with my family!  I also enjoy making time for cycling, traveling within the US and abroad. 

I can’t leave out my guilty pleasure of cooking and trying new foods. Sushi rocks, it’s one of my favorites!

I can fluently speak Russian and Romanian, but also understand some Ukrainian. During family gatherings, all three languages are spoken…let me leave you to imagine how crazy that can be!!!!!

To schedule your next dental visit at Higley Park Dental Care:
480.559.8098 
www.higleyparkdental.com