"When treating patients, I learned long ago to leave my assumptions at the door. Instead, I recognize that behind every patient file is a person with unique dreams, aspirations, and ambitions—all of which are key to how I approach their treatment. Many of my patients have had previous experiences with dentists where they felt unheard or overlooked. Hearing these frustrations has made me work harder to listen to what is truly important to them. That way, I ensure all my treatment recommendations align with their goals and lifestyle. Whether they want to be their best for a once-in-a-lifetime celebration or free of pain due to a bothersome condition, their preferences are what inform my approach to their care, and always will."
Dr. Irina Gulerez, DMD, MSc, is a general dentist with significant experience in restorations, prosthetic dentistry including dentures and implant restorations, and cosmetic dentistry. She received her Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from McGill University, where she also minored in Pharmacology and earned a Master of Science (MSc) in Biochemistry.
Board-certified in Canada and the US, she attended the University of Rochester Medical Center (UR Medicine) for Advanced Education in General Dentistry. Since then, Dr. Gulerez has maintained a connection to the University of Rochester by working as a clinical instructor for dental residents. In 2022, she received the school's Award for Clinical Excellence in Teaching. A proud member of the ADA and NYSDA, Dr. Gulerez is fluent in three languages.
Along with biochemistry, Dr. Gulerez studied 3D crystallography at university level, which involves working with protein microcrystals. “At the time, I wasn’t thinking that studying crystals in a lab would benefit me as a dentist, but it turned out to be great pre-training for my career."
“The highly detailed work in dentistry resembles the micro precision required in those fields. Working with crystals improved my dexterity and fine motor skills, which in turn helped prepare me to handle a handpiece. I learned to put a lot of emphasis on surgical precision, which is invaluable for procedures like veneers that benefit from the most intricate level of detail".
“The result of all this experience is that I am extremely comfortable working on teeth and hold my work to an incredibly high standard—both of which benefit the patient.”
In dealing with patients who have avoided seeing the dentist for an extended period, Dr. Gulerez emphasizes the importance of not being judgmental. “I always tell my patients that it doesn’t matter how long it’s been since they’ve last seen the dentist, they’re here now, and that’s what matters".
“I’ve seen patients who haven’t been to the dentist in ten years (or sometimes more), but I never judge them for their decision. Some people don’t prioritize dental care as much as other things, while others may have had a bad experience that turned them off; you never know what someone else is going through.”
Dr. Gulerez takes as much time as possible to get to know each new patient during their first appointment. “Not causing them pain or discomfort on their first visit goes a long way towards building trust and creating a positive experience. And in the end, that is what will ensure they come back for regular treatment and maintenance."
When addressing her patients’ concerns—whether aesthetic, functional, or both—Dr. Gulerez always looks at the full picture.
“I’m lucky to have had such a comprehensive education at McGill, because it went a long way towards sharpening my diagnostic abilities. When I look at a patient’s dental health, I don’t address their issues or concerns piecemeal, but as an ensemble".
“For example, if a tooth is worn down, I can put in a filling; but if the patient is grinding, I need to address the root cause so they don’t wind up back in my chair in a few months. This stage is where it’s important to prioritize treatment based on my patient’s wants, but also on functional needs, so we can make the right choice together.”
Dr. Gulerez points out that if she were the one in the chair, she would want to have her options (and the advantages of each) explained to her. "This is not about convincing someone to get treatment, it's about finding the best solution for one's teeth."
Despite her multiple degrees, Dr. Gulerez remains committed to continuing education. When choosing courses and seminars, she prefers those that get as granular as possible, as this helps her learn her craft in detail.
“I won’t touch a tooth unless I’m 100% certain that I can not only perform the procedure, but also take care of any possible complications, no matter how remote the chances. This is why I love building on everything I learned throughout dental school with courses laser-focused on specific topics. It’s like layers of knowledge stacked one on top of the other.
“Being invested in continuing education helps me provide my patients with exceptional care. From learning how to preserve tooth structure for the future, to rehabilitating a smile, it's a way to prioritize the skills that align with my values as a dentist."
Connect with me through social media or email today so we can get started on creating your healthy lifestyle together.
