From teeth to total health: Dr. Tanya Rajdev’s dental mission

Dr. Tanya Rajdev’s journey into the world of dentistry began at just nine years old during her first visit to the dentist.

“I vividly remember being captivated by the chair that moved in every direction, the gleaming instruments and the dentist’s crisp white coat,” she recalled. But what left the deepest impression on her was the immense gratitude patients expressed toward the dentist.

“After my own treatment, as the pain subsided, I turned to my mother, held her hand and confidently declared, ‘I want to be a dentist!’”

Born and raised in Delhi, India, Dr. Rajdev was encouraged from an early age to strive for excellence, particularly in education. Her dedication and hard work led her to receive a scholarship to attend the prestigious University of Michigan School of Dentistry.

“My time at Michigan was transformative,” she said. “It provided me with advanced dental knowledge and ignited my deep passion for patient care and well-being.”

Dr. Rajdev’s patient-centered approach is one of the cornerstones of her practice. "I focus on ensuring each patient feels heard, understood, and well-cared for," she said.

Her personal experiences have further shaped her philosophy.

One of the most significant moments in her career was treating her own grandmother, providing her with complete dentures and witnessing the impact on her confidence.

“It reaffirmed my decision to dedicate my life to this profession,” she said.

THE MOUTH: A GATEWAY TO OVERALL HEALTH

Dr. Rajdev believes dentistry is far more than just about teeth — it’s about overall health. "Oral health plays a crucial role in overall health and well-being," she said. "The mouth serves as a gateway to the body, and poor oral health can have significant consequences beyond just dental problems."

She emphasizes the link between gum disease and heart disease, explaining that inflammation and bacteria associated with gum disease can For those living with diabetes, the connection between oral health and systemic well-being is even more critical. “People with diabetes are more susceptible to gum disease, which can contribute to the development of arterial plaque, potentially leading to heart attacks and strokes. She also highlights how poor oral health, including missing or damaged teeth can make chewing difficult, leading to poor nutrition.

For those living with diabetes, the connection between oral health and systemic well-being is even more critical. “People with diabetes are more susceptible to gum disease, which can make it harder to control blood sugar levels,” she said. “Healthy gums can help keep diabetes under control.”

Beyond physical health, Dr. Rajdev also points to the psychological impacts of poor oral hygiene. “It can affect selfesteem and social interactions, contributing to anxiety and depression,” she said.

DENTISTRY AS AN ART AND SCIENCE

One thing Dr. Rajdev wishes more people understood is how complex dentistry truly is. “It’s not just about cleaning teeth or filling cavities,” she said.

Dentistry requires a unique blend of art and science. “Each patient’s case presents its own challenges, requiring both technical precision and creativity,” she said. This combination allows her to not only restore oral health but also enhance a patient’s confidence and quality of life.

BUILDING A COMMUNITYFOCUSED PRACTICE IN JOHNSTON COUNTY

Dr. Rajdev chose to set up her practice, Allay Dental Group, in Johnston County because it is experiencing rapid growth but maintains a strong sense of community. "Unlike the hustle and bustle of larger cities, Johnston County offers a more intimate atmosphere, which allows me to really connect with my patients on a personal level," she said.

She also saw a need for more dental services in the area.

"There simply aren’t enough dentists to meet the growing demand, and I saw this as an opportunity to provide essential care to a region that really needed it," she said. Her office has served more than 2,500 patients.

She named her practice “Allay,” because it means “to alleviate pain, anxiety and fear” — feelings patients might experience when visiting a dentist. “We understand that dental care can be a source of stress, and we are dedicated to providing a relaxed and supportive environment where you feel comfortable and cared for,” she said.

They offer a variety of services at their Clayton office, including cleanings, fillings, crowns, bridges, cosmetic dentistry, implants, dentures and root canal treatments and they have an endodontist on site.

Setting up her practice here not only allows her to serve a growing community but also brings her closer to home, where she lives with her supportive partner and two daughters.

Dr. Rajdev’s dedication to her patients and her community reflects her deep commitment to improving lives, both inside and outside the dental chair.

“For me, dentistry is more than a profession - it’s a calling to make a meaningful and lasting difference in the lives of others.”