Meet Dr. Kommuri

Where are you from originally?

I am originally from Andhra Pradesh, a state with miles of breathtaking coastline in the southern part of India.

What is your favorite thing about living in this current city/state?

About Ohio- People are very warm and friendly. There is a strong sense of community and people always have each other's back.

When and why did you decide to become a dentist/orthodontist?

The seeds of aspiration to become a dentist began at about the age of nine. Inspired by my dentist grandfather, I would sneak into his office as a child and watch him put patients' out of their dental discomforts. I was deeply moved by the skill and ability of my grandfather to relieve people from pain, which left a lasting impression on me.

As I progressed in my journey to becoming a dentist, I developed a deep passion for hand instruments and orthodontic tools. The precision and simplicity of these tools, coupled with their ability to create complex yet transformative changes in people's lives, inspired me to pursue orthodontics as my specialty of choice.

What is the most important factor in a doctor-patient relationship, and why?

I believe trust is the most important factor in a doctor-patient relationship because it forms the foundation of effective care. When patients trust their doctor, they are more likely to communicate openly about their symptoms, concerns, and fears, leading to more accurate diagnoses and better treatment outcomes. Trust also fosters a sense of security and comfort, allowing patients to feel confident in the care they receive. Additionally, a trusting relationship encourages adherence to treatment plans and medical advice, ultimately improving overall health and well-being. Without trust, even the most skilled medical interventions may be met with doubt or hesitation, making it a crucial element in building strong, lasting doctor-patient relationships.

What do you find most interesting and motivating about the dental profession?

The ability to positively impact someone's life, deeply motivates me. My profession allows me to help people become free from ailments, achieve better health, and regain confidence, enabling them to lead successful personal and professional lives. In turn, this contributes to society and strengthens the community. I take great pride and feel truly blessed to be part of this profession, serving others in my own small yet meaningful way.

Do you volunteer or do do any community work?

I am passionate about serving the IDD community and currently hold the position of Young Dental Practitioner Chair in the American Academy of Developmental Medicine and Dentistry (AADMD)—a pioneering organization dedicated to improving the management of care and overall quality of life for this unique patient population.

Throughout my dental school journey, I have been actively involved in blood donation drives, oral health awareness campaigns, and volunteering efforts to provide free emergency dental care to underserved and underprivileged communities. Giving back through my profession has been a deeply fulfilling experience, and I am committed to continuing my efforts to make a meaningful impact.