Breaking Barriers: Dr. Urmi’s Path to Orthodontic Excellence
From 80s Kid to Orthodontic Trailblazer
Growing up in the vibrant era of the 1980s in the UAE, Dr. Urmi quickly understood that respect had to be earned. Not being particularly athletic or conventionally attractive, she realized early on that academic excellence would be her path to empowerment.
“I wasn’t a physically strong or athletic kid, so sport wasn’t quite for me,” she recalls. “Soon realized that looks weren’t my forte, but I was a smart kid at school. Academics would guide me to my future.”
In a society where academically inclined students were often steered toward engineering or medicine, Dr. Urmi found herself drawn to dentistry. The profession was evolving rapidly, and interactions with her parents’ dentist friends left a lasting impression. “They came across ever so dignified, stylish, successful, and happy in their lives. That left an impression on me. I wanted that.”
Navigating the Challenges of Embracing a New Path
After completing her Masters in Orthodontics and Maxillofacial Orthopedics in 2016, Dr. Urmi set her sights on building a career in the UAE. However, breaking into the dental field there proved challenging.
“Getting that first job in the UAE without having UAE experience is the hardest part,” she explains. “Clinics aren’t willing to take that chance, or else the monetary compensation is meager.”
Her initial experience was disheartening. “I thought I got lucky when I was hired by a well-known clinic, soon to realize that I had been played. They just wanted to use my license.”
Undeterred, she immersed herself in industry conferences and networking, eventually securing a position that truly valued her expertise and passion.
Tackling the Toughest Cases
Dr. Urmi thrives on challenges, often taking on cases that others have deemed too complex.
“I always enjoy taking up the most challenging cases, usually ones that have been rejected by others or given an extremely difficult treatment plan that was unacceptable or unsuccessfully done,” she shares.
“The complex cases get me anxious, nervous, and sweaty, but once finished, they’re the most satisfying.”
For her, the ability to transform a patient’s smile — and in turn, their life — offers unmatched fulfillment.
Philosophy: Simplicity Meets Innovation
In an era where dental treatments can easily become overly complicated, Dr. Urmi stands by a philosophy rooted in simplicity and patient-centric care.
“I like to keep my orthodontic treatment plans simple yet advanced,” she states, questioning the need for invasive techniques when minimalistic approaches can be just as effective.
“Knowing when to use the right tool is wisdom. A minimalistic and conservative approach can always do the trick.”
She also acknowledges the challenge of balancing informed patients’ expectations with professional judgment.
“These days, patients are highly informed and educated. Sadly, sometimes even influenced. They only want their treatment a certain way, maybe because it worked for a friend or family,” she notes. “But as the practitioner, as the educated specialist, I decide how I want to go about the procedure and treatment.”
Building a Legacy in the UAE
Today, Dr. Urmi practices at Hey Dental Clinic in JLT, Dubai, bringing over a decade of experience to her role as a Specialist Orthodontist.
Fluent in English, Hindi, Urdu, and Bengali, she connects easily with a diverse patient base—many of whom travel from other emirates to receive monthly orthodontic care from her. Her dedication to patient care has earned her widespread respect among both clients and peers.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Dr. Urmi’s journey is a powerful story of resilience, adaptability, and excellence. Her advice to aspiring professionals is grounded in patience and self-awareness.
“It’s a long journey. Educate yourself, gather all the information, knowledge, and experience that you can. Then you need to analyze what works for you and what doesn’t. That truly takes time. Won’t happen overnight. Requires patience and authenticity. Just like Orthodontics — it takes time. Not a single appointment wonder.”
Connect with Dr. Urmi Mazumder
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