Next Gen of the Month is a monthly Q&A with a dental student or new dentist where we ask them about their experiences and accomplishments thus far in their dentistry journey. This month we are featuring Milana Torhjelm, who just completed her second year of dental school at Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry. She enjoys documenting her journey through dental school on Instagram and connecting with current and aspiring dental students.
Why did you decide to pursue dentistry?
Growing up, I used to think that oral and systemic health were completely separate from one another. But as I got older, I became fascinated by how interconnected they really are, and how much our oral health can influence our overall well-being.
I wanted to be part of helping people understand that connection and empower them to take a holistic approach to their care. I started shadowing dentists at a young age, and loved seeing how involved the treatment plans were, how meaningful the relationships with the patients could be, and how dentistry blended science, critical thinking, and compassion.
That’s when I realized dentistry was the perfect fit. It’s a profession that not only allows me to be hands-on and creative but also gives me the chance to make a real difference in people’s lives. Knowing I can help others feel more confident in their smiles and more informed about their overall well-being is what truly drew me to this profession, and it continues to inspire me every day.
How do you manage stress during practical exams or clinical work?
Dental school has been an incredibly exciting journey, but it definitely comes with its fair share of pressure. One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is to trust my training. In high-stress moments like practical exams, self-doubt only adds to the pressure. So, I take a moment to remind myself: I’ve studied for this, practiced it, and spent countless hours preparing. That reminder helps to ground me.
I’ve also come to realize that I perform my best when I choose confidence, not the kind that expects everything to go perfectly, but the kind that comes from trusting my skills and the work I’ve put in. For me, managing stress is about leaning into that belief, staying present, and taking things one step at a time.
What’s the most rewarding moment you’ve had so far in dental school?
One of the most rewarding moments was seeing my very first patient. After spending so much time practicing on plastic teeth in the simulation clinic, finally applying those skills in a real clinical setting felt surreal. There was something incredibly meaningful about connecting with a real person, easing their concerns, and contributing to their care even in a small way.
In that moment, everything came full circle. All the studying, the stress, and the long hours suddenly felt worth it. It reminded me of why I chose this profession in the first place. Dentistry is about the people, not just the procedures. It was a powerful reminder that dentistry is built on trust, empathy, and human connection. Through that experience, I saw myself stepping into the clinician I’ve always wanted to become.
Who is your biggest inspiration?
My parents are my biggest inspiration. They’ve always shown me what it means to work hard and pursue your passions wholeheartedly, and that shines through in how they approach everything they do.
From a young age, I was drawn to healthcare. When I discovered that dentistry combines so many of the things I love—like patient care, science, and creativity—I knew I had found the right path. Loving what I do makes this journey through dental school so much more meaningful. I truly look forward to going to school every day. It makes studying for exams a little easier, and it helps me push through the tough moments, because I genuinely enjoy the process and value the growth that comes with each experience.
I’ve learned from my parents that when people truly love what they do, it leaves a meaningful impact not just through their work, but through the energy and presence they bring into every space. Watching them live with that kind of purpose reminds me that success isn’t just about what you achieve, but how you show up with passion, integrity, and care. That’s the kind of energy I hope to carry with me into dentistry, so I can provide the best possible care for my future patients!
I look forward to connecting on Instagram—follow @thesmileydds to join me on my dental school journey.
