Published Tuesday, August 05, 2008

MCG graduate returns to Coweta to practice dentistry

By NICHOLE GOLDEN

nichole@newnan.com

Dr. Kisha Turner is proof that work-based learning programs for youth benefit all involved.

A recent Medical College of Georgia (MCG) graduate, Turner has returned to work at the Newnan dental practice that exposed her to dentistry at the age of 17.

Turner, who received her doctor of dental medicine in May, is now practicing at Wheat Family Dental at Summer Grove in Newnan.

In 1997, she began working there as part of health occupations course at Newnan High School.

What made her first interested in becoming a dentist? "It was a bad dental experience," says Turner. "I know I could do better than this," she recalled thinking.

After earning an undergraduate degree in biology/pre-dentistry from the University of Georgia, it was off to MCG. While in college, she continued to work at Wheat Family Dental during summer and holiday breaks.

"I have always known there was something special about Dr. Turner and now that she is a permanent part of our team here at Wheat Family Dental she has proven just that," said Dr. Leo Wheat Jr. "She brings with her an enthusiastic attitude, a warm and welcoming smile, and a drive to provide top quality dentistry to her patients. We are very lucky to have her on our team."

Turner is working mostly with adult patients, but also treats some children.

Her simple advice for students considering a career in dentistry or medicine is to shadow. "That confirmed it for me," she says.

Shadowing also helped her to be comfortable in the practice setting, which was "very, very helpful" in the clinical rotations at MCG.

Students in the Coweta County System have the opportunity to participate in work-based learning through job shadowing, clinical rotation, cooperative education, and Youth Apprenticeship programs. High school guidance counselors can provide more information on such programs.