Exploring Operative Dentistry with Board-Certified Specialist Stephen Wade, DDS, MS
- thepredentalguide
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
My favorite aspect of this specialty blog series is introducing you all to the incredible mentors and friends I’ve met through military and private practice. As a first-generation active-duty service member, mentorship has been essential to feeling supported and confident in my journey as a Navy dentist.
I recently sat down with Dr. Stephen Wade, a board-certified operative dentist and Captain in the United States Navy Dental Corp, to discuss his unique path. Fun fact: before the well-decorated military uniform and skilled restorative dentist, he got his 10,000 hours to mastery as a D1 basketball player at Loyola University. One commonality he preaches from the court to the clinical chair is mastering the fundamentals. Beyond his impressive credentials, Dr. Wade has been a remarkable mentor and leader. He joins us today to discuss all things operative dentistry, a specialty I didn't learn about until after graduating dental school!
What is operative dentistry?
The Academy of Operative Dentistry encompasses five foundational domains: cariology, direct and indirect esthetics, biomaterials, research, and education. A factor that distinguishes operative dentistry from prosthodontics is the emphasis on adhesive dentistry, biomaterials science, and comprehensive restorative diagnosis. Fun fact: There are only about 110 board-certified operative dentists, making it a small and highly specialized professional community.
Tell us about yourself, background, and education.
“I was born and raised in Montserrat until I was 15. After a natural disaster displaced my family, we relocated to Philadelphia. As a first-generation college student, I earned my BS in Chemistry from Loyola University New Orleans in 2002, where I played Division I basketball, then went on to receive my DMD from Temple University in 2007 and complete a General Practice Residency in Portsmouth, Virginia. After six years practicing as a Navy general dentist, I pursued advanced training through the Navy’s out service program at the University of Michigan from 2013 to 2016, earning a Master of Science in Restorative Dentistry and completing an operative residency focused on restorative dentistry and biomaterials.”
Why dentistry?
“As a chemistry major, I initially considered pharmacy and other healthcare fields. Through friends in college, I was introduced to dentistry and decided to shadow a dentist. I quickly realized that the profession uniquely blends science, problem-solving, technical artistry, and patient care. This combination immediately resonated with me.”
What inspired you to join the Navy?
“Military service has long been part of my family identity. My grandfather served in both World War I and World War II, and my father and brother were enlisted sailors in the Navy. My brother encouraged me to commission as an officer rather than enlist. During my first year of dental school, I learned about the Health Professions Scholarship Program (HPSP) and decided to pursue Navy dentistry. What I enjoy most about serving in the Navy is the opportunity to serve my country and provide care to service members within a public health framework."
After practicing for six years as a general dentist, what drew you to pursue operative residency training?
"I enjoy operative dentistry as I discovered dentistry is more than being a "tooth-filler". For me, it’s about understanding the why behind everyday restorative dentistry. The more I’ve learned, the more I’ve come to appreciate the complexity of diagnosis and the importance of a multidisciplinary approach. I like being at the forefront of evidence-based research that guides our clinical practices. While there are many areas of grey in dentistry, I'd say my most common theme I try to say true to is conservative dentistry is often the best service we can provide to patients. I also believe that “minimally invasive” must always be balanced with predictability. Treatment planning should always be patient-centered and individualized, taking into account caries risk, age, medical history, and financial considerations."
What brings you professional fulfillment in life?
"I find fulfillment is serving service members and contributing to public health dentistry. I enjoy working alongside both officers and enlisted personnel. I consider myself a lifelong learner and enjoy the people I've gotten to work with in the Navy.
Can you share your future goals?
"In the next 5-10 years, I hope to continue practice multi-disciplinary dentistry and grow as a leader, educator, and clinician. "
If any student is interested in learning more about operative dentistry, check out the Academy's homepage: https://academyofoperativedentistry.com/
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