Ariel Steinberger, DDS

Ariel Steinberger chose Touro for undergrad because he wanted to be in an environment that would propel him toward an advanced education without compromising his Jewish ethics or values. To take full advantage of that opportunity, he had a unique strategy—which he now offers as his advice to undergrads: “When a new professor comes, introduce yourself right away and create a relationship. Their clinical experience and what they’ve seen is incredible! They can make a difference in your career, so always take advantage of the ability to develop relationships.”

It was at Touro that Ariel eventually discovered his calling. “I knew when I started college that I wanted to pursue something in healthcare, but I didn't have clarity. By chance, I spent a weekend at the home of an oral surgeon who offered me the opportunity to shadow him.” Ariel was so inspired, he ended up driving every week to watch this doctor work. “Seeing how he interacted with his patients as well as the finesse, artistry and advanced skill set that he used in his daily practice was really a major catalyst in my decision to pursue dentistry.”

When it came time to choose a dental school, Ariel found himself taking a leap of faith. “When I started at Touro College of Dental Medicine (TCDM), I was part of the first class and there were a lot of unanswered questions. The simulation lab was still in development, the lecture hall hadn't been built, and the clinic was a dream. No one really could have predicted the amazing program that TCDM would become. I can’t say enough good things about my dental school experience. The faculty is incredible, the facility is gorgeous and above all else, the students are happy. Dental school is really tough. To create an environment where the students look forward to coming to school each and every day is truly unique.”

After graduation, Ariel will complete a one-year dental residency at NYU Langone. He hopes to go on to open his own practice, but he’s already making a difference in the lives of patients—like the one who seemed sullen and unfriendly, all because she hated her smile. After a complete makeover that included eight veneers, she cried, thanking the dentists for redesigning her entire smile. The experience was meaningful for Ariel, too. “Dentistry is about teeth but it is much more about people that are attached to them—how they look and how they feel about how they look. Experiences like that,” he shares, “allow you to see the impact you can have on people.”