Katy Vitiello, D.M.D. Medford, MA ADA member for twenty-six years How many years have you been an ADA member? 26 Briefly describe your practice. Forensic odontologist What's the most-often asked question from your patients? What is it like to identify a deceased person.		Katy Vitiello, DMD Twenty-six year member

What is the most interesting thing that has happened or you’ve done as a dental professional?
Spent 2 weeks in Biloxi, Mississippi, helping to identify hurricane Katrina victims.

Why did you choose dentistry as a profession?
I wanted health care but I didn't think I could deal with patients actively dying.

What's the most difficult challenge you've faced in your practice?
Treating patients that were both deaf and mute.

Name one unique thing on a wall in your clinic or displayed in your waiting room.
Three Stooges providing "dental care" to each other.

What would you be doing if you weren’t a dentist?
Criminal justice field—I like to put puzzles together, like diagnosis.

Name/describe your favorite CE course taken in the past two years.
American Society of Forensic Odontology annual meeting.

What are you most proud of?
My two weeks in Mississippi as part of a [Disaster Mortuary Operational Response Team].

What is your favorite book or movie?
Rebecca—the movie—illustrates that things are often not what they appear to be.

Where is your favorite vacation spot or activity?
Visiting historic landmarks and properties.

Who has most influenced your life?
My father. His advice helps me every day even though he left this Earth 16 years ago.

Any final thoughts or words of advice?
In life, and your career, try to enjoy the journey and not just focus on arriving at your destination.

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