A Black dentist in California shared a story about an encounter with an Asian patient who, according to him, refused to let him provide treatment because of his race.
The dentist shared a video on TikTok in which he described what he said had just happened during an appointment. According to him, he went to treat an Asian woman who was waiting inside a room. He said that when he entered, he introduced himself and reached out to shake her hand, something he said he routinely does with all of his patients. According to the dentist, instead of returning the handshake normally, the woman only briefly touched his hand with her fingertips.
The dentist said the woman also appeared “distraught” when she first saw him, which made him feel that something was off about the appointment. Despite that impression, he continued with the consultation as usual. According to the dentist, after he asked the patient what had brought her in, she explained that she wanted to have her braces removed and was interested in exploring Invisalign as a treatment option.
After discussing the treatment plan, the dentist explained that the first step would be to remove her braces so that her teeth could be scanned for Invisalign. According to the dentist, as soon as he explained the process, the woman asked whether she could see a different dentist instead of having him perform the procedure.
The dentist said he asked the patient why she wanted a different provider. According to his account, she replied that she had previously been treated by a Black dentist who had cut her gums. He then asked her, “Do you think that all Black dentists cut people’s gums?” The woman responded, “I’d just rather have a different dentist. Not a Black one.”
The dentist clarified that he would never “beg” anyone to be his patient. He explained that the encounter made him reflect on the years he spent to become a dentist. According to him, it also reminded him of what he believes is a broader reality that Black professionals often feel they have to work twice as hard just to be viewed as equally qualified as others.
“You would think that because I have a doctorate, because I went to all these years of school, I’m just as qualified as any other doctor,” he added. The dentist also made it clear that he did not hold any ill will toward the patient despite the encounter. “I don’t have any animosity toward that lady at all,” he said.
The dentist also said he understands that patients can feel vulnerable when they are at the dentist’s office. This can influence how they react during appointments. He ended the video by saying that one person’s actions should not be used to judge an entire group. He emphasized that the actions of one individual should not define everyone else.
Viewers Shocked After California Dentist Shares Experience
The video sparked reactions online. Many viewers were left shocked after hearing the California dentist’s account of the encounter. Many believed the patient’s comments were discriminatory and expressed support for the dentist. “Racism is so ignorant and disgusting,” one person wrote. Another commenter said, “Her loss. As a Black nurse, I’ve gotten this as well! We’re qualified‼”
More Black professionals shared that they had experienced similar situations in their own careers. “As a Black OBGYN I have had occasional issues like that. Thus the importance of remembering your own self worth and your personal journey in medicine,” one person wrote. Another commenter argued that Black people should respond by being more intentional about where they spend their money. “It’s time we start returning that same energy specifically where we spend our money,” they wrote.
The video sparked a conversation about the discrimination that Black professionals can face in the workplace. This includes discrimination from the people they serve. It also led to broader discussions about judging professionals by their qualifications and experience rather than their race. Many viewers emphasized that racial bias has no place in healthcare or any other profession.
