‘Healing is about bringing smiles back’

Dr. Ankit Jha, an accomplished dental surgeon and Territory Manager (North & East India) for a leading US-based dental equipment company, embodies versatility in his career. A proud alumnus of Apeejay School, Saket (Batch 2006), he not only excels in dentistry at his clinic, Dr. Jha’s Digital Dentistry, but also mentors fellow doctors in marketing and digital strategies.

From an introverted student to a dynamic professional, his journey reflects resilience and growth. Passionate about healing smiles and transforming lives, Dr. Jha believes in lifelong learning and breaking boundaries. In this candid conversation, he shares insights from his career, school memories, and valuable advice for students.

What inspired you to pursue medicine? Did the calling come during your school years?

I have wanted to become a doctor for as long as I can remember. And in India, if you tell your parents you want to be a doctor, they never say no! But my moment of realization came when my father underwent major surgery when I was in Class 6. While waiting with him in the hospital, I saw many sick and suffering patients, which initially made me question my decision—why would I want to be surrounded by pain and illness?

However, everything changed when I saw a little boy visiting his father in post-surgical pain. The moment the father saw his child, he smiled and reassured him, despite his own discomfort. That was my turning point. I realized being a doctor isn’t about being around sickness—it’s about healing, about bringing joy back into people’s lives. That’s when I knew I wanted to be in this noble profession.

What does an average day look like for you as a dental surgeon?

My day starts with a gym session—that’s where I truly wake up! Then I go through my schedule, mentally preparing for the day’s cases and surgeries. I reach my clinic around 9 AM, where most patients come with complaints of pain or chewing issues, while others seek cosmetic smile corrections.

There’s a deep satisfaction in both aspects—relieving pain and restoring confidence. One of the most heartwarming moments is when a patient calls to say that they’re getting married because of the treatment, or that they finally feel comfortable smiling without covering their mouth. These are the moments that make my work incredibly fulfilling.

How were your school years? Which subjects and activities interested you the most?

I was an average student—not much into sports or extracurricular activities. In fact, I was quite an introvert. My personality today is completely different from who I was back then. Looking back, there are many things I wish I had done differently. If I could go back in time, I’d participate more, take more risks, and make the most of my school years.

 How did your teachers at Apeejay Saket shape your journey?

I studied at Apeejay, Saket from Nursery to Class 12, and I was fortunate to have incredible teachers at every stage. There’s a unique joy in seeing the same teacher who taught you in Nursery when you’re in Class 12. They may not always remember us, having taught hundreds of students, but we never forget them—for the lessons, for the encouragement, and for shaping us into who we are today.

What advice would you give to current students?

There’s so much I’d like to say, but here are my key takeaways:

• Learn as much as you can now. School is a safe space where your teachers genuinely care about you. Once you leave, you’re on your own.
• Don’t fear mistakes. Mistakes are small, but our hesitation makes them bigger than they are. It’s better to learn from mistakes in school than in college or at work.
• Grades matter, but they don’t define your future. What truly matters is discipline, dedication, and concentration. These qualities will determine your success in any field.
• Believe in yourself. There will be times when others doubt you, but if you start doubting yourself too, it’s a downward spiral. Be your own biggest cheerleader.
• Enjoy your school years. It’s the golden period of life—but most of us realize this only after it’s over.

What are your future goals? Any final message?

Apart from dentistry, I work with a US-based company in marketing and sales, and I also teach digital marketing to doctors and hospitals. Life isn’t linear—just because you have a degree in one field doesn’t mean you can’t explore others. Keep learning, keep growing. Never limit yourself to just textbooks—knowledge from anywhere is valuable.