Dr. Katzman (second from right) with dental volunteers.
Between her career in dentistry spanning three decades and her energetic, passionate spirit, it’s no wonder Dr. Robin Katzman has excelled at Grace Medical Home as a volunteer working with children in dentistry. For Dr. Katzman, it’s all about the people.
Dr. Katzman, who has worked in dentistry for more than 35 years, began her volunteer journey with Grace eight years ago, before the organization even provided dental care. Now retired, she’s an active volunteer working to ensure children receive proper, quality dental care.
“People don’t realize how important dental care is until they don’t have access to it,” she said.
Having grown up in Orlando, Dr. Katzman always knew she’d be in the medical field. She loves working in dentistry because she has built lasting relationships with patients over the years. Her husband also worked in dentistry and they led their practice together.
Volunteering has always been a passion of Dr. Katzman. She even traveled 21 times to Jerusalem to volunteer her dental expertise. And when it comes to her work at Grace, she feels she fits in perfectly. She said one of the reasons she loves working with children is the ability to form their view of the dentist.
“I like to work with kids because the first experience they have with the dentist forms the way they view dentistry for the rest of their lives.”
With children, Dr. Katzman said it’s all about being caring and explaining procedures in ways that are easy to understand. She’ll often make comparisons, for example, on how the suction of a dental tool feels like a kiss.
Michelle Lawton, director of dental operations at Grace, said Dr. Katzman is faithful, honest, and she has a true passion.
“Her passion for us is strong,” Lawton said. “She’s been with us since before we even existed with dental. Her work is phenomenal, and her patience with children needs to be glorified.”
Lawton said it’s so important for children to receive quality dental care because it can break the cycle of fear or preconceived notions, as well as teach them the value of preventative care. She said Dr. Katzman goes above and beyond in working toward that.
“Grace is one of the most amazing charitable organizations I’ve ever come across,” Dr. Katzman said. “It’s very energizing to be a volunteer here.”
