From The Dentist's Mouth - Dr Andrew Li

Welcome to Dr Andrew Li, who will be splitting his time between our Lumino Dinsdale and Lumino Chartwell practices. We're thrilled to have him onboard. 

What made you decide to get into dentistry as a career?

As a child, I was fascinated by how dentists and orthodontists can transform a person's smile and give them confidence. Being a patient myself when I was younger, I hope to bring the same level of care and joy to my patients.

How long have you been practising dentistry?

I graduated from the University of Otago in 2021 and am going into my 3rd year of practise.

Tell us about your career background.

After graduating I went to Auckland where I practised in West, East, and North Auckland before deciding the traffic was too bad in Auckland, and moved down to Hamilton to help with the need for dentists in other regions apart from Auckland.

What is your most memorable case to date?

I had a very difficult root canal with very calcified canals and many pulp stones. Took a while to remove the stones and find all the canals but it was very satisfying to see the beautifully completed root canal. I remember the specific patient had gone overseas for a check up and the dentist there had complimented my root canal treatment to my patient. 

What do you love most about your job?

I love every aspect of being a dentist. The highlight of dentistry for me would be to bring a smile to my patient and them being relieved of their pain, whether it is a toothache or not being happy with their smile. Being able to talk to people from all walks of life is another joyful part of this career.

What are your special interests in dentistry?

I am very intrigued by oral surgery, implant dentistry and cosmetic dentistry. I have tried to do as many courses in these fields as possible without leaving behind any further education in other fields of dentistry.

What is the main piece of advice you give your patients? 

Do not be afraid of us dentists, we will do everything we can to help minimize the stigma that everyone associates us with. Modern dentistry has come a long way since the old days.

Where would we find you outside of the practice?

You will most likely find me at the gym or on a football field when I am not at the clinic. I have had patients recognise me before.