Kenneth May - Dentist and Professor

Kenneth knew he enjoyed working with and helping people. He also enjoyed and did well in biology and math classes in high school. As he thought about possible careers, he kept coming back to medical and health professions.

What does he like most about his work?

Kenneth enjoys going to work everyday, because he went into something that really matches his interests, talents and abilities. People often see him when they have lost teeth due to an injury, disease, or accident. He has the opportunity to make and fit a set of false teeth or a partial plate so that his patients can have a healthy smile again, talk and sing with ease, and enjoy eating. He really enjoys being able to help people in these ways so they can better enjoy their lives. Kenneth is also an assistant professor at the School of Dentistry. He likes having the opportunity to teach and to share his research, knowledge, skills and work with aspiring dental students.

What does Kenneth see in the near future in his field?

One thing that is so wonderful is that the more we can educate people and children about dental care and disease prevention, the less we have to deal with fillings, false teeth and partials. You might think this would put him out of business, but actually he is excited about the education possibilities as it means people will enjoy their own teeth for their lives! Technology and material sciences are truly impacting his field, too. We are able to design prosthodontics that come very close to the original body parts a person had. Such a fit ensures comfort for the patient and increases their ability to speak well, chew and eat whatever they want to, and to generally enjoy a better quality of life. Materials are changing all the time so that we now have false teeth and plates that fit better, endure for a longer period of time, and look more natural.

How does Kenneth's career impact his personal and family life?

Kenneth shares that because he really loves his work, it has a definite impact on his family...he is a pretty happy person and likes going to his job! His professional job also gives him the opportunity to earn a very good living which directly impacts the style of life he can provide his family and the recreation activities they can enjoy. And no doubt, his family practices preventative dental practices and takes care of their teeth, too!