My Journey from India to California

By Dr. Hetal Rana, D.D.S.

I grew up in India in a city named Ahmedabad. My parents were a part of the "middle class", meaning that they had a fixed income and lived in a small apartment. Through their struggles raising my brother and me, they worked very hard to give us the best education possible and to help make our dreams a reality. They taught me the importance of being honest at all times, of always being grateful for what I have, and of knowing that nothing in life comes easy—you have to work for it. My upbringing has made me very grounded and extremely grateful for the life that I have. It is beyond what I could have wished for.

As a native of India, I graduated from the University of Gujarat School of Dentistry in 1998 and practiced in the private sector as a general dentist for two years. From there, I came to the US in 2000. I pursued an advanced dental education in the distinguished dental programs of UCLA and the University of the Pacific, and in 2002 I passed my California Dental Board Exam and became a licensed dentist in the United States. I chose to open my practice in Northern California because I love the uniqueness of Sacramento and that it's near to many different landscapes, including the beach, the mountains, and—my favorite place in the whole world—Lake Tahoe.

My upbringing showed me the impact that my attitude and the environment I foster have on other people. My main goal as a dentist is to help alleviate my patients' anxiety and make them feel comfortable and cared for. In order to maintain this welcoming environment, it has to be more than superficial on our part. In my free time, I love to listen to mentors on positive mental nutrition, hike, travel, and read. I have learned that if I am truly calm and feeling mentally and physically well, my patients will be more inclined to feel likewise.

I am very grateful for all of the experiences in my life that have led me to where I am today. As your dentist, I am grateful for the opportunity that I have to help you take control of your dental health while alleviating your anxieties and worries. Call me at (916) 774-4499 to ask any questions you may have and to schedule an appointment with me or other members of my incredible staff.