The Smile Maker: A Conversation with Dr. Jolee Roberts

Dr. Jolee Roberts is a dentist in New Jersey. She has been helping people with their teeth for over ten years. Her work is more than just fixing cavities or whitening smiles. It’s about building trust and making people feel safe.

“I don’t just treat teeth,” Dr. Roberts says. “I treat people.”

She didn’t always know she would become a dentist. But science and helping others always felt right to her. She studied biology in college, focusing on pre-dental sciences. That led her to dental school, where she earned her DDS—Doctor of Dental Surgery.

“I liked the idea of working with my hands and making real changes in people’s lives,” she says. “Dentistry gave me both.”

Dr. Roberts completed a General Practice Residency after dental school. It gave her extra training in things like oral surgery, dental emergencies, and complex procedures. This helped her feel ready for anything.

Now, she runs a full-service dental practice. She offers cleanings, fillings, crowns, cosmetic work like veneers and whitening, and care for kids. But her favorite part of the job is helping nervous patients feel calm.

“A lot of people have fear when they come to the dentist,” she says. “I see it as my job to take that fear away.”

She uses modern tools like digital x-rays and laser treatments. These tools make procedures quicker and more comfortable. But she believes it’s not just about the tools—it’s about the way you treat people.

“Technology helps,” Dr. Roberts says, “but kindness matters more.”

Her patients come from all backgrounds. Some have perfect teeth, others haven’t seen a dentist in years. She treats each one with the same level of care.

“Everyone deserves to feel good about their smile,” she says.

One thing that stands out about Dr. Roberts is how much she listens. She takes the time to understand her patients. She doesn’t rush. She explains things in simple terms and gives people choices.

“I want my patients to feel like they have a say in their treatment,” she says. “It’s their mouth, not mine.”

She believes education is key. If people understand how to take care of their teeth, they’ll be healthier in the long run.

“I talk about prevention a lot,” she explains. “It’s always better to avoid a problem than to fix one.”

Dr. Roberts is part of the American Dental Association, the New Jersey Dental Association, and the Academy of General Dentistry. She stays updated on new techniques and research through continuing education.

“You can’t stop learning in this field,” she says. “There’s always something new.”

Outside of her office, she gives back to the community. She volunteers at local dental clinics. She visits schools to talk to kids about brushing and flossing. She also supports groups that bring dental care to people who can’t afford it.

“It’s important to step outside the office,” she says. “Good health should not depend on money.”

In her free time, Dr. Roberts likes to hike. New Jersey has a lot of beautiful trails, and she enjoys exploring them. She also loves reading and going to local arts festivals. And she has a rescue dog who keeps her company.

“Being outside helps me reset,” she says. “Dentistry can be intense. Nature clears my head.”

Though she doesn’t seek attention, her work is making a quiet impact. Patients talk about her calm nature. Her team respects her leadership. And the smiles she helps create are often a sign of deeper healing.

When asked what keeps her going after all these years, she doesn’t hesitate.

“It’s the people,” she says. “Seeing someone leave the office happy, maybe even smiling when they weren’t before—that’s what it’s all about.”

In a world where many people dread the dentist, Dr. Roberts is changing the story—one patient at a time.

“It’s not just about fixing what’s broken,” she says. “It’s about building trust, building confidence. And sometimes, even building joy.”

She pauses and smiles.

“I guess you could say I make smiles for a living,” she says. “But the real reward is seeing them.”

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