Cat-Hien Nguyen, DDS

Growing up, I always wanted to help people and be in the healthcare profession, but I wasn’t sure what I wanted to be. I lived in California for most of my life and attended the University of California, Riverside (UCR) where I obtained a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Biology and a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Psychology. For post graduate studies, I thought seriously about being a psychologist or a counselor. In hindsight, I realize I have combined both degrees and found a career in dentistry that’s more fulfilling and promising than I ever thought possible. I love seeing patients, expressing my artistic abilities and setting my own schedule.

I graduated from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) School of Dentistry, one of the top five dental schools in the nation, in 2002. Aside from the superb, comprehensive, and technologically advanced dental education, UCLA also ingrained invaluable ethics that guide my everyday practice of dentistry. A beloved professor of mine reiterated a very simple and effective phrase, “Treat every patient as if he or she was your mother.” I have upheld that motto ever since and will continue to do so for as long as I treat patients.

Pearly Whites recently moved to a new location. My goal from the outset was to build a dental office to better serve my patients and help our environment. I designed many eco-friendly and energy conserving features and very am proud of how it turned out. I believe we have to lead by example and not just talk the talk. We all have to do our part, I carpool, I recycle religiously, I don’t personally use plastic bottles, instead tote an aluminum water bottle everywhere and I have reusable grocery bags in the trunk ready to be used at anytime. I don’t believe in wasting our natural resources. Nevada is at the forefront of solar and wind power technology and I’ve never been prouder to be a Nevadan.

On a personal note, I’ve been happily married to my husband, Huy, for three years. In my spare time, I enjoy reading, traveling, and spending time with my husband. I should exercise more, but a good book beats walking on the treadmill every time. I also enjoy spending time with my siblings and look forward to family gatherings. There are four of us, two are dentists and two are lawyers, which makes for interesting conversations. Family and dentistry are the two most important aspects of my life. I’m passionate about dentistry and know that my work will improve the quality of life for many families in Las Vegas.