A practicing dentist of 20 years, Ayako Zenitani, 45, is a Fukuoka Dental College graduate who took time out to study esthetic dentistry and implants in the United States before returning to work in Japan. In 2012, she branched out on her own, opening Hanzomon Dental Office in Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo, where 20 to 30 percent of her patients are now non-Japanese.
1. Why did you choose dentistry as a profession? My father is a dentist and, when I was young, I used to help out in his clinic. He never pushed me in that direction, but that experience inspired me.
2. What’s the best and worst thing about your work? I especially enjoy seeing satisfied patients after successful treatment. Sometimes, though, the general duties can feel a little routine. It’s all necessary, though, for my practice.