Thursday Talks: Padma Mukherjee
This week, we are featuring alumna and Professor of Orthodontics Padma Mukherjee. Get to know her through this Q&A with Fiona Blake of the Class of 2026.
Tell us a bit about yourself and what you do at RSDM.
I’m a board-certified orthodontist, and professionally, I wear a lot of hats. Here at RSDM, I serve as a full-time faculty member and director of the pre-doctoral orthodontic program. My responsibilities span teaching pre-doctoral students, orthodontic residents, and pediatric dental residents. I spend a lot of time in our orthodontics post-graduate clinic, where I supervise many of their cases. I also provide patient care at both locations of our Rutgers faculty practice in Newark and New Brunswick.
In addition to my roles at RSDM, I enjoy staying involved in organized dentistry. I’m an active participant in various professional organizations, including serving as a CODA site visitor, chairing the Evidence-Based Committee for the American Association of Orthodontists, and contributing to orthodontic education at the national level. I’m also an examiner for the American Board of Orthodontics, which is great because I’m able to ensure that our residents are well-prepared for board certification.
How long have you been here, and why did you decide to come to RSDM?
In December of 2011, I decided to come to Rutgers from the University of Connecticut, and it’s been an amazing 14 years! I chose Rutgers because I really admire our program’s strong clinical focus, appreciation for talent, and rich diversity of thought. During my time here, Rutgers has provided me with numerous opportunities for professional growth and meaningful connections. I love that I have been able to utilize my training in craniofacial anomalies by staying involved in many surgical orthodontic cases and doing research with our residents. As a proud Rutgers alumna, I feel fortunate to be able to give back to Rutgers and help teach the next generation of dentists and orthodontists.
Why do you think people should get involved in organized dentistry?
There is such a strong necessity of giving back to the profession. We are a blessed profession, and it is our responsibility to pay it forward to the next generations. I encourage residents to participate actively, and I always try to model this dedication through my extensive professional involvement. I know that initially, when you’re starting out in your career, you may not have the funds, but you can give your time!
What do you like the most about RSDM?
It’s hard to pinpoint! I truly enjoy all aspects of my experience here, including being an alumna. The students, residents, and colleagues make it a very dynamic environment, but also very supportive. If I had to really point to one thing, I think RSDM has given me lifelong friendships. I don’t have any of my fellow orthodontic graduates from Connecticut here teaching with me, so I’m grateful to have made new friends.
What do you enjoy doing outside the school?
Outside of my professional life, I enjoy many hobbies and staying involved in my community. I am blessed with a loving husband and two amazing boys, and we are a very social family, so we often have a lot of get-togethers with friends. I volunteer at my children’s schools and the NICU in Saint Barnabas Medical Center, where my younger son was cared for as a preemie. I enjoy all seasons and love to be outdoors. I like to go on long walks or hikes, and gardening (when the weather permits). I also love to read, cook, and travel. Unfortunately, I don’t have any extended family here in the States, and I don’t get back to India as often as I would like. However, my family enjoys traveling both internationally and domestically. I consider myself a self-proclaimed life-long learner, and I value exploring new cultures and local attractions.
