Akanksha Baheti, DDS, brings an uncommon cross-cultural depth to esthetic and restorative dentistry, having trained and practiced in both India and the United States.

“Practicing across two countries profoundly shaped my approach to care,” Baheti said. “In India, I learned to be resourceful and deeply connected to community needs. In the United States, I developed a deeper appreciation for digital innovation and esthetic excellence. Together, these experiences taught me to see dentistry through a global lens.”

A graduate of UCLA’s Advanced Esthetic and Restorative Dentistry Program, Baheti quickly stood out for her precision, curiosity, and early adoption of digital tools like CAD/CAM systems and smile design workflows. 

“From the very beginning, she distinguished herself as a clinician whose vision, innovation and leadership are setting new standards in dentistry,” said Phong Tran Cao, DDS, MS, professor at the UCLA School of Dentistry, who nominated Baheti to this year’s 10 Dentists to Watch list.

Her record of achievement spans scholarship and innovation. She has authored 10 peer-reviewed publications, serves as editor-in-chief of Transforming Dentistry: Technology Meets Care, and holds two design patents, including an automated dental radiograph analysis system and a pediatric syringe designed to ease children’s anxiety. 

“Every innovation I’ve developed emerged from a real clinical challenge,” Baheti said. “Technology is most powerful when it simplifies care, builds trust and enhances the patient experience.”

Named an Honorary Fellow of the Pierre Fauchard Academy and recipient of the Global Excellence Award in Esthetic Dentistry (2025), Baheti continues to pair innovation with compassion by educating people and children in underserved communities about oral hygiene.

“True innovation must also be accessible,” she said. “The future belongs to practices that blend technology with heart.”