Why He Was Nominated:

Dr. Sutera spent his early career working in Maine in one of the most underserved dental communities in the U.S. While there, he reached out to many prominent dental professionals, asking to tap into their knowledge. Many said yes. He describes this firsthand education as “rocket fuel” for his career, launching him into the successful business he now operates. His practice has gained a reputation as a national leader for smile makeovers, complex TMJ cases and treatment of dental anxiety. He’s founder and CEO of Moonwalker Innovations, whose patented Exact Contact helps fit crowns more precisely. He’s also a legal expert witness, promoting care standards and advocating for unjustly accused dentists.

Favorite Aspect of Dentistry:

“Dentistry is all about the way you make people feel. Two patients can go through the same treatment with completely different experiences. Jerry Seinfeld says the thing he’s most proud of is when comedians would come up to him and say, ‘I tried your standup script and it didn’t get a laugh. There’s just something different about how you do it.’ That resonated with me.”

Most Memorable Patient:

“My practice sees patients with crippling dental anxiety, botched cosmetic procedures and some of the most complex TMJ cases in the nation—all day, every day. These patients come from all walks of life, from powerful world leaders to people with nothing more than dreams. What you realize is that it rains on everyone. If you take interest, you’ll hear some truly inspiring stories. The rest is easy. All you need to do is listen.”