Dentist - Rochester, MN
Dr. Erich Eichwald joined Gentling Dental in July of 2023. As a new team member, he is focused on upholding Gentling Dental's long history of excellent service and culture. Dr. Eichwald's focus as a clinician is centered on providing the highest standard of care combined with an empathetic and patient centered approach. He is looking forward to getting to know Gentling Dental's patients and is honored to have the opportunity to serve as one of their dental providers.
Why Did You Decide to Become a Dentist?
Dr. Erich's interest in dentistry started at a young age. For his 7th grade career class, he selected dentistry as his "Future Career" and gave a presentation on how he would one day become a dentist. He liked the combination of being a healthcare provider and working with his hands. His interest in dentistry not only continued, but after a college service trip to New Orleans for Hurricane Katrina relief his interest grew into a passion. During that trip he was deeply inspired by individuals who had gone above and beyond to help their community recover after the storm. Following this trip Dr. Erich viewed dentistry not only as a career, but as an opportunity to contribute to and improve his community. With this new perspective, Dr. Erich began to make service a priority in his life. During his time at Marquette University, he participated in, led, and organized seven service trips to New Orleans, Detroit, and Estelí Nicaragua. After each trip he became increasingly more certain that dentistry was his ideal career as it would allow him to combine his passions for service, healthcare, and improving his community.
Where Did You Study Dentistry?
Dr. Erich attended the University of Iowa College of Dentistry from 2016-2020. During that time, he was elected the Class Service Chair and was voted "Most likely to treat underserved populations" after graduating. He also was selected for the Dean's Leadership Award and graduated with a distinction in Public Health. Following graduation, he was selected by the National Health Service Corps as a member of their Students to Service program. Through this program Dr. Erich worked at a non-profit clinic to increase access to dental treatment for underserved populations. Lifelong learning after dental school is a point of emphasis for Dr. Erich as well. To ensure that he continues to develop and improve as a dental provider he is a current member of the Academy of General Dentistry, Zumbro Valley Dental Society, and the Dawson Academy.
Outside of the Dental Office, What Do You Like to Do?
When Dr. Erich is not in the dental clinic, he likes to be outside and active. Whether running, skiing, rollerblading, hiking, or playing golf he's happy as long as he's outside. Travel has also become a major passion in Dr. Erich's life. Together with friends and family he has traveled to 10 different countries since 2015 including Peru, Vietnam, Sweden and South Africa. When he's home he enjoys spending quality time with his girlfriend and their Goldendoodle (Leon). Whenever possible he travels back to Illinois to spend time with his parents, sisters, and young niece and nephew.
More to Explore
-
Call Us
Phone: (507) 288-7379
Hours
Mon: 7:30AM-5:00PM
Tue: 7:30AM-5:00PM
Wed: 7:30AM-5:00PM
Thu: 7:00AM-5:00PM
Fri: 8:00AM-12:00PM
Sat: Closed
Sun: Closed
