From Father to Son: The Uzel Family's Legacy in Dentistry

This admiration played a significant role in Dr. Uzel’s decision to move to Boston in 1996, where he enrolled at Boston University Goldman School of Dental Medicine. There, he earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD), a Certificate in Advanced Graduate Studies (CAGS) in Periodontology, and a Doctor of Science (D.Sc.) degree in Oral Biology.

In 2006, Dr. Uzel successfully passed the American Board of Periodontology exams and was awarded the prestigious Diplomate status by the Board.

Having received education at Turkey’s two top medical institutions, Hacettepe and Gazi University, for a total of five years, and an additional seven years in the United States, Dr. Uzel reflects on the difference his education at Boston University, one of the leading universities in America for periodontics and implantology, made in his approach: “It’s about thinking critically, being able to self-critique, and taking feedback positively to improve oneself.”
Dr. Uzel served as a faculty member at Boston University’s School of Dental Medicine for four years and at the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Dental Medicine for seven years. During his tenure, he was deeply involved in clinical and basic science research on periodontal disease, connective tissue, implantology, and bone biology. His scientific background has led him to adopt an evidence-based approach to treatment, always recommending the most suitable options for his patients.

In 2017, after relocating to New Jersey, Dr. Uzel opened his own clinic in Princeton under the name Mercer Center for Implants & Periodontics.

IS IT WORTH TRAVELING ABROAD FOR DENTAL TREATMENT?
“In Türkiye, two things are considered very inexpensive: barbers and dental treatment. In America, dental care is affordable for those who live and earn here, much like getting a roof repaired or a car fixed. However, traveling to another country for complex procedures isn’t advisable. Routine treatments that don’t require continuous follow-up might be an exception. But many people travel for implants, which is my specialty. It’s a field where biology and technique intersect, and it requires precise engineering. If you attend regular check-ups, dental care doesn’t have to be expensive. However, neglecting maintenance—like not changing your car’s oil until the engine fails—can lead to higher costs.”

Dr. Uzel’s patients come not only from his local area but from across the United States, with some even traveling from Boston, Houston, and as far away as London. To date, he estimates he has treated over 10,000 patients. “We place 500 to 1,000 implants annually,” he notes.

Reflecting on his childhood dreams, Dr. Uzel shares, “I loved traveling and enjoying good food. I even considered becoming a diplomat.” A graduate of Ankara’s Tevfik Fikret High School, Uzel credits his fluency in French to the school. Currently, he is also taking Spanish lessons, and one of his most cherished hobbies is collecting retro sneakers, a passion dating back to the 1980s.

ROLE MODEL: PROF. ILTER UZEL
Dr. Uzel attributes much of his decision to become a dentist to his father, Prof. İlter Uzel. Born in 1944, his father is a renowned figure in the field of medical history, having translated some of the most important works into modern Turkish and lending his name to the Dentistry Museum established by Seyhan Municipality. He is also the founding dean of Çukurova University’s Faculty of Dentistry. Prof. Uzel's journey from the small town of Bor in Niğde to Istanbul in 1961, where he attended the country’s only dental school at the time, the Istanbul University Faculty of Dentistry, serves as an inspiration. He held various prominent positions both in Turkey and abroad. İlhan and his brother both followed in their father's footsteps, pursuing careers in dentistry.

In addition to his academic pursuits, Prof. Uzel is also passionate about miniature art, and he plans to exhibit a collection of approximately 20 of his creations. Among these are pieces inspired by ancient manuscripts, including one based on a Latin phrase from an 11th-century book: “Relieving Pain is a Divine Art.” Prof. Uzel also authored an award-winning book recognized in a competition named after the famous journalist Sedat Simavi.