Class of 2013
School of Dentistry
Program/Major: Doctor of Dental Surgery
Jennifer V. Loftin, DDS
What year did you graduate from UT Health San Antonio?
2013
What degree do you have?
Doctor of Dental Surgery
What is your specialty?
General Dentistry
What inspired you to become a dentist?
I was in a program in high school called the National Hispanic Institute where our project administrator was Dr. Rene Vela, Class of 1983. He invited me to shadow him at his office one summer to allow me the ability to see how dentists can change a person’s life by giving them back their confidence with a smile.
After that summer, I knew I wanted to be a dentist. I went back to shadow him each summer during high school and college to learn the inner workings of a dental practice, and being able to see the relationships you develop with patients was something that stuck with me.
What was your most rewarding experience at UT Health San Antonio?
I enjoyed every moment as a dental student at UT Health San Antonio. I developed friendships that spanned so many life experiences together – school, weddings, babies and now professional achievements. The friends I made in dental school are still some of my closest relationships and people that I talk to weekly.
It also helps as a solo owner when you need someone to bounce off ideas with, and we can call/text each other ideas and opinions on cases. Plus, they made those four years full of fun and memories as we all endured the same challenges together.
What is your greatest professional achievement?
I am a first generation college student and, more importantly, the first doctor in my family. My greatest professional achievement has been the ability to break barriers and set a new standard for my family while making a meaningful impact in my community. The epitome of this came in 2020 when I purchased my practice right before COVID. I had to navigate being a new owner while dealing with a global pandemic.
I recently purchased my own building and constructed our new office, which recently opened in February 2025. As a female Hispanic dental owner, I hope to inspire others in business and healthcare in my community.
What is your current occupation and where?
I am self employed as I own my own general dentistry practice, Loftin Dental. I purchased the practice when I was an associate in 2020 and have been the sole owner/doctor since then.
What advice do you have for current students?
THERE IS A LIGHT AT THE END OF THE TUNNEL! I know when you are in the thick of school it feels never ending, but these four years go by fast.
My #1 piece of advice is to find a good mentor! At times, practicing dentistry can feel isolating when you are a solo owner, so being able to have a mentor that can guide, help and give you advice from things they have learned along the way is instrumental. I have been blessed to have a few good mentors who are always willing to answer my questions and help me when necessary.
My other piece of advice is to invest in good continuing education for yourself, your practice and your patients. Never stop learning!