Rajiv Kalra
Dentist, Pilot, and Clinical Instructor in Tampa,Fl
I quite literally grew up in a dental office, so dentistry has always felt like home to me. From an early age, I saw how the right care at the right moment could completely change someone’s life. That’s what ultimately inspired me to become a dentist—to help people feel better, smile confidently, and live without dental pain or fear.
For me, transforming a smile doesn’t always mean something complex. Sometimes it’s as simple as relieving pain by removing a broken tooth. Other times, it’s rebuilding an entire smile with advanced procedures like dental implants or full-mouth reconstruction. No matter the treatment, my goal is always the same: to help you feel comfortable, informed, and confident in your care.
One of the most rewarding parts of my job is caring for patients who’ve had negative dental experiences in the past. I take pride in changing those expectations by offering modern, gentle, and pain-free dentistry. I believe dentistry should never feel rushed or intimidating, and I take the time to explain options so patients feel in control every step of the way.
I completed both my undergraduate education and dental school at the University of Florida and continue to pursue advanced training every year. I’ve completed hundreds of hours of continuing education and currently hold advanced accreditations from the Academy of General Dentistry and the International Congress of Oral Implantologists. I’m also a clinical instructor for an implant education company, where I teach dentists from across the United States advanced implant surgery and related procedures. Teaching keeps me sharp and ensures my patients benefit from the latest techniques and technology.
Giving back is very important to me. I’ve volunteered on dental mission trips around the world, including in the Dominican Republic, India, and Ecuador, and I also believe strongly in serving our local community. I regularly volunteer at free clinics and participate annually in Mission of Mercy Florida to help provide care to those in need.
Outside the office, my greatest joy is my family. My kids will tell you I love three things most: my family, teeth, and airplanes. I’m a commercial multi-engine pilot and am currently working toward becoming a certified flight instructor so I can teach others how to fly. Whether in dentistry or aviation, I believe in lifelong learning, precision, and safety.
I’m incredibly grateful for the support of my wife and our two children, who push me every day to be the best version of myself. They are the reason I’m committed to providing the highest level of care to every patient who walks through our doors.
I look forward to meeting you and helping you achieve a healthy, confident smile—comfortably and stress-free.