Resident Spotlight: Dr. Ramneek K. Batth
Compiled by Dr. Austyn Grissom
Dr. Ramneek K. Batth is a third-year endodontic resident at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, set to graduate in June 2025.
The Paper Point: Thanks for taking time to do this interview, Doc! Tell our readers a little bit about yourself and your background.
Dr. Batth: Thanks so much for having me! I grew up on my family’s vineyard in rural Central California, in a small farming town where agriculture wasn’t just an occupation—it was a way of life. Picking grapes off the vine was a favorite childhood pastime, and over time I became fascinated by the science behind the soil, the sunlight, and everything that helped our vines thrive. That early curiosity eventually evolved into a passion for science. I pursued a degree in Biological Sciences at the University of the Pacific, then moved to Boston to earn a Master’s in Oral Health Sciences from BU School of Medicine. While there, I discovered my calling in dentistry—a field that brought together my love for science, working with my hands, and caring for others. I went on to complete my DMD at Boston University, followed by a General Practice Residency at Rhode Island Hospital and Brown University. After several years in private practice, I returned to residency to specialize in endodontics at UNC Chapel Hill, where I’m now a third-year resident and finishing my program in June!
The Paper Point: You’ve had quite a journey—from California’s Central Valley all the way to the East Coast and now back again. What first got you interested in dentistry, and how did you find your way to endodontics?
Dr. Batth: The seed was planted early on our vineyard—learning about viticulture sparked my first scientific questions. In high school, an advanced biology class showed me that I could actually do science, not just read about it. While studying for my Master’s in Boston, I realized how much I loved anatomy, oral health, and the patient-centered nature of dentistry. Dental school deepened that interest, and I explored every aspect of the field—from geriatric care to public health outreach to cosmetic dentistry. But it wasn’t until I entered private practice, and later my GPR, that I recognized how much I loved the diagnostic puzzles and technical precision of endodontics. It’s a field that’s as intellectually demanding as it is hands-on, and it allows me to make an immediate, meaningful impact on patients’ lives.
The Paper Point: It sounds like you have gotten a ton of great clinical exposure during your time at UNC. Has there been a particular case or moment during residency that you feel like has shaped your growth as a clinician?
Dr. Batth: There have been many, but one that stands out involved a patient with persistent pain after previous treatment. It required deep diagnostic work, patient trust, and a thoughtful treatment plan that spanned multiple visits. What made it impactful was not just the clinical complexity, but the human aspect—listening to the patient’s story, addressing their anxiety, and ultimately helping them feel heard and healed. It reminded me that our work is as much about empathy as it is about technical excellence, and that successful outcomes often depend on both.
The Paper Point: Teaching seems to be an important part of your story—you’ve worked with GPR residents and now predoctoral students at UNC. What do you enjoy most about teaching, and do you see it playing a role in your future?
Dr. Batth: I’ve always believed in the power of mentorship because I’ve been fortunate to have some incredible mentors myself—especially Dr. Theresa Davies during my time at BU, who encouraged me to pursue dentistry when I doubted my own ability. Teaching gives me a chance to pay that forward. I love watching students build confidence, connect ideas, and grow into thoughtful clinicians. Whether through academic involvement or informal mentorship in practice, I absolutely see teaching as part of my future. It keeps me engaged, inspired, and always learning. I believe in being a life-long learner.
The Paper Point: I know that when we have talked in the past you mentioned that you are planning to head back to California after residency.. is this still your plan? What’s your dream setup for the next few years—private practice, teaching, something else?
Dr. Batth: Yes, I still plan to return to California after residency—it’s home, and it’s where I want to give back. My dream setup is a private endodontic practice where I can provide high-quality, compassionate care, especially in underserved or rural areas like the one I came from. I also want to stay connected to teaching, whether through adjunct academic roles, CE courses, or mentorship. Ultimately, I want to merge clinical practice with community impact, bringing specialty care to places that need it most.
The Paper Point: Outside of dentistry, what do you like to do for fun?
Dr. Batth: I love being outside and staying active—whether it’s hiking, playing basketball, or exploring new places. I’m also a huge fan of travel and food. Spending time with my family and friends is my favorite way to recharge, especially when it involves good food and wine. My favorite thing of all is spending time with my nieces and nephew—especially when we’re shooting hoops together!
The Paper Point: For incoming endodontic residents that are starting this July, what would be one piece of advice you give them?
Dr. Batth: Stay curious, stay humble, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Endodontic residency is incredibly rewarding, but it also comes with its fair share of challenges. The key is to embrace the process, lean on your mentors and peers, and remember that every tough case is an opportunity to grow. Also, don’t forget to take care of yourself outside the clinic—you can’t pour from an empty cup. And remember: experience is the best teacher—you often get the test first, and the lesson afterward.
Dr. Austyn Grissom is former chair of the AAE’s Resident and New Practitioner Committee.