From Dental School to Specialization: The Impact of USask Mentorship on Rob Kolbe’s Journey

Currently, Kolbe is deepening his expertise through a General Practice Residency (GPR) at the University of Alberta, which has opened the door to advanced techniques and specialized care. As he embarks on this new chapter, Kolbe credits much of his success to the strong foundation and mentorship he received during his time at USask's College of Dentistry.

A Pathway to Advanced Practice

Upon completing his DMD, Kolbe transitioned seamlessly into his GPR program, where he is mastering complex dental procedures such as IV sedation, implant surgery, and wisdom tooth extraction. He is also gaining critical experience in hospital settings, caring for severely ill patients and managing emergencies. This hands-on training is broadening his clinical capabilities, expanding on the knowledge and skills he acquired at USask.

“The GPR program is challenging but very rewarding,” Kolbe shares. “Every day, I try to build on the skills I developed in dental school. Whether I'm performing a simple exam or a more complicated procedure, I always draw on my education and experiences at USask.”

Looking Ahead: Specialization in Periodontics

Kolbe’s ambitions extend beyond his current residency. He was recently accepted into the University of Alberta Periodontics program, where he will specialize in managing gum disease and performing intricate surgeries such as tissue grafts and esthetic procedures. His passion for the artistic side of dentistry fuels his drive to excel in this field.

“I’m excited to spend my career helping patients with complex periodontal needs,” Kolbe says. “Eventually, I plan on returning to Saskatoon to practice. It will be nice to give back to the community that helped me get where I am today.”

The Role of Mentorship at USask

Kolbe’s journey would not have been possible without the guidance and support he received at USask. Reflecting on his time in the dentistry program, Kolbe describes how faculty members and college leadership played a pivotal role in his academic and clinical development.

“In my opinion, USask Dentistry offers the best clinical education in the country,” Kolbe asserts. “Instructors like Dr. Doig, Dr. Kassis, and Dr. Kost constantly challenged me to become the best clinician I could be. They all have a unique approach to patient care, and I was able to take my favorite aspects of each of them to develop my own clinical philosophy.”

Kolbe’s involvement in research during dental school was another formative experience. Mentors like Dr. M. Siqueira, Dr. W. Siqueira, and Dr. Marin not only guided him through the research process but also sparked a passion that continues to influence his professional path. Under their mentorship, Kolbe published four articles and presented his findings internationally, accomplishments that bolstered his graduate program applications.

Leadership and a Supportive Community

Beyond individual mentorship, the college’s leadership team also made a lasting impact on Kolbe’s journey. Dean Dr. Walter Siqueira took a personal interest in Kolbe’s aspirations, offering advice on post-graduate programs and even proofreading his application documents. Dr. Doig provided valuable insights into the application process, helping Kolbe navigate the challenges of applying to competitive programs.

“The USask Dentistry community has been really supportive,” Kolbe recalls. “I was definitely nervous about my GPR and perio interviews, but I received so much encouragement from faculty, staff, and other students.”

A Lasting Impact on Professional Growth

As Kolbe progresses through his postgraduate studies, the mentorship and guidance he received at USask continues to shape his approach to patient care and professional development. He credits his instructors with instilling in him a holistic view of dentistry, where the focus is not just on treating teeth but on evaluating and caring for the whole patient.

“The lessons I learned at the college will stick with me throughout my career,” Kolbe says. “From my earliest experiences in the simulation lab to my training in the student clinic, the mentorship I received has greatly influenced how I practice dentistry.”

Advice to Students

When asked for advice to current students and those considering specialization, Kolbe emphasizes, "Dental school is what you make of it! Practice a lot, study hard, ask questions, take on challenging cases, try new things, and enjoy the process. You’re surrounded by faculty and staff who want to help you, so take full advantage of their knowledge."

For students planning to pursue specialty training, he suggests, "Reach out to others who have walked the path you want to follow. Most dentists and specialists are more than willing to lend a hand." He adds, "Often, they’ll introduce you to things you didn’t even know existed."

Rob Kolbe’s journey from dental school to specialized training is a testament to the impact of a supportive educational environment. The mentorship and guidance he received at USask not only equipped him with the technical skills needed for success but also instilled a lifelong commitment to learning and patient care. As he continues his advanced training and looks toward the future, Kolbe remains deeply grateful for the foundation built at the USask College of Dentistry, which will undoubtedly serve him well throughout his dental career.