San Antonio, TX Dentist
Get to Know
Dr. Austin Lee
For Dr. Austin Lee, the best thing about his job is getting to change his patients’ perspective on dentistry and the whole "negative" aspect of his profession. With enough care, compassion, time, and expertise, dentistry doesn't have to be painful, difficult, unpredictable, or dread-inducing, and he knows this from personal experience (more on this below).
He says it’s also extremely fulfilling to get people healthy again, both in mind and body. Everything is connected in our bodies, and the origin/starting point is the mouth. Whatever the problem may be--infection, decay, gum disease, functional imbalance, etc., it is always an amazing feeling to see a person change and smile again when the problem is resolved.
His approach involves starting by intently listening to the patient, understanding their needs and wants so that he and our team can correctly and appropriately care for them. This creates a bond that will serve someone’s smile for years to come, and that’s exactly what he hopes to do for you as a dentist in San Antonio.
Why Did You Decide to Become a Dentist?
Dr. Lee became a dentist because a dentist actually changed his life as well as his entire outlook on dentistry. He says, “For the longest time, I never liked going to a dentist, as many don’t. It was scary, painful, annoying, and mostly just uncomfortable. However, it all changed when I was 18. I was surfing in Gloucester, MA, and broke my front tooth in half. I was in pain, looked terrible, and it was on a Sunday. That day, I found a dentist who changed my perception towards dentists, and the experience inspired me to become one. He got me out of pain, helped me eat properly, and smile again–all without pain, but with science, art, and comfort. I loved it and wanted that type of experience for everyone else who needs a dentist.”
Where Did You Study Dentistry?
Dr. Lee graduated from Colby College before attending the prestigious Tufts University School of Dental Medicine where he received his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree. He went on to the Boston University School of Dental Medicine to complete his residency in Advanced Education in General Dentistry, graduating at the top of his class and earning an Excellence Award.
Originally from Boston, Dr. Lee has served as an adjunct professor at all three dental schools in Massachusetts–Tufts, Boston University, and most recently, the Harvard University School of Dental Medicine as well as Harvard Medical School.
His professional memberships include the:
Outside of the Dental Office, What Do You Like to Do?
Dr. Lee, a former NCAA lacrosse player, has always been passionate about staying active and embracing the outdoors. During his college years, he thrived as an athlete. Today, he channels that energy into hiking scenic trails, fishing, and skiing down snowy slopes.
At home, Dr. Lee treasures the moments spent with his family. He shares a warm and loving life with his wife, Dr. Lea Hachem, and their daughter, Alexis, who keeps their days filled with joy and laughter. Their two playful dogs, Amy and Sky, add even more love to their home.