Dr. Kwanchanok Tantasethi, DDS
Dr. Kwanchanok Tantasethi is a Flight Lieutenant (Dentist) at Bhumibol Adulyadej Hospital, within the Directorate of Medical Services of the Royal Thai Air Force. She is also a Visiting Scientist at the Timothy A. DeRouen Center for Global Oral Health at the University of Washington, where she is spending the Summer of 2025 as part of a three-month visiting scholar program in Seattle.
She is a member of the Thai Society of Pediatric Dentistry and the Dental Association of Thailand under the Royal Patronage of H.R.H. the Princess Mother.
Dr. Kwanchanok earned her Master of Science in Pediatric Dentistry from Chulalongkorn University in Thailand, where she developed expertise in preventing, diagnosing, and managing oral diseases in children, behavior guidance, treating patients with special health care needs, interceptive orthodontics, and conducting evidence-based research in pediatric oral health.
In Her Own Voice
As a Visiting Scientist at the Timothy A. DeRouen Center for Global Oral Health, I am sincerely thankful to Professor Ana Lucia Seminario and the entire DeRouen Center team for their generous support and guidance. This opportunity has expanded my understanding of global oral health research in a warm and diverse academic environment. Access to the University of Washington’s resources, including libraries, shared workspaces, and educational networks, has significantly enhanced my professional growth. Beyond research, I have valued attending seminars, observing clinical practice at the pediatric and periodontal clinics, visiting the operating room, exploring Seattle’s academic community, and engaging in meaningful conversations that continue to inspire my work. I will cherish these lessons and experiences as I strive to improve public dental health and promote equity in dental care.
Experience Summary
During my time at the DeRouen Center, I have greatly appreciated the chance to broaden my knowledge of global oral health research in the United States and to experience a truly multicultural and welcoming environment that fostered connections with faculty, students, and professionals from various backgrounds. Access to the University of Washington’s excellent resources, including libraries, shared workspaces, academic networks, and campus facilities, has enriched my professional development and enabled me to observe advanced technologies and practices that are not yet widely available in Thailand. These opportunities, together with guidance on publishing and encouragement from faculty mentors, have deepened my appreciation for interdisciplinary collaboration and strengthened my skills as both a clinician and a researcher.
My project, “Advancing Health and Dental Care Awareness and Access Through AI-Powered and Social Media Campaigns,” has been particularly enriched by this experience. I also valued the welcoming atmosphere at the university, the pleasant summer climate in Seattle, and the enriching activities I participated in. Observing principles and techniques across different specialties further inspired my work and reinforced my commitment to advancing pediatric oral health. Looking ahead, I believe social media and the integration of artificial intelligence will continue to be crucial tools for ongoing learning and effective health communication. As these fields evolve rapidly, it is our responsibility as dental professionals to stay current with innovation to ensure equitable dissemination of knowledge and reduction of disparities in oral health. This opportunity at the DeRouen Center has not only enriched my academic journey but also strengthened my dedication to improving equity in dental public health through innovation, compassion, and lifelong learning.