Owning a business is not for everyone and even if you are able to start one, running that business successfully over long periods of time is a whole another ball game. Dr. Premila Naidu has not only been able to develop into a recognized name within the dental fraternity of the country but she has also successfully transformed her passion towards pediatric dentistry into one of the most reputed dental clinics in Bangalore. Named SmallBites, the clinic has also been able to create a lot of awareness about pediatric dentistry and oral hygiene for small children.

In an exclusive interview with Women Entrepreneur, Dr. Premila Naidu talks in depth about her professional journey and the operations of SmallBites.

Give Us Brief Details About Your Educational And Professional Background. Also, Explain About Your Role At Small Bites And How Are You Leveraging The Best Of These Elements Across Your Company S Operation?

Post BDS, I completed my MDS in pediatric and preventive dentistry as a topper and university rank holder. I have written for over seven international publications (PubMed indexed) and have published two research papers. My post-graduation and the research papers helped me gain in-depth knowledge about the subject of pediatric dentistry. It also helped me understand the gap between theoretical knowledge and its practical implication in dental practice, especially in child dentistry. Hence, I set out with the single goal of making kids dentistry fun. A specialty practice that focuses on behavior management to treat dental issues and help kids develop good oral hygiene habits.

“As a woman, you should never feel you have sacrificed anything to live by society's standards. I am a fitness enthusiast, biker and photographer apart from being a daughter, wife and mother in my personal life”

Can You Tell Us About Yourinitial Days As An Entrepreneur?

The thought of having an exclusive dental clinic for children was more out of childish passion than logical thinking. We used to read so much about pediatric dentistry in 3rd year of graduation. While it sounded exciting and fun, I also realized there were none like that in Bangalore at the time. This passion turned into an obsession, post which, I did my postgraduation in pediatric dentistry and opened my dream clinic SmallBites in 2007.After founding the clinic, I was very optimistic about parents bringing their kids in, as it was a specialty practice. I did not realize that most parents didn't even know there was a specialty for children and that milk teeth need treatment. So once this fact hit me hard, I started school camps to educate teachers and parents-blogs and talks to spread the word.

Brief Us On Various Offerings Of The Clinic With Key Highlights On Your Flagship Offering?

Small Bites is the first exclusive dental clinic for children. The team of doctors at Small Bites are all kid-loving and will go the extra mile to ensure that children are provided with the best dental care while making sure they are comfortable. Small Bites has spacious playing areas, themed rooms, and many more goodies to ensure that kids overcome their fear of going to the doctor and instead have a lovely time while at the clinic. Preventive dental health care, Dental decay management, Orthodontics, Crowns and braces for children and stem cell banking are some of the offerings of SmallBites.

Where In Your Opinion Is Small Bites Positioned In India's Current Dental Industry And What Are Your Thoughts On Its Present And Future Prospects?

Small bites started as the first exclusive dental center for children in Bangalore. We are also among the first to spread the message regarding pediatric dentistry and work closely with schools and pediatricians to spread awareness regarding kids' dental health and the importance of taking care of milk teeth. Now with growing awareness and unlimited access to information, we are looking at a lot of scope in pediatric dentistry. With our video consultation vertical Telebites up and running, we hope to reach out to more people across the country and even NRIs worldwide for pediatric dental consultation, treatment planning, and preventive care.

Family Plays An Important Role In Every Persons’ Life. How Has Your Family Supported Your Career Journey So Far? Also, How Do You Manage To Balance Work And Professional Life?

My Mom played a very pivotal role in me joining dentistry. But unfortunately, I lost her to a road traffic accident in my first year of graduation. Still, knowing her, I am sure she is smiling from wherever she is, knowing my love for medical science and the habit of doing things out of love will help me realize my dreams. Post that, the men in my life - dad, husband, and son- have been my constant pillars - they have supported, encouraged and have given their unconditional love at every step of my journey. As a woman, you should never feel you have sacrificed anything to live by society's standards. I am a fitness enthusiast, biker and photographer apart from being a daughter, wife and mother in my personal life. I try and manage time as much as possible, plan, organize and replan if need be.

Dr. Premila Naidu, Founder, Smallbites

Owing to her eye for perfection and attention to details, she has been able to not only just incept a dental clinic but also operate it seamlessly. By combining this with the support from her family, Dr. Premila has charted out a fool proof plan for SmallBites.

Favorite Hobby: Photography, Biking, Working Out, Driving