Originally published on August 30, 2019.
After serving with the U.S. Navy in Okinawa, Japan for three years, Southern Utah University graduate Matthew Torres purchased a dental practice in Gardnerville, Nevada, and now crafts smiles every day.
“At SUU I learned that I can do anything,” Dr. Torres said. “SUU provided me many mentors who helped and supported me in the pursuit of my dreams.”
Before graduating magna cum laude in 2010, Dr. Torres was heavily involved with SUU’s Rural Health Scholars. Through Rural Health Scholars, he enjoyed getting involved with community outreach programs and service projects. Dr. Torres was also involved with intramural sports and SUU’s LDS Institute.
“Matt was one of my favorite students and it has been a delight to watch his career grow as he served our country,” said Rural Health Scholars Director Rita Osborn. “He was always a leader among our pre-dental students, and always offered to help others; whether by assisting with our Dental Practicum seminar, or assisting others with their applications for dental school. We are thrilled he has started a practice and look forward to watching it grow!”
After graduating from UNLV School of Dental Medicine in 2014, Dr. Torres continued his education with a one year residency in general dentistry at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth in Norfolk, Virginia. His dental practice, Carson Valley Dental Arts, is located in Gardnerville, Nevada near Lake Tahoe.
“I grew so much from my first day on campus to my last,” Dr. Torres said. “My confidence grew over time as professors and fellow students pushed me to stand tall and learn for myself, trust myself, and ask questions.”
Dr. Torres has been married to Lindsey Torres, also an SUU graduate with a Master of Professional Communication, for 12 years. They have three children.
