VIP Top Docs & Health Pros: Eric Shrestha, D.M.D., M.S.

Story by Amelia Bowen

A physical smile can completely change in a matter of months, and personal confidence almost always grows right alongside it. This profound transformation is what drives Eric Shrestha in his daily practice at Drobocky Orthodontics. Because orthodontic treatment naturally spans several years, Eric has the unique opportunity to watch his patients grow in more ways than one. Children gradually become young adults, families become lifelong friends and by the end of the clinical process, the true transformation is seen in the confidence those individuals carry into the world every single day. “Helping patients gain confidence through their smiles while building lasting relationships is one of the most rewarding parts of being an orthodontist,” Eric says. Originally from Tallahassee, Florida, Eric earned his undergraduate degree at the University of Florida, where he competed at an elite level on the varsity swim team before moving to the region to attend the University of Kentucky College of Dentistry. After serving five honorable years as a general dentist in the United States Navy, he returned to the University of Kentucky to complete his demanding specialty residency in orthodontics. Today, he brings that deep well of military and clinical experience to Drobocky Orthodontics, caring for families across Bowling Green, Glasgow and Franklin. Eric’s initial passion for orthodontics began with his own childhood experience as a patient. Seeing firsthand how a healthy, corrected smile could completely transform self-esteem inspired him to pursue dentistry, and later specializing in orthodontics allowed him to discover the perfect combination of medical science, clinical precision and visual artistry. He notes that it is a rewarding specialty that allows him to solve highly complex structural problems while simultaneously building deep, meaningful relationships with local patients and their extended families. At Drobocky Orthodontics, Eric believes exceptional care always begins with intentional listening. Every single treatment plan is fully customized using advanced digital technology, including high-resolution 3D scanning and individualized digital planning software. However, he emphasizes that technology is only one part of the equation. Taking the necessary time to understand each patient’s personal goals and treating every individual like a member of his own family is what truly sets the clinical practice apart. Outside the busy office, Eric enjoys spending his free time with his wife, Kristin, and their three young sons, Rommy, Skyler and Leo. Whether they are building elaborate LEGO creations, traveling, golfing, cooking together or simply enjoying the beautiful Kentucky outdoors, family remains at the absolute center of everything he does. Although higher education first brought him to the state for dental school, Bowling Green quickly became home for his family. Eric highly appreciates the community’s welcoming spirit, strong family values and continued economic growth while still managing to maintain its close-knit feel. He and the rest of the Drobocky Orthodontics team also enjoy actively supporting local schools, youth sports teams and community organizations, staying deeply connected with the local families they serve long after their orthodontic treatment officially ends.