For Andrew “AJ” Robbins, DDS, dentistry is not just a profession – it’s a calling. The Kingsport, Tennessee, native has charted an impressive course through the University of Tennessee Health Science Center College of Dentistry, where his passion for endodontics set him apart as a rising star in the field.
A 2024 College of Dentistry graduate, Dr. Robbins is now training in the college’s endodontics residency program. However, he didn’t always envision himself wearing a white coat. He completed his undergraduate studies at East Tennessee State University, where he also played soccer. Initially unsure about his career path, he explored engineering, science, and finance before discovering his passion for dentistry.
“Growing up, I always enjoyed working with my hands,” Dr. Robbins said. “I saw dentistry as a way to mix science and medicine and also getting to work with my hands to fix things and help people out.”
His interest in dentistry was further fueled by observing the respect and trust some of his soccer teammates’ fathers, who were dentists, garnered in their communities. Shadowing these professionals solidified his decision to pursue dentistry.
When it came time to choose a dental school, UT Health Science Center was the obvious choice for Dr. Robbins. “The value it offered – both financially and academically – was unmatched,” he said. “I’ve lived in Tennessee my whole life and I want to live in Tennessee for the rest of it, so it was kind of a no-brainer.”
As a student, Dr. Robbins enjoyed the hands-on patient care opportunities that allowed him to apply what he learned in class into a clinical setting. It was during his clinical experiences that Dr. Robbins discovered his love for root canals.
“Root canals are an amazing thing. You get people out of pain and allow them to maintain their dentition,” he said. “The patients get to chew the meals they were missing and enjoy the food and drinks that they like to have. It is a great thing to keep our teeth.”
This enthusiasm translated into action. While most dental students perform three to five root canals, Dr. Robbins completed an astounding 114, shattering the college’s previous record. He credits the supportive faculty and close-knit student community for helping him excel. “I had amazing mentors who believed in me and invested in my growth early on,” he said.
“I don’t think going into the clinic I had a specific goal to break a record, but I did know I wanted to do endo. Early on in my third year, I began to try to invest heavily in doing root canal simulations or patient experiences, and through that repetition, the faculty continued to grow to trust me with cases like molar root canals or cases with a little bit more difficulty. I also got a steady flow of referrals from classmates whose patients needed some relief from pain for a molar tooth and were interested in a root canal. And thankfully, I was able to make that happen for them.”
“I realized how much I loved the technical challenge of root canals and the ability to make a difference in people’s lives.”
Dr. AJ Robbins
Though he humbly downplays the accomplishment, Dr. Robbins acknowledges that the sheer volume of procedures helped him refine his skills and deepen his passion for endodontics – a specialty he describes as a unique blend of technical skill and patient impact. Additionally, he attributes his decision to specialize in endodontics in part to his faith, saying, “I spent time praying and seeking God’s wisdom, and I realized how much I loved the technical challenge of root canals and the ability to make a difference in people’s lives.”
When he completes his residency in 2026, Dr. Robbins plans to return to Kingsport with his wife, Erin, a teacher he met during their undergraduate years. His long-term vision includes opening his own practice – or perhaps several – and expanding access to endodontic care in underserved areas of Northeast Tennessee.
“There’s a real need for specialists in that region,” he said. “I would love to one day be there and allow people to have more access to care in terms of endodontics so they’re able to keep teeth that otherwise may be lost or removed.”
Dr. Robbins is also excited about the College of Dentistry’s new dental clinic in Kingsport, which he described as an impressive facility that will provide a wonderful service to the community. He envisions potentially teaching there part time in the future to share his passion for endodontics with the next generation of dental professionals.
Reflecting on his journey, Dr. Robbins remains deeply thankful for the support he has received from mentors, peers, and his faith. “I have worked hard, but I’m not really a product of hard work alone,” he said. “A lot of people have invested in me, and ultimately, I feel blessed to have received my education at UT Health Science Center. I am excited to carry forward the things I’ve learned here and take them back to a community that needs it.”
This story was originally featured in the winter 2025 issue of the College of Dentistry Magazine.