Get to Know Dr. Monica M. Alley

This week in our “Get to Know the Park Dental Doctors” feature we’re profiling Dr. Monica M. Alley at Park Dental Edinbrook. In her profile, Dr. Alley shares her treatment philosophy, what she enjoys about being a dentist, as well as some fun facts about her personal life. Learn more about Dr. Alley below!

What made you choose dentistry? 

Medicine always fascinated me as a child. I have always wanted to choose a profession that allowed me to make a small difference in someone’s life. Dentistry gave me the chance to do this in the most humbling and gratifying way. Whether it is through being able to alleviate someone’s pain or instill confidence in them through their smile, I have always loved having the opportunity to get to know patients personally. 

What do you love most about being a dentist or what do you find the most rewarding? 

Becoming a dentist has allowed me to provide my patients with the most complete and comprehensive approach to their dental care. Educating, encouraging, and supporting my patients has all been immensely rewarding. It helps my patients achieve their optimal dental health while giving me the chance to develop trust and relationships with those in my community. 

What’s your care/treatment philosophy? 

Presenting my patients with a comprehensive approach to their dental treatment has been the major tenet of my philosophy. My goal has always been to help others and encourage them to be a part of the decision making process when it comes to treatment options. It has also been my mission to implement culturally sensitive care to my patients by welcoming those of all backgrounds. 

Is there a particular area of dentistry you enjoy the most tor like to focus on? 

I have always been strongly drawn to general dentistry. I love that this field encompasses all ages which gives me the chance to provide dental care to people of a variety of lived experiences, from pediatrics to geriatrics. 

When did you start? 

I have over 25 years of experience in dentistry. 

What is one thing you love most about Park Dental? 

The philosophy of a group proactive has idealized my goal for comprehensive, team-based dental care. 

What do you enjoy most about being in a group practice? 
I love sharing my ideas with colleagues. Being able to coordinate care for my patients through our network of doctors has also maximized patients’ care. 

And now lets get to know Dr. Alley on a more personal level!

What did you want to be when you were a kid? 

As cheesy as it may sound, I have always wanted to be a doctor! 

What was your very first job? 

I worked at the University of Minnesota Biology Lab as a lab assistant. 

What do you like to do on your days off? 

Spend time with family, going on walks with my kids, reading a good book.

What is your favorite food or drink? 

Naan with chicken tikka masala. Also love my Caribou lattes! 

Who is your hero? 

My dad is my hero and he inspired me to be who I am today. 

What is an interesting fact about you? 

I have performed onstage to Bollywood music! 

If you could travel anywhere, where?

Greece.

What is your favorite movie? 

Harrison Ford and the Indiana Jones movies.

What is your favorite genre of music to listen to?

Classical Indian music and Bollywood pop music.

Hobbies? 

Gardening, cooking different cuisines, exploring art and culture in Minnesota.

Fav holiday? 

Christmas, I love our family tradition of baking cookies on Christmas Eve! 

Languages? 

Alongside English, I also speak Hindi, Telugu, and Gujarati.

Are you scared of anything?

Snakes.

What is your fav thing about living in Minnesota? 

I love being able to snowshoe in the beautiful Minnesota winters. 

Hidden talents? 

I love practicing the art of henna which I have passed down to my oldest daughter. 

What is your favorite season? 

Fall is my most favorite season. The outdoors in Minnesota at this time are breathtaking. 

Favorite color? 

Pink.

Favorite animal? 

Zebra.

How many different states have you lived in? 

Moved to Minnesota from India when I was 16 years old and have not lived anywhere else! 

Dr. Alley practices at our Edinbrook location. To learn more about Dr. Alley and to request an appointment, click here.