Pediatric Dentist Builds a Legacy of Serving Children and Their Families

"Do we have to go home?"

Believe it or not, the 10-year-old boy who asked his mother this question wanted his dentist visit to last longer.

Rita M. Cammarata, DDS, '96 , the boy's dentist, crafted every detail of her clinic with children in mind. Books, toys, and video games invite them to relax before their appointments, while vibrant tropical fish gliding across the central aquarium capture their imaginations as they receive care.

"My education at UTHealth Houston School of Dentistry prepared me to provide exceptional care for children," Cammarata says. "It enabled me to reach potentials I never imagined."

Shortly after completing her residency in pediatric dentistry in 1999, she founded Cammarata Pediatric Dentistry, which has since grown to include six pediatric dentists and three clinics across the Greater Houston area.

Cammarata also served on the School of Dentistry Advisory Council, leading it as Chair from 2015 to 2016. "I was honored to serve our school to help build the resources to continue attracting the brightest students and faculty," she says. She continues to support the school by serving on a new advisory group to the dean, which has replaced the school's Advisory Council.

When one of her favorite School of Dentistry professors, Glenn T. Householder, PhD, made a planned gift to establish a scholarship fund, Cammarata decided to make her own estate commitment to give back to the institution that launched her career. Her gift will support a distinguished professorship, scholarships, research, and faculty enrichment across the school.

"Just as Dr. Householder's generosity inspired me to make a bigger impact, I hope my gift shows alumni they can make a difference, too," she says.

Above all, the children and families Cammarata serves motivate her most.

"Getting high-fives from three-year-olds and heartfelt thanks from parents makes it all worth it."