Dr. Harold Jeter

I was born in the 1960’s in Ironton, Ohio, but I grew up in South Point, Ohio – population 3,836 and a place most people haven’t heard of. It’s about 5 miles east of Ironton. Geographically, it’s the most southern point in the state. I can walk a few blocks from my office and see where Ohio, Kentucky, and West Virginia meet, and it’s a beautiful view! South Point was definitely ‘small town America’ in my day. We had good neighbors who always had time to talk, were always willing to help, and took pride in keeping their homes and property looking nice.

In addition to my wife, Teresa and our three children and seven granddaughters, I have one sister, Carole, who lives very close. Many years ago when our parents were still living, she and I decided that the four of us would meet for lunch every Thursday. We both knew it’s too easy to let life’s urgencies rob us of precious time with those we love. As we sat around that lunch table each week, countless memories were generated. Both parents are now gone, but Carole and I still carve out a day each week to have lunch and be with each other.

The very first job I had was as a bus boy at a local motel restaurant. I learned that most people are kind. Some are demanding. And others need lots of prayer. I also learned to work hard and appreciate those who do the most mundane tasks that we often don’t notice or take for granted. Other job experiences include being a disc jockey for a couple of years as an undergraduate, and I was a paramedic for eight years and then a chemist before I decided to become a dentist.

I remember having an interest in the profession from my earliest childhood visits to the dentist – and there were many. My dentist, Dr. George Wileman, was a very kind gentleman who was always able to make a not-so-great experience a little easier. As I grew up, my interest in health care was catalyzed by the years I spent as a paramedic. Once I decided that health care (rather than petroleum chemistry) was for me, the earlier fascination I had for dentistry turned into a passion – and so, here I am!

One part of my pediatric rotation was done at an off-site clinic in Coshocton, Ohio. Dr. Don Bowers was one of the clinical instructors who occasionally accompanied me and the other dental students as we drove there from Columbus. On that 90-minute drive, he and I would talk about life, as peers. Coincidentally, we both had wives named Teresa. And we had shared values, especially regarding organized dentistry. Dr. Bowers was the first to instill in me the responsibility that I have to give back to the dental profession through involvement in the American Dental Association. I will always hold Dr. Bowers in the highest regard.

I was surprised that so many members seem unaware of – or don’t take advantage of – many of the benefits available through the ODA. A few examples are the Leadership Institute, the Dental Insurance Working Group, and the contract analysis service, not to mention all the products offered by the Ohio Dental Association Services Corporation. I also wish every member and non-member knew about the tremendous work that’s done by volunteer dentists and the ODA staff in advocacy efforts for ALL dentists regarding insurance issues, government regulation, and workforce challenges.

The most rewarding is having an opportunity to positively impact my patients’ self-image, health, and quality of life. I am most fulfilled when I know someone leaves my office better than when they arrived. The most challenging aspect currently is the dental hygiene workforce shortage that is an issue profession-wide. Like many other practices that need more dental hygiene support, it’s difficult to schedule recall appointments within the usual six-month interval. That results in delayed care and frustrated patients, in spite of our best efforts.

Do your best, respect everyone, and learn every day.

I appreciate a wide variety of music. So back then it was probably The Oak Ridge Boys, Chicago, and a Christian band, the Imperials.

Using what I have been fortunate enough to receive to make someone else’s life better.