Meet Dr. Nicholas DePaola

It was in fifth grade that I decided to write in my yearbook that I wanted to be a dentist when I grow up, it never changed.

I first moved to Ohio from my hometown in Pittsburgh’s eastern suburbs to attend Kent State University and pursue a bachelor’s degree in biology. It was there that I met my future husband, Joseph, when we formed the first pre-dental club at KSU. Following my bachelor’s degree, I went on to study human anatomy at THE Ohio State University College of Medicine. I was always fascinated by the science of human physiology and the relationships between anatomical structure and function, and my interest in dentistry focused my anatomy studies on the head and neck regions. Upon completion of my master’s degree, I was offered a position as an adjunct professor within Ohio State’s College of Medicine teaching human anatomy. I then continued on my path as I was accepted into Dental School at Ohio State and earned my Doctor of Dental Surgery degree.

I then completed a General Practice Residency at St. Elizabeth Hospital in Youngstown, Ohio. Here I furthered my clinical knowledge and skills in areas including oral and maxillofacial surgery, restorative dentistry, pediatrics, and special-needs dentistry including geriatrics and developmental disabilities. This residency expanded my skill set far beyond what is taught in dental school and incorporated the management of medically complex patients.

When not working, I can usually be found with my husband and our dog, Letti – exploring Cleveland’s metro parks, tending to my citrus plants and gardens, or planning our next trip.