Dr. Julie Rudgers Croft
Growing up, Dr. Julie Rudgers Croft dreamt of becoming an artist. Her creative and adventurous spirit led her to graphic design, where she spent many years at top agencies. But, her love for children and the joy they bring eventually won out. She found the perfect intersection of working with her hands and her love for children in pediatric dentistry.
Today, as Akron Children’s newest pediatric dentist in the Celeste Myers Dental Clinic, Dr. Rudgers Croft has mastered the art of helping kids smile bigger and brighter by providing preventive and oral health care for kids, while easing their anxiety in the chair.
Why did you want to become a doctor?
I was a graphic designer first. I decided I wanted a change in careers to be with and help children. Pediatric dentistry became the perfect intersection of my love of children and working with my hands. I look at each tooth, each filling as a tiny sculpture. Each child is unique and I treat him or her as such.
If you could live anywhere in the world where would it be and why?
Next to the water, preferably the ocean. Water is calming and peaceful, and it brings me joy.
If you could choose your age forever, what age would it be and why?
Right now, I love my life. If I could stop time and enjoy this forever, I would!
What is the last thing you do before you go to sleep?
Tell my daughters and my husband how much I love them.
Do you dunk your Oreos in milk, lick off the icing, eat them as they are or avoid them altogether?
I eat only the icing and toss the cookies in the garbage. Then, I brush and floss!
Where did you grow up?
Norton, Ohio
Dr. Rudgers Croft with her husband, Jay, and their daughters Rory (left) and Maeve
Who makes up your family, including pets and their names?
My husband, Jay Croft, and my daughters: Maeve, 7, and Rory, 4
What did you want to be (profession) when you were little?
An artist
What was your first car and what’s your dream car?
My first car was a Dodge Shadow, pre-owned by my older sister. It didn’t have a radio or air conditioning, but it did have a boombox in the back seat. My dream car is a Land Rover Defender, but I would like it to be electric or use bio-diesel.
Something you’ve always wanted to do and still want to do it?
I have always wanted to sail around the world!
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