Dr. Partha Mukherji, assistant professor in comprehensive dentistry at Texas A&M University College of Dentistry in Dallas, teaches dental students treatment fundamentals. However, his passion is advocating for the needs and interests of present and future general dentists.
That dedication was saluted Sept. 12 in Austin as Mukherji and his longtime friend, Dr. Victor Rodriguez of Houston, owner of Clear Lake Dental Associates in Houston and an adjunct professor at UTHealth Houston School of Dentistry, were named co-recipients of 2025 Texas Dentist of the Year at Texas Academy Awards, Texas Academy of General Dentistry’s celebratory event. Each was honored for service to his community and the dental profession, commitment to continuing education, leadership and professional excellence.
Mukherji and Rodriguez were chosen from 13 nominees. Dr. Hanna Lindskog, Texas AGD president, praised them for dedication to patient care, mentorship and innovation.
“Drs. Mukherji and Rodriguez motivate us all to reach higher and continue advancing the future of dentistry,” Lindskog shared in a written statement.
Mukherji, a 2001 A&M Dental graduate, was nominated by Fort Worth Academy of General Dentistry, where he’s a past president and former secretary/treasurer of Texas AGD. He serves as Region 18 director of the Academy of General Dentistry, the national organization.
Texas AGD focuses on general dentistry and has more than 2,900 members. Dentist of the Year award winners are both general dentists and specialists.
“It’s inspiring being in the room with some of the best human beings in our profession,” Mukherji said. “These individuals are true servant leaders. I was just honored to be in the same room with them.”
Mukherji, who grew up in Bay City, completed his residency in 2002 at what's now known as UTHealth Houston.
He taught part time at A&M Dental and served on Tarrant County College’s registered dental assistant advisory board for several years before joining A&M Dental’s faculty full time in April. Mukherji worked for six years at Harris Southwest Dental & Aesthetic Dental Innovations in Fort Worth, part of Heartland Dental. He also worked at Beyond Dental & Implant Center and M Dentistry, his own practice, both in Fort Worth.
Mukherji’s charitable endeavors include volunteering with nonprofits Texas Mission of Mercy, a mobile dental clinic that travels the state and provides free dental care, and Mercy Clinic, a no-charge, faith-based dental clinic in Fort Worth. He also volunteers with Savea Smile, led by Cook Children’s in Fort Worth, where Mukherji provides dental screenings in schools.
He serves on Texas Dental Association’s annual meeting council, where Mukherji will be vice chair for next year’s meeting in San Antonio. In addition, he’s deputy regent for District 15 (Texas) International College of Dentists.
“Professionally, I find the biggest joy in service...,” Mukherji said. “I’m inspired by so many people who’ve been on my journey. From the platforms that I’ve been given, I want to ensure that others are empowered to have a voice. In some shape, form or fashion, we are all in this together.”
Dr. Erica Teixeira, head of comprehensive dentistry at A&M Dental, called him an invaluable member of the academic community. She said the award is a testament to Mukherji’s commitment to excellence.
“His leadership, professionalism and dedication have enriched our school and inspired colleagues and students,” Teixeira said.