Dr. Krug is a clinical assistant professor in dentistry.
Tell us about your background.
I was born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio. I attended the U.S. Naval Academy for my undergraduate degree. After serving in the fleet, I went to The Ohio State University for veterinary school. I completed a rotating internship and subsequently came to the University of Illinois to complete a residency in dentistry and oral surgery.
I started the first dentistry service at N.C. State University, and then worked in private practice in Chicago for ten years.
I’m happy to be back in C-U and humbled by the caliber of people I’m working with and teaching.
What drew you to dentistry?
A dental problem with my own dog taught me how animals will soldier through some awful pain without letting us know. When she was treated, I met the dentistry instructor at Ohio State. I realized that the field was underserved and that dental care could dramatically improve the quality of life for our friends.
Tell us about a favorite case of yours.
It’s more like a favorite kind of case, and it happens frequently. It’s usually an older, small breed dog, although it happens with cats and large dogs as well: After a procedure to treat established dental disease, the client soon reports that their pet is “acting like a puppy/kitten again” or “like a new dog.”
These cases reaffirm that we are making a big difference for these animals. The clients, who were often horrified and reluctant to proceed since I expected the need to extract a lot of teeth, sometimes cry or hug me out of gratitude. Hearing that their pet is doing better is enough for me, however.
What are your special interests?
I’m a dog person (allergic to cats, unfortunately), and I love my pit bull breeds. I have trouble passing them up if I meet one in the hospital or out on a walk. (Apologies to all the owners I’ve ignored).
I also like cars and appreciate the engineering and qualities of pretty much all models. I enjoy working on them, although I usually need to take it to someone who knows how to do the job correctly. There are also very, very few things that I don’t like to eat, and I’m always up to try something new.
