1. What does it mean to run a family dental practice, and why is that important to you?
A family practice is one that invites pediatric, geriatric and all ages in between. We cater to all ages because this allows patients to have one place to bring the whole family and introduce their children to the importance of maintaining good oral health. We love the opportunity to grow with our families and to help them grow into responsible dental patients.
2. How do you run your practice in ways that sets you apart from other dental practices in Louisville?
Our practice is exceptionally warm and welcoming from the moment you walk in to the moment you walk out. We engage with each patient to feel out their level of comfort in the office and strive to accommodate their needs. I encourage a relaxed atmosphere. We want everyone to be recognized and acknowledged as they walk in and throughout their visit. In a clinical environment people often feel lost and without relationships with those treating them and I want people to genuinely feel cared for. We provide small touches such as a Keurig with complimentary tea and coffee, bottled water, pillows and blankets during procedures and much more to keep our patients feeling comfortable.
3. What’s the most challenging aspect of owning your own dental practice? (This could be an opportunity to discuss something difficult yet rewarding, etc.)
We treat many patients who have had a life-long fear of the dentist. Helping patients to overcome their anxiety is always challenging and I often want to change their outlook in just one visit. In most cases that is not possible. The challenge is gaining that trust after years of built up apprehension, and yet the reward of seeing those patients come in time and time again for regular appointments is priceless.
4. What steps do you take to continue to expand your knowledge of cutting edge dental techniques and services?
I love educating patients about their oral health, and that means keeping myself up to date on the latest trends, techniques and technology. I like taking continuing education hours that are relative and applicable to real world dentistry so that I can stay current and ahead of the ever-changing health and business fields. I also consult my dental peers regularly to see what’s going on in their offices. There is always more than one way to do something, so it’s important to bounce ideas off of colleagues.
5. What’s one of the most rewarding patient experiences you’ve ever had?
I have a patient who has Tourette syndrome. At 19 years old, his mom couldn’t find a dentist that would work on him without sedating him. Financially they couldn’t afford sedation or a specialist. Having not been to the dentist in years, he had several things to address in his mouth. He had no fear of the dentist, just the fear of rejection he had so many times before. The obstacle is that his head jerks spontaneously and sporadically. We successfully treated all of his cavities and continue to treat him for regular care.
6. Why did you pursue dentistry as a career?
Growing up I had a female dentist who was young and relatable and catered to my inquisitive personality. The more I asked and learned, it became clear around 12 years old that I wanted to follow the path of dentistry.
7. What do you love the most about being a dentist?
Educating patients and being relatable. I want patients to understand the why’s, how’s and what’s about their dentistry, and if they don’t then I encourage them to ask questions. This encourages patients to be involved in their treatment and apply their knowledge to achieve their best daily and long term dental results.
8. What do you love the most about your awesome, brilliant staff. 😉
I never have to worry about how they will treat our patients. Everyone truly understands the importance of making our patients feel welcomed and comfortable and that is paramount when forming a trust and bond with them.
9. What’s some of the most impressive dental technology being used in your practice currently?
My favorite tools are our intraoral cameras that we have in each operatory. This camera snaps pictures of cavities, fillings, fractures, and gums to share within seconds on the chairside computer screen. This promotes an interactive experience for the patient so they see what we see in great detail. We also offer digital x-rays which emits less radiation to our patients and provides a clearer image for diagnosing disease. Laser therapy is another state of the art option we provide for gum contouring, treating gum disease, and other surgical procedures; this promotes fast healing and used with minimal anesthetic, if any.
10. If you could share one piece of advice with someone who is pursuing a career in dentistry, what would it be?
A dentist must have a heart to serve and an innate gentle touch.