State of the Art Dentistry: Varsha Salani, DMD

Dr. Salani's office is wonderful on so many levels. When you call during business hours, it's very possible that she'll be the one answering the phone. She has a small all-woman staff, including student interns. Everyone in the office is cordial, polite, professional but always warm and comforting, never "sterile" or stand-offish. Dr. Salani is especially good with anxious patients (my husband, who is now a *former* anxious patient thanks to her). The office itself is relaxing and comfortable; very small with a low coffee table and a huge puzzle on the desk for patients (and staff) to work on while waiting. Dr. Salani's office is paperless; you input your information on a computer in the side room. She is a participating provider on several dental plans, and she also accepts CareCredit. The doctor's office has also recently implemented yearly preventive care plans for patients who don't have dental insurance, to help them reduce costs with regular cleanings, oral cancer screening, x-rays and more. Her fees for non-covered services are comparable to the market. I'll never get used to the cost of dental services. I could go to a cheaper "chain-store" dental group but I wouldn't be able to count on competency, professionalism, or truthfulness. Considering that the future of my ability to chew, smile, and even talk is at stake, I'd rather pay more and know that I'm in excellent hands. It'd be a lie to claim she's painless - there really is no such thing as a painless dentist. But she takes every possible step to reduce pain to mostly discomfort (lidocane shots sting, there's no getting around it!). Even her dental chairs are pro-comfort; they are fully-functional massage chairs! The Doctor will tell you everything she's doing during each procedure, so you're never surprised with sudden loud noises or "things" in your mouth. She pauses frequently to pat your arm and ask if you're okay, and she really seems to want to put her patients at ease. More importantly, she is a truly competent dental professional, up to date on the current protocol, not afraid to try something new but equally comfortable sticking with the tried and true - depending on whatever is most appropriate for the situation.