We recently had the opportunity to interview Dr. Allan Ringard of Silverado Dental Care. A graduate of the University of the Pacific School of Dentistry in San Francisco, Dr. Allan Ringard has served the residents of Napa since 1987. The cosmetic and laser dentist has completed hundreds of hours of post graduate dental education and is dedicated to utilizing the latest progressions in dentistry. He has been a DOCS Education member since 2000.
How did you choose dentistry?
Growing up I experienced a lot of fear and pain in the dental chair. At age 13, I moved with my family to California, and I had my first "painless" dental experience. It impressed me so much that I took an interest in the field and began spending time shadowing dentists. Eventually I joined the Air Force and worked as a dental assistant and as a hygienist. That sealed the deal for me.
What do you like most about dentistry?
I love exceeding a patient's expectations regarding comfort and ease of procedures and NOT meeting expectations of misery, pain, etc. Seeing tears of happiness when patients first look at their new smile, whether it was achieved through ortho, veneers or implants, is extremely rewarding. It’s so gratifying to hear people rave about how they can "eat anything they want" now that they a have teeth that work!
What are the biggest challenges facing dentistry today?
I see the cost of dental education and practice set-up driving young dentists to work below their skill level in order to keep their heads above water. Also, good practice management skills and systems are more critical than ever.
Who is/was your mentor in the dental world?
During dental school, Art Dugoni, head dean at the time, made me feel proud to be entering this field. I was fortunate enough to meet Omer Reed in my first year of practice. He widened my horizons and opened my eyes to the myriad possibilities in our great profession. Later on, Walter Hailey changed the way I practice, as well as the way I live!
