Every element of the practice was designed to relax the patient and create a positive experience. Working with an interior designer, Kozlowski selected a palette of cool and relaxing blue and green tones that give the practice a spa–like atmosphere with a soothing citrus scent diffused throughout the office. Additionally, Kozlowski and Brielmann commissioned an artist to paint local landscapes to give patients something interesting, familiar and beautiful to look at

During treatment, patients have the options of watching TV or their favorite DVD, or listening to music with headphones to block out noises. “When patients sit down in the chair, they often say ‘I feel like I’m at a spa,’” Kozlowski said. ”We go out of our way to make them very comfortable during their visit so they’re not thinking about what’s going on. This is particularly important for young children, who make up a large number of our patient population.”

Besides making sure the office environment is pleasant, Kozlowski takes extra steps to ensure that her patients receive the very best care. She spends at least an hour with each new patient to understand their diet, medical history, stress level and habits before treating their dental conditions. “A lot of times in dentistry we focus on the problem and overlook the underlying reasons why things are breaking down,” Kozlowski said. “Our philosophy here is to look at the patient completely and help them improve their oral habits at home.”

Kozlowski and Brielmann have also hired team members who understand the type of experience they seek to provide and care as deeply as they do about their patients. “They are very important to the operation of our practice,” Brielmann said. “We found good people and our patients appreciate that.”