Fast, efficient sterilization was always something Dr. Fischer placed importance on. That didn’t change in the new facility. He added a Miele Dental Washer for hands-free instrument preparation and an Assistina to lubricate handpieces and keep them in working order. In essence, he built a practice that was built to last. And he did it in an impressive fashion. “Rather than a back area hidden away, we have a sterilization zone,” he said. “It’s open, kind of like an open kitchen in a restaurant. Obviously, it was very important that it be very clean and very organized. That hasn’t been a problem and people are always impressed.”

The additional space also afforded the opportunity to add a consultation room. It’s something Dr. Fischer didn’t have space for previously, and he has found that having a private location to speak with patients on sensitive issues has made a big difference in patient comfort.

Equipment wise, Dr. Fischer said that without question CEREC has changed the way he practices dentistry more than anything else. The speed and efficiency of the process delights patients and still surprises even the staff at Ariel Dental Care. “The patients still feel very, very excited that they are able to get the restoration done in one visit,” he said. “We took a few steps to make sure they’re comfortable throughout the process, too. There are noise-canceling headphones at each station – they don’t want to hear what’s going on and it also helps distract them from the amount of time they’re in the chair. They do love watching the whole process.”

As Dambra noted, the new office has allowed Dr. Fischer to broaden his horizons. It’s something that he has always valued about dentistry, and something that was missing from his comfortable, albeit ill-fated, previous practice. The space was essential, but so was Dr. Fischer’s desire to grow, both in business and as a dentist.

“That was one of the main reasons I wanted to build a larger facility – to grow,” he said. “There was no room to do more in my old office. This is much more stimulating and that was one of the reasons I’m still practicing – that I’m always looking for stimulation. Without a doubt, I’m having more fun here.”

There used to be a special bookstore in New Paltz, N.Y., that Dr. Joel Fischer frequented. Now there’s a special dental practice that he goes to every day.