Special Offers

Westfield dentist offers free dental exam and X-rays

That’s why this summer he is offering a free dental examination and x-rays to new patients. The offer expires Sept. 30.

He and the members of his practice are targeting people who dread dentists and people who might not be able to afford quality dental work in this economy. The free exam gives people an opportunity to take Dr. Feret’s practice for a test drive.

Some people are afraid of monsters under the bed. Others are afraid of flying. But many are afraid of the dentist.

“We are health care providers,” said Dr. Feret, a dentist with a practice in Westfield for 37 years. “Our job is to help people. But because of bad experiences and sometimes just because of the sound of our instruments, people get scared. “That means some will make an appointment and then not show up. And others will never even get to the stage of making an appointment. Those are the people we want to help. Good dental care is that important.”

The old joke goes: Only take care of the teeth you want to keep.

Once you get your permanent teeth, that’s it. You don’t get any more.

The best way to maintain your dental health is by proper brushing and flossing after every meal and by seeing a dentist at least twice a year.

“There are a lot of people who believe nothing is wrong with their teeth unless it hurts – a lot and for a long time,” said Alice Brown, practice manager for Dr. Feret and his WestfieldSmiles.com website. “They think if the pain goes away, so did the problem. That’s wrong on so many counts.

“Pain is a signal by the body that something is wrong,” she explained. “Even if the pain disappears, you need to find out what caused it.

“The mouth has sometimes been called the gateway to the rest of your body. That means problems found in the mouth could help detect bigger problems elsewhere in your body. If you care about your health, you need to see a dentist regularly.”

Dr. Feret, who received a bachelors degree from Seton Hall University in South Orange and his dental degree from University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, has been practicing and living in Westfield since 1973.

His goal is to make a dental visit painless and effective – so he can determine the condition of your teeth and you want to come back.

The dental examination includes an oral cancer exam, a search for potential decay, an examination of the gums and bone, blood pressure screening and instructions for proper brushing and flossing. For a new patient, staff members take a panoramic x-ray that shows the entire jaw and all the teeth. Two bitewing x-rays, which show potential decay between the teeth, are also taken.

“I’ve done very well in my practice and my life,” Dr. Feret said. “I’ve tried to help people in my practice, but sometimes you need to do more. Offering some free dental services is my way of saying thank you.”

What makes Dr. Feret’s practice different?

“Quality is our passion,” said Alice Brown. “Our obsession is service.”

Do you dread going to the dentist?

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