A More Personal Approach To Dentistry
Please Call Us: 561-283-2188
5 Things to Remember When Choosing Your Dentist
5 Things to Remember When Choosing Your Dentist
THE FIVE MOST IMPORTANT THINGS TO REMEMBER WHEN CHOOSING YOUR DENTIST
Take some time to research these 5 things before choosing your next dentist.
1. Check for a Good Reputation
The first thing you’ll want to do when researching a new dentist is to make sure your potential office has a good reputation. A quick Google Search should reveal any issues with bad reviews, negative press, or other thingss you would want to avoid. Alternatively, Googling your potential dentist could reveal good things about the practice like great testimonials, videos from patients, and charity work they’ve done in the community.
2. Check the Status of Their License Online
Most state boards have a public registry where you can check the status of dentist’s license. The website will provide the date their license began, when it is set to expire, and also list any issues or claims that have been filed against your potential office. For instance, the Florida Registry can be found here.
3. Research the Geography
Traffic, parking, and distance from your home or work should be items you consider when looking for your next dentist. Take a second to check out where the office is and use Google Maps Satellite View to check out the parking situation. This will give you an idea of how much time you need to allot yourself to find a parking spot, or if you need to be prepared to pay for things like a meter or parking garage.
4. Ask for Recommendations from Friends & Family
Your friends and family have already done the research for you when it comes to finding a dentist. If they have a suggestion, make sure to ask what they like about their dentist to ensure it is something you also value. For instance, if they like their dentist because it is close to their office, but you don’t work nearby, this probably isn’t of value to you!
5. Ensure Your Dentist Provides the Services You Need at the Times You Need Them
Not all dental offices are created equal. Services vary by office, as well as hours of operation. Check with your new potential office to make sure they offer the services you generally require. For example, if you have issues with periodontal disease, you’ll want to make sure your new dentist provides periodontal cleanings, not just standard hygiene services.
Choosing a new dentist can be difficult, but if the new office meets your needs in these 5 categories, you’ll be off to a great start!
Rated 4.9 Out of 5 Stars
264 Google Reviews
“The Best Dentists in Palm Beach Gardens”
The talented team of Smiles in the Garden is trained and experienced with many of the most advanced and effective dental procedures available. Our dentists are members of several accredited dental organizations and are committed to providing you with personalized care and a beautiful, healthy smile.
DR. CHARLES ETHEREDGE
Dr. Etheredge grew up right here in Palm Beach County. After graduating from dental school at the top of his class at The University of Florida he moved to the beautiful Palm Beach Gardens area to start his career.
Practicing in Palm Beach Gardens since 2001, he has created some of the areas most beautiful smiles. He performs all facets of dentistry including placing and restoring dental implants, Invisalign® and Six-Month Smiles® (orthodontics), root canals (endodontics), cosmetic dentistry and rehabilitative dentistry.
Dr Etheredge completes extensive hours of continuing education to stay current with the ever changing technology as it relates to dentistry. His practice philosophy is to create a warm and caring atmosphere where his patients feel comfortable and at ease.
DR. ROBERT SCHRY
Practicing dentistry since 1986, Dr. Schry wants every patient to feel that they were treated as if he were treating a member of his own family. He and his dental team strive to give each patient precision care in a warm, friendly environment. This team wants to see every one walk out with a big “smile” on their face.
This third generation Floridian, born and raised in Miami, received his dental degree from the University of Florida. He and his wife Kathy raised their two children here in Palm Beach Gardens.
A member of the American Dental Association for over 26 years, Dr. Schry has completed hundreds of hours of continuing education in various disciplines of dentistry. These areas include: esthetic dentistry; endodontic treatment; restoration of dental implants; and complicated restorative cases to name a few. His practice mission is to see each and every patient satisfied at the end of their appointment.
DR. JOSEPH G. WATSON
Dr. Joseph G. Watson is a graduate of the University of Florida with a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry. He attended dental school at the University of Florida College of Dentistry, graduating in 1986. He began practicing dentistry in the North Palm Beach/Palm Beach Gardens area after graduation and loves this location.
He is a Past President of the Atlantic Coast Dental Research Clinic. He is also the Past President of the North Palm Beach Kiwanis Club and currently holds the position of treasurer. He is a Fellow in the International Congress of Implant Dentistry. Dr. Watson is Dawson Academy trained.
Outside of the office, Dr. Watson enjoys many outdoor activities – running, biking, hiking and time at the beach or on the water. He has run marathons throughout the United States and China. He is married and has three children.
Dental Hygienists
Sara
With Smiles in the Gardens since 2005
Sara was born in Delaware and has been in the dental field since 1988. She is married to RJ and has a daughter Delaney. Her favorite part about working in dentistry is providing quality dental care to patients who have become friends. Her hobbies include being a mom!! She loves entertaining with friends, cooking, baking and watching her husband golf. Sara’s family of pets are named after the characters from “Friends”. Sara has also been on Air Force One!
Nicole
With Smiles in the Gardens since 2014
Nicole was born in Ft. Lauderdale and has been in the dental field since 2008. Nicole is a Registered Dental Hygienist, has her Local Anesthesia Certification, and is a member of the American Dental Hygiene Association. She is married to Max and has a terror kitty named Pippy. She is no stranger to the dental chair so she can relate to most patients, especially those who may be anxious. Nicole likes to take the time to explain procedures and educate patients. She finds it especially rewarding to see those same people start to enjoy coming back to the dentist. Nicole’s hobbies include swimming, shopping, spending time with friends, volleyball, Gator and Packer football. Nicole is a Christmas lover! She actually gets excited when she hears Christmas music and commercials in September.
kristen
With Smiles in the Gardens since 2015
Kristen grew up in Middletown, RI and has been in the field of dentistry since 2011. Kristen is certified in local anesthesia and is a member of the American Dental Hygiene Association. She lives with boyfriend Matt and yellow lab Myla. Her favorite thing about dentistry is educating and connecting with patients, having the ability to comfort those with dental anxiety during their treatments, and watching them leave feeling a bit more at ease. Outside of the office, she enjoys spending time with friends, kayaking, snorkeling, biking, hiking, boating, exploring new restaurants, and of course everything Red Sox and Patriots. An interesting thing about Kristen is that she loves to take in old furniture to repurpose it!
maggie
With Smiles in the Gardens since 2016
Maggie has been in the dental field for 30 years. She loves applying current trends in dentistry, nutrition, and science to patient care. Maggie says that the professional relationships that she has made with patients are the most precious to her. Outside of the office, Maggie is an animal lover who is a passionate volunteer at “Save the Chimps” Chimpanzee Sanctuary in Fort Pierce. She is also a butterfly gardener who’s been welcoming the flying flowers into her garden for about 15 years. She also is a student of yoga since 2010. Maggie was raised in the Alleghany Valley of Pennsylvania and is an avid Pittsburgh sports fan!
Ashlea
With Smiles in the Gardens since 2016
Ashlea has been in the field of dentistry since 2014. She is certified in local anesthesia. She loves being able to make a difference in the lives of our patients one smile at a time. She also enjoys helping patients with oral health education and making them feel comfortable in a dental office. Outside of the office, she enjoys anything that has to do with exploring Florida. As a native of Iowa, she’s made it her goal to try out everything the Florida lifestyle has to offer. Ashlea loves talking in accents, make her show you on your next visit!
megan
With Smiles in the Gardens since 2017
Megan has been in the dental field since 2009 and been on local association board for the last 5 years. She is the current president elect for the local dental hygiene association. Megan likes to get to know her patients, build rapport, and help them gain confidence by improving their smile. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family, running, and beach bike rides with her husband. Megan LOVES all things Disney and is a native Floridian.
Dental Assistants
FREDA
With Smiles in the Gardens since 2004
Freda was born in Indiana and has been a dental assistant since 1991. She is married and has a daughter named Hannah. Her favorite part about working in dentistry is helping people feel better about themselves and making people happy with their smile. Freda’s hobbies include speed walking, biking, cooking and baking. Freda is addicted to Pinterest recipes!.
TAMMY
With Smiles in the Gardens since 2009
Tammy was born in Lakeland, Florida and has been a dental assistant since 1996. She is married to a wonderful (recently retired) firefighter Craig, has a bonus daughter Meghan and her little mini-me, Laynie. Her favorite part about working in dentistry is meeting new people, making them feel comfortable in the chair and helping to create a beautiful, healthy smile. Tammy’s hobbies include outdoor activities, going to the beach, paddle boarding, arts and crafts and spending time with family and friends. She also loves to shop! Tammy is a fifth generation Florida and has a Real-Estate and Esthetician License. She loves doing anything crafty.
DIANA
With Smiles in the Gardens since 2013
Diana was born in Bogota, Colombia. She has been in the dental field since 2009. Her favorite part about dentistry is helping to make big changes in people’s lives by giving them a beautiful smile. Diana’s hobbies include travelling, dancing and listening to music. She is a chocoholic and an ice cream lover!
DIANNYS
With Smiles in the Gardens since 2013
Diannys or “D” as we call her, was born in Cuba. She has been working in the dental field since 2004. Her favorite part about working in dentistry is surgery and improving the patient’s smile. Diannys has a teenage daughter and they often get mistaken for sisters. D’s house is always filled with music, especially if she is cleaning or cooking. She enjoys traveling and working out.
BARI
With Smiles in the Gardens since 2016
Bari has been working in the field of dentistry since 1982. She enjoys working beside the doctors to improve and educate patients and help them to have a great dental experience. She loves working with Dr. Watson and thinks that he is the kindest man that she knows. She especially enjoys assisting during implant surgeries. Outside of the office, she loves spending time with her sons and grandchildren. Bari also loves spending time outdoors with friends. Christmas of 2016 brought a new addition to her family, a puppy named Faith! Her favorite vacation is any cruise!
BETHANY
With Smiles in the Gardens since 2017
Bethany is a Certified Dental Assistant, with over 10 years experience, in all aspects of dentistry. She has her Expanded Duties Certification, as well as, an Anesthesia Assisting Certification from the A.S.D.A. Her resume includes working in Oral Surgery, General Dentistry, Endodontics, Full Mouth Reconstruction and Smile makeovers. She attends continuing education courses to be well versed in the latest technologies and protocols.
Bethany loves her patients. She is passionate about making sure your dental experience is Five Star. Patient comfort and ease are her top priorities.
She is married to the love of her life and has 3 children. In her spare time, you can bet she is Surfing or tending to her vegetable garden.
Front Office
SANDY
ACCOUNTS ADMINISTRATOR
with Smiles in the Gardens since 1990
Sandy was born in Pennsylvania and has been in the dental field since 1983. She is married to Bill and has two sons, Liam and Josh. Her favorite part about working in dentistry is seeing how happy patients are with their smiles and how comfortable they are when coming to our office. Outside of the office, Sandy enjoys spending time with her family and traveling whenever possible. Her hobbies include reading cookbooks and always trying new recipes. Sandy can juggle!
LORRAINE
INSURANCE COORDINATOR
with Smiles in the Gardens since 2008
Lorraine was born in Barbados and has been in the dental field for six and a half years. She is married and has two sons. Her favorite part about working in dentistry is constantly learning new things. Her hobbies include reading, traveling and dancing. Lorraine is trying to become trilingual– English, Spanish and French! She can speak all three, but her goal is to be fluent.
TERRE
TREATMENT DIRECTOR
with Smiles in the Gardens since 2011
Terre was born in Amsterdam, NY and has been in the dental field since 1985. She is the proud mother of daughter Madison, a 2018 graduate of Jupiter HS. Her favorite part about working in dentistry is the patients! She enjoys SMILE ENHANCEMENTS and changing people’s lives through the gift of a smile. Terre is a Harley enthusiast, which may come as a surprise to many. She is also a HUGE Patriots fan!
HEATHER
MARKETING DIRECTOR
with Smiles in the Gardens since 2013
Heather was born in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania and has been in the dental field since 2013. Her favorite part about working in dentistry is easing nervous patients’ fear and hearing them say they aren’t afraid of coming to the dentist anymore. She also enjoys the social media aspect of her work. Her hobbies include playing with her puppy, going to Disney World and reading. Our resident sleuth, if it can be found online, Heather will find it.
SHERRY
TREATMENT COORDINATOR
with Smiles in the Gardens since 2013
Sherry was born in Hendersonville, North Carolina and has been in the dental field since 1984. She has been married to her husband Rick for more than 35 years and has a son, Adam. Her favorite part about working in dentistry is making a difference in people’s lives and seeing people smile when they leave! Her hobbies include walking, spending time with family and friends, church activities and going to the theatre. Sherry loves musical theatre! She would have loved to have been on Broadway! She can often be found singing in our office, acapella is her favorite!
VIVIANA
TREATMENT COORDINATOR
with Smiles in the Gardens since 2016
Viviana has been working in the field of dentistry since 1999. She loves being able to change people’s lives through dentistry. Her favorite part about dentistry is getting a patient out of pain and seeing them smile again. Viviana is a member of the American Association of Dental Office Management. Outside of the office, her favorite things to do are workout, go to the beach and watch sports, especially Giants football. Viviana married her high shool sweetheart Ricky and they have been married for 29 years. Viviana’s husband has two race cars and she changes tires and assists on the cars when she can. Viviana also loves to Latin Dance. Viviana is scared of heights, but that didn’t stop her from bungee jumping on a dare!
kamla
PATIENT COORDINATOR
with Smiles in the Gardens since 2018
Kamla was born in Sav La Mar, Jamaica. She has been working in the field of dentistry since 2000. She began her work as a jump assistant for 3 years and then worked as an endodontic assistant for 10 years. Kam then transitioned to learning more about patient coordination, insurance and billing protocols. She has worked as a patient care coordinator since 2010. Her favorite part of working in the dental field is seeing patients’ confidence rise once they have been given a new smile. When she’s not working, Kamla is a mother to two beautiful girls, her tiny dancer Arrianna and her college student, Shanella. She appreciates good art and good wine. Kam loves a good adventure and is always ready to try new things!
kristal
HYGIENE COORDINATOR
with Smiles in the Gardens since 2019
In 2015, after relocating from Central Florida, Kristal left municipal government and wanted to work in a field that allowed her to fell more connected to people. She was given a chance in the field of dentistry and couldn’t imagine doing anything else. There are so many facets to dentistry that keep her connected and always learning how she can help patients. She is 5 Star Certified with the Scheduling Institute. Kristal’s favorite thing about dentistry is seeing what having a healthy, beautiful smile can do for someone’s life. Outside of the office, her favorite things to do include cooking, watching documentaries, being in the sunshine, and hanging out with her husband and two pups. Kristal is a great person to take to a trivia night as she has an endless bank of useless knowledge!
KARISSA
PATIENT COORDINATOR
With Smiles in the Gardens since 2019
Karissa has worked in dentistry since 2014 where she began as a dental assistant. She is certified as an Expanded Functions Dental Assistant with Xray Certification, as well. The thing she loves about working in dentistry is working with people and trying to make them as comfortable and relaxed as possible during a time that is not everyone’s favorite. Karissa enjoys spending time with her children and family as much as she can, as well as reading, going to concerts, spending time with the pool and enjoying the Florida sun. Karissa is in the process of learning sign language and hopes to do something on the side with children in the deaf community!
BRIANNA
PATIENT COORDINATOR
with Smiles in the Gardens since 2019
Brianna has been working in the medical field for several years and has made the transition into dentistry to join our team. She has an associates degree in the field of psychology. Brianna loves learning new things about the dental world from her coworkers who are so kind and are the best teachers when it comes to learning more about oral wellness. Her favorite thing to do outside the office is to spend time with her friends, family and her rotsky, Bear. Brianna is a foodie and loves eating as much food as humanly possible. When she’s not working, you can find Brianna at the beach, the tattoo parlor, or in her living room, watching a Patriots game or some form of reality TV. One funny thing about Brianna is that she cannot dance, but it doesn’t stop her from getting her groove on!