Where are you from originally and how long have you lived in the area?
I grew up in Kingston, PA. I spent my college and dental school days in the Philadelphia area (Main Line) and I have lived in Madison, NJ for 28 years. I first started practicing dentistry in Bernardsville in 1995.
Child(ren) and Age(s)?
I have 3 children. Zachary is 26, OIivia is 25, and Matthew is 23
Are you involved in a business venture or corporate world? Please Share!
I own Proud To Smile Dentistry in Bernardsville. When I first opened the practice, almost 30 years ago, the office was much smaller with just two chairs. Last year, I expanded the space to better serve our patients.
When did you decide you wanted to open your own Dental Practice?
The inspiration for opening my own practice happened back when I decided to go to dental school. In college, I worked as an assistant for a dentist who was also a wonderful mentor. When I started dental school, he advised me to buy my own practice before I had children. This way I would have more control of my career and autonomy. Following this advice, my husband and I bought this practice before we even bought our first house. It was the best advice and I am forever grateful.
Do you offer both adult and pediatric dental care?
Yes, we treat patients of all ages!! I have patients who were children when I first opened my practice and are now brining their own children to us! This makes me so happy because we truly are a family practice. In addition to general dentistry, we also offer orthodontic treatments for children and adults alike. We are focused on expansion and airway orthodontics.
What do you recommend for someone looking for a new dentist?
It’s important to look for a dentist who takes the time to listen to your concerns. You need to feel comfortable from the moment you step through the door. You need a dentist who is continually learning and mastering the latest techniques and procedures. You want an office with state of the art technology and a team that is trained to use it. Lastly, you want to feel like family.
If you could give one tip to fellow Mom Entrepreneurs what would it be?
Being a Mom Entrepreneur is difficult but rewarding! It takes discipline, but I would say to develop a vision, write down your goals and keep mastering your skill set. Surround yourself with positive minded people. Find mentors. Talk to successful people and learn from them. Always keep growing. Read as much as possible.
One thing people would be surprised to know about you…
I was a bartender throughout college and dental school. I am still a pretty good mixologist!
Ok 10 Fun LOCAL favorites – ready, go!
1 – Favorite thing to do with your kids? If I had to pick one thing, hit would be skiing.
2 – Favorite coffee spot? The Coffee Shop in Bernardsville
3 – Favorite lunch place? Harvest Bistro in Madison
4 – Favorite farm to go fruit picking? Wightmans Farms
5 – Favorite date night restaurant? Sette in Bernardsville
6 – Favorite boutique? Pretty Pink Rooster
7 – Favorite spot to grab a drink? Bottle Hill Tavern in Madison
8 – Who has the best bagels in town? Noah’s Bagels in Chatham
9 – Best slice of pizza in town? Try the Grandma’s Pie at Chianti!
10 – Favorite spot for ice cream? Scoops in Chatham
This interview was done in partnership with Proud to Smile Dentistry. Be sure to follow Dr. Patti on social media below:
