By Nancy Brumback, Contributing Writer
ShrewsburyModern Dentistry of Shrewsbury approaches dentistry as a partnership between the patient and the dentist.
“My philosophy is to educate myself as thoroughly as possible so I know what can be done in terms of techniques and materials, and then give that information to my patients so we can discuss the options, and they can make the decision that is best for them. The patient is as much a part of the process as I am,” said Dr. Todd Pizzi, who started the practice in 2001.
“In dentistry today, there are options involving cost and convenience. I feel comfortable explaining these options and letting the patients make the decision, even if that decision is to not go forward with a procedure, once I’m sure they understand the consequences of that choice.”
Modern Dentistry treats patients of all ages. Dr. Pizzi is joined in the practice by two other dentists. Dr. Luciana Petto Messina started about four years ago and specializes in general dentistry. She is particularly strong in fitting dentures and in children’s dentistry. Dr. Anthony Quinta is a periodontist who specializes in dental implants and treatment of gum disease.
Dr. Pizzi performs general dentistry, but also specializes in cosmetic and reconstructive procedures.
“Cosmetic dentistry covers everything from teeth whitening to implants and porcelain veneers. It can make people look better and their mouth function better,” he said. “We can take someone whose mouth has not been healthy for a long time and restore their smile and their health.”
When he started the practice, Dr. Pizzi chose the name Modern to reflect his emphasis on knowing the latest techniques and having state-of-the art equipment.
The practice features a CAD/CAM machine to enable the dentists to make crowns right in the office in one visit. This equipment provides an alternative to having a patient come in to have a mold made and a temporary crown inserted while the permanent crown is made in an off-site lab, with a second appointment needed to place the permanent crown.
“We now make crowns out of the same material for both back and front teeth. We can just put a block of this material in our machine and mill it to the shape we want,” Dr. Pizzi said.
The dentists have been doing dental implants for about 10 years, replacing teeth that are lost when a tooth with a large filling cracks and can’t be repaired or when a tooth is lost to traumatic injury. They also replace congenitally missing teeth. Implants can be used to provide an anchor for dentures, making dentures more comfortable and stable, he said.
The practice also offers clear braces to realign adults’ teeth.
One of the things that sets Modern Dentistry apart from other practice, he noted, is “the great team of people who work here. They are the best group anyone could wish to work with.” Most staff members have been with the practice for years.
Dr. Pizzi is a resident of Shrewsbury, and he feels a strong commitment to the community, where he and his wife are raising their three daughters.
For additional information about the practice and services available, call 508-842-8838 or visit Modern Dentistry’s website, www.shrewsburydentist.com. Patients can download information forms to fill out in advance and schedule appointments. Some early morning and evening appointment times are available.
Modern Dentistry of Shrewsbury expanded its offices at 307 Grafton St. in Shrewsbury, near the intersection of Routes 9 and 140, about two years ago.