Business: Main Street Dental
Address: 106 N. River St., East Dundee
Contact info: (847) 783-0303; https://www.mainstreetdentalonline.com/
Owner’s name: Dr. Amish Desai
Years in business: 13
When did you move your practice to East Dundee? “Two years ago.”
Why did you decide to become a dentist? “I became a dentist because I wanted to make a real difference in people’s lives. I loved the idea that the work of my hand could actually bring improved health and greater comfort to people I could continue to know and help for a lifetime.”
What advice would you give people wanting to keep their smiles in peak condition and avoid major dental costs? “Regular dental checkups are key to avoiding major dental costs. Many dental issues don’t cause pain or become visible until they are very advanced. Regular dental visits can catch these problems at an early stage. We can even suggest some preventive measures to reduce the chances of those issues coming up again.”
How has technology changed the way you treat patients? “Technology has changed the field of dentistry immensely. Digital X-rays reduce the amount of radiation patients are exposed to. We use intra-oral cameras to show patients images of cavities and other dental issues. Newer materials — composite fillings, porcelain or non-metal crowns — make it almost impossible to tell the difference between a real tooth and a ‘fixed tooth.’ Dental implants function and feel almost like real teeth.”
What do you see for the future in dentistry? “As digital technology continues to change our day-to-day lives, the same is going to happen with the field of dentistry.”
What is the best thing about being located in East Dundee? “All the renovations and new businesses moving into East Dundee. I love the fact that there is so much history associated with the town.”
What is the biggest challenge about being located in East Dundee? “I don’t think there are any particular challenges.”
When is your busiest time of year? “Usually around December as dental benefits set to expire on Dec. 31.”
What do you like most about being a dentist? “The ability to work with my hands and make a difference. Dentistry also gives me an ability to build a long-term relationship with my patients. Dentistry lets me do things differently. I can spend more time with the person.”
What is the best thing about owning your own business? “I can’t imagine not owning my dental practice. It gives me the ability to practice dentistry that is in line with my principles.”
What is the biggest misconception about your business? “That going to the dentist is painful and costs a lot of money. In fact, regular dental checkups can save a lot of money and keep teeth and gums healthy for a lifetime.”
If you weren’t doing this, what line of work would you be in? “I am not sure.”
Do you have any future plans to expand? Not at this time.
What do you wish someone had told you before you started? “Importance of a smile … and how much satisfaction comes when your patient walks out of your office with a big smile on their face.”
Erin Sauder is a freelance reporter for The Courier-News.
