In Good Hands: A Cancer Survivor’s NYC Guide to Choosing a Trustworthy Dentist

Shannon’s story is one of resilience and the pursuit of a trustworthy healthcare partner in times of need. As a lifelong performer, appearance and oral health were always vital to her. Her journey wasn’t without hurdles; a battle with cancer and its effects on her dental health led her to seek not just a skilled dentist, but a compassionate ally who valued patient well-being above all.

This pursuit led Shannon to Dr. Rashbaum at Rise Dental Studio on the recommendation of a friend, fellow performer, and fellow cancer survivor. Dr. Rashbaum wasn’t simply a dental professional; he became a friend and confidant, assuring Shannon that her health was in caring hands.

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How Can We Help You Rise This Year?

On the topic of finding a compassionate and trustworthy dentist in NYC, Shannon offers the unique perspective of a person with long-term health concerns. As a cancer survivor who lost salivary function due to radiation, dental care isn’t straightforward or plug-and-play for her. This can be the case for anyone who has lifelong health issues, such as autoimmune diseases, diabetes, eating disorders, or, as in Shannon’s case, cancer. Here are some tips for finding a trustworthy, illness-informed dentist:

Understand the Impact of Your Health Needs on Dental Care

Shannon’s experience with illness taught her the importance of a dentist who understands and caters to special health needs. When choosing a dentist, inquire about how they manage care for patients with complex medical histories and what protocols they have in place for special circumstances.

Trust is Key

Select a dentist who shows genuine concern for your well-being rather than just profitability. Trust your instincts and look for honest reviews and testimonials to gauge the experiences of other patients with similar issues.

Personalized Care

When selecting a dentist, ensure they provide personalized dental care based on your unique needs. Much like Shannon, who trusted Dr. Rashbaum because he treated her as a friend rather than just another patient, you too should strive to find a dentist who takes the time to understand your individual concerns and preferences.

Comprehensive Care Approach

Shannon’s needs were multifaceted due to her cancer treatment’s effects on her dental health. She needed a dentist like Dr. Rashbaum, who looked at the bigger picture. Choose a dentist who understands comprehensive care, considering not just your teeth but the health of your entire mouth, including the impact of medical treatments.

Transparent Communication and Comfort

A good dentist explains the procedures, alternatives, and the reasons behind their recommendations. Make sure you are comfortable asking questions and that the dentist answers them satisfactorily, ensuring a clear understanding of your dental path.

Word-of-Mouth References

Shannon was referred to Dr. Rashbaum by a trusted friend. Personal recommendations often hold a lot of weight. Reach out to friends, relatives, or coworkers for dentists they’ve had positive experiences with. This can greatly narrow down your choices and provide trustworthy options.

Emergency Care

Choose a dentist who is easily accessible in case of an emergency. This can mean they have extended office hours, such as evenings or weekends, provide an emergency contact number, or at least have procedures in place for patients to receive emergency care when needed.

Today, as a 49-year-old who wasn’t expected to see 21, Shannon fully inhabits each moment of her life. Going from professional classical dancing, to finance, to stand-up comedy, she has explored the breadth of her inner resources. She raises money for cancer charities with long-distance running; and she serves as the Vice Chair for an organization called Stupid Cancer, which seeks to de-isolate young adults with cancer by offering them a support network.