Writer / Christy Heitger-Ewing
Velez Family & Cosmetic Dentistry is a one-stop shop of sorts as patients can get most all of their dental needs met at the same practice without having to bop around to different specialists. This includes preventative care, periodontal treatments, pediatric dentistry, sedation dentistry, cosmetic dentistry and emergency dental care. The office is also equipped with digital x-rays, 3-D CT scanning and 3-D printing to provide the most updated technology to patients. Dr. Esteban Velez also performs root canals, oral surgery, laser dentistry, oral cancer screenings, teeth whitening, Invisalign braces® and dental implants, which involves replacing teeth with a manmade root, placing the new root into the jawbone. Many people with dentures seek implants to help keep their dentures in place.
“It’s the closest thing to having your teeth back and provides patients with a much better quality of life,” Velez says.
A few months ago, the practice moved to 5250 E. US Hwy 36, Suite 800.
“The goal with the new facility is to be Hendricks County’s premier dental facility,” says Velez, who prides himself on being highly service oriented. “Every patient has different needs and expectations. We listen and find a treatment that best fits your budget, whether it’s $1,000 or $10,000. We find a solution that will work for you.”
Velez, who offers free consultations, provides patients with various options and talks through their wants, needs and budget.
“Affordability is a big deal as dentistry can be expensive,” says Velez, who has been practicing comprehensive dentistry for four years but regularly enrolls in continuing education classes so that he can stay on top of the latest procedures in the field.
“I’m a dental nerd,” he says with a smile. “I like enhancing my skills so that I may give my patients the best possible care.”
Velez recognizes that a lot of people are not a fan of the dentist. In fact, many of his patients have had bad experiences in the past, which is all the more reason he wants to create a safe, nurturing environment where patients feel comfortable. Gaining a patient’s trust is the first priority.
“It makes me happy when we have changed someone’s opinion of dentistry and they walk in the door with a smile on their face,” Velez says.
Part of the reason for that is because Velez doesn’t “hard sell” his services the way a lot of big dental office chains do.
“I see myself as a consultant,” says Velez, who takes photos of his patients’ mouths that he then shares with them to better explain the process. “When I can show you what I’m seeing, it makes a bigger impact on you. I educate you on the condition of your teeth and then we work together to determine the best treatment.”
Velez keeps nitrous oxide in every room to help patients relax during treatment. He also offers oral conscious sedation for tooth extractions, fillings, crowns and other needs. Some people who are really anxious ask for these things even during cleanings.
Velez, who loves chatting with patients, says that he’s low key and certainly not a nagger when it comes to patients’ oral hygiene. So if you’ve been a slacker when it comes to flossing, Velez won’t scold you. If, however, you are looking for a tip on how to get better about remembering to floss, Velez says the key is to floss first, brush second.
“If you’re like me, after two or three minutes of brushing, you’re ready to move on,” Velez says. “Most of my patients who have taken on my helpful advice claim that it makes a world of difference.”
This summer, Velez plans to offer several educational seminars for patients who would like to learn more about dental implants. Call the office to find out details. Velez Dentistry is located at 5250 E US Hwy 36, Suite 800 in Avon. Contact them at 317-745-6355 or visit velezdentistry.com.
