Interview with Patricia L. DeCino, D.D.S., P.C.
Q: How did you get involved in this business?
A: I had been a dental assistant since graduating from Arvada High School. After starting a family, I decided to attend CU’s School of Dentistry and become a dentist. I had a wonderful mentor while working as an assistant, Dr. Robert Murphy. He encouraged me to attend dental school, even while raising two young, active boys. When he retired, I was fortunate to take over his long-term practice in Lakewood. I’ve recently had the pleasure of adding an associate, Dr. Carley Janda, which allows for more patient scheduling (including now being open on Wednesdays).
Q: What distinguishes you from other businesses in your category?
A: Our practice gives back to our community in many ways. We hosted a day of free dental care in August, serving nearly 40 patients who could not afford dental services. Our “Dentistry From the Heart” was a huge success, donating thousands of dollars in patient care and enlisting volunteer medical personnel to participate. In September, our “Heroes Appreciation Month” honored all military, law enforcement, firefighters and first-responders with 50 percent off dental care. This special applied to spouse and children and included an entire year of dental care. My son is in the Army and this is our way of thanking our heroes. We also join Operation Gratitude in the “Halloween Candy Buy-Back” program to “Support our Troops.” Each year, we buy back candy from children at $1 per pound, then send the candy to our military troops. It’s a great way to reduce the amount of Halloween treats that children will eat and give back to our men and women serving our country.
Q: What do you like best about your line of work?
A: I love helping people. It warms my heart to see our patients with the confidence that comes from beautiful smiles. I truly care about each and every patient, getting to know him or her and their families. Our patients support our charitable events and even attended our open house in April when we unveiled our new office space.
Q: What is your business’ biggest challenge?
A: Nobody likes to go to the dentist, so we participate in trainings specific to the patient experience. It is our goal to be the most talked-about dental office because of our positive experiences at DeCino Family Dentistry.
Q: Something people might be surprised to learn about you or your business:
A: Our office team is an all-female staff. I am a marathon runner, having completed the Boston and New York marathons, along with local races. My husband and I are also avid motorcyclists and participate in many charitable rides. My husband is a retired firefighter and we have two grown sons.
Profile
Business: DeCino Family Dentistry
Address: 950 Wadsworth Blvd., No. 207, Lakewood
Hours: 7 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday, 7 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Wednesday, 7 a.m.-4 p.m. Thursday, 7 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday
Founded: 2007
Contact: 720-279-9323,
Employees: 8
