Dr. Barbara Bell was born and raised in New York State and was the daughter of two OB/GYN physicians. After working in their offices for many years, she came to know the patients, their families and of course their newborns. Her creative and artistic nature drew her to dentistry. In 1973, Dr.Bell started at Georgetown University School of Dentistry as the youngest female to be accepted at the dentalschool at that time. Dr. Bell completed her general practice residency at Cornell Universities North Shore Hospital where she developed her skills in full mouth reconstruction, implant restoration, cosmetic and general dentistry. Additionally, she studied hospital dentistry and oral surgery under thetutelage of the top Cornell oral surgeons and general dentists. Dr. Bell practiced for six years in Nevada and spent time practicingin the public health service. She returnedto theEast Coastin 1985, where she became a fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry and continued to practice forthirty-five years in Frederick.Dr. Bell continues to stay on top of the latest technological developments in dentistry, which is reflected in the design andtechniques used in her new office.
Dr. Katie Bell originally graduated from Hamilton College with a degree in economics. She started working with her mother, Dr. Barbara Bell, at the practices infancy in 2010, as her dental assistant and business manager. While working alongside her mother she found her love for dentistry and decided to attend dental school at the University of Maryland School of Dentistry (UMSOD). She graduated at the top of her class as Summa Cum Laude and is a member of Omicron Kappa Upsilon national dental honor society. While at UMSOD, Dr. Bell clerked in the Special Care and Geriatric clinic where she developed her skills in working with medically compromised and anxious patients. Dr. Bell is excited to once again be working alongside her mother, now as her dental associate, and is looking forward to seeing the patients she helped treat for years prior to attending UMSOD.
Carolyn has been with the office since 2010. She initially worked as one of Dr. Bells dental hygienists, however in 2015, she became office manager. You may occasionally see her in one of the operatories, but for the majority of the time she will be one of the friendly faces that greets you when you come for a visit. Carolyn was born and raised in Illinois. She earned her dental hygiene degree from Prairie State College in Chicago Heights and has been practicing dental hygiene since the mid 1980s. After obtaining her hygiene degree, Carolyn went on to get her Bachelors in Music Performance from North Central University in Minneapolis, MN. She has directed choirs and taught private lessons in piano and voice.
Carolyn has been married for overthirty years to Rex, a retired Army officer. Because of his military career, theyve had the opportunity to live all over the U.S. as well as in Seoul, Korea and Mannheim, Germany!
Katrina was born and raised in Maryland. She currently resides locally in Keedysville. Katrina has returned to the working world after 18 yearsof being a stay-at-home mom and homeschooling her three wonderful children. Before that she was an orthodontic assistant and x-ray certified. While assisting in the ortho field Katrina found she loved interacting with patients, so she chose to return to work in a dental office setting.
Lauren grew up in Edgemont, Maryland. She moved to Hawaii for a short time when she was 19, but ultimately ended up returning to Maryland (a decision she sometimes questions in the middle of January) to be near her grandparents. She graduated from the Hagerstown Community College dental hygiene program in May 2020, where she learned from an amazing faculty of dentists, hygienists, and dental assistants. She loves learning from those on the dental team, as well as getting to know every patient she meets.
Taylor grew up in Inwood, West Virginia. She first worked as a dental assistant before graduating with high honors as well as, the Colgate STAR award from Hagerstown Community Colleges dental hygiene program in May of 2021. She is passionate about dental hygiene, patient care, and building trusting relationships with every patient. Her love for dental hygiene grows each day with the guidance of the dental team. Youll always find her cracking a joke and making people smile.
Liz was born in Connecticut and raised in New Yorks beautiful Hudson River Valley. She graduated from Bennett College in New York and received her dental assisting training at the Fanning School of Allied Health Science in Worcester, Massachusetts.She has been a certified dental assistant since the early 1980s. Besides assisting, Liz works the front desk and processes insurance claims.
Liz has been married for overthirty-six years to her husband Geoff. During histwenty-three year Army career they had the opportunity to travel and live in Alaska, Hawaii, Massachusetts, Texas, and Maryland. Liz enjoys gardening, interior decorating, and spoiling her Doberman Pinscher named Miles.
Nicole was born, raised, and currently resides in Hagerstown, Maryland. She graduated in May 2016, from Hagerstown Community College receiving her certificate for dental assisting.Nicole has been with our office for over five years, and we are thrilled with her organizational skills and her attention to detail.
Outside of the office, you will find Nicole running around with her ten-year old daughter and toddling son, spending time with her family, and keeping up with every football game. Dont forget to ask her about last nights sports scores or tease her if her favorite team loses!
Ashley was born in Frederick, MD but was raised in Colorado Springs, CO. The most common question she received is as to why she would ever leave Colorado and the only reasonable answer to justify that is to be close to her family. She graduated at Rampart High School where she even won first place in hip hop dance state championships. She no longer has moves like jagger unfortunately.
Ashley joined our fantastic front desk team as the insurance specialist in 2020 and eventually moved to chairside assistant. Dentistry is her passion, as well as being a mother to her son Oliver and two furry pups Koda and Roori. Her pastimes include weekend hiking with the family, watching her favorite hockey team play, andattending her weekly adult hip-hop classagainno longer has the moves like jagger.
Reviews
Rating 4.5 out of 5 based on 116 reviews
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a year ago
My family is new to Barbara Bell and I can't give enough positive feedback about the staff and clinic as a whole. The front desk staff spent extra time explaining insurance coverage and policies, educated us on many aspects of dental services and Dr. Bell was excellent at explaining every step of every process she took in caring for our teeth. Overall excellent service and dental care. Highly recommended!
Brent Page
a year ago
This is the best dentist I have ever been to, and I couldn't recommend this practice highly enough. Personal care and attention to detail, all with customer satisfaction and comfort in mind. They do exceptional work of high quality and all while making sure you are personally comfortable and know what is going on.
Alan Saunders
a year ago
I've never been to a more welcoming dentist's office. The staff, technicians and dentist are all amazing here.
Dave Shamberger
a year ago
Super!
Caledronius
a year ago
Barbara and Katie are two generations of awesome! They've put up with all my foibles over the years and kept my smile (and my family's) healthy and happy! As one of the other posters said they feel like family.
Jen Sherwin
2 years ago
I always have a great experience here. The office is clean, staff are wonderful and doctors very professional. I never have issues getting an appointment. Highly recommend.
Erin Murphy
2 years ago
Everything about this dental office has been wonderful, from the front office to the dentist! They really care about their patients and have always been professional, clean and very personable. I would highly recommend this place!
Lisa Gross
2 years ago
Best dental office!!! Such friendly and experienced dental professionals with the best personalities. Love coming to this office.
Crystal James
2 years ago
I'm sadden to have to write this but it is what it is, the dentists and their assistants are great at what they do, never any issues with their skills and knowledge. The low review is for two reasons only, 1., they have the most outrageous cancellation policy known to mankind, you could be dying an unable to make it to your appointment or better yet someone could have died in your family and they simply don't care, they will charge you. You can be some minutes outside of canceling your appointment and they don't care, they will charge you. I understand no shows or canceling a day before and being charge but in certain situations it's like come on life happens, and as a business this should've been factored into your strategic planning. 2., The front office personnel, Ms. Carolyn King to be exact is the most rudest person I've ever encountered in my life, zero professional skills, no compassion for patients, very nasty. I suggest some of the cancellation fees be used towards Ms. King taking customer service and Etiquette classes, as a "business" invest in your staff to do and be better professionals especially when you're servicing the public. Update 8/4/22 - I received a call from Ms. Katie Bell, and we spoke about the situation and she was willing to accommodate my situation, which I am appreciative for, however I now have to find another dentist because of my review. Ms. King (solely) has a history of bad reviews, but clearly everyone else that has made light of her actions are the problem. Although the cancellation policy is a bit much and I do respect it, but this is so much bigger than that policy, individuals have been affected by this staff members etiquette, it's about professionalism and customer service and I am truly hurt by the outcome.
Jim Gray
2 years ago
My family and I have been going to Dr. Bell since not long after she opened. Unfortunately we had to leave as a result of an insurance issue. Well we are back! The "other guys" were nothing but salesmen. Not going into details of that, this is about Dr. Bell. She and her staff have been fantastic, no pressure in sales, they work hard to get insurance coverage. Couldn't ask for any more. We are "out of network" but it will be worth every penny to be back with our dental family. Thank you Dr. Bell and staff.
Megan Tilley
2 years ago
I have been bringing my son and myself to Dr. Bell's office for almost two years. Dr. Bell and her staff that treat my son have been so wonderful. They are kind and take the time to make their patients feel comfortable. The problem I have had from day one is Carolyn and now Ashley Dr. Bell's front staff. I have three children and we have been to many doctor's offices and NEVER have I experienced such a cruel and rude front office staff. Even though Dr. Bell is wonderful I question her creditability and values allowing the front office staff to be employed with her. You should read the google reviews on the front office staff because they are true. Do not EVER bring your family to this dentist. My son needed a cavity filled and I wanted to be with him since he is a minor and has anxiety. When I called to make his appointment I was told I could no longer go back with him during his appointment. I said I wanted to read their new policy on this since I had always been with him at any procedure he had. Ashley first answered and was so rude and simple cold and said it was due to COVID. She just put me on hold and then Carolyn picked up. She told me the reasoning was because the water they spray in my son's mouth gets in the air and is not safe for me. Water in the air is not safe for the parent??? I then questioned her and said I thought it was due to Covid? She said it's a lot of things. She then became loud and talking down to me. She then said it was up to the doctor and how the doctor felt. First of all Dr. Bell make sure your staff knows what they are talking about before you change your rules in your office. I have been to many dentist and orthodontist in the area and NEVER have I experienced a more unprofessional and cold human as I did in your front office staff. I have sat in your waiting room and listened to how Carolyn and how she has talked on the phone to [patients. She is down right mean. Never did she say: Ms. Tilley I understand that you would be worried leaving your son alone when he has anxiety but we want to help you in any way we can. Never did she show compassion or have even a little kindness in her words. Do not go to this office unless Dr. Bell does the right thing and hires new office staff. This not the first time I have had Carolyn be rude, mean and completely unprofessional to me. I know she does it to others as well. I have never written a google review. I am doing it now to help people in the community know that this is not a nice or friendly place to go if your looking for a dentist.
Heather Langston
2 years ago
I am so pleased to recommend this practice. I have been a patient there for a few years and I've always had good experiences. I give them 5 stars for being extra gentle, managing anxiety and treating me like a person, not just another patient. Getting dental work done isn't anyone's favorite activity, but when it's time, this is a good place.
Jacob Plato
2 years ago
Rude and condescending office staff. So this morning while dealing with a move and more personal issues I missed my 7am appointment. I was told because it was two slots that instead of $75 I would be charged $150. I didn't even know it was an hour appointment booked. Also I was there during the second 30 minutes which means that could have done something at least and I was told no. No compassion. It should have only been a $75 missed appointment fee not $150. Probably won't go back anymore.
Shirley Stroup
2 years ago
Today was my scheduled 6th month check up and the staff at Dr. Bell's office was as terrific as ever! The friendly atmosphere from my entrance through my exit puts me at ease. They are professional, courteous, friendly, helpful and Lauren was very gentle as she cleaned my teeth! Thanks to all.
Heather Langston
3 years ago
I am so pleased to recommend this practice. I have been a patient there for a few years and I've always had good experiences. I give them 5 stars for being extra gentle, managing anxiety and treating me like a person, not just another patient. Getting dental work done isn't anyone's favorite activity, but when it's time, this is a good place.
Megan Tilley
3 years ago
I have been bringing my son and myself to Dr. Bell's office for almost two years. Dr. Bell and her staff that treat my son have been so wonderful. They are kind and take the time to make their patients feel comfortable. The problem I have had from day one is Carolyn and now Ashley Dr. Bell's front staff. I have three children and we have been to many doctor's offices and NEVER have I experienced such a cruel and rude front office staff. Even though Dr. Bell is wonderful I question her creditability and values allowing the front office staff to be employed with her. You should read the google reviews on the front office staff because they are true. Do not EVER bring your family to this dentist. My son needed a cavity filled and I wanted to be with him since he is a minor and has anxiety. When I called to make his appointment I was told I could no longer go back with him during his appointment. I said I wanted to read their new policy on this since I had always been with him at any procedure he had. Ashley first answered and was so rude and simple cold and said it was due to COVID. She just put me on hold and then Carolyn picked up. She told me the reasoning was because the water they spray in my son's mouth gets in the air and is not safe for me. Water in the air is not safe for the parent??? I then questioned her and said I thought it was due to Covid? She said it's a lot of things. She then became loud and talking down to me. She then said it was up to the doctor and how the doctor felt. First of all Dr. Bell make sure your staff knows what they are talking about before you change your rules in your office. I have been to many dentist and orthodontist in the area and NEVER have I experienced a more unprofessional and cold human as I did in your front office staff. I have sat in your waiting room and listened to how Carolyn and how she has talked on the phone to [patients. She is down right mean. Never did she say: Ms. Tilley I understand that you would be worried leaving your son alone when he has anxiety but we want to help you in any way we can. Never did she show compassion or have even a little kindness in her words. Do not go to this office unless Dr. Bell does the right thing and hires new office staff. This not the first time I have had Carolyn be rude, mean and completely unprofessional to me. I know she does it to others as well. I have never written a google review. I am doing it now to help people in the community know that this is not a nice or friendly place to go if your looking for a dentist.
Shirley Stroup
3 years ago
Today was my scheduled 6th month check up and the staff at Dr. Bell's office was as terrific as ever! The friendly atmosphere from my entrance through my exit puts me at ease. They are professional, courteous, friendly, helpful and Lauren was very gentle as she cleaned my teeth! Thanks to all.
Jacob Plato
3 years ago
Rude and condescending office staff. So this morning while dealing with a move and more personal issues I missed my 7am appointment. I was told because it was two slots that instead of $75 I would be charged $150. I didn't even know it was an hour appointment booked. Also I was there during the second 30 minutes which means that could have done something at least and I was told no. No compassion. It should have only been a $75 missed appointment fee not $150. Probably won't go back anymore.
Aniruddha Bhat
3 years ago
Extremely friendly and professional.
Sherita Smaw
3 years ago
The office manager is a very rude lady. I have been going to Barbara bell for a very long time and this lady at the front is very rude and always gets the insurance information messed up. My parents and brothers have stopped going to her and I decided to stay, but that was a bad decision. I have been sick with the flu for the past 2 weeks and when I called today to let them know that I still had the flu the front desk told me it would be a charge of 150.00 for a missed appointment. I have never missed an appointment since I've been there and for them to charge me is crazy. I have never been to a dentist office that charges for missed appointments. I was actually calling to reschedule and when she told me about the charge I was flabbergasted! She was very rude on the phone and saying that "she doesn't come to work for fun we come for scheduled appointments" that kind of behavior is rude and she has always been like that since I could remember. My family has nothing but negative things to say about her because she was rude to them as well. Barbara bell has lost a long time customer that's for sure.
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