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In 1953, Drakos Dental Clinic began with Dr. Thomas Drakos Sr., when he opened his first dental office in the Tolleston area of Gary. He then practiced in the Merrillville area for forty years. Dr. Thomas Drakos Jr. and Dr. Charlene Drakos began practicing alongside Dr. Thomas Drakos Sr. in 1987. After Dr. Thomas Drakos Sr. retired, Dr. Thomas Drakos Jr. and Dr. Charlene Drakos reserved the tradition of providing for patients needs while also staying current with new procedures and continuous education. Dentistry has evolved over the last thirty-one years, and they endeavor to keep up with those changes by attending training seminars and reading relevant material to stay current. Every patient's care is determined with their best interest in mind. The doctors are qualified to perform numerous dental procedures, allowing patient's input in their final care. Dr. Tom Drakos, Dr. Charlene Drakos and their office staff treat patients with respect, take the time to listen to each person's concerns, and offer treatment options when possible. The doctors stand behind their work and are only satisfied if their patients are satisfied. Dr. Tom Drakos and Dr. Charlene Drakos feel honored to serve the community as dentists. The Drakos Dental Clinic has also traveled to Jacmel, Haiti for the past five years. In Haiti, they served some of the worlds most needy patients. Serving those within the local community, as well as those around the world, is a privilege that they do not take for granted.

I am a Northwest Indiana native currently living in the Valparaiso area. After graduating from Andrean High School in Merrillville, I attended Indiana University-Bloomington, where I received my bachelors degree. I then attended Indiana University School of Dentistry and received my Doctorate in Dental Surgery in 1987. I joined my fathers, Dr. Thomas Drakos, Sr., dental practice in Merrillville, Indiana. My wife, Charlene, and I then had the privilege to practice alongside my father for ten years. During that time, we were afforded the opportunity to learn from a very skilled, caring dentist. I am honored to continue his dental practice. Today, many of our patients still remember my father well. My goal is to maintain his exceptional reputation. I will continue to practice in 'the region in order to serve the community I love.'

I grew up in the Appalachian Mountains of Kentucky where dentistry was considered a luxury. My eleven brothers and sisters and I only went to the dentist if it were an emergency. The treatment wasn't always gentle, and I learned to fear the dentist. Years later, I moved to Indianapolis and was in need of dental care. I found a compassionate and caring dentist who sparked my interest in the field of dentistry. I attended Professional Careers Institute and became a dental assistant. Working as an assistant led me to love dentistry. Based on five years of assisting dentists and careful consideration, I decided to pursue a career as a dentist. My dental history led me to enjoy alleviating discomfort and improving patients overall health in a genuine kind manner.

I attended IUPUI in Indianapolis for undergraduate classes while continuing to work full-time for a local dentist. I was grateful to be accepted at IU School of Dentistry in 1983, and I graduated from dental school in 1987. I have been practicing dentistry, alongside my husband, for over thirty years. I enjoy working with people and addressing their need for dentistry in a personal way. I still recall being a frightened dental patient as a child, allowing me to be empathetic with patients who are afraid. I do my best to earn my patients trust to help them feel comfortable during dental procedures. I also understand that seeking dentistry can be intimidating, and I never

judge a person's previous lack of dental care. I commend anyone who takes a step to overcome this common fear. I respect my patients and I never pressure anyone to receive treatment. I love my current patients and look forward to working with new patients.