I grew up partly in Poland, moved to Africa and my parents finally settled down in Canada. Each country represented a new challenge, a quest to improve our lives, a different culture to adapt to, and a new language to learn. These experiences have taught me discipline, perseverance, empathy towards people and a strong desire to tackle new opportunities.
Dentistry runs in our family DNA, as my father, my uncle, my aunt, and my grandmother are all dentists. These passionate people have inspired in me the desire to achieve excellence and help patients improve their dental health. That's why, at age 20, I set out on a new venture and took the first step toward realizing my dream of becoming a dentist. I decided to move to the United States and attend one of the top schools in the country, Boston University Goldman School of Graduate Dentistry, of which I graduated with honors in 1996.
Since graduation, I have continued my professional development to improve and refine my clinical skills. In recent years, I received certifications in Invisalign, Lumineers and sedation dentistry. In addition, I completed a residency in implant placement and restoration. Continuing education enables me to stay current on the latest developments of my profession and helps me better respond to my patients' needs with greater options.
My goal is to create a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere for my patients to enjoy painless dentistry while maximizing their long term health benefits. I emphasize prevention and good health habits to preserve optimal dental health while making sure my patients' goals are met and exceeded within their budget. My patients' long-term happiness is my reward.
Dentistry combines many of my passions. It's not just about teeth - dentistry is about helping one patient at a time improve their lives with skill, science and art! For me, general dentistry means offering a complete set of comprehensive care, including cosmetic dentistry. Experience, advanced techniques, and modern technology allow me to offer my patients with different alternatives and options to make their smiles look beautiful and healthy.
I have lived in many beautiful places in the world, but Plattsburgh became my home. Over the years, I have grown fond of many of the area's attributes. A beautiful environment, caring people, a strong sense of community, and family values have convinced me that Plattsburgh is the perfect place to raise my children and play an active role in the community.
In a constant effort to be at the forefront of modern dentistry, Dr. Szmigiel has attended advanced dental studies at the LVI Institute which regroups the leading dentists in the United States and around the world. The LVI Institute is a global institution dedicated to the progress of the dental profession. The continuing education offered at LVI is designed to improve the lives of patients through the integration of comprehensive diagnosis, contemporary techniques and technology.
The LVI trained Dentist and their team has been involved in a series of intense hands on programs that provide them with excellent insight and skills in advanced dental techniques and concepts. The LVI trained doctor understands advanced aesthetic concepts that go far beyond what is taught in dental school
As a dentist my core belief is that our community deserves a compassionate healthcare experience. With a passionate dental team that prides itself in providing comfortable, high quality, long-lasting dentistry we can have a significant impact on our community. I deeply care for my patients emotional and physical wellbeing. My driving force is to empower people to pursue a lifetime of dental health and smile confidence. In dentistry the best way to support our patients is to facilitate the development of long-term health goals and improve the emotional impact dentistry has on their daily lives. Our comfortable environment for genuine communication and compassionate care allow our team to grow trusting relationships with all who walk through our doors. With great dedication to quality craftsmanship and advanced technological therapies, I am proud to provide our extended dental family with outstanding, state of the art dental care.
Growing up in Garden City, Kansas, I have an innate Midwestern kindness. In my youth I was a Horse and Llama trainer, allowing me to grasp the importance of building trusting partnerships early in life. Moving to Cave Creek, Arizona as a teenager, I developed a firm belief in the cowboy code of honesty, hard work, and helping others. As a student at Midwestern University College of Dental Medicine my father, Dr. Sheldon Roberts, shared the most valuable insight he had as a practicing medical doctor - taking care of people is both an enormous responsibility and a great privilege. It is a responsibility to be a compassionate supporter intent on providing the best possible care to the community by dedicating oneself to the continuous pursuit of knowledge. This wisdom is the foundation on which I have based my approach to dentistry. I feel honored that our patients entrust their oral care to our team. With a mindset of continuous growth and learning, I strive to remain at the cutting edge of dental innovation. Most importantly, I pride myself on providing excellent, compassionate care to our patients. Helping others is a great privilege.
New to Plattsburgh, Im excited to begin exploring my wonderful new home. The list of hiking trails and kayaking adventures is growing longer by the day. Im excited to meet my neighbors and grow my adventure list with their suggestions. Plattsburgh is an exceptional place to live.
Reviews
Rating 4.8 out of 5 based on 101 reviews
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newest oldest highest lowestKat B
a year ago
I couldn't imagine having had my dentistry done anywhere else. The staff starting from when you walk in the door is extraordinary. The dentists and assistants are exemplary. The care was impeccable. Once you've experienced this practice, you'll never look elsewhere.
Karen J
2 years ago
It's a shame I have to keep editing the same review to give the Gentle Touch team the proper recognition - wish I could add new ones instead of updates. Anyway, last week, I had a dental emergency - no surprise, the Team was there for me. Even though Dr. Szmigiel was not in the office that day, Dr. Roberts was kind enough to see me. Between Dr. Roberts and Crystal, the area was prepared for fixing the next day with Dr. Szmigiel. And Crystal came up with a perfect interim fix while I waited to keep me comfortable and let me sleep. The next day. Dr. S. was out unexpectedly and Dr. Roberts took care of the procedure. She was kind, explained everything, and took great care to keep me comfortable, just as Dr. Szmigiel has done for me all along. As far as I am concerned, I would be happy to receive care from either Doctor, as they are both absolutely excellent. As is the team. Thank you again, Gentle Touch Care Team! Update: Nearly a year later, still awesome! Sometimes, a patient's experience changes as time goes on but not with this practice - it is consistently excellent. These guys are always on top of their game. They are absolutely fabulous. Original review below. So to all those who have any trepidation regarding dentistry - GO HERE. They take amazing care of you and constantly check in. Every step is explained before they dive in to whatever cleaning or treatment is required. Their patient care is unparalleled. And the entire staff are amazingly friendly and kind as well. Thank you to the whole team!!!!
Sonny Giroux
2 years ago
Fantastic dentist! Hard to find a better staff then here! From the moment you walk in, you're greeted by friendly smiles! 4 out of 5 dentist may recommend your toothpaste, but 5 out of 5 Giroux's recommend Gentle Touch Family Dentistry!!
Jamie Drake
2 years ago
I love coming to gentle touch I've been coming for 14 years they have made me feel comfortable I've always been nervous due to bad experiences with past dentist Stevie and Holly Heather have been here scene I started Dr. Smigel goes easy and slow with me and I come every 3 months for a cleaning is the best part crystal and Christine have done a great job cleaning my teeth Karen is very nice and helpful with signing in and out! I just love everyone here there all great girls!
Kayley Wells
2 years ago
I had recently broke a tooth and was able to be fit in with a couple of days (could of been earlier but I wasn't in pain), the woman I spoke to was very informative and gave me all the answers to the questions I had. When I went in for the appointment today, the staff was very kind and informative as well. Christine was amazing and she was very personal - kept me in the loop about every thing she was doing and why, and ACTUALLY cared. The dentist as well, asked questions and gave me answers to the questions I had asked. The girls in the front were the same way, it was a friendly and open environment. I was able to walk out feeling confident that they were going to take care of me, and will continue to go back. Was definitely a positive experience.
Katrina Peterson
2 years ago
I've had traumatic dental experiences so I went in telling them they were outstanding if I could give 100 stars I would....gentle, gave explanation of everything and reviewed all options would Definitely recommend!!
michael laforest
2 years ago
Fantastic experience, great equipment, staff is very professional and well educated in what they do. Cleaning was quick and painless. Highly recommend
drbp1959
2 years ago
If you're looking for excellence in dentistry, look no further.
Shirley Haskins
2 years ago
My first visit was very impressive. Everyone is so friendly. Laelle my hygienist was patient and explained the new patient prep, and did a thorough cleaning. Next a procedure by Dr Roberts...she is AMAZING. In all the years I have been going to a Dentist I have never had a more relaxing or comfortable experience.
Ryan Riley
2 years ago
I would highly recommend going here! The staff is very friendly and professional and my first appointment was a excellent experience. I had a very bad tooth and they were the only place that could see me the very next day! The office is very clean and everyone is so friendly. I'm very happy with my experience here and it makes going to the dentist enjoyable. I should also add they are very good with you if you are nervous about the dentist and they truly care about the patients.
Heather Martin
2 years ago
Wow what great service! These wonderful group of ladies are just amazing. They make you feel right at home!! I have a really bad case of dentist anxiety!! But they explained everything to me as they are doing it. Awesome bed side manor too!!
Payton Minor
2 years ago
I highly recommend this dentist! They do wonderful work, always have a smile on their face and also very friendly. Honestly can say I'm actually disappointed when I leave the dentist office because they truly make you feel like your family.
Amanda McDonald
2 years ago
The staff was very friendly, from reception to dental assistant to the doctor. I have never been to a cleaner office before. They provided excellent care for my child. I would recommend this office!!
Diana Padron
2 years ago
Highly recommend this practice! I Had my first appointment here today and was thoroughly impressed with Holly's kindness, patience and knowledge. She went above and beyond to put me at ease and explain options. Dr. Szmigiel was extremely professional yet personable. I was very thankful for Erin getting me in so quickly. Wonderful atmosphere and experience all around. I will definitely be switching my family over!
Diane Coupal
2 years ago
Dr. Maria Szmigiel's practice exemplifies all the qualities of a consummate professional, i.e., conscientiousness, integrity, respect, compassion and empathy, to name a few. Yet, the most important attribute of Dr. Szmigiel is her intensive knowledge, insuring that you will receive the best care possible. I cannot begin to tell you how pleased and satisfied I am to have had my dental work done by Dr. Szmigiel. Not only did she save my teeth, she made them beautiful again. I can smile with confidence. In addition, she has assembled an outstanding team, from Stevie and Erin at the front desk to the others I have met, namely, Holly, Emily, Aryn, Erin and Jenna. Thank you to everyone.
PJ Hahn
3 years ago
Your team are the most pleasant I have ever encountered in the service industry, Furthermore, the expertise of the dentists and associates are terrific.
Ryan Riley
3 years ago
I would highly recommend going here! The staff is very friendly and professional and my first appointment was a excellent experience. I had a very bad tooth and they were the only place that could see me the very next day! The office is very clean and everyone is so friendly. I'm very happy with my experience here and it makes going to the dentist enjoyable. I should also add they are very good with you if you are nervous about the dentist and they truly care about the patients.
drbp1959
3 years ago
If you're looking for excellence in dentistry, look no further.
Renee Dupras
3 years ago
Highly recommended. The staff, environment and care is beyond wonderful. They left a lasting impression on me and I am very pleased with my dental work. 10 !!
Amanda McDonald
3 years ago
The staff was very friendly, from reception to dental assistant to the doctor. I have never been to a cleaner office before. They provided excellent care for my child. I would recommend this office!!
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