Dr. Norman K. Thaxter, DDS practices with a preventive approach to dental care emphasizing regular check-ups, effective homecare and timely minimal intervention of problems when they are small. By our detecting problems when they are often unnoticed by patients, the painful periods that often occur if they are neglected because, 'It doesn 't hurt now', are usually avoided. Additionally, a small restoration is always more affordable than the extensive treatment necessary when problems are ignored. Often, however, for a number of reasons, we see patients in need of a lot of dentistry and our goal is to restore and then maintain with minimal intervention thereafter.
Cosmetic Dentistry is our passion. Dr. Thaxter has a reputation for providing natural looking esthetic bonding so that teeth appear not to be altered or filled. He has over 20 years of private practice in the use of porcelain or 'white fillings' and veneers and associates with only the best dental laboratories in California. Whiter teeth are becoming a necessity and we offer safe and effective solutions to lighten the shades of most everyone. A nice smile is so valuable in our society and we can absolutely make it possible to have that perfect smile you have always wanted.
While we always strive for the most ideal restorations available we realize that cost is a consideration. Patients can expect a list of treatment options designed to fit everyone's expectations from dentures to a full mouth reconstruction. Our trained staff will work with your insurance company to maximize benefits. For those of you without insurance we will work to make your needs affordable.
The improvement in appearance of our patients has been surprisingly pleasant. Most patients and doctors do not realize that the teeth and bite determine the shape of a patient's face. The teeth can actually supports the face, cheeks, and lips and actually lengthen the face which smoothes out facial lines without surgery. When a patient gets the best possible teeth and bite, the face is completely revitalized.
Dr. Thaxter was born and raised here in the valley in Fresno where his parents and grandparents also called home. After graduating from Fresno High he attended UCLA (BA), Fresno State (MA) and USC (DDS). For 17 years he had a private practice in Fresno and established an outstanding reputation as a caring, proficient and ethical practitioner. In 2006 he answered our Nation's call to service and entered Active Duty, USAF. He served proudly, readying our brave Airmen for the battle raging in the Middle East. Dr. Thaxter lives in Merced, is married and has 4 children, 3 daughters and a son.
Norman K. Thaxter, DDS Dr. Thaxter was born and raised here in the valley in Fresno where his parents and grandparents also called home. After graduating from Fresno High he attended UCLA (BA), Fresno State (MA) and USC (DDS). For 17 years he had a private practice in Fresno and established an outstanding reputation as a caring, proficient and ethical practitioner. In 2006 he answered our Nations call to service and entered Active Duty, USAF. He served proudly, readying our brave Airmen for the battle raging in the Middle East. Dr. Thaxter lives in Merced, is married and has 4 children-3 daughters and a son. Cosmetic Dentistry is his passion. Dr. Thaxter has a reputation for providing natural looking esthetic bonding so that teeth appear not to be altered or filled. He has over 20 years of private practice in the use of porcelain or white fillings and veneers and associates with only the best dental laboratories in California. Whiter teeth are becoming a necessity and we offer safe and effective solutions to lighten the shades of most everyone. A nice smile is so valuable in our society and we can absolutely make it possible to have that perfect smile you have always wanted.
Randale Randale is our Registered Dental Hygienist and is in charge of helping our patients maintain healthy gums. She is amazing at educating patients on proper hygiene. Randale started off working as a Registered Dental Assistant for Dr. Thaxter in 2010, but in 2013 went off to Fresno City College to become a hygienist. We are proud to have her part of our team. Randale is happily married to her husband and loves being a Mommy to her two handsome boys. Together they enjoy relaxing on the beach and going to the mountains. With her sweet personality and professional skills she will make all patients leave our office with a smile.
Catherine Catherine 'Cat' is a Dental Assistant and has been part of our back staff since 2017. While attending Brightwood College, she studied to be a RDA. Cat is very warming and sweet; she can calm the most anxious patient. With a kind smile she makes everyone she meets feel like family. Cat enjoys spending time with her nieces and family. She loves hiking, fishing and cuddles from her fur babies (dogs).
Cheri Cheri is our front office coordinator. She enjoys greeting our patients with a warm smile as they enter the office. She joined our team in early 2022, but has been in the dental field for over 20 years. Cheri and her husband have 2 beautiful adult daughters, which are their pride and joy! In her free time, Cheri loves to read a good book and snuggle with her dog, Bella.
Marguerite Marguerite is a Dental Assistant that has been a part of our team since October 2021. She strives to make patients feel comfortable and ensure they have the best experience. Marguerite loves spending time with her family and friends and playing softball and cornhole.
Reviews
Rating 4.5 out of 5 based on 33 reviews
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newest oldest highest lowestAdam Amaro
2 years ago
I'm pretty sure all of these recent reviews are fake. Fair Warning, I started seeing Dr Thatcher a little less than a year ago. I needed a cap on 1 tooth, however he talked me into doing another tooth and another, over several months he grounded down then capped 4 teeth. He messed up the 5th tooth so bad after grinding the tooth down to nothing, he said I needed to see an "oral surgeon", but the only referral he would give me was some guy in Fresno... In the meantime(3 or 4 months) 2! of my teeth he did ", literally fell out!! So of course I went to another dentist in Merced. Also I found it odd that he was always training a new dental assistant, people were constantly leaving after a few days or weeks working for him. My new dentist in Merced was shocked at how bad the dental work was done. My new dentist did what he could to fix the damages. The 2 teeth that literally fell out after Thatcher "completed" them, now need to have permanent teeth put inplace. I seriously question Thatcher has the qualifications or experience needed to be an actual dentist. I would recommend Not believing Anything he says about anything.
Mariposa Sanchez
2 years ago
I love going to my Dentist Norman k. Thacker, DDS he is awesome always has a good sense of humor. His staff is the best, always friendly and very patient with me. He has made my dentist experience much more easy and not so Frightening.
Griselda Medina
2 years ago
Thaxter has always been very gentle & caring towards me every time I go in. Dentist gave me anxiety until I started going to him almost 10y ago! His staff is also great! My fav person is Randall!
Joshua Vega
2 years ago
Great experience they take care of you like family everyone is kind and respectful they walk you through each step that they're doing so you know what's going on.
Ericka Garcia
2 years ago
I really like going to this dentist. We started going here a few years back. The staff is very friendly and my children are really comfortable going here as well. Randale is an awesome dental hygienist. She knows what she is doing and is very good at it. She is also very sweet and welcoming. Dr.Thaxter has a welcoming and calming vibe to him. I have never had any complaints about his work. Wait times are usually low and they have a really cool fish tank that my kids look forward to seeing when we come in for their check-ups.
Nmi gentry
2 years ago
Great dentist, have gone to him for 2 year and very happy with his service. E plain everything and answers all my questions
Merissa Michaels
2 years ago
Dr. Thaxter and his Team are very professional and the office is super clean and comfortable.
Lizzie M
2 years ago
My family and I have gone to Dr Thaxter for 7 years. I highly recommend his office. His staff is so nice and professional. He is a great Dentist and has great manners and cares for his patients. Very clean office and they treat you like family. Stop looking and give them a call! You will not be disappointed!
Melissa Johnson
2 years ago
Our family has gone to Dr. Thaxter over ten years now and we love the staff and Dr. Than yet. From the expert care to the kind smiling staff our family gives this practice five stars
Marisol Acosta
2 years ago
Absolutely the best dentist in Merced ! Friendly staff that basically know me and my family already and they make us feel welcomed! 10/10
Janet Bamford
2 years ago
Dr Thaxter is awesome he and his staff are friendly and put you at ease. And he keeps my smile pretty!
lindsey maldonado
2 years ago
Dr. Thaxter, Randell, and the entire team at this office have impeccable customer service. Dr. Thaxter is always hilarious and extremely friendly, and Randell has the best memory for each and every single patient she sees. I used to hate going to the dentist before I started coming here, now I look forward to my visits every single time. Everyone here treats you like family while ensuring you receive the best quality care. I cannot thank this team enough for getting my oral hygiene where it always needed to be, and I look forward to seeing them for many years to come. I highly recommend you bring your family members and loved ones here, you won't regret it.
Melissa Beckwith
2 years ago
Dr. Thaxter is a great dentist. I've been a patient with the practice for 10 years. They really make an effort to know their patients. My kiddo actually enjoys trips to the dentist.
Tamara Reponte
2 years ago
I needed a tooth extracted & I am so afraid of Dentists' due to past experiences. Dr. Norman & his staff made me feel so relaxed & comfortable, my anxiety level dropped immensely! Dr. Norman was so gentle & kind. Removed my tooth with no complications.. Thank you with all of my heart! God Bless you all!!
Khloe Thomas
2 years ago
If you are looking for a dentist that really cares in the Merced area Dr. Thaxter is for you. Being a young adult can be scary at times finding a new dentist can be one of those times but look no further. Every 6 months I come in for a cleaning and I'm greeted with smiles and a sweet environment. *They are very affordable for the area! (Always a plus in my book!) * Friendly Staff! * Clean office! * Great smile results! * Accepts Delta Dental Dr. Thaxter took care of me & my smile! Feeling more confident than ever! (& no teeth pain!)
Lillian Hunt
2 years ago
Been going to Dr.Thaxter for around 9 years now after being referred to him by my husband's family. He and his office staff are all friendly, and always make you feel comfortable. Thankful to have a good dentist, I still travel to him for dental needs.
Johnnie Klundt
2 years ago
Excellent staff, great communication I'm extremely happy with my visit here.
Brittany Blaylock
2 years ago
My family and I have been coming to Dr. Thaxters' office sense I was nine years old! This office has very friendly staff who are more like family! If your nervous about getting your teeth work done Dr Thaxter will make you feel comfortable and not nervous about the situation. Randel his dental hygienist is the best! She also makes you so very comfortable if you are nervous about anything about getting your X-rays done or even getting your teeth cleaned! I highly recommend Dr. Thaxter office for your new dentist in Merced!
Leon's World of Bugs
2 years ago
The best of the best. This place is way better than Pediatric dentistry we've been. Kid friendly. Dentist is veryyyy good and all the staff specially the hygienist are professional and accommodating. I'll give 10 stars if I can
Erin Meyer
2 years ago
Kind and compassionate staff and effective work.
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