Meet the team of Richard S. Bernstein D.D.S.
I have had the distinct pleasure of being one of Dr. Bernstein's first patients in his dental practice. After several bad experiences years ago with other dentists, I came to Dr. Bernstein's office and have never been happier. I continue to return even though I have moved a distance away due to the caring and compassion that Dr. Bernstein and his staff exemplify. The professionalism displayed by Dr. Bernstein as well as his entire office staff is exceptional!! They always keep the patient's comfort first and foremost in any procedure they perform, whether it is dental cleanings, fillings, root canals and even cosmetic surgery. Thanks to Dr. Bernstein and his staff, I have a beautiful smile each and every day.
Judy H.
Katie Gerow - Hygienist
Katie has been in the dental field for 14 years, starting as a dental assistant and now as a dental hygienist. She graduated from Oakland Community College in 2007 with two associate degrees and received a perfect score on her Clinical Northeast regional board examination. She was awarded the annual Hu-Friedy Golden Scaler award for outstanding clinical care in her class. Currently, she is licensed in nitrous oxide and local anesthetic administration, and certified in administrating laser therapy in association with periodontal procedures.
Katie is happily married to her high school sweetheart, Jess, and a proud mother of two cats, Kona and Hilo. She loves to travel and spend time with her family. Katie loves being a dental hygienist because she feels that she plays an important role in educating patients about their oral health, as well as the correlation it has with the rest of the body. She says that it is very rewarding when our patients tell her, "Thank you that was the best cleaning I ever had."
Rebecca Balas - Dental Assistant
Rebecca (you can call her Becca) has worked with the wonderful Dr. Bernstein as his dental assistant for over 10 years now. She says that it doesn't seem like it has truly been that long! She attended Oakland University and has been in the dental field for 17 years. Initially, she worked at the front desk as scheduling coordinator and then transited into dental assisting.
As a dental assistant, Becca tries to help each patient, even the most fearful, feel relaxed and comfortable. During their dental treatment, she often holds the patient's hand during numbing, to help lend comfort. She wants the patient to know that she will be at their side while Dr. Bernstein is improving their dental health and transforming their smile into something extraordinary. What she really likes is establishing relationships with our patients so that they feel like part of an extended family. There is always infectious laughter coming from the operatory, and she believes it gives the office an upbeat atmosphere as well as making the patient truly enjoy their dental visit. She does her job with a helpful attitude and dedication, because she loves what she does.
In her time outside of the office, Becca most enjoys being with her husband, Brian, and spending time with their family and friends. When she isn't reading a great book, she is trying out new recipes, since she loves to cook and bake! She always tries to bring samples for her wonderful co-workers as well! She says that they are the best taste-testers because they like everything she makes - so she keeps bringing more.