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Natural Awakenings South Central Pennsylvania

Wellness-Oriented Treatment at Colonial Dental Group

Oct 02, 2014 11:35AM ● By Erin Lehn Floresca

Tammy del Sol, DMD

Tammy del Sol, DMD, known to clients as “Dr. Tammy,” owner of Colonial Dental Group, in Harrisburg, never grew up wanting to become a dentist, but she did always dream of helping people. After getting punched in the face by a client working in a group home, del Sol became discouraged. Her father, Victor Hajjar, a dentist for more than 50 years, convinced her that she could use her compassion to help patients by becoming a dentist, and reluctantly, she agreed. Next year will mark her 20th anniversary of helping generations of families in the community.

Since taking ownership of her father’s practice in 2007, del Sol has slowly transformed her traditional dental practice to be wellness-oriented and patient-centered. Not only is the waiting room designed for comfort and relaxation, where hot beverages and fresh, comfortable blankets are offered, but other features such as beautiful, soothing artwork add to the hospitable patient experience.

The practice is mercury-free and utilizes digital X-rays and CAD/CAM technology, which means they can design and create crowns and bridges in-house. One of del Sol’s favorite aspects of her practice is the initial exam appointments with new patients. “In most practices, new patients are seen in the hygienists’ schedule first, where the dentist comes in for several minutes to introduce themselves and make a treatment plan as needed,” she says. At Colonial Dental Group, the dentist sees the new patients first for a full one-hour appointment. Necessary X-rays are taken and then it is the dentist, not the hygienist, that completes the initial exam, spending more time with the patient and getting to know them.

After decades of treating patients, del Sol has figured out why she was meant to become a dentist. “Quite simply, to help people,” she says. “It’s not the fillings or the crowns or the dentures—it’s about the people.” She has cried and laughed with her patients and shares, “Everyone is special—everyone has their own story.”

Realizing that so many patients are terrified of going to the dentist, del Sol recently added a stress management specialist to her team. “Katrina Kelly is excellent at what she does. She will sit and talk with someone who is afraid, and even stay in the room while they’re being treated,” explains del Sol. “It is amazing what a difference this experience becomes with her help.”

Dr. del Sol offers free consultations or second opinions to new patients. Colonial Dental Group is located at 4940 Linglestown Rd., in Harrisburg. For appointments, call 717-901-7045 or visit cdgwellness.com