Detailed Introduction
Family Values Dental is a well-established dental clinic situated at 772 National Hwy, La Vale, MD 21502. The practice is led by Dr. Ryan Wratchford, a general dentist committed to providing high-quality, patient-centered dental care. The name "Family Values Dental" reflects their philosophy of treating patients with the same care and respect they would afford their own family members.
The clinic offers a wide range of general and family dentistry services designed to meet the oral health needs of patients of all ages, from children to seniors. While specific services are not extensively detailed in the provided snippets, a "family dentistry" typically includes routine check-ups, cleanings, preventative care (like sealants and fluoride for children), fillings, extractions, and potentially more advanced procedures such as crowns, bridges, dentures, and cosmetic dentistry like teeth whitening and veneers. Their website explicitly mentions "Implant dentistry to replace missing teeth," "Lifelike dentures, partials, and bridges," "Teeth whitening," and "Cosmetic dentistry with veneers and porcelain crowns."
Family Values Dental prides itself on creating a comfortable and welcoming environment. They aim to alleviate dental anxiety, providing amenities like bottled water, comfy pillows and blankets, scented towels, and even video games and kid's TV to make visits more enjoyable, especially for younger patients. Their office is designed to be relaxing and peaceful, with a lobby that some patients liken to a quiet library.
The clinic's location in La Vale, a commercial hub in Allegany County, makes it highly convenient for patients from nearby Cumberland and Frostburg, as well as the surrounding communities in Northwest Maryland, Northeast West Virginia, and Southern Pennsylvania. They are situated directly across from the LaVale Public Library, making it easy for patients to combine dental appointments with other errands or activities. The practice also offers convenient hours, including early morning, late evening, and Saturday appointments to accommodate busy schedules.
The history of the clinic is also noteworthy; the building itself has a rich local history, having served as a Maryland State Police barracks in 1924 and later as the LaVale Public Library in 1956. Dr. Wratchford continues the legacy of the former owner, Dr. John Dowell, by focusing on conservative, quality dental care and prioritizing patient well-being over "selling" unnecessary treatments. They aim to build strong, long-term relationships with their patients based on trust and a shared commitment to oral health.