Dr Dara Darabi, DDS, FAGD
Dr Sarita B. Patel, DMD
Respect and Care
Choosing a new dentist, whether for a specific procedure or for long-term dental care, is very personal and can leave one feeling unsure. Let us tell you a bit about Apex Dental Associates. First, we don’t just work on your teeth; we work with you, the whole person. During your first appointment, we would want to learn a bit about you: what brings you to our practice, your past experience with dentists, any family history of dental issues, and your current dental habits (no judgment!).
We would then briefly discuss your goals for your dental health. After a full dental examination using state of the art, 3D imaging technology, we would work together to determine a plan for you, which can range from simple preventive care to dental implants or addressing issues like sleep apnea. We would provide our recommendations and, ultimately, you make the decisions about how to move forward.
Some might say we err on the side of over explaining. We say, an informed patient is more comfortable with the process, knows what to expect and is happy with the results. That said, we respect your time. Our goal is to make your visits efficient. We don’t have a waiting room. We call it a reception area where, of course, you’ll find a lot of great magazines. Our goal is that you’ll never get to read them.
Our Team
Dr. Dara Darabi, DDS, FAGD
Dr. Dara Darabi was raised in Southern California, where he received a Bachelor of Science degree for physics and biochemistry. He felt that a healthcare profession would uniquely integrate his passion for science with his desire to work closely with people. He then attended the Creighton University School of Dentistry in Omaha, Nebraska where he was the recipient of multiple scholarships and awards for his achievements in restorative dentistry.
After achieving his dental degree, Dr. Darabi moved to beautiful Western Massachusetts where he worked in a community clinic before opening his own practices, first in Springfield, and now in Turners Falls.
Dr. Darabi is a member in good standing with the Academy of General Dentistry and has been recognized as fellow in the Academy of General Dentistry since 2013. He attends numerous continuing education classes and seminars each year to ensure his patients benefit from the latest advancements and techniques in dentistry. Dr. Darabi has also received advanced training in temporomandibular joint therapy (TMJ) and oral surgery.
Dr. Sarita B. Patel, DMD
Dr. Sarita Patel is a friendly and remarkably skilled clinician with true passion for family dentistry. She aims to provide patients with healthy, beautiful smiles. With a cheerful outlook and a positive attitude, she provides excellent dental care in a relaxed and comfortable manner.
Dr. Patel is a native of Mystic, Connecticut. She joined the practice after attending one of the most prestigious dental schools in the world – The New York University College of Dentistry – where she completed extensive training for her dental career.
Learning that Dr. Darabi was expanding his services and appointment opportunities, she jumped at the chance to join our growing Western Massachusetts family practices.
Amber Labrecque – RDH
Ms. Amber Labrecque is a recent graduate of Goodwin College where she received her Associates Degree in Dental Hygiene. Ms. Labrecque received extensive training at Goodwin College which allowed her the opportunity to work with all ages and to gain the experience necessary to excel.
During the dental hygiene program, Ms. Labrecque maintained high academic honors and excelled in her clinical skills. Although Ms. Labrecque is new to the dental hygiene career she is no stranger to the dental field or to our offices. In 2008, Ms. Labrecque graduated from Porter and Chester as a dental assistant and obtained her dental assistant license.
In 2014, Ms. Labrecque began working for Dr. Darabi as a dental assistant and was further cross trained to become a front desk coordinator. Ms. Labrecque feels honored to continue working with Dr. Darabi and the rest of the dental team as a dental hygienist. Ms. Labrecque takes great pride in providing the best care possible in order to achieve optimal oral health. Ms. Labrecque is a gentle and compassionate individual who thrives to customize dental hygiene care to each patient on an individualized basis.
Tristina Fey
Tristina Fay is a recent honors graduate of The Springfield Technical Community College Dental Hygiene Program, earning her degree of Associate in Science in Dental Hygiene. She is also a former Dental Assistant graduating from Porter and Chester Institute in 2010, has worked as an Administrative Assistant for an Oral Surgery office, and is a member of the American Dental Hygienists’ Association.
Tristina enjoys volunteering in the field of Dental Hygiene having done so with the Kids safety Expo at the Basketball Hall of Fame, and The Convoy for Hope in 2017. Tristina spent her last semester in the Dental Hygiene Program volunteering at a community outreach program providing disabled residents oral hygiene education, dental screenings and fluoride. This along with Tristina’s past experience in the Dental field has given Tristina insight into her patients needs and the ability to create a comfortable environment for treatment.
Tristina enjoys spending time with her husband and two sons along with getting together with her childhood friends. She is very excited to be a part of Dr. Darabi’s team and looks forward to her future at Apex Dental Associates.
What’s next? Get in touch to set up an appointment or to simply learn more.