PLATTSBURGH -- A healthy smile and a comfortable visit.

That's the goal of Dr. Maria Szmigiel, DMD, who is branching out with her own dental practice at 91 Hammond Lane.

"A healthy smile is a beautiful smile," she said. "You don't have to have perfect-looking teeth."

Formerly in business next door at Plattsburgh Dental Group with Dr. Tom Gerner for 10 years, she brings her own philosophy and experience in three countries to her new practice, Gentle Touch Family Dentistry.

"Everyone has different goals for themselves," she said. "What I want to do is provide patients with options for what fits their needs and also their budget."

She said good dentistry can have a positive effect on a patient in many ways.

"I like to improve patients' lifestyles," she said. "A healthy mouth reflects a healthy body."

And, with modern techniques and services, a visit doesn't have to be traumatic.

"To see that a patient relaxes and lets me proceed with treatment, that's a big reward to me," Szmigiel said, adding that she also will be focusing on prevention, including comfortable cleanings and regular exams.

"What I believe is early detection of problems is very important," she said. "A lot of dental problems are silent."

By the time people start feeling pain, she explained, it can turn into a struggle to save a tooth. Starting young is also important, and she sees patients as young as 4 years old.

Szmigiel believes in the latest techniques and technology, including digital X-rays that use 85 percent less radiation. Composite fillings can offer an alternative to metal fillings that contain mercury.

"I'm going to be offering crowns and bridges for broken or missing teeth," she said.

Root-canal treatments in one visit, extractions, dentures and partials will also be offered.

"One thing I enjoy, and took a course on, is cosmetic dentistry -- makeovers, improving smiles," she said.