| My Business: The Dental Spa |
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Owner Gary Sasaki, The Dental Spa
Patients wouldn't usually expect to schedule a foot massage at the same time they plan on getting a root canal.
But giving patients an unexpectedly relaxing experience during a dental appointment is exactly why Gary Sasaki revamped his clinic five years ago. He renamed it The Dental Spa.
Along with traditional and cosmetic dentistry, Sasaki's business began to offer chair, hand and foot massages, paraffin wax dips, aromatherapy and snacks at the clinic. The change was one of many that were long overdue, he said.
That's because, for the first 25 years of his career, Sasaki had no formal business training.
"I was focused on being a dentist," Sasaki said. "But I started to think something was missing."
Alan Warren | The Ann Arbor NewsPatient Michelle Henderson from Howell watches a television show with Eye Chair T.V. with viewing glasses as she gets some dental work done by Dr. Gary Sasaki during her visit at Dental Spa in Ypsilanti.
Sasaki began taking dental business courses and making changes that improved the business' finances and attracted more patients.
Growth plans: "Our plans for 2009 include the addition of another dentist, a physical expansion that will include a meditation room and acupuncture services to reduce anxiety and discomfort."
Biggest aspiration: "Continue my quest of uncovering the connections between oral health and overall health, so professionals in this industry can better contribute to the wellness of our patients."
Why he sees art in dentistry: "When you get to know what teeth look like, actually, they're works of art and they're quite beautiful. The curves and the lines and the way the teeth fit together - it's amazing how you're born with 32 teeth and they each come with a function."
If he weren't doing this, he'd be: "Visiting spas of the world and playing golf."
Favorite place he's traveled: "Thailand. The opportunity to visit their spas and meet the people was an incredible experience."
Business philosophy: "You only get out of it what you put into it. Learn your craft, treat people with respect, seek help in areas outside of your expertise and give back when you are able to."
Advice he would give someone starting their own business: "Nothing is more important than impeccable service. People will remember those special touches and you will create loyal clients for life."
Contact: www.midentalspa.com or 734-482-7466.
Alan Warren | The Ann Arbor NewsDr. Gary Sasaki, right, does some dental work on patient Michelle Henderson, of Howell, as massage therapist Rob Stolerow, left, gives her a foot massage at Dental Spa in Ypsilanti on Nov. 26. Lisa Christner, center, assists Dr. Sasaki. Henderson is also watching a DVD during her treatment.
