Family First Dental New Office

April 09, 2007

Family First Dental Associates, a Norfolk, Nebraska-based dental firm, recently began construction on its latest facility in Hawarden, Iowa.  The building has filled a hole left in Hawarden’s downtown business district after a 2003 fire destroyed two buildings and severely damaged another.  More importantly, the office will fill a void left after the retirement of the community’s only two dentists in 2004. 

“We recognized the need for dental services in our town early on and began the recruitment process for another dentist as quickly as possible,” said Mike Cauwels, City Councilperson and member of a committee formed to locate a new dentist for Hawarden.  “We traveled to several dental recruitment fairs at dental schools in Iowa, Minnesota, and Nebraska in hopes of finding a dental student looking to open his or her own practice.  We learned quickly that dentists interested in practicing in a small town are rare and that many rural communities are in a similar position,” said Cauwels.  It was during the recruitment process that committee members became affiliated with Family First Dental.  “We quickly realized the positive role Family First Dental would play in our search for a dentist,” said Cauwels.

Family First Dental committed to opening a Hawarden location in 2005.  The key was locating a dentist.  In April, 2006 plans for the office moved forward after Dr. Aly Morshed committed to relocate from Family First’s office in South Sioux City, Nebraska.  “Dr. Morshed indicated to us he would like to practice in a small town.  After a couple of visits to the community, he was positive this is where he wanted to live and practice dentistry,” said Dean Cyboron, head of Clinical Operations for Family First Dental Associates.  “We feel he will be a perfect fit for Hawarden,” said Cyboron.

Family First Dental Associates’ Hawarden facility includes a brick façade to match the surrounding historic architecture and also offers the latest dental services and equipment.  Family First Dental will be using digital X-rays and computers in every patient center. The digital x-ray not only allow for better diagnosis but expose the patient to 65% less x-ray exposure. “We cherish the patient’s comfort while visiting us and want them to feel safe and comfortable that we are giving them the best care possible,” said Cyboron. 

The office has employed four staff members initially, including one dentist, dental hygienists, and other office personnel.  Staff numbers will increase throughout the year to meet patient demand.