Cascade Bank Helps Dr. Ortuzar Bring Imagination to the Dentist Office.

Dr. Olga Ortuzar is redefining what kids can expect from their dentist visits. Going to the dentist is now a fun experience and that's exactly Dr. Ortuzar's goal. As a pediatric dentist, she often encounters patients on their very first appointment. In the design of her new office, she has sought to make an unforgettable, fun environment for both her patients and their parents.

The waiting room showcases a 20+ foot tall replica of a mangrove tree that reaches up the blue sky ceiling, where lights are mounted in white cloud shapes. Blue carpet and green flooring give the waiting area a soothing, yet imaginative backdrop.

Dr. Ortuzar's patients (and their parents) have the choice of either a private room or a group environment with other kids. "Kids imitate each other, so it works well to have them all together," Dr. Ortuzar explained. She also had a "transition" room designed, which allows children to relax on comfortable kid-sized cushions, or brush their teeth at sinks positioned at various levels for comfort, before they start their actual appointment.

Parents were considered in the design of the new building as well. There are alcoves specifically designed to present x-rays and display information on computer screens. The private rooms are large enough to allow parents to be comfortable, while watching the hygienist at work. Finally, check-out can either be quick at an appointment counter near the door, or parents can get time with the doctor seated at a consultation desk.

"All of these details are important to making the total customer experience a positive one. I recently saw one of my former patients," she recalls. "She had just graduated from high school and hadn't been in to see me for many years but she still remembered the good experience." She added, "When you can make a difference like that in someone's life, that's the best part."

Dr. Ortuzar worked closely with Cascade Bank to arrange the financing for the new "dream-office." Relationships are very important to Dr. Ortuzar and she counts on Cascade to be responsive and straightforward. "I'm a very direct person, so I look for good communication." She also values the fact that Cascade Bank understands the dental business. That sort of understanding makes it easier to focus on the business at hand.