This May, Macaroni KID Southern RI readers nominated their favorite local business-owning moms who were featured in a spotlight article. One nominated mom could not respond until recently, for she was welcoming another bundle of joy into the world!
If you have a child with orthodontia needs in Southern RI, there are a few places to go. One location, in particular, has been providing care to the area's children for decades. We recently spoke with Dr. Lavigne, the new doctor at the helm of one of South County's premiere orthodontist practices, Anchor Orthodontics.
 | "I've had a unique journey after spending the first ten years of my career as a cosmetic dentist... I feel strongly that my unique background lends itself to better care for my patients." Dr. Lavigne |
For decades, parents have been bringing their kiddos to Dr. Underhill's Wakefield office for all their orthodontic needs. Many families have walked through the doors of the quaint sunlight office to be greeted by friendly staff as they check-in. Whether for consults, adjustments, or other orthodontia needs, Underhill's office would set minds at ease with a smile and the assurance they would be there for all and any treatment needs. Yet, as time marches on, changes happen.
"Dr. Underhill had been the face of orthodontics in the South County area for a few decades before we crossed paths. He was looking for someone to take over the reins of the practice so that he could retire, but wanted to be sure his patients were left in good hands. At the same time, I was looking for a practice home, where the patient care I would take over was patient-centric and in line with my treatment philosophy. We knew from the moment we met that we had similar ideologies towards patient care. The transition was seamless, and I'm so grateful to have met when we did!"
Located at: 24 Salt Pond Rd Suite A3, South Kingstown, RI 02879
 |
I was not surprised when I asked where she wanted to see the practice in the next few years. "In the next year I hope to continue to grow the practice to be able to open additional days and hours, and become the premier orthodontic practice for the children and adults seeking orthodontic care in South County. In the next five years I plan to partner with a good friend who is completing her orthodontic training and together, continuing to provide exceptional, state-of-the-art, patient-centric care to the people of Rhode Island."
Dr. Lavigne has two children: daughter Yvette, who is 3 years old, and son Leo, who is 6 weeks old. As a mom, we sometimes encounter speed bumps while working. When asked how she balances being a mom and a business owner, she didn't hesitate to lift those around her.
"It truly takes a village! I have a supportive team at work and family at home that makes it all possible. I try to be fully present for my patients and my employees when I'm at work, and fully present for my family when I'm at home and my kids are awake. It doesn't always happen, and the lines certainly blur here and there, but I do my very best to be an exceptional orthodontist during my working hours, and the best mom I can be when I'm home.
Anchor Orthodontics Team
 |
Dr. Lavigne and her staff at Anchor Orthodontics are amazing at all they do. From the first phone call encounter you will be welcomed in as family. Their readiness to accommodate busy schedules is only matched by how gentle they are with the children they serve. (and us parents too) If you have a nervous little one or someone with special needs, they make every effort to connect with them on their level. I am not only reporting as a publisher, but as a mom who has had now six of my children at this practice, four with Dr. Underhill and two now with Dr. Lavigne. Our youngest will dance his way into the office, check himself in, and happily play with one of the enrichment games readily available in the waiting lounge.
(Full disclosure: I did not nominate Dr. Lavigne, but I certainly second that nomination!
This article was produced freely without monetary, services, or goods exchange.
Macaroni KID Southern RI was not compensated for this publication.
If you would like to be featured in "Business Spotlight," please connect with us here!
Macaroni KID Southern RI, East Bay-Newport RI, and Macaroni KID Cranston-Kent RI
are free weekly newsletters and websites focused on finding fun family events.
If you'd like to partner with us, please contact us here.
 |
These sites are proudly published by a local mom who curates weekly local family events and activities, searching for family fun classes, family-focused businesses, and any bucket list adventures around! Our newsletters bring all this and any recipes, crafts, and guides we have worked on just for you!
Proudly serving Rhode Island families❣️
