Cameo Dental Specialists

“The best interest of the patient is the only interest to be considered, and in order that the sick may have the benefit of advancing knowledge, a union of forces is necessary.” – William J. Mayo, 1910

More than a century after they were written, the doctors at Cameo Dental Specialists believe wholeheartedly in Mayo’s wise words.

Expanding an already thriving endodontics group to include experts in periodontics and oral and maxillofacial surgery, Cameo is one of just a few specialty dental practices in the nation offering integrated care to patients under one roof.

“The ultimate goal of integrated care is doing what’s in the best interest of the patient for the optimal outcome,” says Dr. Rick A. Munaretto, endodontist and ABE diplomate.

Traditionally, each specialty exists in a solo office, and a patient with complex issues might have to visit multiple practices to find answers. At Cameo, integrating the specialties allows the patient to get several expert opinions in a single consultation at one location — and to receive treatment there, as well.

Dr. Joseph B. Baptist, oral and maxillofacial surgeon and ABOMS diplomate, says the integrated model allows them to provide a comprehensive look at the different challenges a patient faces and to quickly collaborate to develop a treatment plan.

“It’s impossible for one person to know everything,” Baptist said. “So, when multiple specialists can add their contribution toward a solution, the patient wins.”

Patients aren't waiting for months for a consultation at one place, only to be referred for another with a second specialist if answers don’t present immediately, adds Dr. Vladana Babcic, endodontist and ABE diplomate.

“We put our heads together to find the best way forward, then we talk to the general dentist to build a plan,” Babcic says. “The patient leaves with the right treatment because our doctors take stock of everything, rather than just looking at the problems through the tunnel vision of one specialty.” This saves the patient time and heartache, as well as money.

The caring specialists at Cameo recognize patients are often nervous about dental procedures, and they pride themselves on providing a warm, welcoming environment.

“We’re going to treat you well from the minute you walk in our door,” Babcic said. The practice offers tools from aromatherapy to IV sedation to ensure the patient’s comfort.

The practice was started in 1979 by brothers Richard and Raymond Munaretto, Dr. Rick Munaraetto’s father and uncle. Today, Cameo has a team of 20 doctors, and plans to add providers in orofacial pain and oral medicine soon. Half of the specialists are women, which is rare in the field of dentistry. Additionally, Cameo employs more than 100 other people, many of whom started with the practice right out of high school and have been with the group for more than 20 years.

Despite the practice’s extraordinary growth, Munaretto is proud that Cameo has maintained an authentic, personalized patient experience.

“Every patient receives a card with my cell phone and email,” Munaretto said. “That’s how my dad and uncle built this business, and I still believe very much in that personal touch.”

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