Meet Our New Treatment Specialists: Tracy & Renee
Leaving a dental appointment with a complex diagnosis can sometimes feel overwhelming. Even when the doctor explains everything clearly, patients may still leave with questions about the timeline, the procedures involved, or what the next steps will look like.
At Progressive Dental, we realized some of our patients could benefit from a deeper level of guidance when it comes to understanding their treatment plans. Dental care can involve multiple appointments, different procedures, and important financial considerations. We want every patient to feel confident, informed, and comfortable moving forward with care.
That is why we introduced two dedicated Treatment Specialists to our team.
Tracy and Renee have both been part of the Progressive Dental family for decades. Tracy began her dental career as a dental assistant before joining Progressive Dental in 1998, and Renee joined the practice in 2002. As New York State Licensed and National Board Certified Dental Assistants (NYSLDA/CDA), they have spent years working side by side with our doctors and caring for our patients in the clinical setting.
Because of that experience, they understand every step of the treatment process. From diagnosis to recovery, they know how procedures are performed, how treatment is coordinated, and what patients can expect at each stage. After years of working closely with patients chairside, they also recognize the moments when someone may feel nervous and know how to slow things down, answer questions, and offer reassurance so patients feel comfortable moving forward.
Today they bring that knowledge into a role focused entirely on helping patients navigate their dental or orthodontic treatment plans. Whether it is explaining procedures, coordinating appointments, or reviewing financial options, Tracy and Renee help patients understand the full picture so they know exactly what to expect.
Most importantly, they make sure no question goes unanswered.
Helping Patients Understand Their Treatment Plans
One of the most important parts of Tracy and Renee’s role is helping patients fully understand their treatment plans. Dental terminology and multi-step procedures can sometimes feel confusing or overwhelming, especially when patients are hearing everything for the first time.
Tracy believes taking the time to explain things clearly makes a major difference in how patients feel about moving forward with care.
“I take as much time as needed during meetings or phone calls to make sure patients truly understand their treatment plan and how their dental condition can affect their overall health. I never want a patient leaving the office more confused or scared than when they arrived.”
For Renee, listening to patients and addressing their concerns is just as important as explaining the treatment itself.
“I sit down with patients and listen to their concerns. It can be a lot to take in at first, so my job is to help them understand their treatment plan and the options they have moving forward. My goal is to help them create a plan that works for them.”
Their goal is to make sure every patient leaves with a clear understanding of their care and confidence about the next steps.
Supporting Patients Through the Entire Process
Because Tracy and Renee spent decades working clinically with our doctors, they understand the full process behind dental treatment. That experience allows them to guide patients through every phase of care.
Tracy explains that her role is about using years of experience to help patients navigate the entire process.
“To me, being a Treatment Specialist means using all of the skills and knowledge I have acquired over the last 30 years to help patients understand what treatment they need and why. It also means helping them navigate the next steps such as financing and scheduling appointments.”
Renee shares a similar perspective. After years working chairside, she now enjoys helping patients understand their long-term treatment plans.
“When working clinical we focus on the treatment being done that day. Now I get to help patients understand their future treatment plan, what each appointment will involve, and make sure they feel comfortable and prepared for their next visit.”
Together, they help organize treatment timelines, coordinate appointments, and make sure patients feel prepared before beginning any procedure.
The Most Rewarding Cases
For Tracy and Renee, the most meaningful part of their work is seeing patients regain confidence in their smiles.
Tracy especially enjoys helping patients who may have avoided the dentist for years finally feel comfortable seeking care again.
“My favorite type of case is a patient who has not been to the dentist in a very long time and needs a little TLC and someone to let them know they are in good hands every step of the way.”
Renee finds full mouth rehabilitation cases particularly rewarding.
“From the beginning to the end it is so rewarding to help change someone’s life. Some patients come in and have not smiled for years. Seeing the final result with a huge smile is everything.”
These moments remind both of them why helping patients understand and complete their treatment plans can make such a powerful impact.
A Little More About Tracy & Renee
Beyond helping patients navigate their treatment plans, Tracy and Renee each bring their own personality and energy to the office.
Tracy describes herself as an 80s and 90s hip hop and rap loving homesteader.
Renee enjoys cooking and dancing in the kitchen to artists like Etta James, Michael Bolton, and George Michael. She also happens to be known for being a really good whistler.
Both say one of the things they love most about Progressive Dental is the strong sense of teamwork and care throughout the practice.
“We treat every patient with honesty and integrity and as a person, not just a patient. I also love that I am not just an employee. I am part of a huge family.” (Tracy)
“We are truly a tight group. We care about our patients and about each other. There is a lot of laughter in the office and patients can feel that.” (Renee)
Their shared goal is simple: to make sure every patient feels supported, informed, and confident throughout their care at Progressive Dental.
Supporting Patients Across All Offices
Another important focus for Tracy and Renee is helping welcome and guide new patients who may be visiting Progressive Dental for the first time. Tracy currently works primarily from our Kirkwood location, while Renee supports patients from our Binghamton office and works closely with many of our Montrose patients as well. While we wish we could have them in every office each day, their support is not limited to just those locations. Even if Tracy or Renee are not physically in our Endwell or Norwich offices, they are still readily available to help patients across all five Progressive Dental locations. Patients can connect with them by phone, schedule a virtual consultation, or arrange an in-person meeting at the office that is most convenient for them to review their treatment plan and ask any questions they may have.
To us, dentistry is about more than just procedures. It is about making sure every patient feels informed, comfortable, and supported throughout their care. Tracy and Renee are here to help guide you through your treatment plan, answer questions, and make sure you know exactly what to expect at every step. If you ever have questions about recommended treatment, scheduling, or financial options, they are always happy to help. Simply ask to speak with Tracy or Renee at your next visit, or contact any of our Progressive Dental offices and we will gladly connect you.
