Patient Testimonials
Excellent Dental Service at Northern Maine Oral & Facial Surgery
This was an article posted in Star Herald, a local Presque Isle newspaper dated 10/18/09.
Compassionate People In The County. I would like to give a very personal thank you to Dr. Hank Ford and his staff at Northern Maine Oral and Facial Surgery,PA for their compassion and love during the most difficult trial of my life. I was diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma of the tounge in February 2009. The surgery ended up with the removal of two-thirds of my tounge and a neck resection to remove lymph nodes, tissue,etc. The word cancer is not a word anyone wants to hear but Dr. Ford is a straight shooter, tells you like it is, and dosen't leave anything out. His encourging words spoke of life and a positive attitude. He and his staff hugged and comforted me and they didn't try to rush out of the room to see the next patient. It was more important to spend the extra time with me. From the moment of diagnosis, Dr. Ford treated me medically but also from the heart with such love, kindness and compassion that words cannot express my gratitude. So if you have been in Dr. Ford's waiting room and he's late seeing you, keep in mind the patient he and his staff are with might have just got the same devastating news I did. Because of their awesome care, I decided to have the surgery done locally and to be home to recover. To some this might not be a big deal but to me it was the only option. God truley answers prayer. This was the second cancer surgery for me. The first time, I was diagnosed with maglignant melanoma and was nine months pregnant with my daughter. When I got the news from the doctor, there was no compassion, no hugs, no tissues, no comforting, no staff. A compassionate doctor and his staff make a big difference in patient treatment, I know it did for me. It has been a long road but each day gets better and better. I am once again a cancer survivor. I thank God for putting Dr. Ford and his staff in my path and pray God's blessing each day on each one of them. I want Aroostook County to know that you have a champion in medicine in Dr. Hank Ford.-Connie Churchill.
I finally decided to take that big step into rectiying my dental situation. Who did I go see? I went to see the doctor an hour and a half away who continues to SERVE Maine Care Patients and paying clients with the same professional service every patient deserves. I felt that strongly about this issue and I felt this facility deserved my loyalty for the services rendered to all patients, regardless of the financial circumstances each one of us is blessed with.
I have to say that my instincts on going to see Dr. Henry Ford for that treatment, was one of the best decisions I ever made. I figured that if he took the time to provide care for Maine Care patients, that I the paying client was also going to get proper care.
I called Dr. Ford's office and told them I needed my teeth pulled out, top and bottom. They recommended that I go have my impressions done first for my dentures. I asked to be pointed to a facility that would do this for me and they did. I hope that the facility recommended to me is as professional with their services throughout the process of having my dnetures fit just right. With me having waited for my gums to heal, it should be easier to get fitted with dentures that don't flip-flop all over the place. Any good dentist who works in that field should be able to succeed at that task. In a couple of months from now, I will know for myself first hand.
Day after my impressions were done, Dr. Fords' office called me and set up an appointment for surgery. On the phone, they took my medical history, being that I am in fairly good health they suggested that I wouldn't have to go in for a visit prior to surgery.
They were very considerate of my financial needs, which impressed me greatly. Yes, I knew I would be paying on the day I went for surgery and I was prepared to do so, but I didn't feel like they were taking me to the dry cleaners financially. I found them to be very reasonable. I had asked ahead of time how much it was going to cost and they had set a price ahead of time for the service I was to receive from them.
Any and all questions asked to the staff, an honest answer was given in return. I had done my research on this issue even before going in for treatment. I asked the questions, because this determined whether I was to fully trust my medical care in their hands. I didn't want to be seen as a dollar amount or made to feel like a number. I wanted a doctor who cared about his patient and who was going to do what was best for me medically. I got my wish at Dr. Henry Fords' office.
I asked a young lady on the phone, “Should I have my dentures put in right away or wait for my gums to heal first?” I had confused feelings about this issue because the dental office who they recommended had suggested that I do put them in right away. On the other hand, I had spoken with individuals who had their dentures put in right away and it had been for all of them a very painful healing process and several trips to the dentist for relines. I'm not much for needless pain and I've learned that sometimes being a little patient with certain things can save you a whole lot of pain and money.
The nice professional lady said, “This is a choice given to each individual patient. Some patients feel a need for them right away because they have to return to work. Others choose not too. I would recommend that if you want to save yourself money in the long run, waiting for the swelling to go down and for your gums to heal first is probably best. Some people like their dentures put in right away and others prefer to wait. It's really up to you and what you think is best for you. These are your two options and we respect whichever one you choose for yourself.
I accepted the recommendation given from the surgeons' office, it made sense to me and it accommodated my needs. I had interviewed people who had their dentures put in right away and people who waited. Those who waited to put their dentures in suffered less pain. They had less trouble with their dentures flip-flopping all over the place and they needed less relines done along the way.
Upon arrival at the office, five minutes to fill in paper work and off I was to take a full mouth x-ray to make sure they are seeing all the teeth that need to be pulled out. It so happens, I still had a wisdom tooth in my nasal area hidden up there somewhere. Dr. Ford shared with me that this would cause me pain after my denture was set in if it wasn't pulled out. You know, common sense goes a long way and I knew he was speaking the truth. So I told him, “I trust you. Do what you have to do. Take it out!”
Dr. Ford also shared with me that I was probably suffering nasal issues because of that tooth. I mentioned some stuffiness, but I had never thought about it much. To be honest I didn't know the difference. I had lived with that tooth there for so long, that it never occurred to me that the stuffiness in my nasal passage might be associated with a wisdom tooth lodged up there in my nasal cavity.
This office is so well organized that my surgery to remove 16 teeth and 1 wisdom tooth in my nasal area took all of about 20-30 minutes. They were so on top of everything that I didn't even have time to get nervous at all. I woke up and the nurse came in to inform my husband of the instructions for care at home and she gave him a prescription for pain and one for Penicillin to prevent infection.
My expectations were surpassed with the service I received from this office. They were compassionate, kind, honest and very professional. No lack of staff there, that's for sure. Top notch medical equipment to make sure the patient is properly monitored and cared for while in surgery. They even called the day after to make sure I was doing alright. I was told that should I need them and run across an issue with my gums, to call them and that they would see to it that it was taken care of promptly. I was far from expecting such a call, now that is what I call putting your patient first and top notch patient care.
I am pleased that I didn't have my dentures put in right away. Yes, I am gummy bear for a while, but that's alright! I'm getting some good laughs in there too! I may as well take this experience and bring some form of laugher to those around me.
Less pain does appeal to me in the healing process and saving money is a major plus. My reward will be down the road when I finally get my dentures in. Nothing worth while ever comes overnight, time and patience is needed.
I can't imagine putting dentures on top of sore swelled gums that have been stitched up. The pain medicine took care of the pain and on my second day, I didn't have to take my pain medicine every four hours like recommended on my prescription bottle. I took it every eight hours instead, because the pain was manageable, suffering a little gum soreness for the most part. That is to be expected and perfectly normal under the circumstances. I am able to eat soft foods and drink with bearable tolerance. Swelling was also minimal; a little more swelling on the side where my wisdom tooth was taken out, which was to be expected.
By the fourth day, I was taking Ibuprofen instead of the pain medication prescribed. Took care of the little pain I was in. Exactly a week later, I didn't need Ibuprofen either.
By the way, I did notice a huge difference in my nasal cavity. The stuffiness I was suffering from for years now is completely gone. Unbelievable! I actually had two medical issues taken care of at the same time. Wonderful! I don't ever remember breathing this well through my nose.
What a difference it makes when a patient deals with a facility that aims to serve the needs of its' patient as its' first priority. It's comforting to know that some of these facilities still exist. Thank you so much.
-Anonymous
IPL (Intense Pulse Light Therapy)
I had six treatments on my face starting in early summer of 2007. It wasn't really a comfortable procedure but to hear my children tell me at Christmas that my face looked so good was very reassuring. In the past, I would go to Dr. Ford about every three months and usually cancerous lesions would have to be removed. My last checkup was successful and they don't have to see me for six months. This is a very positive outcome.
R. W.
I am writing to thank you and your staff. I appreciated the treatments I had on my nose and face. The majority of the brown spots on my face have disappeared; my skin feels much better and softer than it was before. The best part for me was some of the changes in my wrinkles that are on my top lip. They were very deep and distressed looking. I still have some but the change is incredible for me. I also saw a big difference in my last treatment in how the treatment was applied and that was a huge success! It truly made a big difference. I just wanted you to know I appreciated your services. The kindness that was shown and the timeliness of the appointments were appreciated. Thank you.
C. M.
This letter is in regards to the IPL treatment I received at Dr. Ford's office. The treatment made my skin feel and look smoother and more refreshed. Dortha (Cosmetic Coordinator) made me feel relaxed and comfortable before she started the treatments. Each treatment was explained to me step by step. It was a very enjoyable experience. Thank you for offering the treatments to me.
J. I.
I wanted to express my appreciation for the medical treatment that I received from your office. Originally, I made an appointment with you to address a brown spot located on my cheek. The area was expanding and growing darker. After you performed a biopsy on the area, lab analysis determined that it was pre-cancerous. IPL treatments were prescribed. The monthly treatments I have received from Dortha have spanned a six month period, and during that time, I have noticed a gradual improvement. My complexion has improved, for it is smoother and has fewer imperfections. The area that concerned me has faded, and I believe other areas that had the potential to cover a larger surface and may have become problems later were addressed as well. Additionally my skin has been refreshed by this treatment, minimizing the fine wrinkles and providing a smoother surface. I am relieved that the pre-cancerous area is no longer a threat, and it has been a warning for me to take greater care of my skin with prudent sun protection behavior.
T. G.
YAG
As the blood blister on my lip increased in size over the years, I became more self-conscious about its influence on my appearance. When I found out that laser treatments could remove my blood blister without scarring I did not hesitate to try it, especially since I knew it would be performed at Dr. Ford's office. Before beginning the treatment I was apprehensive even though the staff had informed me about the procedure and what to expect. After having undergone laser treatment I can now say that the whole experience was not as stressful as I had imagined. Each visit was carried out as they had explained and the person administering the treatment was very reassuring and cared about my well-being throughout the whole experience. She made me feel at ease and comfortable. Between each treatment there was a gradual change in the blood blister. As I examined the site daily I could see an improvement in the size and color of the blood blister after each treatment. As of the third treatment, the blood blister is now hardly noticeable and I do not feel self-conscious about it anymore. I am relieved that the procedure went as described and that the blemish is no longer visible. I would not hesitate to recommend this procedure to anyone.
N. B.
Light Sheer Hair Removal
I was asked to write this letter to let you know what I thought of the service at Dr. Ford's office. I received Light Sheer treatment to my chin, upper lip, and up around my jaw line. I would shave in the morning and worry all day that someone would look at me and know that I basically had a beard. When I found out that Dr. Ford's office offered laser treatment for hair removal the only question I asked was how much would it be. I would have paid any price, but Dr. Ford's prices were very affordable. The services at Dr. Ford's were always very pleasant. The girls always had a smile on their face and made you feel welcome. As far as the treatment goes, they really were not that bad. Some of them were a little uncomfortable, but nothing that I couldn't handle. If I was uncomfortable all I would do is tell Dortha (Cosmetic Coordinator) and she would stop for a moment and then we would continue. She was always very helpful and patient. I am almost done with my treatments, and I can't tell you how much better I feel. I don't worry anymore about people knowing that I have hair on my face. It's all gone. My face is as soft as anyone's that never had these same issues. If there is anyone reading this letter and you are questioning if it would be worth it, my answer to you would be yes!!! I would do it again in a minute. It has given me confidence and peace of mind. This is a wonderful service that is offered in the county. We should all take advantage of these services, and also tell anyone you know that could use them. Thank you for taking the time to read my letter, I hope it was helpful. Thanks again,
A Very Pleased Patient.
I was at Dr. Ford's office for a wisdom tooth extraction consultation and at the end of my exam Dr. Ford mentioned to me that he had something for me to take home and read if I was interested concerning a facial hair problem I have had most of my life. He gave me a pamphlet called ‘Light Sheer Laser Hair Removal' and he explained that his was offered at his office and could help me with my facial hair problem. I was very surprised to hear that this service was available in the Presque Isle area, so close to my home in Caribou, because I was only aware that hair laser treatments were available in Portland, Maine. Anyway, I was very emotional and sensitive on the topic of facial hair and experienced much frustration, embarrassment, anger, and heartfelt hurt from the reactions of many people, young and elderly, and especially from other women, appearing to have no flaws of their own. So when Dr. Ford offered me the services and reading material, I had a flood of emotions and relief that finally there was some hope for me and my facial hair problem. I started laser treatments at Dr. Ford's office in January 2007. I was nervous, reluctant, and crossing my fingers this would work, even if a little. The wonderful lady, Dortha, that did my treatments, along with Dr. Ford at the beginning, was so patient and kind to me. She made the whole experience of monthly visits extremely comfortable and bearable. Each time, once a month, I would have an appointment I noticed lighter hair on my face and when I would get home I noticed some hair on the washcloth as I washed my face. I had some swelling around my lips and jaw bone areas, but found that ice packs helped that and applying aloe vera lotion to relieve the discomfort. Now I have gone through a year and three months of treatment with amazing results to my face. A lot of hair is removed and what hair remains is white stubble, very manageable. I'm very happy with Dr. Ford's Light Sheer Hair Removal services offered in Presque Isle, Maine. I give many thanks to all involved with my treatment at Dr. Ford's office. I will always remember how this changed my self-esteem and gave me my confidence back and made me very happy again. Thank you all so much!
E.R.
I am totally thrilled with the results of my hair removal laser treatments. When I came into Dr. Ford's office for the first session I had a full mustache and quite a few hairs on my chin, which I was pretty self-conscious about, and had to shave or pluck a lot. Now after only a few visits I'm so happy to say-Thank you! I can look in the mirror and not hate what I see! I'm happy not to have to shave or pluck daily!
D.C.
ACNE (IPL with ALA)
Being able to experience IPL has dramatically changed my life. The results are truly amazing. It is definitely worth the money you pay. Before I started receiving treatments, I was told that it would hurt a little bit. So going in, I was terrified, but I've found that it's more of a shock from the anticipation than anything. Dr. Ford and Dortha (Cosmetic Coordinator) have been absolutely wonderful throughout this process. They are really committed to making sure you are comfortable and well taken care of. They're really good about going at a pace that's right for you. After treatments I would really recommend that you ice immediately and apply aloe vera gel for the next two or three days. After my first three or four treatments there didn't seem to be anymore burning or swelling. Now that I am done treatments, I am using their new skin care products. I find that they work great and keep my acne under control. So now when I get a pimple, it goes away in a couple of days, instead of sticking around for weeks. Unfortunately, the kit does not include the green tea moisturizer, but you can purchase it separately. After trying a sample of it myself, I decided to buy some and am glad I did. It keeps your face hydrated and soft. Another great thing about it is that it helps fade any scars you may have from previous acne. I would like to send a heart warmed thank you to Dr. Ford and his staff for an amazing job.
J.L.
I could never thank you enough for your amazing generosity and kindness to me. I began having acne when I was 12. That, on top of the scars it left behind really hurt my self-esteem. These treatments have given me such a boost in my self-esteem and I am so grateful to you for that. Thank you so much!
J.S.
Aluma
I am writing this letter so you may post it for prospective patients considering the Aluma skin tightening procedure. As a result of malignancy, I had a radical neck dissection over 21 years ago. This left disfigurement on the operative side and, over time, a lot of laxity on the unoperative side. A few years after my surgery I consulted a plastic surgeon who gave me a bleak prognosis for any type of corrective measures. Last summer I heard some buzz about a new procedure that Dr. Ford was offering. After my consult visit, it was quickly determined that surgical options were out of the question due to the fact that I have keloid-forming skin. I asked him about the new procedure, and to his credit he did not offer me any false hopes. Neither one of us held any great expectations. All that changed after my second treatment when I began to see results. Dr. Ford had cautioned me a couple of times to be patient because maximum results don't occur until about six months. As you can imagine, that just went into one ear and out the other! Finally, I had something to look forward to. I have received these treatments for almost five months now, and the 'some improvement' that I asked for has been received ten times over. Not only have I achieved a physical improvement, but the psychological effect has been priceless. I am so happy that this type of procedure is available here and that I had the nerve to take a chance.
C.H.