Dr. Steven Hagerman of Hagerman Dental Care has been performing dentistry for 36 years in St. Paul, Minnesota. He is highly involved in the community and because of this, his patients are more of an extended family. To learn more about him, we asked Dr. Hagerman a few questions about himself, his practice, and his style of dentistry. Take a look at our Q&A with Dr. Hagerman below.
What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?
Dr. Hagerman: When I see the gratitude of my patients for my work, it is extremely rewarding. My goal is to make St. Paul brighter, one smile at a time. When I see patients walk out of my practice happy with their teeth or relieved that their oral health issue was taken care of, it makes me feel great about my work.
What is the most challenging aspect of your job?
Dr. Hagerman: Getting people to commit and show up for their appointments regardless of their fears. Some patients have had bad experiences in the past, or they are embarrassed to express their fears. I want everyone to know that I understand and empathize with your situation and do not pass judgment.
My job is to help you improve your oral health so you can enjoy how your teeth look, live a pain-free life, and have healthy, strong teeth that you can use for years to come. But I understand that dentistry can seem scary to some people, and this fear can be a big challenge to overcome. I will do everything in my power to help you relax and stay calm while we work on achieving great oral health together.
Why is the St. Paul community so important to you?
Dr. Hagerman: I was born and raised in St. Paul and have roots going back much further than that in this community. Both of my parents were also raised here. Today, my house and my practice are both in St. Paul. This is why I consider everyone in St. Paul my neighbors.
How do you keep up with the latest techniques in the field of dentistry?
Dr. Hagerman: I try to keep up with the latest techniques in the field of dentistry because I want to provide the best possible care to my patients. I have been a dentist for over 35 years. After practicing for so long, I can confidently say that I don’t practice dentistry, I perform it.
However, to this day, I continually take courses on the newest techniques, technology, and advancements in the field. It is this commitment that has helped me earn accolades from my peers and my patients.
I have been chosen as one of Minnesota Monthly magazine’s Top Dentists every year since 2015, and Mpls.St.Paul Magazine recently chose me as Top Dentist in both the general dentist and cosmetic dentist categories. I was also voted as one of the National Consumer Advisory Board’s America’s Best Dentists every year since 2016.
I am very thankful for these recognitions, and I believe that my dedication to keeping up in the field of dentistry helped me achieve them.
What has your experience being a dentist for so many years taught you?
Dr. Hagerman: I have learned that keeping up with advancements in the field of dentistry and having an excellent staff are crucial to a successful practice.
Because I have had my practice for nearly four decades in the same area that I live, I have seen so many of my patients grow up. I have also seen the evolution in their oral health care needs. This is why I continually stay updated with the newest techniques and developments in all areas of the field.
I want to offer patients comprehensive care that isn’t limited to a certain age group or type of condition. My commitment to my patients is for life – not just a few years. This is why I continually seek knowledge and learn new ways to serve my patients better.
My staff members are like my family. I have staff members with decades of experience in the field. I believe having quality people who I can trust assisting me is critical to excellent patient care. Fortunately, I have been blessed with some amazingly able, professional, and wonderful members on our staff – including my own wife!
How do you give back to your patients?
Dr. Hagerman: I try to give back to my patients whenever possible. No one should be denied dental care because of financial difficulties. I understand that not all patients have insurance plans that cover dental care the way they should. This is why I created the Hagerman Dental Plan. The Hagerman Dental Plan is a way for patients to get excellent dental services done whenever they need it. It is designed to give you the best dental care possible at an affordable price.
Because my patients are a part of my community, I try to stay involved with them outside of the office as well. Growing up, my mentor was my family dentist. Being introduced to this figure shaped my future. In fact, it was my mentor who wrote my letter of recommendation to dental school. This is why I take my role as a dentist in St. Paul so seriously. I am dedicated to giving back to my community through my profession as a dentist and as a community member.
Dental Care in St. Paul, Minnesota
If you are in the St. Paul area and are looking for a great dentist, consider seeing Dr. Hagerman of Hagerman Dental Care. With a dentist who has a wealth of experience and a dedication to the field of dentistry and to his community, you will be in great hands. To make an appointment, call (651) 646-2392 or request an appointment online. We look forward to seeing you here.