Dr. Norman K. Thaxter, DDS practices with a preventive approach to dental care emphasizing regular check-ups, effective homecare and timely minimal intervention of problems when they are small. By our detecting problems when they are often unnoticed by patients, the painful periods that often occur if they are neglected because, "It doesn't hurt now", are usually avoided. Additionally, a small restoration is always more affordable than the extensive treatment necessary when problems are ignored. Often, however, for a number of reasons, we see patients in need of a lot of dentistry and our goal is to restore and then maintain with minimal intervention thereafter.

Cosmetic Dentistry is our passion. Dr. Thaxter has a reputation for providing natural looking esthetic bonding so that teeth appear not to be altered or filled. He has over 20 years of private practice in the use of porcelain or "white fillings" and veneers and associates with only the best dental laboratories in California. Whiter teeth are becoming a necessity and we offer safe and effective solutions to lighten the shades of most everyone. A nice smile is so valuable in our society and we can absolutely make it possible to have that perfect smile you have always wanted.

While we always strive for the most ideal restorations available we realize that cost is a consideration. Patients can expect a list of treatment options designed to fit everyone's expectations from dentures to a full mouth reconstruction. Our trained staff will work with your insurance company to maximize benefits. For those of you without insurance we will work to make your needs affordable.

The improvement in appearance of our patients has been surprisingly pleasant. Most patients and doctors do not realize that the teeth and bite determine the shape of a patient's face. The teeth can actually supports the face, cheeks, and lips and actually lengthen the face which smoothes out facial lines without surgery. When a patient gets the best possible teeth and bite, the face is completely revitalized.

Dr. Thaxter was born and raised here in the valley in Fresno where his parents and grandparents also called home. After graduating from Fresno High he attended UCLA (BA), Fresno State (MA) and USC (DDS). For 17 years he had a private practice in Fresno and established an outstanding reputation as a caring, proficient and ethical practitioner. In 2006 he answered our Nation's call to service and entered Active Duty, USAF. He served proudly, readying our brave Airmen for the battle raging in the Middle East. Dr. Thaxter lives in Merced, is married and has 4 children, 3 daughters and a son.

Norman K. Thaxter, DDS and Staff