By MOLLIE BROWN / Community Columnist

Sometimes I have to dig for a story, but this week was easy. While sitting in Dr. Ashley Ford’s dental chair, I had an overwhelming urge to write an article about her practice.

“Funny you ask,” she said. “I was just telling Dr. Rigsby we need to introduce our newest associate to the community.”

New doesn’t imply inexperience. Their associate, Dr. Jean O’Neal, won the Birmingham District Dental Society’s 2011 Dentist of the Year award. Before joining Calera Dental Center, O’Neal was with the University of Alabama School of Dentistry for 30 years, serving 12 years as chair of the Department of Prosthodontics.

After announcing her retirement, O’Neal sought a place to treat her private patients and referrals. Though she had her pick of practices, there was no question where she wanted to be.

“Both girls were excellent students,” O’Neal said. “I know their dedication to dentistry and their ethics are highly commendable. They run a patient-friendly practice, and I’ve always wanted to be a part of a practice like this. The patients are just wonderful, and I’m very happy to be here.”

O’Neal brought along her assistant of 30 years, Lynda Gray, and together they treat patients from all over the United States.

“Dr. O’Neal is a very kind person, a very giving person,” Gray said. “She does great dentistry, and I think the world of her.”

Ford’s undergraduate experience with O’Neal is unforgettable.

“She was reputed as the toughest instructor because of her demand for excellence. Her presence was intimidating, but an upperclassman told me to go to her. I approached her about working with me on my first crown and I’m glad I did. I respect not just her ability to do great work, but that she expects the same from those she works with.”

Dr. Deborah Rigsby remembers the impression O’Neal made on students.

“She always inspired excellence in her students,” Rigsby said.

They each have a degree in prosthodontics, a specialty in clinical conditions that involve complex oral restoration and rehabilitation. O’Neal’s vast knowledge of dentistry from years of teaching and faculty practice brings all the current research and trends in dentistry, keeping their practice on top of the latest techniques and materials.

O’Neal teaches at UAB one day a week, working closely with surgeons on advanced implant restoration cases, and she lectures internationally. She is available at Calera Dental Center on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. For an appointment, call 620-3312.

Mollie Brown can be reached at dmjhb1@bellsouth.net.