Meet a Dad and Doctor Benjamin Dancygier aka “Dr. Ben” – owner and CEO of Valley Pediatric Dentistry Orthodontics & Hudson Valley Tongue-Tie. Learn about his favorite part of his job!
Where are you originally from, and where do you live now?
I was born and raised in Forest Hills, NY and moved up to the Hudson Valley with my family when I founded Valley Pediatric Dentistry back in 2001.
How many children do you have, and what are their ages?
2 kids – my daughter Emily, 23 and son, Scott, 20.
How has your company evolved over the years?
We’ve truly grown over the years increasing our capacity to provide orthodontics and we’ve become the leading provider for soft tissue laser procedures for children in the Hudson Valley area.
What is your long-term vision for the company?
To continue to provide the highest level of comprehensive dental care for children of all ages in our neighboring communities.
What is some advice you can give to any parents bringing their child to the dentist for the first time?
Prepare your children for what to expect, but do not relay your own fears from childhood to your children. Be a fearless leader!
How did you end up working in this industry?
I am the son of a pediatrician and have always known I wanted to go into healthcare. When I was in college, I got exposed to dentistry and found I loved the idea of caring for patients both as a dentist and creating a welcoming environment to nurture a positive experience for families.
What is your first memory of the dentist/orthodontist?
I actually was a very challenging patient as a young child and believe it or not, didn’t enjoy the dentist. When I was a teenager I started orthodontic treatment and started to think that I may want to become a dentist!
What’s your favorite part of your job?
Seeing children I’ve treated for years, grow up and mature into young adults. It’s so rewarding!
What are some things you enjoy doing in your spare time?
I love traveling & exploring the beautiful outdoors in the Hudson Valley. I’m a big sports fan and a big foodie; I really enjoy the local food scene.
Something your patients might not know about you?
I used to be a radio DJ back in college… “DJ Ben-Jammin!”
