Hudson Valley Health

A family-owned practice since 1973, Middletown Dental Group has a long-standing reputation in the community for friendly general dentistry for all ages. Dr. Craig Shapiro, who took over the practice from his father, Dr. Mark Shapiro, in 2000, now treats the third generations of some families. “They visited us once, and that’s all it took,” he says. “They continue to come here, and they bring their entire family.
But the younger doctor also recognized the important role that technology plays in effective dental care. Two years ago, he built a brand new, 5,000-square-foot modern office facility with a state-of-the-art sterilization center. The combination of compassionate care with the most advanced equipment available attracts new patients from throughout the mid-Hudson Valley.
Digital x-rays and intra-oral cameras have quickly become indispensable diagnostic tools in his practice. He uses these to create images of his patient’s teeth, and display them on chair-mounted monitors so his patients can easily view them. He also utilizes the “Zoom!” tooth whitening system to give a brighter smile to his patients. Recently, Dr. Shapiro was certified in Invisalign by the Aligntech Institute and now can provide metal-free braces for adults.
Dr. Shapiro enjoys treating children, with whom he shares a good rapport. “I have some college-aged patients that I began to treat when they were pre-schoolers,” he says. “It is so rewarding for me to see these kids grow up with healthy smiles.”
He advises parents to bring their children to a dentist by their third birthday. “Not only do you want to make sure their teeth and gums are healthy, you also want them to become accustomed to seeing a dentist regularly,” he says.
Dr. Shapiro is joined by two associates, four hygienists, and six professionals on the office staff. This team works together to provide general dentistry, endodontics and cosmetic procedures. The practice offers Saturday appointments for their patients’ convenience.
After growing up in Rockland County, Dr. Shapiro attended the University of Hartford, earning a BS in biology. He then earned a DMD at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine in Boston, followed by a one year program of advanced education in general dentistry at Columbia University. He actively pursues continuing education, and has received advanced training in endodontic and cosmetic procedures. He is a member of the American Dental Association and the Ninth District Dental Society.