Staff Writer
PRESQUE ISLE – In a region where dental care providers are in short supply, news of a new oral surgeon setting up shop is music to the ears – or mouths – of those in need of such treatment.
Realizing the need was present and liking the area, Dr. Ed Laga decided to set up shop in what formerly served as the offices of Dr. Brian Gallagher, at 175 Academy Street in Presque Isle.
“I love the region. I’m originally from the Chicago area and have worked and lived in Missouri, North Carolina and other places, including serving three years in the Navy. Of all the places, this is definitely one of the nicest spots I’ve called home,” said Laga.
Laga graduated from Loyola University in 1985, then served three years in the military. Once out of the U.S. Navy, he did his residency through the University of Missouri, Kansas City.
“I took a sabbatical for three years in North Carolina, once I left Missouri. It was while I was in North Carolina that I took time to visit a friend in southern Maine and fell in love with the state,” said Laga.
While visiting with his friend downstate, Laga learned Gallagher’s office in Presque Isle was on the market and decided to look into acquiring the site.
“I was able to negotiate a deal with Brian. I was able to obtain the office and some pieces of equipment from him and moved to Presque Isle last fall,” he said.
The site was perfect for Laga’s needs, with the surgical space and offices downstairs and an apartment upstairs for his own use.
“We have a room strictly used for X-rays, three rooms with monitors to watch patients while they are being treated, four recovery rooms, a heated storage area, a separate room with three sterilizers for all our equipment to be cleansed, office space for myself and my staff – all on the first floor. On the second floor, we have our break room, as well as my apartment. That means I can’t use weather as an excuse for not making it to work,” said Laga, with a chuckle.
A hunter and fisherman, Laga has set up each of the examination rooms using a different theme to make for a more pleasant atmosphere for patients.
“We have our Americana room, a room with a fishing theme and a hunting camp,” said Laga. “We wanted themes that created a relaxing atmosphere for our patients.”
Laga is looking forward to serving patients in need of his oral surgery skills.
“I’ve met with dentists throughout Aroostook County and have also met with Dr. Hank Ford, here in town. I was surprised to find there is such a need for my services. No one should have to wait for an extended period of time when they have a serious problem. I will try to prioritize cases, making time for emergency calls based on the type of problem at hand,” said Laga.
Laga said he had hoped to be open sooner but ran into delays dealing with needed paperwork to set up practice in Maine. He credits Maine’s congressional delegation with speeding up the process.
“I worked with both offices for Sens. Snowe and Collins, as well as Congressman Mike Michaud’s. They were all very helpful in helping me obtain the necessary paperwork and licenses needed to begin practicing in Maine,” he said. “They really helped expedite the process.”
Monday marked the official opening date at Laga’s office. Laga said spring was a good time to open for business.
“It’s closer to spring break – a time parents try to schedule their children’s appointments. And with summer not far off, more people will have vacations and the weather will be better for planning a trip to my office,” said Laga.
Laga is currently scheduling appointments and has accepted referrals from other dental offices in the area.
“My staff and I are ready to meet the dental needs of young and old alike,” said Laga. “My services include tooth extractions – such as wisdom teeth – implants, biopsies and broken jaws. No referrals are required to make an appointment.”
Laga accepts all forms of insurance, MaineCare and self-pay. Business hours are 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Friday. For more information, contact 764-3900.
When not working, Laga plans to spend his free time exploring what Aroostook County has to offer.
“I love to fish and hunt. I’m even considering buying an ATV and joining the local club. I think it’s a great way to see the County. I look forward to doing a lot of exploring this summer,” said Laga.
