By Deb Mowbray

Anchor business Billings and Murphy, D.D.S., P.A, recently celebrated their 30th anniversary. The Chester based practice located at the Kent town Market was originally opened by Dr. Scott Billings 30 years ago -just 3 months following his graduation from the University of Maryland Dental School. “I love it here – I love the island and I love what I do,” exclaims Dr. Billings.

Dr. Billing’s enthusiasm shows in his popularity. He and his associate, Dr. Chris Murphy, a 25-year veteran of the practice, are revered among their patients for both their expertise and their compassionate care.

But Billings and Murphy’s commitment to their patients extends beyond the dental chair. For the fourth consecutive year, the practice is participating in the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life. And this year, in conjunction with the event, they are sponsoring a “Bleach for the Cure” Campaign.

During the month of March, their professional bleaching procedure, which normally retails for $400.00, will be made available for just $100.00. One hundred percent of the proceeds will be contributed to the Relay for Life scheduled for May 5th at the Queen Anne’s County 4-H Park. According to Dr. Billings, you do not need to be a patient of the practice to participate but an appointment will be necessary to custom fit the molds. The bleaching process can then be completed at home.

The Relay for Life event features a fair with food and games, including a survivor/caregiver reception and dinner, culminating in an overnight relay. The all night walk begins at dark and ends at dawn to signify the cancer journey. The night is symbolic of the darkness at the beginning of the fight, and the daybreak- the light at the end. For the past two years Billings and Murphy has been the top fund raiser for the event.

The office of Billings and Murphy provides comprehensive dental care to children and adults from general cleaning and cosmetic services to the restoration of dental implants. And though they have been here for years- the equipment is state of the art. “We’ve changed over to digital x-rays which have 60% less radiation,” says Dr. Billings. “And we’re a paperless office,” he adds, noting the benefits of maintaining and accessing client files virtually. With an intra oral camera, they can even take a picture inside the mouth and display it on a large screen. “If there is a crack in the tooth I can show it to you,” explains Dr. Billings. “It helps with understanding the diagnosis.”

Billings and Murphy, D.D.S., P.A. will submit for all insurance and participates in four managed care programs. The practice is open five days a week and offers emergency care. “Our motto is to get them in and get them out of pain,” says Dr. Billings. To participate in the “Bleach for A Cure” benefit or to make an appointment with Dr. Billings or Dr. Murphy call: 410-643-5500 or visit online at: www.billingsandmurphydds.com.