Cheney dentist hires associate, not replacement

By BECKY THOMAS

Staff Reporter

Longtime Cheney dentist Richard Roccanova has a new associate, but don't get any ideas.

“People think I'm retiring,” Roccanova said. But Dr. Jacob Ridl won't be taking over for Roccanova any time soon.

He described it more as a partnership, in which Ridl, a 2008 graduate of Creighton University School of Dentistry, shares all the newest techniques and Roccanova, who has maintained a family practice in Cheney for more than 30 years, passes on his practices skills and knowledge.

“It's kind of a two-way street,” he said.

Ridl joined Roccanova's practice, The Inland Center for Contemporary Dentistry, in November, but the two have a long history as family. Roccanova describes Ridl as “a close family member,” though he is the son of Roccanova's wife's first cousin.

Roccanova spent time on the Ridl family's ranch in North Dakota when Ridl was growing up.

Ridl said Roccanova could have influenced his choice in profession.

“Well, he was the only dentist I knew,” Ridl said, “so maybe it just seemed right.”

Roccanova said he hired Ridl because, “Not only is he one of the most caring people I have ever know, his clinical skills are top notch.”

Ridl practices all phases of family dentistry on adults and children. His addition will also allow Roccanova to spend more time teaching, and his practice has expanded to treat more clients and offer more services.

The Inland Center for Cosmetic Dentistry is located at 1717 First St. in Cheney. They can be reached at 235-6241.

Becky Thomas can be reached at [email protected].