New Podcast lean and mean ➞ Get more details here
New Podcast lean and mean ➞ Get more details here
Some dentists know they want to practice dentistry from the time they’re kids.
For Dr. Todd Crandall, the path looked a little different.
Before becoming a dentist, Dr. Crandall worked as a forensic DNA examiner — spending years in a lab analyzing evidence and working in high-stress situations. But after realizing he wanted a career that offered both greater opportunity for his family and more meaningful human connection, he made a bold decision: go back to school and become a dentist at age 37 with five kids at home.
Today, Dr. Crandall is helping patients across the Four Corners region get affordable, high-quality dental care at Comfort Dental in Durango, Colorado.
One of the things that stands out most about Dr. Crandall is his approach to patient care.
He understands that many people walk into a dental office carrying stress, fear, or financial anxiety. Instead of judging patients or overwhelming them, he focuses on making people feel comfortable, informed, and cared for.
According to Dr. Crandall, the goal is simple:
“Treat them honestly and listen to them.”
That mindset shapes the culture of the entire practice. With a team made up of experienced doctors and compassionate staff, patients often describe the office as friendly, welcoming, and down-to-earth.
In many communities, patients can wait months — sometimes even a year — to get into a dental office.
At Comfort Dental Durango, Dr. Crandall and his team have built a practice focused on accessibility and same-day care whenever possible.
For patients dealing with pain, broken teeth, or emergencies, that availability can make a huge difference.
Dr. Crandall says one of the most rewarding parts of dentistry is helping people feel immediate relief — especially those who have delayed treatment because of fear or cost.
He also understands that affordability matters.
That’s why his office works hard to provide treatment options that fit different budgets, including the Comfort Dental Gold Plan membership for patients without insurance. The plan helps reduce costs for exams, X-rays, cleanings, and treatment while giving patients predictable pricing and access to ongoing care.
Although Dr. Crandall comes from a scientific background, he says dentistry feels much more like art than science.
Over the years, he’s developed advanced clinical skills in restorative dentistry, root canals, implants, and digital dentistry technology. He credits much of his growth to continuous learning and training opportunities through Comfort Dental.
One of the technologies he’s most excited about is 3D digital scanning.
According to Dr. Crandall, the technology has dramatically improved accuracy, reduced mistakes, and made procedures easier and more comfortable for patients.
When he’s not practicing dentistry, Dr. Crandall enjoys spending time with his wife and five children — and restoring an old sailboat.
What started as a hobby has turned into a major restoration project involving electrical systems, engines, navigation equipment, and more. His long-term goal? Coastal sailing adventures with his family.
It’s another example of the curiosity, patience, and problem-solving mindset that also makes him a great dentist.
Dr. Todd Crandall’s story is proof that there’s no single path to becoming a dentist.
From forensic science labs to helping patients smile again in Durango, his journey has been driven by hard work, compassion, and a genuine desire to help people feel comfortable and cared for.
For patients who may have been putting off dental care because of fear, finances, or bad past experiences, Dr. Crandall wants them to know one thing:
There are honest, caring dental teams ready to help — without judgment.
