Kometani and Associates is a group practice of general dentists, comprised of Dr. Franklin Kometani, Dr. Kent Hironaka, and Dr. Norman Cheung. This practice was started in 1932 in this area by Dr. Katsumi Kometani. It has been at this present location since 1947. It has served the area for some 68 years, working on 5`h generation patients and a few who have been patients since 1932.

Dr. Kometani, a 1962 graduate of the University of Southern California School of Dentistry, began practicing with his father immediately following graduation. Dr. Kent Hironaka joined the practice in 1989. After his graduation from UCLA, he did a year of post-graduate residency program at St. Francis Hospital. Dr. Norman Cheung, a USC graduate, joined the practice in 1994.

All the doctors are members of the Hawaii Dental Association and the American Dental Association. Dr. Kometani has been a member of the Hawaii Academy of Total Dentistry, a study club of his peers, for over 30 years. In his spare time he plays golf and has been active in local politics.

Dr. Hironaka, along with his wife, is active in the Hope Ministry, providing care for the children of the congregation. He has taken a series of continuing education courses on implant dentistry and cosmetic dentistry.

Dr. Cheung has also taken courses on implant dentistry and cosmetic dentistry. He is a member of the Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and the Academy of Implant Dentistry. He is also an officer of the ORI, an organization which helps handicapped individuals.

We are proud to offer a wide variety of services normally expected of a dental practice including cosmetic and implant dentistry, working with specialists in cases which require special attention. Children are welcome to the practice, and we urge that the first appointment for an examination be done as early as 18 months. Patients in their 70's, 80's, and 90's are a large part of our patients base. This group of patients present unique situations due to health problems, medication, diet, and normal wear and tear. We are experienced in dealing with these situations and can offer alternative treatment for most problems presented to us.

Emergencies are handled promptly, and new patients are welcome. Once immediate problems are resolved, we recommend a comprehensive examination and a review of the condition of the teeth and gums. A recommended treatment plan and alternative treatment, length of treatment, cost and method of payment are discussed. Work is started only after we are confident that the patient fully understands what is involved in the treatment selected.