What inspired you to become a Dentist?
During my college career at Washington University at St. Louis, I knew that I wanted to be in the medical field and was interested in the sciences and thought about going into research. I consulted with my college advisor, and he suggested that I look into dentistry. After researching the field, I decided to move forward with studying dentistry. I’m the first on my father’s family to graduate from college.
How did you find Ridgway?
After graduating, my residency took me to Denver, where I started a dental practice and a family. My son came back from visiting a Colorado town and encouraged me to explore Western Colorado. During our vacation, my wife and I came across Ridgway during my research of dental practices, and we fell in love with the town. I later learned that the town my son visited was Ridgway. We relocated to Ridgway in 2007 and I started a new chapter in my dental career with Ridgway Family Dentistry.
How did Ridgway Family Dentistry handle the Covid-19 Pandemic?
Dentistry has always been known for its attention to prevent the spread of infection and to be cautious and proactive. However, when the Pandemic occurred, we at Ridgway Family Dentistry entered a hyper-vigilant mode and wore shoe covers, purified the air, wore face shields and more. Given that the dental practice has been in Ridgway for over a decade, I already had an established trust with the community and was able to provide reassurance to my patients.
What do you do on your days off?
During the summer, my wife and I enjoy road biking many routes, such as Highway 62 to Placerville, Highway 550 Colona to Montrose, or Colorado National Monument. During the cold season, my wife and I enjoy snowshoeing nearby, such as Ironton Park. We hope to take on cross country skiing when we find the time.
Do you provide payment plans for those who are uninsured?
CareCredit, a financing program for treatments and procedures, is provided at Ridgway Family Dentistry. The program helps patients pay for treatments and procedures that their insurance does not cover. Ridgway Family Dentistry will pay the interest rates the first 12 months of the program.
What do you value about being a Ridgway Chamber member?
It is part of my philosophy to support the community that I live in and support the Ridgway Area Chamber of Commerce.
