While I appreciate alleviating pain, establishing or restoring oral health, and brightening smiles, what I enjoy most about dentistry is developing personal connections with my patients.
I thoroughly enjoy getting to know each patient as a person and learning who they are beyond their dental concerns. These conversations create mutual respect and understanding, and give me insight into what is important to the person. When my patient and I understand each other’s goals, strengths, and limitations, we are able to work as a team and achieve excellent results.
Much of dentistry is treating disease, primarily decay and gum (periodontal) disease. I like to educate my patients so they understand their own mouths. When a person gains a deeper understanding of their oral condition, they are better equipped to improve their oral health.
My favorite moments are when my patient truly understanding their condition, the necessary treatment, and the maintenance required to maintain optimal dental health and a great smile!
About Pine River Dental Care
Our team is highly skilled, compassionate and, as we often hear, “the friendliest staff at any healthcare office!” Our team is made up of individuals with vast experience, as well as a long and close history with our patient family. Our front desk staff has, combined, more than 60 years of experience; our dental assistants have more than 50 years; and our hygienists over 90 years ... all with this office!
Quality dental care is about consistency. Regular visits allow our entire team to have a thorough understanding of your oral health, and enable us to make proper recommendations on homecare and necessary treatment. We excel at patient education and will empower you to improve your home dental hygiene practices, so you enjoy a lifetime of healthy smiles!
Education and Experience
I attended Defiance College, where I graduated with a Bachelor of Science, then Purdue University in Fort Wayne for a Master of Science. Dental school was at The Ohio State University, where I was awarded my Doctorate of Dental Surgery.
My wife, Dr. Jenna Putman, and I graduated dental school in 2012. We practiced as associate dentists in Ohio for a little over two years. That was a wonderful experience, but we wanted to be part of a small-town dental practice where we could work as a team. In September 2014, we acquired Pine River Dental Care and moved from Ohio to Michigan.
I love being part of this community, seeing patients who’ve become friends around town, and knowing I’m contributing to the health and well-being of my neighbors.
Continuing Education and Professional Affiliations
Dentistry is constantly changing, and it is my responsibility to stay current on the latest technologies, methodologies, and research. I am a member of the:
- American Dental Association
- Michigan Dental Association
- 9th District Society
These organizations offer numerous opportunities for me to learn from leading practitioners and my peers. In addition to participating in meetings, seminars, and lectures, I also study the latest journals and other professional publications.
Beyond the Office
I grew up in Payne, Ohio, where Jenna and I were high-school sweethearts. We have lived in Mount Pleasant since 2014. Our daughter, Brianna, attends the University of Michigan where she’s studying engineering. Our family includes two wonderful pets: Ollie, a Cocker Spaniel, and Milo, our cat.
If I’m not seeing patients, you’ll most often find me outdoors. Hunting and fishing are two of my favorite pastimes. In Ohio, I enjoyed bow hunting whitetail deer. Since moving to Michigan, fishing has become my greatest interest: There are so many fishing opportunities in the state! I also enjoy kayaking, working out, and I’ve recently started learning to scuba dive, too.
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