“It is immensely enjoyable to be able to work with kids and special needs patients on a daily basis. Every patient is unique, and every day brings about a handful of wonderful and genuine moments to remember.”
– Dr. Chris
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
Dr. Chris is a native of Michigan. His interest in dentistry began when he was a kid, enjoying visits to the dentist, and soon asked to spend “Take Your Child to Work Day” at the family dentist’s office instead of with his parents. This interest led him to eventually attend the University of Michigan where he graduated with his Bachelor of Science degree in Biopsychology. He was then awarded a one-year post-baccalaureate fellowship to participate in research at the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research in Bethesda, MD.
Dr. Chris attended the University of Michigan School of Dentistry where he received his Doctorate in Dental Surgery. He worked for two years at a community health center in Everett, WA, to provide dental care to underserved patients before electing to pursue his interest in pediatric dentistry. He was accepted into the University of Iowa Pediatric Dentistry program and received two years of specialty training in the care and management of infants, children, and patients with special healthcare needs.
Upon receiving his Certificate in Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Chris joined the dental team at the Des Moines Health Center where he treated children of all ages in both the clinical and hospital settings. While there, he also served as an adjunct faculty member of the University of Iowa College of Dentistry to provide pediatric training to dental students while on their outreach rotation. He moved to Ankeny with his family and joined Ankeny Children's Dental in 2014.
As a Board Certified Pediatric Dentist, Dr. Chris is committed to constantly expanding his knowledge and understanding of his specialty. Each year he completes many hours of continuing education specific to pediatric dentistry in order to remain at the forefront of evidence-based dental care.
Dr. Chris is a member of the:
- American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry
- American Board of Pediatric Dentistry
- College of Diplomates of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry
- Iowa Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, current Secretary
- American Dental Association
- Iowa Dental Association
- Des Moines District Dental Society
BEYOND THE PRACTICE
Dr. Chris resides in Ankeny with his wife, Ellen, and their three children: Julia, Will, and Brooks. When not working, Dr. Chris enjoys spending time with his family and two dogs, going to the park, and staying busy with his kids’ activities in soccer, gymnastics, dance, and art. He also enjoys listening to music and is still one of the few who collects CDs. Although he is a fan of the Michigan Wolverines, he has decided it is in his best interest to also root for the Hawkeyes!
