Meet Dr. Don
As a pediatric dentist, I appreciate the opportunity to shape children into good dental patients by providing positive dental experiences.
I am especially drawn to preventive and minimally-invasive dentistry, as these improve dental health and deliver good experiences and results. I am equally as dedicated to educating patients and families about oral health and nutrition. By establishing good dental hygiene and healthy habits early on, we can head off future issues.
Each child is unique and requires an individual approach. Beyond their clinical needs, it is important to connect with the child on their level, so they feel safe and reassured. By talking with a child in a calm manner, using words they understand, and with a show-tell-do approach, Dr. Mindy, our staff, and I are able to make even an anxious patient feel more at ease.
Before, during, and after a procedure, we make sure our patient is comfortable, physically and emotionally. We tell them how well they’re doing and how impressed we are with their behavior. This praise and encouragement foster a child’s pride and reinforces the positive experience!
Education and Experience
It is an honor to have provided pediatric dental care for families in the Kanawha Valley for three decades. Nothing is better than earning a child’s a trust, empowering them to take control of their oral health, and seeing them graduate to a general dentist with a healthy, beautiful smile.
My Doctorate of Dental Surgery (DDS) was awarded by West Virginia University. I then completed my Pediatric Dental Residency at the Children’s Medical Center in Dayton, Ohio. After finishing the residency, I returned to my hometown of Charleston and began seeing patients.
In my years of practicing, there have been remarkable advancements in oral healthcare and pediatric dentistry. Research continually leads to new technologies and methodologies, improving diagnostics, treatment planning, procedures, and results. As importantly, these advancements also make care faster and more comfortable.
In order to stay current on the latest changes, I attend the annual sessions of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and West Virginia Dental Association. I also pursue continuing education through podcasts, the latest journals, and other venues.
I am an active member of the:
- American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry
- Southeastern Society of Pediatric Dentistry
- West Virginia Academy of Pediatric Dentistry
- American Dental Association
- West Virginia Dental Association
- Kanawha Valley Dental Society
These professional organizations provide access to the newest options and developments. I learn from leaders in pediatric dentistry and oral healthcare, incorporating the best changes into patient care.
Beyond the Office
My family and I have lived in Kanawha City for 30 years. Nancy, my wife, and I have three children: Max, Kat, and Sophia, as well as three dogs and three cats.
Family and community are important to me and I serve on the Foundation Board of St. George Orthodox Cathedral. I also support the backpack program on Charleston’s west side, along with Fairness West Virginia, which advocates for the state’s LGBTQ community.
The Kanawha Valley is a close-knit community, welcoming people of all colors and faiths. I am proud to support entities and organizations that support those who are marginalized or oppressed.