After earning his dental degree from the University of Tennessee, Dr. Heeren served as a military dental officer for four years in the U.S. Navy. He completed a general practice residency at the National Naval Medical Center, The Presidents Hospital. before practicing for more than 4000 active-duty patients in support of Marine Corps units en route to their missions in Iraq and Afghanistan. During his tour with the USMC, Dr. Heeren deployed for eight months in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom where he was the sole provider of dental services in the western Iraq area of operations. Upon returning, Dr. Heeren earned his Postgraduate Certificate in Endodontics and a Masters of Science in Dentistry at the Medical University of South Carolina. During his free time, Dr. Heeren plays the guitar, enjoys live music and a variety of sports and outdoor activities.
Raised near Denver, Colorado, Dr. Brandon Pitcher graduated Magna Cum Laude from Brigham Young University and went on to graduate Magna Cum Laude from the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio School of Dentistry. Following this, he completed a 2-yr General Practice Residency at VA-Sepulveda Ambulatory Care Center in Los Angeles, California. He then returned to the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio where he received his Endodontic certificate. During his residency, Dr. Pitcher completed research that has been published in the Journal of Endodontics. In his free time, he enjoys playing and watching a variety of sports, and traveling with his wife.
Dr. Katherine McKitrick grew up in Oregon. She began her healthcare journey at Oregon State University where she graduated cum laude with a Bachelor Degree in Nutrition & Food Management. She then attended Illinois State University where she earned a Master of Science degree with a focus on Nutrition. After working as a Registered Dietitian for a short time, Dr. McKitrick decided she wanted a more hands on approach to health care. She spent time shadowing dentists and physicians and quickly determined that dentistry was the path for her. Dr. McKitrick and her husband relocated to sunny Charleston, South Carolina and worked for a pediatric dentist before attending dental school at the Medical University of South Carolina.
While in dental school, Dr. McKitrick spent additional hours beyond her requirements in the specialty clinics. She found endodontics to be particularly interesting and liked the opportunity the endodontists had to have an immediate impact on patients quality of life by relieving pain. As a senior, Dr. McKitrick earned the South Carolina Association of Endodontists Scholarship Award. After graduation, she stayed at the Medical University of South Carolina to complete her post-graduate specialty certificate in Endodontics and Master of Science Degree in Dentistry and served as chief resident.
Dr. McKitrick and her husband, Andy, are extremely busy with their two small children. In their free time they enjoy playing at the parks, trying new restaurants, and cheering for the Green Bay Packers. When she has a moment to herself, Dr. McKitrick daydreams of visiting warm and exotic locations around the world.
Dr. Brian Crump grew up in northern Kentucky, south of Cincinnati, OH. After graduating with cum laude honors from college, Dr. Crump moved to Nashville, TN to work in research at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. It was his time in Nashville and his time serving on several international medical/dental mission trips to Brazil, India, and Costa Rica that sparked his interest in dentistry. From there, Dr. Crump attended the University Of Louisville School Of Dentistry, graduating with the Deans Scholar recognition for academic achievement.
While in dental school, Dr. Crump was one of 23 students nationwide to win the National Health Service Scholarship award. He also won the AAE Student Achievement Award for being the top student at ULSD in Endodontics. After dental school, Dr. Crump moved to Columbus, OH to serve as the Dental Director at a non-profit health center for 4 years, providing care to the underserved of central OH. He then went on to earn his post-graduate specialty certificate in Endodontics and Master of Science Degree from The Ohio State University, graduating summa cum laude.
Ashley Bryant grew up in a small Kentucky town called Princeton before becoming a Hilltopper at Western Kentucky University where she studied education. Ashley has worked in the dental field for 13 years, and she uses that experience in her extensive role as Regional Manager. Outside of the office, Ashley loves spending time with her daughter, Piper, and they both enjoy boating and being outdoors.
We use digital radiography, which enables us to not only enhance the images on the computer but also allows the doctors to detect decay and bone loss as well as optimize the diagnosis. This process is quicker than the conventional x-ray process and is extremely beneficial to the doctor during root canal treatments. Digital radiography also enables us to send the images via the internet to communicate electronically with referring dentists regarding their patients treatment.
A surgical microscope provides maximum magnification and illumination for optimal viewing of the delicate root canal system. There are numerous benefits to using a surgical microscope including removal of separated instruments, locating missed or blocked canals, viewing and determining the extent of a crack or fracture in a tooth.
IV sedation is a state-of-the-art technique for the comprehensive control of pain and anxiety in dentistry. There are other methods used in dentistry such as oral (pill) sedation, but IV sedations superior results make it the method of choice for the highly fearful dental patient or those patients who would prefer to remain unaware of what went on before, during or after the procedure and would prefer to have very little memory of the procedure.
Because of the types of medications used as well as their instant delivery, IV sedation allows the doctor to control the effects precisely. IV sedation is extremely safe when administered by qualified providers. To perform these advanced sedative techniques, special training and clinical experience is required. Approval to perform IV sedation requires the office to be specially equipped with emergency equipment and medications, which includes an ECG monitor to observe heart rate, rhythm and breathing
Apex recently incorporated the GALILEOS 3D Cone Beam imaging solution from Sirona. Sironas technology extends diagnostic X-ray imaging potential for better patient treatment. The visualization tools available in the software assist us with better, more certain diagnosis. They allow our office to coordinate treatment planning with colleagues and to explain treatments visually to our patients with greater clarity and accuracy.
3D images make the X-ray diagnosis and implant treatment safer, more predictable and faster. The Sirona system provides a three dimensional image of the patient on the computer screen and the surgery is performed virtually for the patient review. Then at the time of treatment customized guides specific to the patient and the case assist with accurate implant placement. This allows for faster more comfortable surgery.
GALILEOS not only shows 3D displays in perfect image quality, but also enables more complete navigation and diagnosis than the traditional 2D x-ray films. For our practice, the GALILEOS 3D Dental Cone Beam solution offers:
Reviews
Rating 3.9 out of 5 based on 18 reviews
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newest oldest highest lowestJoseph Pope
a year ago
Great experience all the staff was kind and very professional
Lucinda Shore
a year ago
I have a lot of anxiety with dental appointments. My situation was complicated. He listened to my concerns. Then explained his plan. He informed me of each step. I had very little anxiety. I think plan was a success.
Peezy Ru
2 years ago
Dr Wright was absolutely the man,he's comforting and very business oriented! Greatest dentist visit ever
Chris Bass
2 years ago
The staff is very friendly, caring, and professional. Dr. Wright was very thorough in all aspects of the dental work I needed (in this case root canals). I would definitely recommend him to my friends and family.
Patti King
2 years ago
Very friendly and helpful staff. Staff and doctor put me at ease.
BARRY TRUSTY
2 years ago
If you don't mind waiting an hour past your appointment time and paying $325 for an Xray and consultation, then this is the place for you!
Ann Kirkpatrick
2 years ago
I had great service at APEX! Everyone was friendly and kind. My procedure was painless and done within an hour. I will definitely be going back to APEX for all my oral surgery needs in the future. Kudos to Dr. Wright and his team!
preston gustin
2 years ago
Terrible conversation and terrible customer service. Felt like a sales call.
MAB
2 years ago
When you enter office all blinds are pulled. The receptionist is in a totally dark office, no lights on at all. This is not a good first impression. Had to pay for more xrays even though my dentist sent xrays. My 1st visit was over 300.00. This was not included in my root canal fee. I was not happy with this office. Will not return.
Cheyenne Patterson
2 years ago
After seeing the reviews i was nervous to get my root canal done!! I went before Christmas and the dentist i had was wonderful.. I had an infection so she put medicine in it and I just went back today to finish.. I am a pt who the numbing wears off fast and she made sure I was comfortable.. The moment I felt anything she numb it more.. I drive 3 hrs so definitely worth it since where i live dont take my insurance.
Brian McManus
2 years ago
If you enjoy paying twice the local rate for endodontic work, this is the place for you.
Cheyenne Patterson
3 years ago
After seeing the reviews i was nervous to get my root canal done!! I went before Christmas and the dentist i had was wonderful.. I had an infection so she put medicine in it and I just went back today to finish.. I am a pt who the numbing wears off fast and she made sure I was comfortable.. The moment I felt anything she numb it more.. I drive 3 hrs so definitely worth it since where i live dont take my insurance.
Brian McManus
3 years ago
If you enjoy paying twice the local rate for endodontic work, this is the place for you.
Tracy Ball
4 years ago
Poor service and poor bookkeeping. I'm so upset now. Still not taken care of with my root canal they did. Still in pain and not going to let them touch my mouth again. I asked repeatedly for my medical records and still nothing after two months. Between the endodontist and dentist...I have lost my faith in the dental industry. Only went to them because of sedation and that was a nightmare. Took Dr 5 times to get a vein. Now they somehow botched up the billing and want $303.00 more. I have never seen such a poorly ran establishment and I worked for a maxillofacial surgeon so I'm not stupid. My poor choice of listening to my dentist. Never again.
Lynne Stephens
4 years ago
Have you heard HORROR stories regarding someone getting a root canal? Well, if so, I just had to share that I recently went to Apex Endodontics and had a WONDERFUL experience getting a root canal! No kidding!! There are several highly qualified endodontists at this location; however, my visit was scheduled with Dr. Heeren. Love how well he and his assistant, Erica, worked so well together. Impressed with the high-tech equipment and procedures they used to make the process less invasive coupled with the fact; they listened to my concerns and needs. I left a little numb, but no pain -- just general discomfort from keeping my mouth open for the period of time to do the work. HIGHLY recommend -- right on Indian Lake!
Larz Aralica
4 years ago
I recently had a visit to have oral surgery and I'm deathly afraid of going to the dentist, I have high anxiety but the staff and surgeons were so amazing and reassured me everything would be ok, they took such great care of me and I will refer my family and friends. Hands down the best Endodontic facility ever. Thank you for everything
Tracy Ball
4 years ago
Poor service and poor bookkeeping. I'm so upset now. Still not taken care of with my root canal they did. Still in pain and not going to let them touch my mouth again. I asked repeatedly for my medical records and still nothing after two months. Between the endodontist and dentist...I have lost my faith in the dental industry. Only went to them because of sedation and that was a nightmare. Took Dr 5 times to get a vein. Now they somehow botched up the billing and want $303.00 more. I have never seen such a poorly ran establishment and I worked for a maxillofacial surgeon so I'm not stupid. My poor choice of listening to my dentist. Never again.
Lynne Stephens
4 years ago
Have you heard HORROR stories regarding someone getting a root canal? Well, if so, I just had to share that I recently went to Apex Endodontics and had a WONDERFUL experience getting a root canal! No kidding!! There are several highly qualified endodontists at this location; however, my visit was scheduled with Dr. Heeren. Love how well he and his assistant, Erica, worked so well together. Impressed with the high-tech equipment and procedures they used to make the process less invasive coupled with the fact; they listened to my concerns and needs. I left a little numb, but no pain -- just general discomfort from keeping my mouth open for the period of time to do the work. HIGHLY recommend -- right on Indian Lake!
Danielle Eger
4 years ago
Root canals sound awful and awfully painful! This place looked very clinical, no paintings or warm inviting furniture. The front desk ladies were very friendly and tried to comfort my nerves. Once I was called back, I came face-to-face with a tray of 10+ syringes full of liquid and my anxiety level raised. However the nurse or aid was very sweet and explained what all the "scary" instruments were. The dentist was funny and very gentle. He answered all my questions, no matter how stupid they seemed in my head. I need another root canal and will go back to this location!! Wonderful experience !
Larz Aralica
5 years ago
I recently had a visit to have oral surgery and I'm deathly afraid of going to the dentist, I have high anxiety but the staff and surgeons were so amazing and reassured me everything would be ok, they took such great care of me and I will refer my family and friends. Hands down the best Endodontic facility ever. Thank you for everything
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