Dr. Pruette has completed advanced training through a two-year Hospital Dentistry Fellowship at Wilford Hall Medical Center and the Triangle Area Dental Institute Implant Continuum. He is also an Assistant Professor at the Georgia Dental College at Augusta University. He is a Member of Academy of General Dentistry and a Member of Academy of General Dentistry Self Instruction Committee
Dr. Pruette and his wife, Windy, have been married for over 40 years. They have two children, Autumn, who is a pediatrician in Houston, and Todd, who is an attorney in Anderson. Dr. Pruette is retired from the Air Force. His hobbies include tennis, golf, trivia competitions, and beekeeping.
My treatment philosophy is guided by the idea that dentistry is a way to unite science and art; by creating a beautifully crafted smile, I am able to help my patients gain confidence and improve their overall health. My love for dentistry and providing the best care for my patients will never fade for it has become an integral part of who I am.
Dr. Aparna Ashok earned her Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree with honors from Southern Illinois University School of Dental Medicine. She has also received her Masters Degree in Endodontics and Conservative Dentistry graduating top of her class with the gold medal from NITTE University in India. Her philosophy is to treat every patient like they are a part of her family. She is dedicated to giving each patient the highest quality of care in a comfortable and caring environment. She is an active researcher with eight published journal articles and several other conference papers.
My passion for dentistry began in my childhood because of the inspiration from my father, a dedicated dental surgeon and Professor of Periodontology in India. I loved working with my father in his dental clinic during high school. He used to take me to the clinic on the weekends, where I greeted patients and helped by filing the medical records. I was inspired by the way he helped create beautiful smiles on patients experiencing dental concerns.
This inspiration led me to pursue my undergraduate studies in dental surgery. During my ten years as a dental student, I clearly see how my academic coursework has supported and inspired many of my extra-curricular activities and research endeavors. My interest in endodontics grew during the final year of the undergraduate program in dental surgery. I went on to pursue graduate studies in conservative dentistry and endodontics. I have performed 400+ endodontic procedures, inlays, post-core cases, crowns, and endodontic surgery, and performed cosmetic dentistry during my training, graduating with the highest distinction from the university. My graduate thesis explored the microflora of root carious lesions in people of different age groups and the findings were published in the European Journal of General Dentistry. Presenting my research at conferences and publishing it in refereed journals cemented research as a primary goal for my future in dentistry.
I also served as a research assistant for my advisor, Dr. Hegde. I worked in an interdisciplinary research team to evaluate the total antioxidant capacity of saliva and serum in dental caries patients. The research published in the Indian Journal of Dental Researchreceived the Best Publication Award from the Indian Society of Dental Research. This was challenging at times because our research team was very diverse, comprised of students and faculty with backgrounds in dentistry and microbiology. Nevertheless, it has been exceptionally beneficial because I have learned more about how to effectively communicate with people from different disciplines, organize and lead meetings, and teach others how to gather and analyze data. I was inspired by this work to actively seek ways to enrich my academic experience through tutoring, research, and membership in professional societies. I also had an opportunity to work with the researchers at Clemson University in the United States on the use of Telemedicine Systems for the care process. This was a rewarding experience; I was able to understand the ways in which health information technology systems were built. I contributed to the design and development of the system as a subject matter expert.
Reviews
Rating 4.9 out of 5 based on 409 reviews
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newest oldest highest lowestMiranda Acker
a year ago
Very friendly, professional staff. Facility was clean I am pleased with the service and would recommend Dr. Pruitt and the staff to anyone needing dental services.
Janet Sebik
a year ago
I have been going here since 2011 and I love going here. They make you feel like you are family.
Angela Homan
a year ago
Good People and Good Doctors!
James Gordon
a year ago
if youare looking for gental pain free dental care this is it ...Thanks Downtown Dental Associates for taking such good care of all my dental needs .......
Sarah James
a year ago
Friendly hygienists & staff!
Sharon Middleton
2 years ago
Very professional and understanding to my needs.
Tami Dalcolma
2 years ago
Downtown Dental As a new patient at this office the receptionists were friendly and helpful. The hygienist, Sheila was kind, thorough and very knowledgeable. They are very reasonable too. Great location. I would definitely refer my friends to use them.
Stan Tusman
2 years ago
Professional and personal. The best.
Dorothy Lewis
2 years ago
It's been way too long since I've seen a dentist, but my visit to Downtown Dentist was wonderful. I have a tendency to get very nervous at dental appointments, but Sheila was especially helpful in keeping me calm and checking my anxiety level every step of the way. It turned out that I needed 2 teeth pulled, and the extractions were just done with the utmost concern for comfort level.. I am actually looking forward to my next visit!! This dental service is excellent. They have the latest equipment and the staff is very kind and considerate!
Patricia Jones
2 years ago
Very professional,. There wasn't a long wait time, and my next appointment was scheduled pretty quickly. I was very impressed.
Holly Stephens
2 years ago
They did an amazing job with my 7 year old!
Madeline Smith
2 years ago
Amazing and friendly staff.
Meaghan Sicilian
2 years ago
Awesome service and quality work!
Katy
2 years ago
I always receive really good care here. The hygienists are always very thorough and take the time to answer any questions that I may have. They make sure to explain everything and make sure I understand what is going on with my teeth and what I need to do in the future. The dentists are in and out pretty fast, but I always feel confident they've checked everything well and that I'm in good hands. I'm definitely happy to be a patient here.
Mary Beth Foster
2 years ago
Staff very friendly and helpful!
Lindsay Gentry
2 years ago
Thanks again:) Sheila and Dr Ashok are both great!!
Peter Cook
2 years ago
Really a good dental experience. I do not like going but really enjoyed it. Catlin was my hygienist. Very good. Dr Pruitt is alway pleasant and competent
Debra Kurtz
2 years ago
Usually going to the dentist is HELL! But this place and the people are different. I wasn't made to feel awful because I don't do exactly as instructed and because I don't go frequently enough. I was treated with dignity and respect and without undue discomfort for an uncomfortable procedure. The dentist I see has a great bedside manor and true caring and concern for her patients. I HIGHLY recommend Downtown Dental and the great staff they have. They also worked hard to accommodate me and my unique situation. Thank you Downtown Dental!
Julianna Bowman
2 years ago
I haven't been to the dentist in years. Shelia is definitely one dentist I would recommend. Very gentle and very supportive.
Rosanne Pruitt
2 years ago
Good experience Everyone is very professional and friendly.
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