Kansas City Smiles & Co

3820 S Whitney Ave, Independence, MO 64055
Closed today
Opens tomorrow at 8:00am
SundayClosed
Monday8:00am - 5:00pm
Tuesday8:00am - 5:00pm
Wednesday7:00am - 3:30pm
Thursday8:00am - 5:00pm
Friday8:00am - 3:00pm
SaturdayClosed
Kansas City Smiles & Co - General dentist in Independence, MO

I love the variety of personalities and walks of life that I get to interact with every day. Watching and inspiring my patients to strive for a higher level of healthin the mouth and whole bodyis beyond rewarding. Smiles can truly change lives, and there are few professions that can have that kind of impact. Dr. Nikki Christian

Dr. Nikki Christians genuine and energetic personality makes children and family dentistry her passion. She is excited to carry on the tradition of excellence in dentistry started by Dr. D. Stanley Hite in 1972.

Dr. Christian attended Kansas State University for her Bachelor of Science degree with an emphasis in Pre-Dentistry, and continued on to the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Dentistry for her Doctorate of Dental Surgery. In the four years following her graduation, Dr. Christian worked for St. Lukes Hospital at the Cabot Clinic, primarily with the underserved children and Hispanic patient population. She loves using her Spanish language skills in dentistry for mission workwhether it is in her local community or during dental mission trips to Guatemala, an experience that gave her such an appreciation for saving teeth and good oral health.

The dental field is so exciting, with ever-evolving innovations in technology, dental materials, techniques, and procedures. Dr. Christian keeps ahead of the curve through her involvement with the University Study Club, Spear Dental Education seminars and workshops, and Invisalign Continuing Education as a Premier Provider. Simplifying complex cosmetic and restorative dentistry, and mini implant surgery and fixed prosthodontics, are among some of the continuing education topics she has studied recently.

As an office, Dr. Christian and her team strive to be the best at what they do by working with the Pride Institute, ACT U Dental Practice Management, Jameson Management, and their overwhelming favorite, Zum Wohl Practice Management.

Kansas City Smiles & Co - General dentist in Independence, MO

Being successful involves being authentic, where time is spent equal to your values. One of my core values in life is to give back more than I take by creating smilesthrough dentistry or other activitiesand there is nothing I enjoy doing more! My time is mainly filled with the investment I put into my two little boys and my practice. So, the activities that I am involved in outside of that mean a great deal to me. I am active with the PEO Chapter JI in Kansas City, 2nd Presbyterian Church in Brookside, and the Blue Springs Rotary. Dr. Christian

Dr. Christian has a strong sense of community from growing up in the small Southeast Kansas town of Fort Scott, and has really enjoyed her involvement in the Blue Springs and Independence communities. She met her husband, Wes, in 2008 after graduation. He has been an inspiration to her career ever since. They have two little boys, Henry James and William Wesley, who have changed their lives and filled their hearts, as has their golden retriever, Walter.

Kansas City Smiles & Co - General dentist in Independence, MO

Being a dentist means the world to me; after my family, it is my greatest passion. It is my goal each and every day to provide my patients with the kind of care I would want for myself. Dr. Wesley Christian

Dr. Wesley Christian is a graduate of the University of Missouri, Kansas City for his Bachelor of Science in Biology and a Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry. He continued on the UMKC School of Dentistry and has been practicing dentistry in Blue Springs since 2004. His participation in the Spears Study Club allows him to advance his knowledge and training in the most proven innovations in modern dentistry.

Kansas City Smiles & Co - General dentist in Independence, MO

I am a midwestern native who grew up in Southeastern Missouri. Some of my earliest memories are of me spending time with my father inside the health practice where he worked. I think that early exposure is ultimately what led me to choose my career in dentistry. However, if you had asked me back then, I would have told you I wanted to be a Major League Baseball player when I grew up! I lived and breathed baseball all the way until I graduated from high school. When to my surprise, the Royals didnt come knocking down my door begging me to pitch for them, I decided to join the Marine Corps. I was based internationally, and the adventure and exploration it afforded me was priceless. I served for six years in places including Russia, Germany, and Barbados before returning to Missouri to pursue dentistry.

Meeting my wife, Nikki, was nothing short of fate. I had recently acquired my practice and was spending a lot of time at various dental functions. It was at one of these functions that I first met Nikki. I still remember the first time I saw her. I remember thinking how stunningly beautiful she was and how just her presence seemed to brighten the room. I began to attend more and more functions with the hope that I would see her again. Our paths and stories were so similar and had brought us to the exact same place. It wasnt long before I worked up the nerve to ask her to dinner, and before long we fell in love. Now here we are today, sharing the same vision and philosophy toward life, both inside and outside the office. It is such a blessing to be able to share so much with my wife. Like I said, it had to be fate.

The wellbeing and happiness of my family is the most important thing to me. We love to do anything outdoors, especially when it involves the water. We love fishing, boating, or just relaxing on the lake. My strong connection to family values are why I enjoy dentistry so much. It allows me to be a family man. Not just through serving my patients and their families, but through being able to share my career with Nikki and be there for my family as well. In itself, dentistry is a rewarding practice because it really allows me the opportunity to improve peoples lives in a substantial and quantifiable way. I get to play a part in the wholeness of families lives. I get to help improve my patients confidence and wellness, which they take with them through the rest of their day, and ultimately their lives.

I appreciate the uniqueness of each of my patients. Their different personalities, range of dental needs, and specific concerns, all present wonderful challenges and opportunities. As a dentist, I believe in forming a partnership with each patient. We work together to find the treatment solutions to their specific requirements. Establishing open communication from the first visit, and treating each person with respect and compassion, ensures the best care experience and results. Dr. Stanley Hite

Dr. Hite was awarded his Doctorate of Dental Surgery (DDS) from the University of Missouri at Kansas City School of Dentistry, where he graduated nine months ahead of his class. Hes passionate about continuing education, knowing its essential to remain current on changes in the field. This ensures Dr. Hites able to provide his patients with the best procedures that deliver the most comfortable treatments and strongest results.

Among his many professional affiliations, Dr. Hite is an active member of the American Dental Association, the American College of Dentists, the Missouri Dental Association, and the Greater Kansas City Dental Society. He donates his professional skills to various programs, including Independence HeadStart, Give Kids a Smile, MOMOM, and annual mission trips overseas.

Dr. Hite has three adult children and six very active grandchildren, as well as a lovely wife, Syd. Spending time with them is his priority outside of work. He also enjoys being with friends, along with playing golf and traveling.

Kansas City Smiles & Co - General dentist in Independence, MO

We have the BEST patients at Dr. Nikkis office! I love that my job allows me to get the chance to know them on a personal level. We always have the best conversations and Im so happy to not only call them patients, but also friends. My job as a dental assistant means that our patients meet me at the chair. But before they ever even make it to the chair, I prepare the treatment rooms and sterilize our instruments so they are ready for each and every person who walks through the door. I assist our doctors and help educate our patients about their dental hygiene and the treatments they might need.

Outside of the office,Im always exploring the city for the best new restaurants. I also enjoy catching the latest movies and come fall time, you wont catch me anywhere but Arrowhead stadium on Sundays!

Kansas City Smiles & Co - General dentist in Independence, MO

I have been working in this office for over 30 years as a Dental Hygienist. By now, I like to think of myself as more than just the person who makes sure my patients teeth are squeaky clean. I also act as a personal wellness coach, taking the time to understand each of my patients diet and lifestyle choices. I spend time educating them about the invariable thread that connects a healthy mouth with their total body wellness. Once I get a greater picture of the overall lifestyle and dental needs of my patients, I work to find the home care routines that work for them.

I am a mother of four daughters and a grandmother to TEN amazing grandchildren! Im an avid sports fan and was a volleyball player in college. The bug never left me and I later coached my daughters team for ten years. Nowadays, relaxing with the family at our lake house is my favorite pastime. I also am kept busy with all of my grandchildrens many activities!

Kansas City Smiles & Co - General dentist in Independence, MO

I have been in the dental field for nearly 15 years and I am so excited to now be working with such a passionate and talented group of people! I spent many years as a dental assistant before graduating from UMKC with a bachelor's degree in Dental Hygiene. As a hygienist, I spend a lot of time focusing on patients dealing with differing levels of periodontal challenges. I educate them on their oral health and together we set goals and plan for the future of their smiles. It is a very rewarding experience. I love my job because not only do I get to guide my patients on the way to better health, but I get to know them on a personal level and am privileged totalk with them about what's new in their lives. That is definitely my favorite part about my job!

I am married to the love of my life and we are blessed with a four year old daughter. She is as beautiful as she is sassy and we love her for it! In true Kansas City fashion, we love spending time outside and hosting BBQs to watch the Royals or Chiefs games. Nothing makes me happier than to spend time with our friends and family!

Kansas City Smiles & Co - General dentist in Independence, MO

Living a healthy life is one of my biggest passions, so it only makes sense that I would play a role in helping others achieve the health they are seeking. I work to develop long term relationships with our patients and families so that I can help them achieve the dental care they need to maintain a healthy smile. Its important to me that each and every patient has a positive visit every time they step into Dr. Wesley Christians office. I use that desire to fuel my enthusiasm for serving our patients. I spend my days handling all of our business administration matters and a lot of customer service tasks. I also navigate different financial options with our patients, and together we find the right path to getting the dental care they want and need.

I have been in the dental field since 2009 and have been working with Dr. Christian since early 2015. I spend much of my time in the office assisting Dr. Christian with patient care. I'm always looking for ways to makemyself useful wherever I can and often assist with front office duties. Working here is a perfect fit for me because the staff cares so much for the patients and everyone is always willing to help one another. I thrive in an environment like this and am able to give our patients the best care as a result. I love being able to play a part in changing people's lives through dentistry.

I've been living in the city for the past 5 years with my boyfriend. We have two adorable and energetic labs named Bentley and Gunner. They always want to play! I love spending time with my boyfriend and loved ones...and I can't resist a good shopping spree on my day off!

Kansas City Smiles & Co - General dentist in Independence, MO

Working for Dr. Wesley Christian is such a fun experience. He is a fun-loving, light hearted dentist whose passion for dentistry is contagious. I share that same passion and bring it to work with me everyday. Ive been working in the dental field for nearly 15 years and I couldnt ask for a more rewarding career. I love being able to help in the process of transforming patients smiles and getting to know so much about them along the way. In the office, youll find me assisting Dr. Wesley with patient procedures and playing a valuable part in educating our patients about their dental health. I also help with back lab maintenance and front office duties.

My husband Tracy and I have two incredible sons, Nicholas and Chase. When Im not in the office, Im spending as much time with my family as I can. I also enjoy running and participating in any other physical activities. Baking is my absolute favorite and and I guarantee that my cakes are the best in town!

Kansas City Smiles & Co - General dentist in Independence, MO

My job is seriously the best. Everyday, I get to educate our patients on finding the best ways to achieve their greatest dental health. I go over everything they can expect from their time with us and we keep an open line of communication throughout their visits. Throughout the day, I assist Dr. Wesley Christian with procedures, work exclusively with our Invisalign patients, and make sure our office stays stocked by ordering all of our dental supplies. My career is so rewarding because I get to interact with such a wide variety of people. I love getting to catch up with our returning patients just as much as I love being able to get to know those who are new to our practice.

Outside the office, I live a full and happy life. My husband and I have two children and one fur baby, our family dog. I love spending time with my family and friends. When Im not having fun with them, you can find me watching baseball or playing tennis. Go Royals!

Kansas City Smiles & Co - General dentist in Independence, MO

I am very passionate about the work I do as a Dental Hygienist. Because of that, Dr. Wesley Christians office is best possible place for me! Working here means that I get to work alongside some of the most caring people around. Dr. Christian not only cares about great dentistry, but also about providing personalized care and doing what is best for our patients. I like to think of myself as someone who really is an advocate for my patients. I take the time to listen to them and remain sensitive to their fears related to dentistry. I take the most pride in catering to their needs and creating a comfortable environment where our patients can begin to overcome those fears. Creating that educational relationship and helping our patients to face their dental fears is the most rewarding part of my job. I believe that by helping our patients achieve and maintain impeccable oral hygiene, I am also helping them achieve a better quality of life. That in itself makes everyday its own reward.

My husband and I are newlyweds and this month we just welcomed our new child into the world! We were so excited to meet our little bundle of joy! Franklin, our golden retriever puppy, was pretty excited about it too. In our free time, my husband and I like to spend as much time with our friends and family as we can. We are the BIGGEST Kansas City sports fanatics, so we always enjoy going to games and supporting our teams!

Kansas City Smiles & Co - General dentist in Independence, MO

I have been in the dental field for nearly 15 years. During that time, Ive come to realize that the most important part of dentistry is creating an environment where our patients can feel at ease. Ive learned that when our patients feel comfortable, they begin to really identify with the importance of a healthy smile and I am better able to educate and empower them. I really care about each and every one of my patients and getting to know them is what really makes my job fun and enjoyable. I work with a staff that really has our patients wellbeing at the center of what we do, and knowing that we are impacting their lives in such a positive way is the best way to spend my days. I have the best job!

When Im not working, Im spending time with my family and friends. I was born with an insatiable wanderlust, so I travel wherever and whenever I can. Exploring new places inspires and refreshes my imagination and vigor for life. I also spend a great deal of time on volunteer work. Being able to give back to the community is a huge part of who I am and giving to others is what brings me the most joy.

Kansas City Smiles & Co - General dentist in Independence, MO

I have been working as a dental hygienist for 50 years and have been in the same office for over 35 years! Every day at Dr. Wesley Christians office still feels like a new adventure, complete with its own set of challenges and rewards. It is a thrill being able to work with Dr. Wesley. He is an outstanding dentist, and together we provide our patients with the latest technologies and treatments available. Our whole team shares a contagious enthusiasm for excellent care and compassion for our patients. It all stems from the fact that we truly care about the people walking through our doors. Throughout the years, I have had the privilege of calling many of my patients my friends. Building relationships with my patients is one of my favorite parts about my job. I understand how important it is to create a comfortable environment for them, and in doing that, our friendships naturally begin to flourish. I enjoy being able to educate them and inspire them to get in the drivers seat when it comes to their dental health. That means we not only have conversations about their brushing habits, but also about their lifestyle and eating habits. Preventative care is my mantra!

My husband and I have been married for 25 years. Together we have a blended family of five children and 4 grandchildren. We are so proud of all of our children and their accomplishments, and are so lucky to get the chance to spoil such lovable grandkids! My husband and I prefer the quiet, outdoorsy life. We own several horses and spend much of our time out riding on the trails and enjoying nature. We also love exploring the art of golf and travel, preferably together!

Reviews

Rating 4.9 out of 5 based on 135 reviews

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Elizabeth
a year ago
The best!!


Jan Feist
2 years ago
I have been going here since August of 2019. At first, I loved this place but the last incident has caused me to look for a new dental office. I have very good dental insurance and needed quite a bit of work done. Crowns and a bridge. Dr Christian was very good at working with me to get all the work done I needed. My dental insurance provides 2 free cleanings a year. At my last dental cleaning appointment, I was advised I had a balance of $118 due with a past due balance of 59.40. I advised Stacy I should not have a past due balance and I should be paid up. Stacy advised that the insurance company requires them to to code this as Periodontal Maintenance and my insurance does not cover that. Honestly, I was very shocked. I had not received a bill in the mail nor was I notified that I would be charged for cleanings when I normally get 2 free cleanings a year. I spoke with my insurance company and they advised they do not tell them how to code procedures. I called Stacy back to let her know what the insurance company told me and she told me legally they had to bill me that way. I requested information regarding the legal matter. Stacy was supposed to call me back and I have not heard back from her and this happened two weeks ago. Another thing I started to dislike, I am 58 years old and I have several crowns and a bridge. As I was paying for my services, Stacy suggested invisalign for me. I told her that I didn't believe I needed one if my crowns and bridge was put in straight. After my last cleaning, the hygienist and the dentist suggested I needed a mouth guard for grinding my teeth. I am 58 and no one has questioned me about grinding my teeth. I feel as if they try to sell me something every time I go. I'm disappointed I have to find a new dentist. On a side note, I spent over 10K at this office since 2019.


Lorren Huse
2 years ago
I can't recommend Dr. Christian and her staff enough! I had a very horrible experience with a dentist in Liberty, so when a friend recommended Smiles and Co. I was desperate. I had lots of work I wanted to get done on my teeth before losing my father's (phenomenal) dental insurance. They instantly got the ball rolling! Straightening my teeth has always been something I wanted to do, so when I showed interest in Invisalign, they again started right away! The staff at this office actually listen and work to get the smile YOU want. Dr. Christian has even called me from her personal phone asking how I'm doing/feeling after long, extensive appointments. Smiles and Co. have been amazing to work with and I look forward to using this office for as long as I'm in KC! Thank you for allowing me to get the smiles I've always dreamed of!!


Kaitlyn Eikenbary
2 years ago
I hadn't gone to a dentist for years due to a previous bad experience and there was no judgement, just making me feel as comfortable as possible. After going for my initial visit, and now my 6 month cleaning, I can say I am glad I picked Kansas City Smiles & Co. The hygienist and Doctor are so nice and just want the best for you and your teeth. I can't think of going anywhere else! I no longer get nervous/anxious going to the dentist.


Makayla Barger
2 years ago
My husband and I have been going here for a few years now after moving up to this area. Our old dentist referred us to come here. We love this office and the staff is awesome. We always feel welcomed. Highly recommend!


Aaron Bratcher
2 years ago
Dr. Nikki always takes care of me and my wife. She has fixed work I've had done with previous offices that ended up being poor quality. The previous work was poor, not Dr. Nikki's! Ha.


Janet Schneider
2 years ago
I would highly recommend Smile and Company. Very kind a knowledgeable people. Any questions about your insurance if they don't know they will find out you.


Kyle Jennings
2 years ago
I've been coming here forever and can count on getting the work done right!


Suzanne Dell St Clair
2 years ago
The staff are friendly, patient-centered and professional. They have adopted best practices for dental care during COVID which I appreciate. I highly recommend them!


Gary Stumpenhaus
2 years ago
Took me right in, Allison was good as always. Dr. Christian came in checked me over and i was out of there. What more can you ask for?


Chrystal Franks
2 years ago
Everyone in this office is extremely friendly and knowledgeable. I enjoy my visits.


Randy Stout
2 years ago
All the staff are very friendly and professional. They are knowledgeable and seem to keep up-to-date with ongoing Dentistry education for best practices.


geoff robinson
2 years ago
Super friend staff,almost feels like family. Makes going to the dentist almost enjoyable.


Tricia Collins
2 years ago
I had a great experience at my first dental appointment with Nikki Christian and all of the staff in her office! Everyone was kind, caring, efficient, professional and enjoyable to interact with. Every part of my appointment was made simple and communicated clearly to me. The environment is inviting and calming, and visually beautiful! It's wonderful to discover a dentist office that makes a visit for dental work such a positive, enjoyable experience!


Lisa Thurston
2 years ago
The office was able to squeeze me ( a brand new patient ) in to fix a loose crown on one of my implants done by another dentist here in town . Nikki and Hannah were great to work with and solve my problem quickly even though the crown was difficult to get on and off. I have already scheduled a cleaning and exam for the remainder of my teeth. Excellent service, friendly, humorous and professional.


Jennifer Leader
2 years ago
Love this place staff are friendly and great! I drive quite far to see them, but it's worth it


name less
2 years ago
Everyone there as good and nice as could be I will go back


Jarod Moran
2 years ago
Dr Nikki and her staff are always smiling and excited for you to be there! They are incredibly professional, thorough, and honest. I trust Dr Nikki and her team with all of our family's dental work!


Jerie Bucko
2 years ago
Everyone is professional yet warm and very accommodating. Great care is taken to safeguard against COVID.


rose lyon
2 years ago
Always great staff and expert dental wotk


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Find the best dentist in: Missouri / Jackson County / Independence / 64055